CITY MANAGER REPORT

October 3, 2025

DATE CORRECTION


Zenith Properties, Former Masonic Home – Hearing Dates Set and Zoom Info Available


The City has issued a conditional demolition permit decision to Zenith Properties LLC, owner of the former Masonic Home property. This decision was based on the findings of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) conducted by an independent environmental consulting firm, which determined there was no feasible path to preservation of the structure. The appeal period closed on August 18, 2025, and as part of the legal process, a hearing has been scheduled for OCTOBER 21 and 22, 2025, beginning at 9:00 AM.


The hearing will be held via Zoom (Link Below - Meeting ID: 881 2882 7248; Passcode: 367554) and in person at Des Moines City Hall, 21630 11th Avenue S, Suite D. It is important to note that the approval of a demolition permit is just one step in a lengthy, regulated process, and actual demolition is not expected for several months, pending the outcome of the appeals process.

Daisy Sonju Community Garden Work Party-THIS WEEKEND!


This Saturday, October 4, from 10 AM – 1 PM there will be a work party at the Daisy Sonju Community Garden (24728 16th Ave S, Des Moines). Drop in anytime—whether you can give 30 minutes or stay the whole morning, every bit helps!


Tasks include clearing weeds, cleaning up the paths and trails, and spreading bark mulch to begin the long-term process of restoring this special space. Some tools will be available, but please bring gloves and your own tools if you can. Kids are welcome, too!


This is the first step toward reintroducing the garden to the community and creating a welcoming place where people can learn, experience nature, and get their hands dirty. Stop by to lend a hand or simply to see what the garden is all about!

Planning Commission…It’s Coming!


A few months ago, the City Council decided to bring back the Planning Commission, and we’re excited to share that progress is underway. The Council has given staff direction on key details like how many commissioners there will be, who can serve, and what the Commission’s responsibilities will include. We expect to bring an ordinance to the Council later this fall, and if it’s approved, we’ll start accepting applications from community members who are interested in serving.

Community Enrichment Services Survey Results


A giant thank you to the 330+ residents that took the recent Community Enrichment Services survey! We presented findings to the City Council this past Thursday, and here are some of the highlights:


  • 334 total responses
  • 30% of respondents have children under 18 in their households
  • The top way residents interact with our department is through attending city events like Breakfast with Santa, Fourth of July, and more
  • 69% of respondents were satisfied with our programs and events
  • Respondents indicated a desire for more youth, senior and intergenerational programming
  • The City should focus on removing barriers for participation including cost and affordability challenges and language and disability access needs
  • Respondents indicated an openness to a small increase in fee if that allows for dedicated scholarship funding
    

Again, thank you for taking the survey and providing valuable input as we work to provide you the best parks and recreation, senior services and community events possible! This feedback provides us valuable insight so we can ensure our future plans and efforts reflect what the community would like to see.



If you don’t follow the Community Enrichment Services page on Facebook, please do! It’s a great way to learn about the latest events and programming offerings!

Serving You Better at City Hall


We’ve listened to your feedback and made meaningful improvements to better serve our community. Our renovated Community Development lobby is open Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM, with friendly staff ready to assist. You can now meet directly with a Planner or Inspector without an appointment, or contact our team by phone or email for a response within two business days.


All-in-One Inspection Services

Walk-in inspection support is available Monday through Friday, with next-day inspections when requested by 2 PM. Our in-house Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical Inspectors mean no more waiting for outside agencies.


Fast, Streamlined Permitting

Most permits are issued within one business day, and you can apply and pay online anytime.


This isn’t a one-time fix—it’s a new direction. To keep you informed, we’ll be launching a weekly campaign highlighting the department and its services. We’re listening and committed to continuous improvement.

Des Moines Farmers Market Holiday Bazaar!


Get ready for festive fun at the Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, November 8th at Des Moines Beach Park!


  • Shop local and find unique gifts, crafts, and holiday treats
  • Enjoy music and seasonal cheer
  • Support local vendors and businesses


Mark your calendars and start your holiday shopping with a community twist! See you there! 

Coffee with a Cop – A Great Community Turnout!


On October 1st, over 150 community members joined us for Coffee with a Cop. This popular event gave residents the chance to meet and chat with Des Moines Police Officers in a relaxed, informal setting.



It was a fantastic opportunity to strengthen connections, ask questions, and learn more about public safety in our community. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make the event a success! 

2025 Fall Festival & Community Resource Fair


Join us for the Fall Festival & Community Resource Fair on Saturday, October 18th from 10 AM – 1 PM at Redondo Square (27005 Pacific Highway South).



This fun-filled event is a great way to discover the many resources available in your community while enjoying games, family activities, “Touch-a-Truck,” and delicious food. Bring the whole family and connect with local organizations, services, and neighbors in a festive fall atmosphere!

Community Shredding Event – October 15


Clear out your personal documents safely!


The City of Des Moines is hosting a free shredding event for all residents on Wednesday, October 15, at the Des Moines Activity Center.


Accepted items:

  • Paper, receipts & bills
  • File folders
  • Envelopes
  • Bank statements
  • Cancelled checks
  • (Staples are okay!)


Not accepted:

  • Cardboard
  • Newspaper
  • Boxes
  • X-rays
  • Plastic


This is a great opportunity to protect your personal information while decluttering.


Stop by anytime during the event hours!

Boo Bash - Family Dance Party!


Get ready for a Spooktacular evening at the Boo Bash! Join us for a family-friendly dance party filled with DJ-spun tunes, games, prizes, and lots of Halloween fun. Costumes are encouraged, so bring your creativity!


Event Details:

  • Date & Time: Saturday, October 18 | 5:30 – 8:00 PM
  • Location: Des Moines Activity Center
  • Cost: $10/person or $35/household
  • RSVP: Limited space – registration required
    

Enjoy photo booths, make & take art, and spooky snacks while dancing the night away. Don’t miss this fun, festive night for the whole family!

Des Moines City Council Candidate Forum @ Wesley in Des Moines


The League of Women Voters will host their bi-annual Des Moines City Council Candidate Forum on Tuesday, October 14, at 7:00 PM in the Community Room of the Main Chapel at Wesley Gardens. This event provides residents with an opportunity to hear directly from candidates and learn more about the issues that matter to our community.


All are welcome to attend.

In 1945, John A. Somers opened Johnny’s Des Moines Super Market with just a $5,000 investment. Built from salvaged materials due to wartime shortages, the store was remodeled several times before moving to S. 227th Street and Marine View Drive in 1957—the site now home to Red Robin.


Somers believed in selling products affordably, keeping stores clean and modern, and staffing them with friendly people—a philosophy that shaped local retail for decades.

Thank you, as always, to our wonderful and hardworking staff. This Staff Kudos section will serve as a way to recognize and celebrate the hard work and dedication of our City of Des Moines employees, volunteers, Councilmembers, and more.

Staff Kudos


“Keith,


The words I wanted to include were thank you for the kindness and grace you and the Des Moines building department have shown Cooper and I during this process.


I was expecting conflict from my past experiences with several permitting and inspection and you all have broken my expectations


Thank you


Bryan

Job Opportunities


Looking for a fulfilling career with competitive pay and excellent benefits? The City of Des Moines is hiring for several positions, including:


  • Court Clerk
  • Police Officer
  • Senior Mechanic
  • Youth Soccer Referee - Fall Season 


Applying for a job with the City of Des Moines is simple!



  • Browse current Job Openings
  • Click on a job title to learn more
  • Apply


Need help? Call Human Resources at 206-878-4595 or email HR@DesMoinesWA.Gov


Your City - Your News

Sign Up Today!


Be in the know! Get the latest updates straight from the City Manager, Mayor and more - stay informed about what's happening in your community!

City Council Meeting Recap


The following items were discussed as last night’s meeting: 


Committee of the Whole:


  • Planning Commission Discussion, Continued


City Council Study Session:


  • 2026 Legislative Priorities Discussion
  • Community Enrichment Services (CES) Department Update and Strategic Direction – Informational Only
  • Public Safety Sales Tax


The next meeting with be October 9, 2025 and here is what is scheduled to be on the agenda:


City Council Regular Meeting:


  • 2025/2026 Mid-Biennium Budget Review
  • Six Gill Shark Capital of the World Presentation
  • Hemstad Consulting Contract
  • Discussion on Potential Management Agreement and Licensing between the City of Des Moines and NWS Holdings (Perfect Game) for Steven J. Underwood Fields
  • Public Safety Sales Tax, Second Reading
  • OpenGov Asset Management Software Purchase
  • Telecommunications Franchise Agreement with Forged Fiber 37, LLC, First Reading 

Live Music & Dancing with Randy Litch

October 8

Activity Center


City Council Regular Meeting

October 9

City Hall


Club KHAOS Break Camp

October 10

Field House


Cell Phone Basket Weaving Class

October 11

Activity Center


Airport Committee Meeting

October 13

City Hall


Medicare Market Update Seminar

October 13

Activity Center


Shredding Event

October 15

Activity Center


Fall Festival & Community Resource Fair

October 18

Redondo Square


Boo Bash Family Dance Party

October 18

Activity Center


Zenith Properties Hearing

October 21 & 22

Zoom and City Hall


City Council Regular Meeting

October 23

City Hall


Citizens Advisory Board

October 29

Des Moines City Hall


Monthly Dessert Social

October 30

Activity Center


City Council Committee of the Whole and Study Session

November 6

City Hall


Airport Committee Meeting

November 10

City Hall


City Council Regular Meeting

November 13

City Hall


Monthly Desert Social 
November 20

Activity Center


City Council Committee of the Whole and Study Session

December 4

City Hall


Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration

December 6

Des Moines Marina


Airport Committee Meeting

December 8

City Hall


Live Music & Dancing with Randy Litch

December 10

Activity Center


Citizens Advisory Board

December 10

Des Moines City Hall


City Council Regular Meeting

December 11

City Hall


Breakfast with Santa

December 13

Activity Center



Burning Boat Event

December 31

Des Moines Marina


Have An Upcoming Event You Want To Share?





Discovery Day

October 4           

MaST Center


Sonju Community Garden Clean Up

October 4

Sonju Community Garden


Des Moines Creek Park Run

October 4           

Des Moines Beach Park


Des Moines Historical Society Open 1-4

October 4


Forest Restoration

October 4

Saltwater State Park


Weekly Wine Tastings

October 9

Marina Mercantile



Marina Mamas Walking Group

October 10

Quarterdeck

               

Discovery Day

October 11         

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

October 11         

Des Moines Beach Park 


Des Moines City Council Candidate Forum

October 14

Wesley Gardens


Weekly Wine Tastings

October 16

Marina Mercantile



Marina Mamas Walking Group

October 17

Quarterdeck


Discovery Day

October 18     

MaST Center 


Lighthouse Celebrate Event and Auction

October 18

Des Moines Beach Park

 

Des Moines Creek Park Run

October 18         

Des Moines Beach Park


Creek Restoration

October 19

Saltwater State Park


Weekly Wine Tastings

October 23

Marina Mercantile


Marina Mamas Walking Group

October 24

Quarterdeck


Discovery Day

October 25         

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

October 25         

Des Moines Beach Park


Weekly Wine Tastings

October 30

Marina Mercantile


Marina Mamas Walking Group

October 31

Quarterdeck


Trick or Treat Path

October 31

Marine View Drive


Discovery Day

November 1      

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

November 1      

Des Moines Beach Park


Des Moines Historical Society Open 1-4

November 1    


Forest Restoration

November 1

Saltwater State Park


Weekly Wine Tastings

November 6

Marina Mercantile


Marina Mamas Walking Group

November 7

Quarterdeck

 

Farmer's Market Holiday Bazaar

November 8

Beach Park Event Center


Discovery Day

November 8      

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

November 8      

Des Moines Beach Park


Weekly Wine Tastings

November 13

Marina Mercantile

 

Marina Mamas Walking Group

November 14

Quarterdeck


Discovery Day

November 15    

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

November 15    

Des Moines Beach Park


Creek Restoration

November 16

Saltwater State Park


Weekly Wine Tastings

November 20

Marina Mercantile


Marina Mamas Walking Group

November 21

Quarterdeck

 

Discovery Day

November 22    

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

November 22    

Des Moines Beach Park


Weekly Wine Tastings

November 27

Marina Mercantile


Marina Mamas Walking Group

November 28

Quarterdeck


Discovery Day

November 29    

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

November 29    

 

Weekly Wine Tastings

December 4

Marina Mercantile


Marina Mamas Walking Group

December 5

Quarterdeck


Discovery Day

December 6       

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

December 6       

Des Moines Beach Park


Des Moines Historical Society Open 1-4

December 6       

 

Holiday Boat Lights

December 6       

Des Moines Marina


Forest Restoration

December 6

Saltwater State Park


Weekly Wine Tastings

December 11

Marina Mercantile



Marina Mamas Walking Group

December 12

Quarterdeck


Discovery Day

December 13    

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

December 13    

Des Moines Beach Park 


Weekly Wine Tastings

December 18

Marina Mercantile


Marina Mamas Walking Group

December 19

Quarterdeck


Discovery Day

December 20    

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

December 20    

Des Moines Beach Park



Marina Mamas Walking Group

December 26

Quarterdeck


Discovery Day

December 27    

MaST Center


Des Moines Creek Park Run

December 27    

Des Moines Beach Park


Polar Bear Express Movie

December 13    

Beach Park Event Center


Polar Bear Plunge

January 1            

Beach Park Event Center