Matthew D. Graham

The council discussed the second consideration of ordinance 1178 regarding electric bicycle and scooter regulations, ultimately deciding to table the item until the next meeting to incorporate changes and definitions based on community feedback. Significant focus was placed on flood mitigation efforts, specifically the approval of a $14 million subaward agreement for property acquisitions in the flood buyout area, with discussions on demolition timelines and potential training opportunities for city personnel. Additionally, the council reviewed the city's participation in a voluntary water reduction phase as part of the Central Iowa Waterworks plan and authorized the contract for the demolition of the Bruce Engine property.

The council meeting addressed several items, including a final reading regarding the adoption of new building codes, specifically focusing on snow loads and wind speed design standards. Additionally, the council issued a proclamation recognizing National Public Works Week and received an annual operational update from the Metro Waste Authority, covering waste management services, recycling technology, compost production, and new battery drop-off programs aimed at reducing fire risks in processing facilities.

The council received a presentation from the Polk County Supervisor regarding various county initiatives, including mental health facilities, clean water efforts, affordable housing programs, and economic development. Additionally, the Greater Des Moines Partnership provided an update on regional economic development, highlighted recent successes in attracting a new corporate headquarters, and outlined their strategic priorities for the coming years, which include economic development, talent attraction, and regional storytelling.

The council meeting addressed a variety of infrastructure and development projects, including change orders and pay requests for the City Hall and Library renovation, various park and trail construction projects, and street reconstruction efforts. Several resolutions were approved regarding the purchase of rights-of-way and easements for the Alice's Road Phase 1A Reconstruction Project. The council held public hearings and subsequently awarded contracts for the Little Walnut Creek Trail Reconstruction and the 2025 Residential PCC Pavement Rehabilitation Project. Additionally, the council reviewed and discussed a site plan amendment for Soma Cosmetics.

The council received a donation presentation from the West Des Moines Elks Lodge #2752. The agenda included approvals for various department reports, the appointment of new members to the Parks, Recreation and Public Art Board, updated regional board appointments, and multiple retail tobacco and alcohol license applications. The council approved several financial items including pay requests for the City Hall Remodel project and the NW 114th Street Reconstruction, as well as the annual tree purchase. Resolutions were passed regarding service agreement addendums, a professional services agreement for crosswalk improvements, and the scheduling of public hearings for building code amendments and general obligation loan agreements.