City Manager Weekly Report
January 24, 2025
Marina Steps and Redondo Pier Project
During the City Council meeting on January 9, the Council received a presentation on the next steps for the Marina Steps project. The bids for this project came in significantly higher than the funds allocated for it. As a result, the Council began discussing how to move forward. They have requested that staff provide additional information regarding funding sources, project options, and timelines. This information will be presented at the City Council meeting on February 13, allowing the Council to make an informed decision about the project.
Additionally, we have recently learned of a citizen-led effort to ensure that capital funding for Redondo Pier is not redirected to the Marina Steps project. It is important to note that the City Council has not yet made any final decisions regarding either the Redondo Pier or Marina Steps projects. They have asked for more information on funding sources and options. The Council will need to carefully consider various details and options before deciding how to proceed with the capital projects. We will keep you updated on this important issue.
Job Postings
Looking for a fulfilling career opportunity? Join our community by exploring job postings with the City of Des Moines! Be part of a dedicated team working to enhance the quality of life for residents and create a brighter future for everyone. Explore our job opportunities today and take the first step toward a meaningful career with us! Click here to apply!
Current Open Positions:
• Assistant Maintenance Superintendent
• Grant Management Analyst
• Senior Human Resources Analyst
• Police Officers (Academy Graduate, Entry & Lateral)
City Council Meeting Recap
The following Council/Committee Meetings were held on January 25, 2025:
Municipal Facilities Committee:
• 2025 Municipal Facilities Committee Work Plan
• Memorial Flag Triangle Project Update
• Senior Center/Activity Center Roof Replacement Update
• Custodian Contract Update
For more information, or to review packet information, click here
Economic Development Committee Meeting:
• Economic Development Committee 2025 Work Plan
• Comprehensive Plan Schedule Discussion
• Potential Development at 26915 Pacific Highway S and 26852 16th Avenue
For more information, or to review packet information, click here
City Council Meeting:
• Middle Housing Open House Update
• Legislative Issue Update
• Animal Control Update (stay tuned for more information on this next week!)
• Telecommunications Franchise Agreement with EZEE Fiber
• Telecommunications Franchise Agreement with ZIPLY Fiber
• Vehicle Surplus
• 2025-2026 Recycling Program Grant Funding
• Vactor Truck Purchase
• Des Moines Marina Dock L-M-N Dock Replacement Project Bid Award
• Transportation Impact Fee Reduction for Early Learning Facilities
• City Logo Discussion
• Redondo Fishing Pier Replacement Project-Amended Task Assignment for Consultant Design
For more information, or to review packet information, click here
Feedback and Suggestions
We want your feedback! In the interest of fostering community engagement and transparency – we’ve added a place to send in comments, questions, and input for your City staff @ [email protected]
We’re enhancing:
• Accessibility: providing you with a direct channel to voice questions, concerns, or feedback.
• Transparency: a visible avenue for communication, we’re demonstrating our commitment to transparency and accountability.
• Community Engagement: Encourages citizen participation in civic affairs in multiple ways.
• Prompt and Courteous Response: Administrative staff will receive your requests and delegate them to the necessary departments and staff. We will work hard to deliver prompt responses to inquiries within 3 business days
KUDOS
At the Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce’s annual luncheon on Thursday, January 23, 2025, Harbormaster Scott Wilkins was awarded the 2024 Hospitality Hero Award for his exemplary service in the tourism industry, going above and beyond the call of duty, and truly reflecting the heart of hospitality every day.
“Scott has served as Harbormaster with unwavering dedication and a commitment to excellence. His role extends far beyond managing the marina; he is the face of the City of Des Moines’ waterfront, ensuring that every interaction is marked by warmth, professionalism, and a genuine desire to assist. From the moment visitors arrive, staff needs support, or really ANYONE needs help, Scott’s friendly demeanor and readiness to help set a positive tone and he ensures he gets the job done.
Scott’s impact is most evident in the countless stories of community members, colleagues, and Council who rave about his hospitality and attitude. Whether it’s a first-time boater navigating the harbor or a long-time local enjoying an afternoon on the water, Scott goes out of his way to ensure their needs are met.
Additionally, Scott’s commitment to hospitality extends to his active engagement with the local community. He regularly participates in city events, collaborates with local businesses, and supports community programs and people. His efforts have not only enhanced the marina’s reputation but also fostered a sense of pride and unity among residents and visitors alike.
Harbormaster Scott Wilkins is a true Hospitality Hero. His unwavering dedication, exemplary service, and innovative contributions have greatly enriched the waterfront experience for the City of Des Moines. Scott embodies the term "hero" with every interaction and has set a high standard for excellence in his role.”
Seattle Southside
Submit Your Staff Kudos!
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, Council Members, and more.
Would you like to share staff kudos with me? Please email me at [email protected]
Katherine’s Fun Stuff
Buttermilk Roasted Chicken
This is a go-to dinner in my house…it’s easy, only uses a few ingredients, and I can prep it in my sleep.
Ingredients:
• 3 to 4 lb. chicken pieces, bone-in, skin-on (make sure the pieces are roughly the same size)
• 2 c buttermilk
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 Tb chopped fresh dill
• 1.5 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground pepper
Directions:
In a large Ziploc bag, pour the buttermilk, zest, dill, salt and pepper. I place the bag in a bowl so it is a bit more sturdy. Put the chicken pieces into the buttermilk mixture, zip up the bag and let it marinate in the fridge for 8 hours up to 24 hours. After the chicken has marinated, pre-heat the oven to 450 degrees. Remove the chicken pieces from the marinade and pat each one dry. Put the chicken pieces on a rimmed baking sheet. Roast the chicken until cooked through (reach 165 degrees internal temp)—about 25-30 minutes. If you want to crisp up the skin, put the chicken under the broiler for just a minute or two. Voila! Done! Leftovers are also great cold on a salad 😊
Upcoming Events
JANUARY
• January 25 Des Moines Creek Park Run
• January 25 Paper Holder Basket Weaving
• January 28 Karaoke Night @ Waterland Arcade
• January 28 Trivia Night @ the Quarterdeck
• January 29 Mohai Tour
• January 30 City Council Study Session @ Des Moines City Hall
• January 31 Valentine’s Cookie Class @ Marina Mercantile
FEBRUARY
• February 1 Des Moines Creek Park Run
• February 1 Iris & Peony Ribbon Cutting, 1-4pm
• February 1 Another Time Ent. Birthday Bash @ Waterland Arcade
• February 1 Saltwater Music Series: Music by Melartin @ Des Moines United Methodist Church
• February 1 Hot Hatha Posture Clinic @ Shiva Yoga
• February 1 Des Moines Historical Society Open 1-4
• February 1 VIBE Bingo @ Jamar’s Sports Bar & Grill
• February 4 MINGO Nights @ Marine Mercantile
• February 5 What’s Up Des Moines @ Edward Jones
• February 6 Finance Committee Meeting @ Des Moines City Hall
• February 6 Public Safety Committee Meeting @ Des Moines City Hall
• February 6 City Council Study Session @ Des Moines City Hall
• February 7-22 Valentine’s Tea @ Marina Mercantile
• February 7 Watercolors & Wine @ Marina Mercantile
• February 8 Hot Hatha, Bikram Based, Posture Clinic - Floor Series @ Shiva Yoga
• February 8 Des Moines Creek Park Run
• February 11 Trivia Night @ the Quarterdeck
• February 13 Transportation Committee Meeting @ Des Moines City Hall
• February 13 Environment Committee Meeting @ Des Moines City Hall
• February 13 City Council Meeting @ Des Moines City Hall
• February 14 Valentine’s Dinner @ Zenith Holland
• February 14 Sweetheart Dance @ Des Moines Activity Center
• February 15 Des Moines Creek Park Run
• February 17 President’s Day – City Offices Closed
• February 18 MINGO Nights @ Marina Mercantile
• February 18 Bingo Night @ the Quarterdeck
• February 19 Paint Night @ the Tuscany
• February 20 Cornhole @ the All Star Sports Bar
• February 22 Sound Healing, Gentle Yin, Guided Meditation @ Shiva Yoga
• February 22 Des Moines Creek Park Run
• February 22 Non Profit Symposium, 9-noon @ Des Moines Activity Center
• February 24 Vinyasa to Yin with Live Sound Bath @ Shiva Yoga
• February 25 Trivia Night @ the Quarterdeck
• February 27 Municipal Facilities Committee Meeting @ Des Moines City Hall
• February 27 Economic Development Committee Meeting @ Des Moines City Hall
• February 27 City Council Meeting @ Des Moines City Hall
Have an upcoming even you want to share? Email us and we’ll get it on our calendar!
Click here for the City Manager Report in PDF Format