Library Survey

The West Des Moines Public Library is currently mailing a survey to 1,000 homes in West Des Moines and the surrounding area. This survey is part of the library's strategic planning effort being conducted by the nationally known library consulting firm Himmel and Wilson. The households receiving this survey were selected randomly. Citizens are encouraged to complete it and return it so the library will have a better understanding of the community's needs. The library will also conduct a web survey during March that will be available from a link on their website and will be distributed electronically.

New Beginnings

The City feels that the future growth and development of West Des Moines is dependent on creating an environment where small businesses can thrive. The City of West Des Moines and Mid Iowa Small Business Development Center along with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development are pleased to sponsor entrepreneur classes for current business owners or those considering an entrepreneurial endeavor in West Des Moines. Twelve scholarships are available for the program, called "New Beginnings" – and there is an application on our website.

Comprehensive Plan Update

The draft Comprehensive Plan, which the Plan & Zoning Commission recommended for approval on September 30, 2009, will be taken to City Council beginning with a public hearing on February 8, 2010. The City Council is scheduled to use six public hearings to complete its review and final adoption of the City's new Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan will take effect immediately after the City Council's adoption. Information on the update process, as well as the draft plan itself, is available on the City's website.

If you are not involved in development, you may be asking "what exactly is a comprehensive plan?" The Comprehensive Plan is a statement of the City's policies and intent toward development of the City. Once adopted, it services as a guide for decision-makers regarding future development and redevelopment. It is meant to be a flexible document in that it responds to the changing needs of the City, including changes in development patterns and adjustments necessary to maintain or improve the quality of life to which our citizens are accustomed.

It is truly a tool for long-range planning - our current plan was adopted in 1993, and because we have followed its intent but made the right changes along the way it has served us well. Updating this plan is a complicated process because we must balance the benefits of potential development with the costs and impacts on the character of the community. To us, this is a welcome challenge, and one we feel well-equipped to handle in West Des Moines.