Des Moines residents oppose $500K townhome project citing affordability and neighborhood integrity concerns

The City of Des Moines held a Plan and Zoning Meeting on December 19, 2024, to discuss a proposed development project that has sparked significant community concern. The meeting featured multiple residents voicing their opposition to the project, which involves the construction of nine townhome units in a single-family neighborhood.

The first speaker raised concerns about the affordability of the proposed units, noting that their cost exceeds $500,000, which is significantly higher than the current median home values in the area. This sentiment was echoed by several residents who argued that the development does not align with the city’s goals for "missing middle" housing, which aims to provide more affordable housing options.

Tony Gardner, another resident, compared the proposed project to a previously denied development, highlighting issues such as stormwater runoff and the loss of local wildlife. He emphasized that the current proposal would not benefit the community, as it appears to prioritize developer profit over neighborhood integrity.

Channing Swanson questioned the necessity of rezoning the area, suggesting that the city would be better served by directing housing developments to areas that need revitalization rather than established neighborhoods. He warned against "spot zoning," which he argued could undermine the character of the community and set a precedent for future developments.

Laurie Hawkinson and Michelle Swanson both criticized the proposed development for its potential environmental impact, including the destruction of mature trees and the alteration of the neighborhood's character. They argued that the project fails to meet sustainability goals and does not provide the affordable housing that the city needs.

Residents also expressed concerns about the practical implications of the development, particularly regarding traffic and parking issues on the steep terrain of the proposed site. Kim Corbin highlighted the difficulties of navigating the area during winter months, raising questions about the feasibility of adding more vehicles to an already congested street.

The meeting concluded with a clear message from the community: the proposed development does not align with the values and needs of the Waterbury and Westwood neighborhoods. Residents called for the city to uphold existing zoning regulations and prioritize developments that enhance, rather than disrupt, their established communities. The City Council will need to consider these concerns as they move forward with the decision-making process regarding the proposed project.