City Council collaborates with property owners to reduce stormwater charges

The City of Des Moines Council convened on February 19, 2025, to discuss critical budgetary matters, focusing on stormwater management and the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The meeting highlighted the city's ongoing efforts to assist commercial property owners in managing stormwater charges, which have been a point of contention for many.

Council members addressed concerns from property owners regarding the size of their stormwater charges. To alleviate these issues, the city offers free consultations to help owners optimize their sites by reducing unnecessary impervious surfaces, such as large parking lots. This initiative aims to lower stormwater fees, particularly for long-term property owners who may not have anticipated these charges when they developed their properties.

One council member recounted a specific case involving a former Richmond Gordman location, where the owner sought to remove concrete to allow water absorption into the ground. The city had previously consulted with the owner about options to reduce charges, but the owner was hesitant to eliminate parking spaces. The council noted that recent changes in zoning regulations, which no longer enforce minimum parking requirements, could facilitate property owners in reducing their impervious surfaces and, consequently, their stormwater fees.

Following the discussion on stormwater management, the council briefly paused for a break before transitioning to the Capital Improvement Plan. The CIP includes 65 projects aimed at enhancing city infrastructure, with detailed information available in the accompanying documents.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to addressing the financial concerns of property owners while also planning for future improvements to Des Moines' infrastructure. The council's proactive approach in consulting with property owners reflects an effort to balance development needs with environmental considerations.