Council Votes to Amend CAB Leadership to Include Deputy Mayor Steinmetz

In the heart of Des Moines City Hall, council members gathered on July 24, 2025, to discuss pivotal changes to the structure of the Citizens Advisory Board (CAB). The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as council members deliberated on amendments that could reshape community engagement in local governance.

A key point of discussion was the proposed amendment to appoint the deputy mayor as the presiding officer of the CAB, a shift from the current practice where the mayor holds this position. Council member Ochsiger emphasized the importance of leadership opportunities for council members, suggesting that this change would enhance the collaborative spirit of the council. “It’s a good leadership practice to give opportunity to the council members,” Ochsiger stated, advocating for a more inclusive approach to governance.

The council ultimately voted on this amendment, which passed with a 6-1 majority. Deputy Mayor Steinmetz expressed enthusiasm for the change, noting that it would provide the deputy mayor with additional responsibilities beyond merely stepping in when the mayor is unavailable. “It creates something else that is specific to that position,” he remarked, highlighting the potential for growth and learning within the council.

However, not all members were in favor of the changes. Council member Harris voiced concerns that the new structure could politicize the CAB, potentially hindering broader community participation. “It turns the CAB into something political,” Harris cautioned, suggesting that the increase in committee members might dilute the effectiveness of community representation.

Despite the dissent, other council members, including Mahoney and Deputy Mayor Simons, defended the amendment, arguing that it would enhance representation and invite valuable expertise into the advisory process. Mahoney noted the importance of having diverse voices from the community, stating, “It gives a great opportunity to get neighborhood representation and business representation.”

As the meeting progressed, the council moved forward with the amended ordinance, setting the stage for a second reading scheduled for September 11, 2025. The discussions reflected a broader commitment to refining the advisory process, ensuring that community voices are not only heard but actively involved in shaping local governance.

With the council's decision, Des Moines City is poised to embark on a new chapter of civic engagement, one that promises to foster collaboration and inclusivity in its governance. As the community awaits the next steps, the implications of these changes will undoubtedly resonate throughout the city, inviting residents to participate in the evolving narrative of their local government.