Des Moines holds public hearing on proposed property tax levy; residents voice concerns on services and budgeting

Des Moines — The Des Moines City Council held a public hearing on the proposed property tax amount for fiscal year 2026 (council communication 25-112) and heard testimony from residents and local stakeholders on service levels, tax notices and budget priorities.

City Manager (introduced the item) told the council the hearing replaces an earlier procedural step under recent state law changes and gives residents two opportunities — this hearing and the formal budget hearing at the next council meeting — to comment before the council adopts the final budget documents. "We—re not intending to change the tax rate," the City Manager said while explaining the process for public input.

Council discussion focused on sustaining the city—s internal climate and sustainability work and finding external partners to maintain a community-level sustainability dashboard. Councilmember Coleman said…