Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Budget And Planning topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves FY26–27 budget, bond proceedings and plats; homeowner urges caution on planned trail connector study
Summary
Council unanimously approved the FY2026–27 operating/capital budget, a resolution to pursue up to $4.5 million in GO bonds, and several plats; during citizens forum a homeowner raised concerns about a proposed trail connector route that may affect his property and was told the budget item only funds a feasibility study and that Parks & Rec will study multiple alignments.
The West Des Moines City Council on April 20 approved the FY2026–27 operating and capital budgets, authorized proceedings related to not‑to‑exceed $4.5 million general obligation bonds, and approved multiple plats for residential and commercial development. All motions passed on recorded votes with five votes in favor and none opposed.
City staff announced the budget hearing had been noticed in the Des Moines Register and no written comments were received; the council then adopted the resolution approving the FY26–27 operating/capital budget by a 5–0 vote. The council also held noticed hearings and approved resolutions instituting proceedings for the GO bond authorization and a proposed digital enterprise network expansion, each passing 5–0.
Separately during Citizens Forum, homeowner Thomas Shurmer raised concerns that a proposed trail connector feasibility study (part of the Parks & Recreation budget item) showed a potential alignment through his private property. Shurmer said he supports parks and trails but is not interested in selling his land. City staff clarified that the budget line funds a feasibility study only and that Parks & Recreation will evaluate multiple route options and produce a report for future council consideration; staff offered to meet with Shurmer one‑on‑one to walk through alternatives.
Major votes at a glance: - Motion to approve agenda: 5–0 (agenda adopted) - FY26–27 operating and capital budgets (resolution): 5–0 (approved) - Resolution to institute proceedings for issuance of not‑to‑exceed $4.5M GO bonds: 5–0 (approved) - Resolution approving digital enterprise network expansion (2026): 5–0 (approved) - Consent agenda plats (Cross Creek; Jordan West Plat 4; Lounsberry Plat 1; Sterling Villas at Kings Valley): all approved 5–0; conditions of approval were noted in staff reports (buffer waivers, easements and stormwater requirements).
Council next steps include standard follow‑up and staff reports on the projects; Parks & Rec will conduct the trail feasibility study and return any recommendations to the council with opportunities for public input.
