Des Moines council approves $11.5 million budget package

Council approves first round of reductions

The Des Moines City Council approved an budget package Sept. 14, with reductions affecting nearly every city department. The 6-1 vote is intended to address most of a projected deficit before fiscal year 2028 begins July 1, 2027.

Nearly would come from staff reductions, including 15 layoffs, according to a council memo. Program reductions account for about, while new and increased fees are expected to raise.

Council member Linda Westergaard cast the only opposing vote. She objected to eliminating public safety positions, including a firefighter and an analyst in the Fire Department, along with park maintenance staff.

State cap shapes city budget

City leaders tied the shortfall to a new Iowa law limiting annual growth in local governments’ general fund property tax levies to 2%, with an exception for new construction. They estimate the city will face another effect in the following fiscal year.

The council acted after months of discussions with department leaders, public hearings and a resident survey about which services could be reduced. Members said the city’s budget review will continue into January and in future years.

Members raise concerns about services

Council member Joe Gatto supported the package but called its public safety effects troubling. He said the city still needs a plan for another fire station and more firefighters and police officers.

Council member Rob Barron raised concerns about reductions involving libraries, parks, police, fire and the Community Impact and Relations Department. Council member Mike Simonson said he was concerned about finding the additional reductions needed to close the full projected deficit.