Campaign Corner: Des Moines City Council

David Denino, Des Moines City Council, Position 1, No response received.

Harry Steinmetz, Des Moines City Council, Position 1, No response received.

Gene Achziger, Des Moines City Council, Position 3, Unopposed, No response received.

Lloyd Elliot Lytle, Jr.,  Des Moines City Council, Position 5: 

“Thank you for the opportunity to share my views with the public:

* What do you see as the hurdles to creating a family-friendly, thriving, destination-oriented retail environment in Des Moines?

From listening to feedback from small businesses and the community, I'm hearing that sprucing up the appearance of downtown Des Moines would benefit retail. Some ideas are lighting themes, holiday themes or celebrations throughout the year, restarting the flower pots that were cut from the budget and are now empty, having more events that draw crowds such as street fairs. Bring back the full Waterland Festival, not just the parade. Make it exciting and fun to come to Des Moines!

* Without implementing additional taxes, how would you improve our downtown area and transform it into a destination?

Similar ideas as my previous answer. You could also connect the Marina to Downtown with shuttles that circulate throughout the day. The Steps are meant to connect the Marina to Downtown but don't have a ton of public support due to the ever-increasing cost and its drain on the city's main budget, which led to the two tax-raising proposals last year, neither of which were approved by the public. It would be cool to connect to other cities across the water, like Vashon, Tacoma, etc. by boat. There is the high-speed ferry pilot program. However, people are concerned about the cost of that also. I think you could just do it with a regular, larger boat going at a normal speed for much cheaper. High-speed ferries are a hazard to the whale and orca population also. They don't have time to get out of the way, and you hear about collisions regularly, in other parts of the world. We could just go at a slower pace and enjoy the ride, and bring in customers from other cities across the water. It'd be fun to visit their cities as well by boat. A win-win solution.”

Lloyd Elliott Lytle Jr.
www.lytlefordesmoinescitycouncil.com

Pierre Blosse, Des Moines City Council, Position 5:

 What do you see as the hurdles to creating a family-friendly, thriving, destination-oriented retail environment in Des Moines?

 Des Moines has tremendous potential - a beautiful waterfront, marina, and small-town feel that could make it one of the region’s most desirable destinations. Yet several hurdles stand in the way. Many retail spaces sit vacant or underused, discouraging foot traffic and weakening the sense of vibrancy downtown. High rents, outdated storefronts, and slow permitting processes can make it difficult for new small businesses to open or expand. 

 The physical environment is another major challenge. Downtown streets are not well lit, cleanliness can be inconsistent, and there’s a noticeable lack of trees, plants, and flowers to bring life to the area - even the city’s decorative flower pots now sit empty. Some property owners have not kept up with needed maintenance or improvements, which affects the overall appearance and atmosphere of the downtown core. Limited parking downtown and disconnected pedestrian routes also make it harder for families to explore the area comfortably. These details matter; they shape how people feel when they walk through downtown. 

 Another challenge is the lack of consistent activity throughout the week - our downtown can feel quiet outside of major events. Without regular programming or strong partnerships between businesses, it’s hard to build the energy and momentum needed to attract visitors. Addressing these hurdles is key to unlocking Des Moines’ full potential as a welcoming, vibrant community hub.

 Without implementing additional taxes, how would you improve our downtown area and transform it into a destination?

 We can revitalize downtown without raising taxes by focusing on smart growth, strong partnerships, and accountability. Our waterfront and downtown should be the heart of this transformation - a place where families, visitors, and businesses all want to spend time. The city can help create a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere by beautifying our streets with more trees, flowers, and landscaping, while improving sidewalks and connecting pedestrian routes to make the area safer and more walkable.

 We should also encourage investment through streamlined permitting, façade improvement grants, and the strategic use of state and federal revitalization funds. Property owners must play their part by updating and maintaining their storefronts with better lighting, signage, and outdoor seating that make the area more inviting. At the same time, the city should partner with local businesses to host family-friendly events, art walks, and seasonal markets that bring consistent activity to downtown year-round.

 Beyond physical improvements, we need to tell our city’s story. Des Moines should launch a marketing campaign to showcase its natural beauty, marina, and small-town charm - similar to what Normandy Park and other neighboring cities are doing. Highlighting our waterfront trails, parks, and restaurants can draw visitors and tourists from across the region. By combining beautification, business collaboration, and smart promotion, we can transform Des Moines into a true destination - not by taxing more, but by creating more opportunity and pride in our city.”

Robyn Desimone, Des Moines City Council, Position 7, Unopposed, No response received.