City of Des Moines, IA

07/15/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 07/15/2025 14:07

City Council Takes First Step Toward Long-term Commitment to Housing Improvements

Press Release


Des Moines, Iowa- Tuesday, July 15, 2025 - In a pivotal move to address housing challenges and guide future development, City Council voted Monday to receive and file the City's first-ever Citywide Housing Strategy, marking the beginning of a long-term effort to improve housing conditions, affordability and access throughout the city.

"Our housing market is generally affordable, but we face persistent challenges that stem from aging infrastructure, a shortage of options for middle-income families, and a growing gap between renovation costs and market values," said Mayor Connie Boesen. "This strategy gives us tools and guidance to build housing options for all income levels while preserving what makes Des Moines a great place to live."

The Des Moines Citywide Housing Strategy serves as a flexible but focused roadmap that will inform how the City invests in, preserves and improves housing over the next 100 years. The strategy was developed by national housing consultants at czb, LLC and shaped by multiple rounds of community feedback and staff recommendations. The strategy reflects a commitment to strengthening Des Moines' neighborhoods, supporting homeownership, and ensuring a balanced supply of housing that serves residents of all incomes.

"This plan sets clear priorities to invigorate vacant houses and empty lots while dispersing affordable housing throughout the entire city," Mayor Boesen said. "Our existing housing stock is the most affordable housing in the metro, but much of it needs attention and rehabilitation to remain safe and affordable. This program grows our investment in rehabilitation assistance and will make it possible for more residents to stay in their homes safely."

The strategy prioritizes expanded investment in existing housing, expansion of successful programs like Invest DSM and Improving Our Neighborhoods (ION), support for new mixed-income development, and increased access to home repair assistance and down payment support. It does not call for widespread demolition or luxury developments out of step with neighborhood character.

The Council vote approved an amendment to General Task #7 of the strategy, which establishes continued approval of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC). Another revision clarifies standards of affordable units when Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is used to support new developments.

Any policy changes or budgetary allocations will come back to City Council each time for consideration. This vote represents the first of many steps in a long-term commitment to building a stronger, more comprehensive housing market that serves all Des Moines residents-now and in the decades to come.

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