Form of Government

The council-manager form of local government combines the strong political leadership of elected officials in the form of a council or other governing body with the strong managerial experience of an appointed local government manager. Approximately 59% of US cities with populations of 25,000 or more, and 47% of US cities with populations of 5,000 or more, have adopted the council-manager form.

Role of City Council
 

The Mayor and City Council members act as the political head of the city. They are responsible for setting policy, approving the budget, determining the tax rate, and formulating broad long-term policies that outline the City's public function. The manager is appointed by council to carry out policy and ensure that the entire community is being served. The manager makes policy recommendations to the council, but the council may or may not adopt them and may modify the recommendations. The manager is bound by whatever action the council takes.

For more information on the Des Moines City Council, when meetings are held, how to contact a council member, council agenda information and council appointments - click here. 
 

City Manager's Office Divisions

The City Manager's Office consists of the following divisions:

Administration

The City Manager and City Manager's Office staff administer the City budget and direct the day-to-day operations of the City.
 

Economic Development

The Office of Economic Development is dedicated to meeting your business needs by focusing our resources and implementing creative approaches to assure the success of your project. Services provided include the following:

Project Management
Confidential building and site selection assistance
Redevelopment
Development financing

Public Information Office

Public Information Office functions as the central resource for City communications.

Information Center Contact Information

If you have concerns about a problem in your neighborhood or have a question regarding city services and you're not sure who to call, the Information Center can help.  Before calling, visit the Information Center site to see if you can find the answer to your question.  You may contact the Information Center via   E-mail or  by calling (515) 283-4500.

City of Des Moines Self-Service

City of Des Moines Self Service (CDMSS) provides Citizens of Des Moines with a 24-hour self-service option when wishing to research or submit any issue regarding city services, agendas or information.  CDMSS is fast and easy to use.  

Click Here for complete listing of City Manager Employees

City Manager Office Contact Information

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