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Neighborhood Recognition Policy

Neighborhood Recognition Packet

Definitions

This policy defines neighborhoods and neighborhood organizations for the purpose of the City of Des Moines Neighborhood Revitalization Program.

Definition of a Neighborhood

A neighborhood can be defined by, but not limited to, the following: Geographic or man-made boundaries. Its residents share a common link such as a school, public street pattern, parks, architectural styles or time periods, or infrastructure. A neighborhood is typically not a single residential development. Neighborhoods may include businesses, churches, and other community entities.

Definition of a Neighborhood Organization

A neighborhood organization is a group of people who identify with a common area, who share common goals and concerns, and who meet the standards for neighborhood recognition. Recognized organizations represent the position of the organization or the board of directors and provide direction to the City on issues affecting neighborhoods.

Standards for the Recognition of a Neighborhood Organization

A neighborhood organization must provide the following information to receive official recognition from the City:

• Name of the organization
• Neighborhood boundaries
• Names, telephone numbers, and addresses of two main contact persons and any alternate contact persons
• At least one of the following: By-laws, Articles of Incorporation, or 501.(c)(3) status. These documents should include A and B above in addition to:
  • Meetings - State the location, time, and number of meetings held during each year. The minimum standard is four (4) meetings per year with one meeting held to elect and/or appoint officers.
  • Membership - State the requirements for membership in the organization, including any fees. Membership should be available to residents, landowners, and business people who represent the social, economic, and ethnic make-up of the neighborhood.
  • Officers or Positions - List any elected and/or appointed positions, include a brief job description and any requirements for the position(s).
• Open Meeting Policy - All meetings shall be open to all interested persons and this shall be reflected in the by-laws.

Benefits of Recognition

This Policy forms a direct link between neighborhood organizations and the City. Recognized organizations provide additional direction on issues affecting neighborhoods to City boards, committees, and councils. Whenever an ordinance or policy requires the City to notify property owners, the City will attempt to provide notice to any affected neighborhood organizations.

Capacity of Neighborhood Organization

Recognized neighborhoods must establish and maintain the capacity to represent the views of the neighborhood. Recognized neighborhoods must meet the minimum standards for meetings annually. Additionally, recognized neighborhoods must conduct ongoing outreach to all residents twice a year. This outreach can include newspaper announcements, public service announcements, mailings, and meeting notices posted in conspicuous places. Recognized neighborhoods must also maintain regular communication with members of the organization. Neighborhood meetings must be open to anyone who is interested in attending.

Membership Privileges

Organizations charging membership dues must describe voting requirements in their by-laws. It is encouraged that voting be as inclusive as possible.

Application Process for Neighborhood Organization Recognition

Neighborhood organizations that meet the above standards can complete a Neighborhood Recognition Application. The Neighborhood Revitalization Board (NRB) will review the application and forward its recommendation to City Council. City Council then makes the final decision on recognition. Once formally recognized, the Mayor will present the neighborhood with a Certificate of Recognition. Press releases announcing recognition will include the following information.

1. Neighborhood boundaries
2. Names and telephone numbers of the neighborhood's contact persons
3. A statement encouraging all residents, landowners, and other activities providing direction to the City.

Submission of Annual Report

The Neighborhood Development Division will request that all recognized neighborhoods submit the following information.

1. Any changes in neighborhood boundaries
2. Names, telephone numbers, and addresses of contact persons and officers elected and/or appointed at the annual election
3. Dates of neighborhood meetings held during the previous calendar year
4. Any changes to the approved by-laws
5. An annual neighborhood survey form provided by the city
6. Minutes from the organization's annual meeting or one regular meeting

The requested information will update the listing of recognized neighborhoods. The Neighborhood Division circulates this listing to City departments and the public.

If the neighborhood organization does not return the requested information, the Neighborhood Division will advise the NRB and City Council that the City will no longer formally recognize the neighborhood.

If any neighborhood organization’s update is significantly different from the neighborhood’s original information, the NRB and the City Council will receive the changes for their review, comment, and re-evaluation of recognition status.