5-7-26 Plan and Zoning Commission Meeting

The City of Des Moines Plan and Zoning Commission met on May 7, 2026, to review several land use and development requests. Key procurement-related discussions focused on a subdivision plat proposed by Invest DSM for the Drake Park neighborhood, involving lot line adjustments, creation of a north-south alleyway, and utility undergrounding. The developer presented plans to renovate existing homes, add accessory dwelling units, and increase housing density while maintaining neighborhood character. Commissioners raised concerns about project feasibility, housing affordability, equity impacts, and transparency of financial data. Despite some reservations, the commission approved the subdivision plat as recommended by staff. Another agenda item involved rezoning a property at 855 17th Street to allow reuse as an art studio and office space, with discussions addressing parking impacts and neighborhood concerns. The commission voted to support the rezoning recommendation, noting that further public input would occur at the city council level. No direct contract awards or budget allocations were made, but the meeting included significant policy and planning decisions affecting future development and procurement opportunities in Des Moines.