West Des Moines Chamber Hosts Mayor Russ Trimble for Civic Connect Discussion

The West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a pivotal event as part of our new CIVIC CONNECT initiative—a committee launched in 2024 to educate, engage, and encourage our members to participate in the political process. This session featured Mayor Russ Trimble, who shared insights on the city’s phenomenal growth, economic development, and future vision. The discussion was expertly moderated by CIVIC CONNECT Chair Robert Palmer, J.D., CAE.

With our Mayor, City Council, and city staff leading the way, West Des Moines continues to thrive. Thank you to everyone who attended this insightful conversation! Key Highlights from Mayor Trimble’s Address:

A Commitment to Lower Taxes & Fiscal Responsibility

West Des Moines continues to be a leader in fiscal responsibility, with this upcoming budget will be cutting the city tax rate to $10.80 cents per thousand. This reduction is particularly significant for seniors on fixed incomes, ensuring they can continue to enjoy the high quality of life our city offers.

Economic Development & Innovation

West Des Moines is aggressively driving economic development, attracting world-class businesses and fostering entrepreneurship. Notable updates include:

• Microsoft’s upcoming 6th data center, reinforcing the city’s status as a hub for technology and innovation.
• Exciting new entertainment and retail additions like Top Golf, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, The Lego Store, Blue Zoo, Dave & Busters, Spare Time, Putt & Pins, and the Grand Experience—a future transformative project that includes a massive indoor water park, convention center, hotel plus restaurant and retail expansions.
• Valley West Mall revitalization is on its way, a game-changing redevelopment effort aimed at creating a modern, vibrant destination.
• 5th Street in Valley Junction remains a crown jewel, a testament to the city’s rich history and commitment to preserving its unique character. The city will continue its revitalization efforts in Valley Junction and has begun expanding those efforts to 8th street as well. 

Mayor Trimble also emphasized the city’s proactive business recruitment strategy, which includes cold-calling businesses and working closely with national site selectors to bring top companies to the region.

Expanding Housing & Smart Growth

With West Des Moines poised to support up to 140,000 residents at full build out (from our current 72,000+), strategic housing development is a top priority.

• The city is investing in affordable housing, including a 150-unit development tied to the Grand Experience convention center groundbreaking later this year.
• New home construction projects will ensure that young professionals and families can plant roots in West Des Moines.

• The city is actively working with home builders to encourage more housing starts in West Des Moines in efforts to add more residents to support area businesses, increase the available workforce, and expand enrollment and funding for West Des Moines Community Schools. 

Quality of Life Investments

West Des Moines continues to lead in quality-of-life projects, making the city an even more desirable place to live and work.

• Boathouse & water landing on 1st Street for outdoor recreation.
• RecPlex expansion & a new sheet of ice, ensuring we remain a top destination for youth sports.

• The city is working to preserve our history and provide green space for residents to enjoy for years to come through a project called Legacy Woods, a public/private partnership that will lead to development of an arboretum and history center at Grand and Fuller next to the Jordan House. 

• West Des Moines Historical Society collaborations to preserve and celebrate our city’s rich history.

Infrastructure, Public Safety & Technology

The city is committed to efficiency and innovation in government operations, infrastructure, and public safety:

• Running conduit city-wide to future-proof infrastructure for businesses and residents.

• The city will continue to invest in public safety, hiring more police officers, firefighters and EMTs to keep people safe as we grow.

• The city will continue to use cutting edge technology for training as well as for catching and deterring criminals through use of flock cameras around its shopping and entertainment districts. 

A Vision for the Future

Mayor Trimble reinforced that West Des Moines is a city of big dreams, with a strong economic development team, a forward-thinking leadership approach, and an unwavering commitment to making bold moves that shape the future.

• The city is exploring annexations to expand and remain competitive.
• Collaboration with neighboring cities like Clive ensures a regional approach to growth and development.
• Jordan Creek Town Center’s impact has created a ripple effect, benefiting the entire region.
• The Mayor’s Advisory Council is thriving, fostering greater civic engagement.

As Mayor Trimble stated, “If you’re not growing, you’re dying.” With a thriving business community, strategic investments, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, West Des Moines is well on its way to becoming the best city in America to live, work, and play.

Thank You for Being Part of the Future

We appreciate Mayor Trimble’s leadership, our dedicated City Council, and the incredible businesses, residents, and community leaders who make West Des Moines a powerhouse of opportunity. Stay tuned for more CIVIC CONNECT events, where we continue to bridge the gap between government, business, and community engagement. #GoWestWDM