West Des Moines, IA
Home MenuBoards & Commissions Overview
The City of West Des Moines has established a variety of boards and commissions which give residents an opportunity to use their skills to benefit our community. Service on a board or commission allows dedicated individuals to provide input on the policies that shape their government and their city. There are currently 11 boards and commissions that advise the Mayor and City Council on a variety of issues. Most are appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council.
Membership on a board or commission is beneficial to those who serve as well. Members meet other West Des Moines residents with parallel interests, learn about the City and its processes, and help mold the future West Des Moines. Being on a board or commission entails a significant commitment of time and energy.
To find out more about a specific board or commission, click on the appropriate title below. Potential applicants or simply interested residents can sit in on board and commission meetings as they are open to the public. Meeting dates, times and locations vary.
Many issues discussed at the board or commission level also go to City Council subcommittees for review. Read a description of the related subcommittees in the City of West Des Moines City Council Subcommittee Policy.
If you are interested in serving on a board or commission, please submit an application to the City Clerk’s Office. Applicants will be asked to indicate which board or commission interests them.
Board & Commissions List
Bicycle Advisory Commission
This commission consists of seven members, 5 of whom must reside within the City of West Des Moines. This commission is charged with advising the City on implementation of the City's Bicycle Master Plan.
Board of Adjustment
This 5-member board is able, by State Code, to make special exceptions from the Zoning Ordinance.
Civil Service Commission
This 3-member commission is a special tribunal created under the Code of Iowa charged to provide a harmonious and efficient public service which will protect the interests of the City of West Des Moines and its employees.
Human Rights Commission
This 7-member commission promotes education against discriminatory actions in the areas of employment, housing, public accommodations or services, education, and credit.
Human Services Board
This 15-member board establishes regulations, procedures and policies designed to effectively carry out the department's mission of "providing opportunities for community residents to achieve healthy, stable and productive lives."
Library Board of Trustees
This 7-member board supervises several components of library operations including library purchases, making and adopting rules and regulations, and accepting gifts.
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board
This 7-member board makes recommendations on park development, park property, park maintenance, fees and charges, and grant applications. It provides input on budget preparation and marketing efforts.
Plan & Zoning Commission
This 7-member commission’s main task is to conduct thorough reviews of development proposals to ensure consistency with the community’s established land use patterns and development standards.
Public Arts Advisory Commission
This 7-member commission is to review and make recommendations to the City Council regarding the selection and installation of public art throughout the city.
Sister Cities Commission
This 7-member commission promotes educational and cultural exchanges between institutions, businesses, and citizens of West Des Moines and their counterparts in other similar cities in foreign nations.
Water Works Board of Trustees
This 5-member board has the ability to exercise all powers of a City in relation to the water utility excluding taxes, ordinances, bonds, and title to property.
View agendas & minutes for the boards and commissions.
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