Des Moines and Polk County extend Invest DSM revitalization pilot

• City and county officials believe it's working.

Driving the news: The city and county's initial three-year commitments end July 31.

• But the City Council approved a contract Monday that says each will allocate $5 million to the group in the fiscal year that starts in July.
• Similar levels of contributions are anticipated through 2027.

How it works: The pilot targets four Des Moines districts, where home and business owners can qualify for grants that help pay for property improvements.

• Hundreds of owners participated, investing millions of dollars more into their properties beyond their initial grants allocations.

What's next: City Council members have expressed interest in expanding the program to other areas of the city.

• Further discussion is expected in coming months.