Des Moines launches a new, merged neighborhood association

Three neighborhood groups have merged — Fort Des Moines, Magnolia Park and South Park — to form the new South Central DSM neighborhood association.

Why it matters: Recognized city neighborhood associations receive government assistance and can generally better organize to accomplish goals.

• This is even more true after DSM spent the last 18 months helping neighborhoods better protect themselves in legal matters and build greater oversight.
• The now-incorporated South Central DSM will focus on things like traffic mitigation and resident engagement, Heather Tamminga, an outreach coordinator for the city, tells Axios.

Driving the news: The group's inaugural meeting is Tuesday.

• South Side Senior Center, 100 Payton Ave in DSM, starting at 6pm.