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West Des Moines Hosts Community Engagement Institute Spring 2026

West Des Moines to Host Community Engagement Program in 2026

In a move to bring residents closer to the workings of local governance, the City of West Des Moines is set to launch the Community Engagement Institute (CEI) in the spring of 2026. This initiative aims to offer residents a comprehensive insight into the city’s operations while providing a platform for constructive dialogue with city officials.

The CEI is an inclusive program welcoming participants from all walks of life who are eager to delve into the intricacies of city services, engage in meaningful discussions, and contribute their perspectives on community priorities.

This seven-week immersive experience is scheduled to run from April 8th to May 20th, with sessions occurring once a week. Each session will last two hours, from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm. To ensure a rich and interactive experience, the program is limited to 20 participants, and interested residents are urged to apply online by Wednesday, April 1st.

Participants will have the opportunity to meet city leaders, explore city facilities, and provide feedback on initiatives that cater to a diverse community. Audrey Kennis, Director of West Des Moines Human Services, emphasized the program’s impact, stating, “The Community Engagement Institute (CEI) fosters open dialogue and collaboration between residents and City officials. Past participants found the program highly informative and impactful, and its growing popularity shows the value residents place on this experience.”

To learn more about the application process, West Des Moines residents can visit wdm.iowa.gov/ceiapply.

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