Public Works Department
Development Services Division
John Rowen, Development Services Manager
5885 NE 14 Street Des Moines, IA 50313
Phone: 515/286-3705 FAX:515/286-3437
Email:
jrowen@co.polk.ia.us
The Development Services Division of the Public Works Department consists of five distinct areas: Building Inspection, Environment Sanitation, Housing Rehab, Emergency Repair, Weatherization and Real Estate.
The Building Inspection Division (286-3352) issues permits and inspects new construction and additions to residential, commercial and industrial buildings. The building division inspects new construction and additions for compliance with the Polk County Uniform Construction Code.
The Environmental Sanitation Division (286-3376) provides services related to those affecting the health and safety to the physical environment in which we live. Services include: inspection of on-site wastewater systems, swimming pool and spa inspections, and inspections of private wells, investigation of all nuisance complaints in regard to environmental health, mosquito control, and radon testing.
The Owner Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Division (286-3726) administers a program to low and moderate income homeowners in designated areas of Polk County – Lovington and Capitol Heights. The goal of the program is to maintain affordable housing and revitalize the two designated neighborhoods. Utilizing Community Development Block Grants and local funds, this program not only rehabilitates the property, but provides for property cleanup and new landscaping.
The Emergency Repair (286-3726) Division provides emergency repairs for eligible low income families in unincorporated and all incorporated areas of Polk County. Eligible families are referred to Public Works by Community, Family and Youth Services, General Assistance (286-3385). Inspectors will visit the home and make determination of the repair need, secure a contractor, and ensure work is satisfactory completed.
The Weatherization Program (286-2258) provides services to low income homeowners and renters in Polk County to help reduce their utility costs. Families in Polk County who qualify for assistance will be evaluated to determine the extent of work to be complete, which may include: furnace and water heater replacements, insulation, replacement of windows, and in some instances, replacement of high energy usage refrigerators and freezers.