Indira Sheumaker

Councilperson Sheumaker has resigned, and her resignation marks the end of a curious chapter in the history of our ward and city. Yet, there remains much work to be done. As we begin to look once again to the future, let us make sure to do these three things to ensure a vibrant future for Ward 1 and the city of Des Moines.

The fact of the matter is that it is profoundly encouraging that the city council is now potentially moving to act. Yet, we are still a long way from the goal. The next days and weeks have the potential to set a real precedent for our city, state, and even the nation. We all must play our part to ensure that precedent is done right and well.

At its August 7 meeting, the Des Moines city council will be asked to act under Iowa Code 66.29 to remove one of their colleagues from office. They have the opportunity to rectify an injustice that is happening right here in our community. One-quarter of Des Moines’ population – approximately 50,000 people – is underrepresented in its government. If there was ever a reason to be bold, this is it. Move to act according to Iowa Code 66.29 so that private citizens do not need to bear that burden, to send the message that Des Moines really does take seriously the need for all of its citizens to be represented, and to open the door for a special election this November.

On December 16, 1773, the Sons of Liberty boarded ships in Boston Harbor and destroyed an entire shipment of tea in protest of the Tea Act of 1773. Their mantra, “no taxation without representation,” became a foundational principle of our government. Americans elect individuals to represent them in a “government of the people, by the people, [and] for the people.” If our local, county, and state governments really value this American system of democracy, and if our officials really take seriously their responsibility to represent the people, then they must act now on our behalf. If Councilwoman Sheumaker will not resign, then it is time to remove her. Let us call upon our city council, the Iowa attorney general, and the Polk County attorney to act today.

Dear editor, Greetings. My name is Jeremy Geerdes, and I am the president of the Lower Beaver Neighborhood Association in Des Moines, IA. On July 11, Axios – Des Moines ran an article highlighting the absence of Des Moines Ward 1 Councilwoman Indira Sheumaker from city council meetings and the difficulties neighborhoods have had in […]