Meet Mike

Mike Simonson was elected to the Des Moines City Council in a special election in March 2024 and currently serves as Mayor Pro Tem.

 

A long-time advocate for community engagement and thoughtful development, Mike brings more than a decade of public service experience to his role. Prior to joining the City Council, he served for 12 years on the Des Moines Plan and Zoning Commission, helping to shape the city's growth with a focus on sustainability and inclusivity.

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In addition to his public service, Mike has contributed to the cultural life of Des Moines through leadership roles on the boards of the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, the Des Moines Art Museum, and Hoyt Sherman Place. He is also an active member of Downtown Disciples Church.

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Recently retired from the business, Mike is the founder of Simonson + Associates Architects, a Des Moines-based firm operating in over 20 states. His work as a small business owner gives him first-hand insight into the challenges and opportunities facing local entrepreneurs. He brings this perspective to the City Council, championing policies that support innovation, collaboration, and economic growth. Mike believes that Des Moines' strength lies in the dedication of its people to see each other as neighbors, whether they are small business owners, longtime residents, or young people putting down roots in Iowa’s capital city, just as he did.