Learn about the 2-1-1 information and referral service, and get an update on how the Merle Hay Tax Increment Finance (TIF) district is performing, when the Merle Hay Neighborhood Association meets at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 18, at the Northwest Community Center, 5110 Franklin Ave. We expect to have a guest speaker from 2-1-1, followed by staff from the City of Des Moines (City).

The 2-1-1 helpline provides callers with information on tax preparation assistance, rent payment assistance, utility payment assistance, elderly care, child care programs, legal services, food pantries, and more. Questions will follow a short presentation by a 2-1-1 staff member.

MHNA has also invited staff from the City’s Office of Economic Development to provide an overview of the TIF district, how it’s performing, and how it’s being used to aid redevelopment at Merle Hay Mall and other nearby commercial properties. Moving forward, MHNA has asked the City Council and City staff to make sure the TIF is also used to fund streetscape improvements, consistent with the 2008 Merle Hay neighborhood improvement plan. A list of public improvement priorities was formally submitted to the City Council in January 2017.

We’ll have plenty of other neighborhood updates, public safety information, and more. Refreshments will be provided. Come meet your neighbors and find out how you can help improve OUR neighborhood. We look forward to a great turnout on April 18. Please invite your neighbors!