To the editor:

Thank you so much for sending out a reporter to cover plans to demolish Wesley Gardens in Des Moines. The reporter covered the sources well and fairly. Now the total demolition has begun with gravely consequences for our elderly residents. Our elderly residents if not the Gardens’ administration would welcome continuing coverage of what’s transpiring here. I would welcome an interview to get the ball rolling.

Attached is a photo of the demolition occurring in the large space behind the main building where the proposed amenities are taking place. I have a plan for using this space in a way that would obviate the need to demolish the main building.

See this large space being cleared behind the main building of Wesley Gardens? Plenty of room to build a state-of-the -art environmentally friendly annex housing all the desired “improvements” without demolishing the huge main building. Planners did not think out their development very thoroughly, certainly not considering the health and welfare of residents forced to live through it! When asked how they were planning to demolish the main building, I was told they didn’t know yet. It hasn’t been put up for bid.

WTFB? This is the most crucial environment factor and they don't even know how the building will be demolished in an environmentally safe manner? And put up for bid..does that mean the cheapest method will be employed without regard for health and safety of residents?

---From my FB post in Take Back Des Moines

Your timely attention to this matter so urgent to us will be much appreciated! Old lives should still matter.

Sincerely,
Don Carmignani