Des Moines City Council sets hearing to change zoning of Landmark on Sound

By Jack Mayne The Des Moines City Council in a study session Thursday night set the public hearing for Sept. 27 to consider reclassifying the Landmark on the Sound from residential Multifamily to an Institutional Campus Zone, as part of ongoing efforts to save in some way the iconic structure. The Council was unanimous in setting the day, but Councilmember Jeremy Nutting recused himself because he is “associated with the Masons,” the owners of the Landmark building, which was formerly a retirement home for Freemasons. Earlier this year, The Waterland Blog told of the potential future of the iconic building. “The main intent is to preserve the existing Masonic Lodge along with all of the grounds West of the main entrance,” Travis Ameche, the project coordinator said then. “The interior would be converted to work lofts while still preserving the historical charm. We want the community to enjoy the grounds along with some of the public amenities we plan to offer.” The proposed Landmark Development would “encompass a multitude of uses while preserving the beauty of the Masonic Lodge and existing courtyard. “The land West of the Masonic lodge including the existing water fountain, gardens and landscaped area will be preserved and dedicated for public use.” Ameche said in February. “The exterior of the Masonic Lodge will be preserved while the existing interior rooms will be converted into approximately 395 work lofts for local artists, artisans, musicians, software developers, tech startups, and other local small businesses. Existing spaces such as the performing arts theatre, commercial kitchen and gathering areas will be preserved as an amenity to tenants along with venues for community enjoyment.” To accomplish this the city decided a zone change was needed and that will be debated on Sept. 27. PORT’S SAMP MEETING MONDAY City Manager Michael Matthias also mentioned the upcoming Port of Seattle meeting for its Sustainable Airport Master Plan, or “SAMP” meeting that will be held at Highline College this coming Monday, Sept. 10, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.]]>