A citizens group seeking to block demolition of the iconic Masonic Home of Des Moines is moving forward with an appeal in King County Superior Court, and is asking supporters for financial help as the case enters a critical stage.
Lloyd E. Lytle Jr., president of Citizens for the Protection of Des Moines Historic Resources, said the group has secured legal representation and has a court date scheduled for June 2026 after earlier setbacks threatened to derail the appeal.
“In November, we wrapped up our Hearing Examination at the City of Des Moines, appealing the Cities’ decision to issue a demolition permit for the Masonic Home,” Lytle wrote in an update dated Feb. 7, 2026.
As we previously reported, in December, the Hearing Examiner made a decision in favor of the City of Des Moines and upheld their issuance of the demolition permit.
The preservation group initially debated whether to appeal to King County court because its budget was depleted and it had a $32,000 outstanding balance with attorneys after raising $41,000, according to Lytle. Members decided to file an appeal and represent themselves, estimating it would cost about $5,000.
After filing, the group learned that only individuals can represent themselves in court, not organizations. The opposing party filed to dismiss the case unless the group obtained legal representation.
“We negotiated with our attorneys, and with help from a last minute large donation from a donor who wishes to remain anonymous, we were able to bring our balance whole, and secure representation in our King County appeal,” Lytle wrote.
Preliminary hearings are already underway, with the case scheduled for June 2026.
Lytle said two immediate costs must be addressed. Transferring the record of the City of Des Moines hearing examination to King County court will cost $1,300, which he said is covered by recent donations through a GoFundMe campaign.
The group may also be required to pay for a written transcript of the hearing examination, estimated to cost between $4000 and $5000. Supporters argued in court earlier this week to forgo a written transcript, and a judge is expected to decide next week.
“If he decides we need to provide the written transcript, we will have to find a way to pay for one, or our case may be dismissed,” Lytle wrote. “If the judge decides we can forgo the written transcript, all funds raised will still go toward the long term payment of legal fees.”
Lytle urged supporters to contribute if they are able, writing, “Every dollar is helpful and goes a long way toward helping the Masonic Home.”
“Thank you again for all your support along the way and for standing up for the amazing Masonic Home of Des Moines and a world in which places like this exist!” Lytle added.
More information about the effort, as well as how to donate, is available at:
