A fifth-generation Iowan, father of two, and grandfather of six, Carl Voss has lived in Des Moines since 1971. While beginning his journalism career in the city as a photographer and editor for The Des Moines Register, he got to know the issues that Des Moines residents face and became increasingly involved in civic activities. In addition to currently serving as an at-large council member, Carl served as an interim City Council member (2013-14). 

 

Before joining the council, he served on fund-raising cabinets for community-betterment projects and chaired the City’s Transportation Safety Committee. That committee works to make streets accessible to all, including pedestrians, mobility-challenged, bike riders, and transit users.

 

 

He represents the City of Des Moines Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Policy Committee, the Des Moines Arts Festival Board, the Blank Park Zoo Foundation, Invest DSM, Neighborhood Investment Corporation, and the Joppa Village Coalition Board. Carl chairs the MPO’s Bike-Ped Roundtable.

Faith and family are cornerstones in Carl’s life, but his passions and work extend meaningfully to the City of Des Moines. Carl co-founded the Des Moines Bicycle Collective and led the initiative to install bike racks on all MTA/DART buses. He is a former board member of Friends of Des Moines Parks but continues to work to improve neighborhoods through park and trail projects. With two sons who graduated from Theodore Roosevelt High School and grandchildren who attended Des Moines Public Schools, Carl is a proud Des Moines resident working hard for all. He has volunteered his time and created service projects throughout the city--from DMARC diaper drives and Boys and Girls Club Mitten Runs to youth soccer fields and the East Village Holiday Promenade.

Carl and his wife, Susan, are two of the first East Village residents, where they have promoted Shop Local and community-building initiatives. As a founding board member of the Historic East Village, Carl has worked since 2000 to create a safe, walkable neighborhood for residents, small businesses, and visitors.

Carl brings his diverse experience to each opportunity and works collaboratively to reach the best solutions for Des Moines. He plays well with others!