Destination Des Moines is poised to make a return, with an all-new board and a new direction. The only tie to the old Destination Des Moines is the name. But without some immediate funding, their future is an uncertain one.

New Destination Des Moines President Bradley Hawthorne asked the Des Moines City Council for $5,000 for this year and $13,000 next year, so they can pay for insurance and to continue projects the group is working on.

"We are a little overwhelmed and we need assistance," Hawthorne said.
In the very near future Destination Des Moines is working on trick or treating in Des Moines on Halloween and an event for Christmas. The group is also working to put on the Waterland Parade in 2011.

He said the group anticipated being self-sufficient after a year, but in order to make it to that first year they needed help now.

When asked what would happen to the group if they did not receive money from the city Hawthorne said it would be the end of the group. He also said that would likely be the end of the Waterland Parade as well.

"It is crucial we get help," Hawthorne said.

The new 40 member Destination Des Moines has had five meetings since they began getting together in July.

When the original Destination Des Moines formed three years ago Des Moines gave the group $15,000 in seed money. Mayor Bob Sheckler described that money as "unaccounted for."

The new Destination Des Moines is running an internal audit to find out what the original $15,000 was spent on. Hawthorne said if the audit shows abuse the group would be willing to recover that money.

The results of the audit will be available after the first of the year, Hawthorne said.

"I very much appreciate what you are trying to do," Councilman Matt Pina said. "I think it does mean a lot to the people of the city."

Hawthorne said they are trying to model their group after Discover Burien, which he said has done a lot for the city.

"I think this organization is going to work out much better than the old one," Sheckler said. "I find it exciting and I am definitely supportive of where you are heading."

The council has not taken any action on approving money for Destination Des Moines yet.

The request for funds comes during a financially difficult time for the city, which is facing an overall deficit of $1.4 million in 2011.