Help Save the Masonic Home of Des Moines with a King County Appeal!
Update as of February 18, 2026:
We met our short-term fundraising goal thanks to you all of about $7,000 to cover the transfer of record and written transcript fees to meet the deadline of March 6, 2026. We’re now turning toward our long-term fundraising goal of $25,000 to cover attorney fees throughout the case into May or June.
Previous Update:
There have been a lot of twists and turns, here is the latest as of February 7, 2026:
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. In December, the Hearing Examiner made a decision in favor of the City of Des Moines and upheld their issuance of the demolition permit.
We, the Citizens for the Protection of Des Moines' Historic Resources, had to decide whether to appeal to King County Court or not. We were not planning on it, as our budget was spent, and there was a $32,000 outstanding balance with our attorneys, even having raised $41,000 already.
We decided ultimately to represent ourselves, without attorneys, for a King County appeal, as that would be more budget friendly, possibly around $5000 we estimated.
However, having filed the appeal in King County, and getting the ball rolling, we found out that only individuals can represent themselves, not groups. So the other side filed to dismiss our case unless we found attorney 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.
Our case is scheduled for June 2026, and we have already begun the preliminary hearings.
This week is critical though, as there are two things we need to take care of. We need to transfer the record of the City of Des Moines Hearing Examination to King County Court. This will cost $1300. We have the budget for that, thanks to everyone who’s contributed to this Go Fund Me, thank you to all!
We also may need to pay for a written transcript of the Hearing Examination. This could cost between $4000 - $5000. We argued in court earlier in the week, to forgo a written transcript. The judge will decide on this issue 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. If the judge decides we can forgo the written transcript, all funds raised will still go toward the long-term payment of legal fees. However, the long-term legal fees can be paid down over time, without a hard deadline.
So, we are asking all supporters, if you are able, we would highly appreciate any amount you can contribute this week. As we have to be prepared to cover payment for a written transcript. Thank you for any amount you’re able to donate. 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!
Lloyd E. Lytle Jr.
President of Citizens for the Protection of Des Moines Historic Resources