DES MOINES, Iowa — The longest-serving mayor in Des Moines' history is leaving behind a physical reminder of his time in office.
The city of Des Moines held a "celebration of service" for Mayor Frank Cownie Wednesday evening. There, Cownie's colleagues revealed plans to name a new building in Cownie's honor: The T.M. Franklin Cownie City Administration Building.
"This building we are in today will be the center of Des Moines government for generations to come," said Ward 1 Councilmember Chris Coleman. "Here, the work will get done, the residents will gather, and the planners will dream. The city will build and serve."
The building, located at 1200 Locust Street, was previously home to Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. Under the city of Des Moines' ownership, the building will be used to consolidate government operations and city office spaces, as well as enhance services to residents.
Cownie was first elected as mayor in November 2003. Before that, he served on the city council, the Planning and Zoning Commission and the Convention Center Board.
An avid environmental advocate, Cownie currently serves as the president of the Global Executive Committee of ICLEI, an organization promoting sustainable development.
Under his leadership, the Des Moines City Council set goals aimed at achieving carbon-free electricity by 2035. Earlier this year, the city also unveiled and approved a comprehensive climate action plan, ADAPT DSM.
Coleman said Cownie's commitment to improving the city of Des Moines is what makes him the perfect namesake for the new administration building.
"This building will need a culture that is welcoming to all," Coleman said. "This building will need to reflect the very best of the city of Des Moines."
Cownie also spoke at the event, highlighting the work of his colleagues throughout his many years in office and emphasizing the importance of collaboration.
"Let's keep it going. Let's keep supporting our electeds. Let's keep offering them good suggestions and let them know what your concerns are, and they'll continue to listen," he said. "And let's all work together to make it happen."
The Des Moines City Council will officially vote on the building's name at a council meeting on Jan. 8.