Jeff Rose | President and CEO, American Bank & Trust
The Idea: The Greater Des Moines area should become more dog-friendly. Larger, more progressive metropolitan areas (Dallas, LA, Chicago, Charlotte, Phoenix, etc.) have relaxed restrictions on dogs, irrespective of size, allowing owners to live, shop and dine with their pets throughout the communities. Apartments (and hotels) need to accommodate these pets in their rental units and design sufficient green areas for exercise and relief. Restaurants can provide areas (patio, etc.) with room for dogs. Employers should allow their associates to bring their dogs to work. City councils will need to amend applicable ordinances to allow business owners the flexibility necessary to assist. >