In The News

AUGUST 2022

GRAND RAPIDS HOSTS 'COMMISSION NIGHT OUT' AND DRAWS A LARGE CROWD

The City of Grand Rapids hosted its first "Commission Night Out" event in years. There were many topics on the table, like policing and housing.

RESIDENT SURVEY BEING COLLECTED IN PLYMOUTH

In an effort to collect community feedback and gauge city service satisfaction, the City of Plymouth has partnered with Polco and the National Research Center to complete a community survey, which is underway. The survey includes questions about quality of life, public safety, customer satisfaction and more.

CARBONDALE CITY COUNCIL APPROVES NEW AREA FOR TIF DISTRICT 2 TABLES VACATION RENTAL PROCESS

A representative of Polco, a Software company in Middleton, Wisconsin, presented their National Community Survey on Tuesday evening to the Carbondale City Council. 

SOUND OFF: CITY OF DELAND'S CITIZEN SURVEY IS NOW LIVE

The city of DeLand announced that its biannual citizen survey is now open to all city residents this week.

CITY LOOKS FOR INPUT FROM COMMUNITY MEMBERS

Savage residents are invited to participate in an online community survey designed to provide a baseline of how the city is meeting their needs and expectations and to make comparisons with peer cities.

JULY 2022

US CITIES PLAN TO WORK TOGETHER TO MAXIMISE FEDERAL FUNDS

The joint survey from the National League of Cities (NLC) and community survey platform provider Polco indicates how local leaders from 153 cities, towns, and villages in 47 states plan to spend funds from the US$1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

DELAND LAUNCHES CITIZEN SURVEY

This week, the City of DeLand launched its bi-annual citizen survey in partnership with the National Research Center. The survey provides valuable information to the City Commission for future policy decisions and also measures the city against other communities across the nation who have participated.

ALLEGAN COUNTY AND NON-PROFITS SEEK INPUT FROM RESIDENTS THROUGH SURVEY

Allegan County officials and several non-profit partner agencies have hired a national survey organization to gauge residents’ views on the state of the county and services available to residents.

FLORIDA CITY'S COMMUNICATION DEPARTMENT RECOGNIZED FOR ITS EFFORTS BY BLOOMBERG PHILANTHROPIES INITIATIVE

Translating ideas and 10-year plans created by administrators in a town office into concepts that are readily digestible by the general public isn’t always easy; Port St. Lucie, Fla.’s communication department is doing it right.

LOCALITIES AIM TO TURN FEDERAL MONEY INTO MAJOR ROAD INVESTMENTS 

Local governments plan to spend the majority of their Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funds on roads, with water and broadband projects also getting high priority.

That’s according to a joint survey by the National League of Cities and Polco, in which 82% of respondents said they intended to spend federal dollars on roads, bridges and major projects.

SURVEY: GRAND RAPIDS RESIDENTS EXPERIENCING HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE

The 2022 National Community Survey, taken by the National Research Center between February and April, also lists aspects that could be improved on as the city continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, inflation, and social tension, the city of Grand Rapids tells us.

COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS PRESENTED TO NEW BRAUNFELS CITY COUNCIL

The results of the New Braunfels Community Survey were presented by Polco, a civic analytics firm, at New Braunfels City Council on July 11.

WEDNESDAY DEADLINE LOOMS FOR LOVELAND COMMUNITY SURVEY

Last month, the city launched its first quality of life survey of residents since 2018, in partnership with National Research Service/Polco. The Loveland survey is based on the National Community Survey, a “rigorous, high-quality” benchmarking tool used by municipalities across the U.S. to compare quality of life measures.

DAKOTA COUNTY GARNERS POSITIVE APPROVAL RATINGS FROM RESIDENTS

A healthy majority of Dakota County residents like their living situation and approve of their county’s governance and public services, according to the 2022 Residential Survey.

EAGAN BUSINESSES GIVE CITY TOP MARKS

Eagan businesses gave the City’s business climate high marks, according to a biannual business survey conducted by the National Research Center.

JUNE 2022

POLCO PORTABLE POTTY POLL: NOW THE RESULTS

Not many people took part in an online Albany poll on portable toilets. But of those who did, a majority said yes, Albany should “allow portable toilets on private property for public use.”

POLCO SEEKS MEMBERS FOR NEW NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTER ADVISORY BOARD

The advisory board will be a collaborative forum of industry professionals offering insights on public sector community engagement and performance management trends. Learn more and apply by July 6, 2022 for priority consideration.

CITIZEN SURVEY SAYS: STAFFORD IS SAFE, TRANSPORTATION NETWORKS STINKS

Stafford County is a great place to live and to raise a family. But don't try to drive anywhere.

MAY 2022

SHREWSBURY TOWN LEADERS WEIGH FEEDBACK FROM COMMUNITY SURVEY

Key findings from the National Community Survey will be wrapped into the town’s Shrewsbury 2030 Strategic Planning Process.

LOS GATOS' QUALITY Of LIFE GETS HIGH MARKS IN 2022 COMMUNITY SURVEY

The 2022 Community Survey found that 97.2 percent of respondents said Los Gatos was an excellent or good place to live.

APRIL 2022

NEW BRAUNFELS COMMUNITY SURVEY NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE

The open participation portion of the 2022 New Braunfels Community Survey is now available online to all city residents to provide feedback on the quality of life, livability in the community, economic health, safety and transportation.

81% OF WAUKESHA RESIDENTS HAPPY WITH CITY IN QUALITY OF LIFE SURVEY

More than 8 out of 10 people would recommend Waukesha to others and plan on living there for the next five years, a nationwide survey found.

MARCH 2022

GURNEE SEEKS RESIDENT INPUT FOR NEXT STRATEGIC PLAN

The cameras worn by Gurnee police officers, the Richard A. Welton Plaza on Old Grand Avenue, and the village's Facebook page have something in common: they all came to be after being included in Gurnee's last strategic plan.

SURVEY: 90% SAY JOHNSON CITY IS A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE 

The survey also highlighted an increased satisfaction with the city’s transportation and related services along with a 7% increase in satisfaction in the “value of services for taxes” category.

CITIZEN SUMMIT 2022: GIVING OUR RESIDENTS THE OPPORTUNITY TO AFFECT THE CHANGE THEY WANT TO SEE 

The City of Port St. Lucie's annual Citizen Summit gives residents an opportunity to share ideas and feedback with City staff, learn about the City's Strategic Plan and seven Strategic Goals and offers a fun, interactive way to affect change.

RESIDENT SURVEY TO HELP PLAN THE FUTURE

The City of Muscatine has announced the launch of a comprehensive quality-of-life survey through March 11. The survey is available online for all residents.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY

The National Community Survey asks questions of the community on certain service and topic areas. The survey was launched in two phases. The first phase was sent to random households. Now the second phase is open to all residents through an online platform!

SAFETY RANKS TOPS IN PALM COAST CITIZEN SURVEY

Approximately 80% of a sampling of 2,400 Palm Coast respondents who took part in Palm Coast's 2021 National Community Survey gave positive marks for police services, crime prevention and emergency preparedness. Ninety-four percent of respondents stated they feel very or somewhat safe in their neighborhoods during the day; nine in 10 stated they feel very or somewhat safe in the downtown and commercial areas of Palm Coast. 

NEW BRAUNFELS KICKS OF COMMUNITY SURVEY WITH MAILED INVITATIONS

This week the city of New Braunfels mailed invitations to 6,000 randomly selected residents to participate in the New Braunfels Community Survey.

SURVEY RESULTS: LOCALS' ASSESSMENT OF ECONOMIC HEALTH HAS IMPROVED 

Locals' assessment of Palm Coast as a place to work — and to find work — is improving, but remains below national benchmarks, according to local results of the National Citizen Survey.

SURVEY: 90% SAY JOHNSON CITY IS A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE

Three thousand randomly selected households received the National Research Center/Polco National Community Survey from Sept. 14 to Nov. 2, with 435 random residents completing the survey for a 15% response rate. Results showed overall satisfaction in quality-of-life categories.

FEBRUARY 2022

CITY OF PORTLAND CONDUCTS CITIZEN SATISFACTION SURVEY

As Portland continues to grow and develop, the city of Portland keeps residents’ quality of life a top priority. In order to get feedback from residents, the city conducts surveys every other year which enables residents to express their priorities for the city’s future. 

MARION COMMUNITY SURVEY NOW OPEN TO ALL RESIDENTS

Any Marion resident over the age of 18 who did not receive a copy of The National Community Survey by mail is now invited to participate in the online version of the survey.

SUWANEE HAS QUESTIONS ONLY A RESIDENT CAN ANSWER

In early February, a random selection of 2,700 Suwanee households will receive an invitation in their mailboxes to participate in the 2022 National Community Survey.

CITY OF AMERICA CANYON ANNOUNCES RESIDENT SURVEY

The City of American Canyon has launched a resident survey that includes questions about quality of life, community services and priorities for the future.

SCHAUMBURG CONTINUES TO RECEIVE PRAISE FROM RESIDENTS THROUGH NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY

The Village of Schaumburg remains an exceptional place to live and raise a family safely, according to the most recent results from residents who participated in the National Community Survey (NCS).

CITY OF COLLEGEDALE REMINDS RESIDENTS TO TAKE COMMUNITY SURVEY

The Collegedale Community survey is in its final stretch and the city wants to remind all residents who have received mailers to take a few minutes to fill out the survey. 

CITY TO HOST INPUT SESSIONS FOR PARK MASTER PLAN

The city will host a series of public input sessions to get ideas from residents about what they’d like to see in their local parks system.

RESIDENT SURVEY TO HELP PLAN FUTURE

The City of Muscatine has announced the launch of a comprehensive quality-of-life survey through March 11. The survey is available online for all residents.

KINGSPORT, TENNESSEE SURVEY RESULTS RELEASED

The results of a survey given to Kingsport residents to gauge their satisfaction with the city’s services are in.

OFFICIALS: SCHAUMBURG SURVEY RESULTS REFLECT, INSPIRE SERVICES RESIDENTS VALUE

Though COVID-19 wasn't specifically mentioned in the questions, Schaumburg officials are interpreting the results of the village's most recent National Community Survey as a reflection of a high level of satisfaction with local services during the pandemic.

JANUARY 2022

SHAPE KINGMAN'S QUALITY OF LIFE BY PARTICIPATING IN CITIZEN SURVEY

The City of Kingman is conducting a comprehensive quality of life survey that is now available to all Kingman residents.

CITY OF COLLEGEDALE LAUNCHES 'QUALITY OF LIFE' COMMUNITY SURVEY FOR RESIDENTS

DECEMBER 2021

90% OF CHARLESTON RESIDENTS VIEW TOWN POSITIVELY

Analysis of a survey conducted earlier this year determined that 9 in 10 town residents have a positive view of the community as a good place to safely and enjoyably live, raise children, visit and retire.

COUNTY TO PARTNER WITH OTHER COUNTIES ON RESIDENTIAL SURVEY

Washington County will partner with Dakota, Olmsted, and St. Louis counties to perform a 2022 residential survey, after the County Board approved a joint powers agreement with those counties Nov. 30.

CODE COMPLIANCE SURVEY CLOSED, CDD THANKS COMMUNITY AND CDAB

Officials with the Los Alamos County Community Development Department (CDD) affirmed that the survey seeking input on the County’s Chapter 18 Nuisance Code closed on Monday, December 27.  Survey results are now being analyzed by Polco, a third-party polling platform. Findings will be summarized in a report that will be made available to the public in February 2022.

CITY OF MLT COMMUNITY SATISFACTION SURVEY OPEN THROUGH JANUARY 10

The City of Mountlake Terrace has released a public survey that seeks input from Mountlake Terrace residents and business owners as the city measures the success of various programs and services.

EAGAN 2021 YEAR IN REVIEW: MAKING PROGRESS FOR ALL 

Eagan City Council adopted the 2022 budget that will focus on the communities’ priorities of public safety, the natural environment, and local economy.

COMMUNITY SURVEY CHECKS THE PULSE OF LAGUNA BEACH RESIDENTS

Residents have until January 10, 2022 to tell the city what they really think about the city in the online Laguna Beach Community Survey.

COUNTY LAUNCHES 2021 ONLINE CITIZEN SURVEY 

The county has released its 2021 citizen survey and wants the public to give its feedback on county operations and services. The deadline for filling out the survey is Jan. 6.

NOVEMBER 2021

SURVEY TO HELP GUIDE HOW LEWIS COUNTY SPENDS $15 MILLION IN AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT MONEY

Lewis County wants to hear from its residents on how to best spend $15 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money expected to be allocated to the local government.

SKOKIE RESIDENTS- TAKE THE 2021 COMMUNITY SURVEY

Through November 17, 2021, all Skokie residents are invited to take Skokie's 2021 Community Survey that asks for ratings on Village services, emergency services, quality of life in the community and much more.

LOUDOUN COUNTY REPORTS LOWEST CRIME RATE IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA

The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) reported the lowest crime rate in Northern Virginia and has the second-lowest crime rate in the National Capital Region among those law enforcement agencies that partner with the Metropolitan Council of Governments (MWCOG).

MILTON TO CONDUCT COMMUNITY SURVEY OF RESIDENTS

Milton is committed to understanding its citizens’ viewpoints while being responsive to their wants and needs. To that end, the city council recently approved a $19,700 agreement with Policy Confluence, Inc, known as Polco & National Research Center, to conduct a Milton Version of the National Community Survey.

ENTIRE SANTA CRUZ COMMUNITY INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY

The City of Santa Cruz invites the entire Santa Cruz community to participate in a comprehensive quality of life survey.

SURVEY FINDS SUPPORT FOR PRESERVING CITY'S HISTORICAL CHARACTER

The Redlands City Council on Tuesday received its National Community Survey Results. As part of a multifaceted approach toward the development of a strategic vision for Redlands, the city manager's office contracted to conduct a communitywide survey by Policy Confluence Inc. dba Polco.

THE VOICES OF OUR TOWNSPEOPLE MATTER

I am committed to representing the townspeople who elected me mayor of Estes Park and pursuing the common good on their behalf. Gathering and processing information is essential to my fulfillment of that commitment. I gather information through various informal (i.e., meetings, phone calls, etc.) and formal (i.e., hearings, studies, surveys, etc.) means and then process it using several methods.

REDLANDS RESIDENTS SAY 4-STORY BUILDINGS OK IN NEW SURVEY

Redlands invited residents to fill out a survey this summer with questions on topics from parking to homeless solutions, building heights downtown and government transparency.

INDIANA LAUNCHES THE COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT SURVEY FOR OLDER ADULTS

The Family and Social Services Administration's Division of Aging, in conjunction with Indiana's Area Agencies on Aging, is conducting the Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults.

VILLAGE OF LAKE ZURICH: COMMUNITY SURVEY SHOWS 96% RATE LAKE ZURICH AS AN EXCELLENT/GOOD PLACE TO LIVE

These past few weeks, the Village of Lake Zurich has partnered with social scientists at the National Research Center for its fourth National Community Survey. 

LAKE ZURICH RECEIVES HIGH MARKS FROM RESIDENTS IN COMMUNITY SURVEY

The village of Lake Zurich was given its highest marks yet in several categories by residents participating in the biannual community survey, with 96% of respondents rating their town as a good or excellent place to live.

CITY OF EAGAN WINS THREE NATIONAL VOICE OF THE PEOPLE AWARDS

The city of Eagan announced that it won three three national Voice of the People awards.

CEO OF GROWING ONLINE SURVEY COMPANY RECEIVES STANFORD HOOVER VETERAN FELLOWSHIP

Hivers & Strivers Funds is pleased to announce that Dr. Nick Mastronardi, CEO of Polco and National Research Center has been selected as a Veteran Fellow with the prestigious Hoover Institution at Stanford University. Hivers & Strivers is a principal investor in Polco. Polco is a fast-growing civic participation technology company. The Hoover Institution is a public policy research institution that supports the advancement of personal and economic liberty and a free and open society.

THRIVE ALLIANCE SEEKS OLDER ADULT OPINIONS

Thrive Alliance is asking residents to participate in The Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults.

CITY SURVEY SEEKS INPUT FOR RIVER, LAKE PROTECTION

Rochester residents are being asked to weigh in on plans to protect the city's water resources.

KINGSPORT CITY OFFERS A SURVEY TO GET A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT RESIDENTS THINK OF THE CITY

The City of Kingsport is seeking to better understand the community by offering a survey to residents of the city.

THRIVE ALLIANCE OFFERING SURVEY TO OLDER ADULTS

Thrive Alliance is asking residents to participate in The Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults, designed to provide a picture of how Jackson, Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur and Jennings counties are serving older adult residents.

SHAPE KINGSMAN'S QUALITY OF LIFE: CITIZEN'S SURVEYS TO REACH RANDOM MAILBOXES NEXT WEEK

The City of Kingman is conducting a comprehensive quality of life survey. The mail-in survey is being delivered next week to a random selection of 2,700 residents to take part this year – 1,200 will be given the option to reply via a survey link or paper survey, and 1,500 can only reply through a survey link.

EAGAN WINS THREE NATIONAL AWARDS BASED ON RESIDENT COMMUNITY INPUT

The City of Eagan proudly touts it won three national Voice of the People Awards based on a national community survey taken by residents.

CITY OF KINGMAN TO CONDUCT QUALITY OF LIFE SURVEY

The City of Kingman is conducting a comprehensive quality of life survey. A mail-in survey will be delivered next week to a random selection of 2,700 residents to take part this year, according to a city news release. A total of 1,200 will be given the option to reply via a survey link or paper survey, and 1,500 can only reply through a survey link.

DANE COUNTY RECOGNIZED FOR ONLINE OUTREACH

The Dane County Board of Supervisors has been recognized nationally for its efforts to engage county residents online.

OCTOBER 2021

CITY OF LARKSPUR: THE CITY OF LARKSPUR PREPARES FOR UPCOMING RESIDENT SURVEY

The City of Larkspur is pleased to announce we will be conducting a comprehensive quality of life survey next month.

WE ARE CAUGHT IN THE GREAT RESHUFFLING OF AMERICA

City leaders are seeking the community’s input so that leaders can best serve Kingsport residents.

COUNCIL APPROVES COMMUNITY SATISFACTION SURVEY

Residents will soon have a chance to provide feedback on city services and the quality of life in Muscatine.

OSHKOSH RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION, RECEIVES VOICE OF THE PEOPLE AWARD

The city of Oshkosh is making national headlines for its efforts in improving community satisfaction through online forums.

FLAGSTAFF RESIDENT SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS STRENGTHS, ROOM FOR GROWTH

Flagstaff residents continue to experience a high quality of life, but housing affordability poses barriers to residents hoping to remain in the community, a recent survey found.

JOHNSON CITY OFFICIALS ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS TO COMPLETE CITIZEN SURVEY

Johnson City leaders are looking to hear from the community regarding the city’s projects and progress.

EDITORIAL: KINGSPORT WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU

Kingsport residents should stay tuned for an upcoming survey to gauge their perceptions of the city and how its leaders are doing. Most residents seem to have opinions of what’s right and what’s wrong with Kingsport, and the city wants to hear them.

SEPTEMBER 2021

RIDGEFIELD LAUNCHES COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE SURVEY

Ridgefield has launched a survey to gain insight on people’s experiences in the city. 

LAKE ZURICH SURVEYING RESIDENTS ON QUALITY OF LIFE

Lake Zurich is surveying residents about the quality of life in the community, their satisfaction with municipal services, where public resources should be directed and where they think the village is headed overall.

WHAT ARE LOCALS CONCERNED ABOUT? CITY COUNCIL TO PICK SURVEY TOPICS

What are Palm Coast residents most concerned about? That's what the Palm Coast City Council is trying to determine before the National Citizen Survey is sent out to residents starting in October.

POLL RESULTS INDICATE SUPPORT FOR MASKS IN SCHOOLS

Polco users and readers visiting WNA member websites from Aug. 19 to 31 were asked whether they supported mask requirements in schools. We asked this question in light of recent recommendations that masks be required in schools this fall.

PAPILLION 2021 COMMUNITY SURVEY ONLINE NOW

This week, the City of Papillion announced that the Papillion 2021 Community Survey is now available online for public participation.

CITY INVITES ALL RESIDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY SURVEY

The City of Redlands is inviting all residents to express their thoughts on priorities for your government and the quality of life in Redlands.

COMMUNITY SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS FORT COLLINS' ASSETS, OPPORTUNITIES

Conducted earlier this spring, the Community Survey is an opportunity to hear from residents about their perceptions of the community. It is administered by the National Research Center and is a scientific survey that also offers insight into any disparate responses among different identities, demographics and regions across Fort Collins.

CITY OF CORONADO WORKS TO IMPROVE PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT

Public engagement is important to both the citizens of this community and the City of Coronado. Public engagement allows the City to better identify the community’s values, ideas, and recommendations. It informs residents about important issues that local government is dealing with and informed and engaged resident produces buy-in and support with less conflict.

RESIDENTS CAN SOUND OFF ON THEIR PRIORITIES IN REDLANDS SURVEY

Redlands residents have two weeks to fill out a questionnaire, in English or Spanish, designed to help city officials prioritize work.

CITY INVITES ALL RESIDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY SURVEY

The City of Redlands is inviting all residents to express their thoughts on priorities for your government and the quality of life in Redlands.

SURVEY: PEOPLE SEEM HAPPIER IN CITY NOW THAN IN 2019

New survey results indicate most respondents are satisfied with Rio Rancho and available services, although there are a few low points.

NEW POLL QUESTION: DO YOU SUPPORT WORKPLACE VACCINE MANDATES?

A new poll question asking whether readers support vaccine requirements in the workplace is available to be used by WNA members.

SCHAUMBURG TO SURVEY RESIDENTS FOR FIRST TIME SINCE 2018

The village of Schaumburg will measure residents' attitudes about living in the community to see whether the COVID-19 pandemic and other circumstances of the past three years have caused any changes since the largely positive responses to a 2018 survey.

CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSES CLIMATE ACTION PLAN, CITY SURVEY AND OUTDOOR DINING

Senior Management Analyst Janine Zúñiga gave background on the 2021 National Community Survey, citing that the first one was performed in 2003, with follow-ups in 2011 and 2014.

SURVEY: RESIDENTS RANKS QUALITY OF LIFE HIGH IN CORONADO

Residents who responded to a comprehensive survey earlier this year say the City is a highly desirable and safe place to live, giving positive ratings to Coronado as a place to live and for its overall quality of life.

CITY INVITES ALL RESIDENTS TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNITY SURVEY

The City of Redlands is inviting all residents to give us your thoughts on priorities for your government and the quality of life in Redlands.

F.I.S.H. RELEASES RESULTS OF SENIOR NEEDS ASSESSMENT

In April, F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva released a survey to 3,000 random households aged 55 or older across Sanibel and Captiva addressing an array of topics related to living on the islands.

CITIES TAP INTO CITIZEN FEEDBACK TO GUIDE FEDERAL RELIEF SPENDING

The American Rescue Plan is delivering an unprecedented $350 billion in direct aid to state and local governments across the country, and the sheer size of their share has many leaders overwhelmed. 

WANT TO SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK ABOUT LIVING IN EDMOND? YOU CAN FILL OUT SURVEY ONLINE 

For households not selected to participate in a random sampling for the ongoing 2021 city of Edmond Citizen Survey, there is now an online option for residents to provide feedback.

CORVALLIS TO SURVEY COMMUNITY ON SERVICES

Corvallis is set to embark on its periodic community survey.

AUGUST 2021

TOWN OF DAVIDSON: STRATEGIC PLAN SURVEY

In 2020, the Davidson Board of Commissioners and town staff developed the 2020-21 strategic plan based on objectives that had been identified by the community. The board prioritized which areas they wanted to focus on for the next two years and settled on these six following categories: 

TOWN OF NEEDHAM-WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU. JOIN THE FEEDBACK TEAM

The Town has partnered with Polco, an innovative online engagement platform that lets residents provide direct input to the local government decision-making process. By using Polco, Needham is making public participation easier for residents.

CEDAR PARK CONTINUES TO BE HIGHLY DESIRABLE PLACE TO LIVE

As part of the City of Cedar Park's continued commitment to customer service, a random sampling of Cedar Park residents were surveyed in spring this year.  

CITY OF EDEN PRAIRIE: CITY SEEKS INPUT ON CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

The City of Eden Prairie is using Polco to gather community opinions about civic engagement.

REDLANDS PREPARES FOR UPCOMING RESIDENT SURVEY

The City of Redlands will be conducting a comprehensive quality of life survey beginning this month.

HOW CITIES ARE USING CITIZEN FEEDBACK TO GUIDE FEDERAL RELIEF SPENDING

The American Rescue Plan is delivering an unprecedented $350 billion in direct aid to state and local governments across the country and the sheer size of their share has many leaders overwhelmed.

SURVEY: MOST PEOPLE PLEASED WITH CITY SERVICES

The City of Rio Rancho’s 2021 Citizen Survey results indicated most participants are pleased with the city and its services.

SURVEY WILL GAUGE ROCHESTER PARK PRIORITIES

A survey will gauge Rochester's park priorities.

ROCHESTER CONDUCTING SURVEY ON THE FUTURE OF PARKS AND RECREATION

Residents are being asked their views on the future of Rochester's Parks & Recreation System.

REDLANDS PREPARES FOR UPCOMING RESIDENT SURVEY

The City of Redlands will be conducting a comprehensive quality of life survey beginning this month. The survey will first be available online for randomly selected residents and soon after, all residents will be invited to complete the survey by visiting the City’s website.

LAKE ZURICH LEADERS URGE RESIDENTS TO COMPLETE, RETURN SURVEYS

Three thousand Lake Zurich households will receive a survey in the mail Tuesday that village leaders say will help them better make decisions about the town's future.

WHAT DO HAVASU RESIDENTS THINK OF THEIR COMMUNITY?

Lake Havasu City residents see the city as a great place to retire, they rate the neighborliness of fellow residents as about average, and believe that access to affordable high speed internet is poor, according to the results of a community survey distributed in Havasu this spring.

COOKOUT CONVERSATIONS AND BIENNIAL SURVEY SOLICIT RIVER FALLS RESIDENT FEEDBACK AND IDEAS

The City has recently opened its fifth biennial Citizen Survey to all City residents through Aug. 27, 2021. The survey can be accessed online.

FLOWER MOUND EARNS NATIONAL VOICE OF THE PEOPLE AWARD

The town of Flower Mound recently received the “2020 Voice of the People Award for Excellence in Recreation and Wellness” from the International City/County Management Association and Polco, an online community polling and survey platform.

JULY 2021

CITY COUNCIL VOTES TO APPROVE PUBLIC SAFETY MILL LEVY

"We conducted a statistically valid national police services survey and heard pretty loud and clear from our citizens that they recognize that there's been an increase in crime, substantially, over the past few years," City Administrator Chris Kukulski said.

ESTES PARK SEEKS FEEDBACK ON MULTIPLE ISSUES THROUGH COMMUNITY SURVEY

This summer, the Town of Estes Park will be seeking community input using the National Community Survey.

EDINA STILL A DESIRABLE PLACE TO LIVE, THE CITY'S QUALITY OF LIFE SURVEY FINDS

Edina has continued to receive high scores on its quality of life, according to a 2021 survey of its residents.

JEFFERSON COUNTY WELCOMES YOUR FEEDBACK

What housing and community needs exist in Jeffco because of the COVID-19 pandemic? What policies would make Jeffco a healthier place to live, work and play? Let us know this and more by taking BOTH the Health/Wellbeing Survey and the Community Needs Assessment Survey!

CITY OF BLOOMINGTON SURVEY REVEALS DECREASE IN POSITIVE RESPONSES RELATED TO SOME GOVERNMENT SERVICES

Results from the third biennial survey of Bloomington residents were presented at the Bloomington City Council meeting Wednesday, according to a press release Thursday. 

2021 COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS HIGHLIGHT RESIDENTS' PERCEPTIONS OF QUALITY OF LIFE, COMMUNITY CHALLENGES

Results of the third biennial city-wide survey were presented at the July 21 meeting of the Bloomington City Council. As in 2019 and 2017, the randomized, scientifically valid survey conducted in March and April of this year gave residents the opportunity to provide feedback on their general perceptions of the quality of life in Bloomington; to evaluate City programs, services, government performance; and to identify projects or issues facing the City. 

TOWN OF HOPKINTON SHARES SUMMARY OF NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY'S LIVABILITY REPORT

Town Manager Norman Khumalo is pleased to share a summary of the National Community Survey's Livability Report for the Town of Hopkinton and thanks residents for taking the time to respond to the survey.

CITIZEN SUMMIT SURVEY RESULTS: HOW PORT ST. LUCIE RESIDENTS' INPUT HELP SHAPE THE CITY (VIDEO)

Kate Parmelee, director of Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, and Sarah Prohaska, director of Communications, discuss a few highlights of the 2021 National Community Survey, which was taken earlier this year by Port St. Lucie residents.

PARKER SURVEYS RESIDENTS' THOUGHTS

The Town of Parker recently conducted its community survey, which occurs every three years to obtain feedback from residents about their satisfaction with the town and its policies. 

CITY OF ASHEVILLE'S OFFICE OF DATA AND PERFORMANCE UPDATES COMMUNITY ON ITS FIRST 100 DAYS OF OPERATION

The City of Asheville’s Office of Data and Performance (ODAP) was created to increase transparency in government and to empower the community and City staff to use data for equitable outcomes, accountability, and communication. ODAP has been fully staffed for 100 days and has already been involved in a number of external and internal activities to advance this mission.

EL PASO COUNTY SHERIFF WANTS RESIDENTS' OPINIONS

The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office is asking locals to participate in its upcoming surveys.

JUNE 2021

KALAMAZOO CITY COMMISSIONERS DISCUSS RESULTS OF 2021 NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY

The results are in for the 2021 National Community Survey in Kalamazoo.

CITY OF KALAMAZOO SHOULD WORK TO IMPROVE TRUST AND TRANSPARENCY ISSUES, COMMUNITY SURVEY SAYS 

A community survey highlighted issues that the city of Kalamazoo needs to work on, and other areas where the city is doing well, based on citizen opinions.

WHAT CAPE CORAL NEIGHBORS WANT TO SEE ADDRESSED OVER THE NEXT TWO YEARS

Every two years the city takes the pulse of the people who live there to see what they're concerned about. The 2021 National Community Survey showed 92% of people said it was “essential” or “very important” that utilities be the major focus over the next two years.

OPEN LETTER TO CITY OF FATE RESIDENTS FROM MAYOR DAVID BILLINGS

I want to spend a moment with you to share with my thoughts about the National Community survey for 2021. Thank you for filling out the survey.

WHEN WE WORK TOGETHER, WE MOVE FORWARD TOGETHER

The current Town Board just completed its first year. And what a year it was.

ROSEVILLE RESIDENTS SAY THIS ABOUT THEIR COMMUNITY

In a national survey, Roseville residents rated their satisfaction with living in Roseville among the highest in the country in several key areas including as a place to live, utility infrastructure, city services and economic health.

MAY 2021

SURVEY: EDEN PRAIRIE STILL A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE

Eden Prairie residents continue to have a high opinion of their municipality’s services and amenities.

CITY AND COUNTY OF BROOMFIELD: YOUR OPINIONS MATTER! TAKE THE BROOMFIELD 2021 COMMUNITY SURVEY

Let your voice be heard and help drive decisions for Broomfield's future by taking the 2021 Community Survey!

GILBERT RESIDENTS ASKED TO PARTICIPATE IN NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY

The Town of Gilbert is asking residents to participate in its biennual National Community Survey.

SHAKOPEE RESIDENTS INVITED TO TAKE 2021 COMMUNITY SURVEY

Residents are invited to share their thoughts and opinions regarding life in Shakopee as part of the city's 2021 community-wide survey, according to a news release from the city of Shakopee. 

COMMUNITY FEEDBACK SOUGHT FOR PARKS AND RECREATION STRATEGIC PLANNING IN CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS

The City of Mendota Heights is developing a Strategic Plan that will provide long term direction and guide future maintenance and improvement decisions for the City's parks and recreation system. Please help prioritize Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation opportunities by taking this online two-minute survey via Polco.

RESIDENTS RATE HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE, STRONG ECONOMIC HEALTH IN MCKINNEY

After a recent citizen satisfaction survey, 93 percent of respondents rated the City of McKinney as an excellent or good place to live, confirming they enjoy a higher quality of life than most communities across the nation. 

F.I.SH SENIOR SURVEY DEADLINE EXTENDED

Extended through May 21, the community has the opportunity to participate in a resident survey that will allow F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva and other island organizations to have a clearer understanding of the needs being met and gaps in services to the aging population of Sanibel and Captiva.

SURVEY SHOWS PALO ALTO FALLS SHORT ON DIVERSITY

Despite Palo Alto's recent efforts to promote social justice, the percentage of residents who believe the city is doing a good job in welcoming people with diverse backgrounds is at its lowest point in nearly two decades, a newly released survey shows.

APRIL 2021

THE CHICAGO INDEX: 73% OF THOSE SURVEYED THINK CHICAGO IS ON THE WRONG TRACK

A new public opinion survey shows there's concern about whether Chicago is on the right track.

CORONADO COMMUNITY SATISFACTION SURVEY

The City is seeking feedback on its performance to help gauge community satisfaction in Coronado. The City is working once again with the National Research Center out of Boulder, Colorado, to help develop a scientifically valid survey of residents. Those residents randomly selected to participate can soon expect to receive a postcard announcing that a survey is about to be mailed.

MOORPARK RESIDENTS GIVE CITY OVERALL HIGH MARKS IN SURVEY, BUT LOWER ECONOMIC GRADES

Moorpark residents give the city's overall quality of life high grades, but lower marks in several economic areas, a recent city-commissioned survey shows.

LAKE HAVASU CITY COMMUNITY SURVEY UPDATE

Did you receive a Community Survey in the mail? Lake Havasu City values your opinion and wants to know your thoughts to help guide future decisions. 

EDINA'S 2021 QUALITY OF LIFE SURVEY IS UNDERWAY

MARCH 2021

LAKE HAVASU CITY CONDUCTING CITIZEN SURVEY

Lake Havasu City is conducting a citizen survey to ask residents for their ideas and opinions about the City. The results of the survey will help the City identify what they are doing well and where they need to improve in order to meet the needs of the citizens.

RESIDENTS PRAISE EAGAN'S LIVABILITY IN NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY

In Eagan’s most recent community survey, most residents gave excellent or good ratings to Eagan as a place to live, in the overall quality of life and as a place to raise children.

BATTLE CREEK-CITY ASKS RESIDENTS TO CHOOSE TOP SERVICE PRIORITIES

The City of Battle Creek wants to hear from its residents regarding which services they feel are the most important, as well as how those services are defined.

SOUND OFF ON SURPRISE SURVEY

Surprise residents who did not receive a National Community Survey (NCS) by mail can now take the survey online.

F.I.S.H TO LAUNCH SENIOR NEEDS ASSESSMENT

In April, 3,000 households will receive a request by mail from F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva to complete a survey addressing an array of topics related to living on the islands as a household aged 55 or over.

HERE'S HOW RESIDENTS RATED EAGAN IN LATEST COMMUNITY SURVEY

The city partners with an independent research firm to survey residents every two years. Eagan ranked highly among 600 cities nationally.

CITY OF MILWAUKEE TO SURVEY RESIDENTS ABOUT PANDEMIC MENTAL HEALTH

Milwaukee city leaders want to find out how the pandemic is affecting residents' mental health. They expect a new survey will find the isolation and economic challenges over the last year to have taken a significant toll.

ROCHESTER DIVERSITY AND EQUITY SURVEY SEEN AS PART OF ONGOING COMMITMENT

PRESERVATION OF THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT TOPS PALM COAST CITIZEN SURVEY RESPONDENTS' PRIORITIES

Palm Coast has many assets — its restaurants, its shopping, its tennis and golf facilities, its Community Center and City Hall — but the one most prized by people who answered Palm Coast's 2020 Citizen Survey was the one not built by human hands: The natural habitat. 

LITTLE ELM WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU

The town of Little Elm is conducting a survey to gauge residential feedback on key issues in the town that will shape future decisions.

CITY OF BLOOMINGTON SEEKS RESIDENT OPINION FOR THIRD BIENNIAL SURVEY

This month, the City of Bloomington will ask residents to participate in the 2021 Bloomington Community Survey. This is the third community-wide, scientific survey of Bloomington residents, and is again being administered by National Research Center, Inc. (NRC).

RESIDENTS HAVE A FAVORABLE VIEW OF GULF BREEZE, SURVEY RESULTS SHOW

The City of Gulf Breeze completed its first National Citizen Survey™ soon after being forced to face the impacts of Hurricane Sally and the closure of the Pensacola Bay Bridge. In spite of those major life disruptions, however, Gulf Breeze residents continue to praise the city as a place to live, raise children and retire, according to a press release from the City of Gulf Breeze.

THE CAPITAL TIMES POLL: ARE YOU COMFORTABLE DINING INSIDE A RESTAURANT? 

Starting on March 10, restaurants in Dane County will be able to double their indoor capacity from 25% to 50%. Limits for indoor gathering where food and drink are provided will increase from 25 people to 150. Are you ready to dine indoors?

SURVEY FINDS RESIDENTS ENJOY HIGH QUALITY OF LIFE

FEBRUARY 2021

CITY OF PULLYUP 2021 COMMUNITY SURVEY IS OPEN

The City of Puyallup’s first Community Satisfaction Survey is now open to all city residents.

SURVEY SHOWS 90 PERCENT OF COUNTY EMPLOYEES FEEL COUNTY IS A GOOD EMPLOYER

Los Alamos County Council will review and discuss results of The National Employee Survey™ for County employees Tuesday evening during their regular virtual session.

YOU DECIDE: SHOULD MARIJUANA BE LEGALIZED IN WISCONSIN?

2020 CITY OF SCOTTSDALE COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

Scottsdale regularly surveys its residents to give them a chance to rate their quality of life and provide feedback on city programs and services. The results help Scottsdale set service priorities and provide comparisons with other cities.

SOUTH PORTLAND CITY COUNCIL EXAMINES SURVEY RESULTS

The city’s National Community Survey results, with data from 797 residents, is a potential tool for local leadership, but councilors said it won’t be the only one.

RESIDENTS ASKED TO COMMENT ON ROCHESTER'S RAPID TRANSIT PROJECT

The public is being asked to complete a brief survey on Rochester’s rapid transit project.

LAFAYETTE TO CONDUCT SURVEY OF RESIDENTS OVER MILLER NAME, HISTORY

Mary Miller is widely known in the Lafayette community. As the founder of Lafayette and the first female bank president in the United States, the history of Miller’s pioneer spirit has been admired for years. In recent months, however, the city of Lafayette was presented with a darker history of some members of the Miller family through a petition and information presented by some Lafayette residents.

ADVENTURE PARK TRACES ROOTS TO PROMISES MADE TO PORT LUCIE RESIDENTS

Despite a global pandemic, we’re continuing to build something special in PSL — a safe, beautiful and prosperous City for All People. While you will certainly find committed elected and appointed officials at City Hall, ones who are invested in the hopes and dreams of our community, you’ll be hard pressed to find them pursuing pet projects at the public’s expense because, instead, our team has committed to an award-winning, citizen-driven strategic planning and budgeting process to fulfill our community’s great promise. 

COUNTY BOARD WEIGHS COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

The Grand Traverse County Board is hoping to use a community survey to shape how it deals with the most pressing issues in the county — affordable housing, child care and mental health care.

COMMUNITY INPUT WANTED ON CITY'S STRATEGIC PLAN

The city of Northfield is asking for the public to participate in a short survey with questions related to the city’s strategic plan for service delivery and quality of community life by using Polco, an online public engagement platform.

WHAT ARE YOUR IDEAS FOR JONES PARK AND ITS GOLF COURSE? CITY WANTS YOUR INPUT

The city is looking to residents for input on repurposing Jones Golf Course, a flood-prone venue in the southwest quadrant that had long been a drag on revenue in the city’s four-course municipal golf system.

RESIDENTS CAN SOUND OFF ABOUT SURPRISE

Surprise residents can share their thoughts on living in Surprise in the 2021 National Community Survey.

SURVEY RESULTS HIGHLIGHT THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY OF GT COUNTY

A survey of Grand Traverse County residents conducted by a national company to determine the “livability” of the community generated plenty of positive responses, with higher-than-normal ratings for recreational opportunities, downtown vibrancy, the quality of local businesses, and natural resources. But the survey results – which will be reviewed today (Wednesday) by Grand Traverse County commissioners at a virtual study session – also point to several challenges, with lower-than-average ratings for cost of living, variety and affordability of housing, high-speed Internet access, government transparency, and access to quality child care and preschool.

SURVEY RESULTS SHOW GAINS, BUT AMPLE ROOM TO IMPROVE

Pasco County received higher marks this year than it did last year in numerous categories in the annual National Community Survey. Even so, substantial improvements are needed, if the county wants to achieve its stated goal of being a premier county.

JANUARY 2021

EDEN PRAIRIE: OVERCOMING COVID-19

CITY OF PALO ALTO COMMUNITY SURVEY-NOW OPEN TO ALL RESIDENTS ONLINE  

The City is now making the survey available to every resident, through our community survey provider Polco online. Feedback provided through these surveys will help the city and City Council prioritize initiatives, services, and programs

SCOTTSDALE COMMUNITY SURVEY AVAILABLE FOR ALL RESIDENTS

The National Community Survey allows residents to rate their overall quality of life and provide specific feedback about municipal services, public safety, customer service and their level of participation in community events and activities. 

SAN JOSE RESIDENTS LARGELY AREN'T THRILLED WITH LIVING HERE

When asked to rate life in San Jose, residents still largely give it a “meh” or worse.

ASHEVILLE RESIDENTS INVITED TO TAKE SURVEY ABOUT CITY GOVERNMENT

How are we doing, as your City government? The City of Asheville is working with the Polco/National Community Survey company to find out.

MASTER PLAN 2040 SHAPING UP TO GUIDE O'FALLON MOVING FORWARD

In addition to the Master Plan, the 2020 National Citizens Survey was sent to 1,600 random O’Fallon households as a way to understand the broader needs of the community.

RESULTS OF FIRST COMMUNITY SURVEY

The pulse of Marshalltown was recently taken in a community survey which highlights what residents want improved in their city and how they prioritize different facets of life livability.

CITY AND COUNTY OF HONOLULU PARTICIPATES IN 2020 NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY

DECEMBER 2020

CHARLOTTE COUNTY ASKING RESIDENTS TO COMPLETE NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY

Charlotte County wants people who live there to participate in the National Community Survey.

CHANHASSEN RESIDENT PRAISE CITY, PARKS AND RECREATION IN NEW SURVEY

Overall, residents are happy with their life and services provided in Chanhassen, according to the latest community survey results released in December.

GULF BREEZE BEGINS CITIZEN SURVEY PROCESS

The City of Gulf Breeze is asking the community to participate in The National Citizen Survey™ that is designed to provide a baseline of how the City government is serving residents, to gauge perceptions of the City and to make benchmark comparisons with peer cities.

MORRISTOWN CITY OFFICIALS RECOGNIZED 

Morristown city officials have garnered two prestigious awards, the Voice of the People award given for implementing suggestions from city government’s annual citizen survey, and the Government Finance Officers Association award for superior budget reporting.

PANAMA CITY BEACH CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSES ITS FIVE-YEAR BUDGET PLAN

The new year is quickly approaching which means it is time to look toward the future, that is exactly what the Panama City Beach City Council is doing.

LOUDOUN COUNTY COMMUNITY SURVEYS COMING

Loudoun County is asking residents to participate in The National Community Survey, in which the local government asks residents their views on government services, the county’s quality of life and priorities for government initiatives.

FROM LIBRARIES TO COST OF LIVING: SEE WHERE ANN ARBORITES RANK CITY HIGHEST AND LOWEST

Ann Arbor residents rate the community highly, with 92% considering it a good or excellent place to live, but they also see room for improvement in services and cite high cost of living, according to a new city survey.

LOS ALAMOS COUNTY RELEASES 2020 CITIZEN SURVEY, SOME SURPRISES

A recent survey of 600 people in Los Alamos County indicates that residents enjoy a high quality of life and feel safe in their community.

ROCHESTER CITY LEADERS WANT YOUR FEEDBACK ON A NEW COVID-19 SURVEY

A new survey asks you questions about the impacts the pandemic has made on you and your family and it's open to everyone in the Med City.

HOW SATISFIED ARE YOU WITH CHARLOTTE COUNTY AND ITS GOVERNMENT?

NOVEMBER 2020

SURVEY: MORE THAN 50% OF WILLIAMSBURG RESIDENTS SURVEYED CONCERNED ABOUT COST OF HOUSING

Increasing numbers of Williamsburg residents are experiencing housing cost stress and are pessimistic about their economic futures while retaining high levels of confidence in local government, according to the 2020 National Community Survey.

HELP CHART SEDONA'S FUTURE BY TAKING THE CITY'S COMMUNITY SURVEY

The city of Sedona invites all residents to participate in an online, comprehensive quality of life survey beginning Oct. 28, 2020. Residents may complete the survey by visiting www.sedonaaz.gov/2020survey.

BILLINGS SEEKING RESIDENTS' OPINIONS ON POLICE SERVICES

The City of Billings is asking residents to participate in a National Police Services Survey to help gauge resident satisfaction with Billings’ Police Department services and to make comparisons with communities across the nation. 

PANAMA CITY BEACH SURVEY SHOWS TRAFFIC IS MAIN CONCERN  

The results of the city's first citizens survey are in, and most people are not pleased with the overall flow of traffic.

CITY OF SEDONA ASKS FOR LOCAL'S VIEWS

The city of Sedona wants to know what’s on your mind. At the end of last month the city posted a comprehensive community survey on its website. The results are used by staff and the Sedona City Council in a variety of ways to gauge the views and thoughts of residents.

HELP DIRECT ANN ARBOR'S FUTURE BUDGET AND SPENDING

Should the City spend more on street repairs and maintenance, or more on pedestrian safety and affordable housing?

PASCO PINELLAS COMMUNITY ASSESSMENT SURVEY OF OLDER ADULTS

The Community Assessment Survey of Older Adults, or CASOA, is a printed survey that was sent to 10,000 randomly selected households across every Pinellas and Pasco zip code in which at least one resident was known to be aged 60 and over.

CITY RESIDENTS ASKED TO GIVE FEEDBACK ABOUT POLICE SERVICES

The City of Billings is partnering with Polco to implement a citywide police services survey and provide a platform for resident engagement.

HELP DIRECT ANN ARBOR'S FUTURE BUDGET AND SPENDING

Should the City spend more on street repairs and maintenance, or more on pedestrian safety and affordable housing?

CITY OF BILLINGS SEEKS COMMUNITY FEEDBACK THROUGH SURVEY

With the new public safety mill levy in place, the City of Billings is looking to maximize resources in the police department and make comparisons with other communities across the nation.  To do that, they want to hear from Billings residents.

OCTOBER 2020

DALLAS MORNING NEWS: POLCO POLL

Who won the September 29 presidential debate? 

PALM COAST WINS AWARD BASED ON RESIDENT SURVEY INPUT

The Polco software company and the and the International City & County Management Association have announced the city of Palm Coast a winner in the Voice of the People Awards. 

THREE WAYS COVID-19 IMPACTS MILLENNIALS DIFFERENTLY THAN BOOMERS

We know that COVID-19 mortality rates rise with age. But although the pandemic has huge implications for residents of all ages, there is much less news about generational differences in emotional, physical, and economic wellbeing.

COMMUNITY INCLUSION AND RACIAL EQUITY SURVEY CLOSES FRIDAY

Residents are reminded that the Community Inclusion and Racial Equity Survey will close this Friday, Oct. 9. The survey is available on-line.

DALLAS MORNING NEWS POLCO POLL

Who won the Vice Presidential Debate?

HOW LOCAL AND STATE GOVERNMENTS ARE MEETING THE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CHALLENGE

For public sector employees, employee benefits provide a significant competitive tool that counteracts the lure of higher salaries in the private sector. Proof of this comes from a summary of data compiled over the last five years by National Research Center (NRC) at Polco, which provides survey research services for public sector organizations and offers an online engagement platform. 

LIFE IN SAVAGE: ECONOMIC HEALTH, TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENTS REFLECTED IN COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

Savage’s latest community survey results are in and show the majority of residents continue to enjoy life in Savage.

TOWN OF ASHLAND WINS TWO AWARDS FROM VOICE OF THE PEOPLE 

The National Research Center (NRC) at Polco and the International City & County Management Association (ICMA) recently announced at the ICMA Annual Conference, that the Town of Ashland received this year’s 2020 Voice of the People Awards (VOP)- including the winning award for Transformation in Natural Environment and the finalist award for Transformation in Community Engagement. 

PASCO COUNTY LAUNCHES COMMUNITY MEETINGS, ONLINE CITIZEN SURVEY

SWOT analysis is a study undertaken by an organization to identify its internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as its opportunities.

PALM COAST CITY OFFICIALS TURN TO RESIDENTS FOR FEEDBACK

City officials will ask residents for feedback with its citizen survey set to go out in January.

FLOWER MOUND RECEIVES TWO VOICE OF THE PEOPLE AWARDS

The town of Flower Mound recently won two Voice of the People awards for “Excellence in Recreation and Wellness” and “Transformation in Education and Enrichment.”

PLYMOUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT EARNS NATIONAL RECOGNITION

The Plymouth Police Department was awarded the 2020 Voice of the People Award for Safety Excellence. The national award recognizes the high marks residents gave police services and safety in the National Community Survey.

CITY OF ANN ARBOR SURVEY SEEKS PUBLIC INPUT ON PUBLIC INPUT ON BUDGET PRIORITIES

The city of Ann Arbor released a new Priority Based Budgeting Survey on Monday which seeks to gauge public opinion on city spending.

DALLAS MORNING NEWS POLCO POLL

Who won the Oct. 22 Presidential debate?

SEPTEMBER 2020

'WISBUSINESS: THE SHOW' FEATURES POLCO'S NICK MASTRONARDI

The latest episode of “WisBusiness.com: The Show” spotlights U.S. Air Force veteran and former White House staffer Nick Mastronardi of Polco, a platform for improving how community leaders seek citizen input on important topics.

ST. CHARLES, BATAVIA RESIDENTS GIVE THEIR TOWN HIGH MARKS ON SURVEYS

Survey says ...? Residents of Batavia and St. Charles are extremely pleased with where they live.

CITY SHARES NATIONAL COMMUNITY SURVEY RESULTS

This scientific survey was sent to a randomly selected 3,000 residents, evenly spread out in each of the seven wards.

TOWN OF HOPKINTON COMMUNITY SURVEY

The Town is undertaking a survey of resident opinions about community and services in collaboration with the National Research Center.

FRANKLIN WINS AWARDS BASED ON FEEDBACK FROM RESIDENTS

National Research Center (NRC) at Polco and the International City & County Management Association (ICMA) have announced the city of Franklin is the winner of two Voice of the People (VOP) Awards for excellence in education and enrichment and excellence in community engagement. 

AUGUST 2020

PANAMA CITY BEACH UNVEILS FIRST STRATEGIC PLAN, CITY MANAGER DUBS IT A 'ROAD MAP'

RECYCLING AND SOLID WASTE CENTER ASKING FOR PUBLIC FEEDBACK IN NEW SURVEY

The Tompkins County Department of Recycling and Materials Management is asking the public to complete a short survey to collect feedback from users of the Recycling and Solid Waste Center.

DALLAS MORNING NEWS: POLCO POLL

Do you think Joe Biden made the right pick for his Vice Presidential nominee, Kamala Harris?

CITY OF CEDAR RAPIDS CREATES SURVEY TO GATHER INPUT FOR CITIZEN REVIEW BOARD

The City of Cedar Rapids is asking residents for input on a survey for an independent Citizen Review Board.

THE PROCESS OF PUTTING TOGETHER A CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD BEGINS IN CEDAR RAPIDS

The City of Cedar Rapids is getting closer to creating a Citizens Review Board and now they’re collecting data about people’s experience with officers. They say putting this board together is a community effort, and now they’re asking all residents to take a survey, which will help officials figure out the best way to conduct this.

JULY 2020

DALLAS MORNING NEWS: POLCO POLL

Do you agree with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s statewide order requiring that masks be worn in public?

FORWARD LOOKOUT: POLCO POLL

The Dane County board wants input on how large the county board should be – your thoughts?

CHARLESTOWN DECIDES NOT TO PURCHASE BEACHFRONT PROPERTY; OLD MILL ROAD REDO PUT ON HOLD

The council voted to ask National Research Center, the firm selected to conduct a town-wide survey of residents, to advise the town on the best way to proceed with the public consultation process during the COVID-19 pandemic, when large gatherings are prohibited.

CEDAR RAPIDS ANNOUNCES FRAMEWORK TO FORM CITIZEN REVIEW BOARD

The City of Cedar Rapids has developed a 90-day plan for public engagement to establish the framework for an independent Citizen Review Board.

O’FALLON TO UPDATE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR CLEARER FUTURE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

Because things have changed in the past 14 years, O’Fallon needs to update its overall Comprehensive Plan, which was adopted in 2006, for a clearer direction on future development.

JUNE 2020

MARION RESIDENTS MORE COMFORTABLE EATING EATING OUTDOORS, SHOPPING SIDEWALK SALES

Half of Marion residents would feel very uncomfortable eating indoors at a restaurant or going to the gym, while a quarter would feel very uncomfortable going to a retail store, according to a recent survey conducted by the Marion COVID-19 Economic Recovery Task Force.

DALLAS MORNING NEWS: POLCO POLL

Should Texas cities be allowed to set their own requirements for wearing face masks in public to help stop the spread of the coronavirus?

WHAT’S CEDAR RAPIDS’ NO. 1 PROBLEM? STREET REPAIR, RESIDENTS SAY IN SURVEY

Cedar Rapids residents want more progress on repairing local streets, even as Paving for Progress makes headway on repairing roads.

MAY 2020

EAU CLAIRE CITY MANAGER DELAYS RETIREMENT TO HELP WITH COVID-19

Eau Claire City Manager Dale Peters has delayed his retirement to help Eau Claire with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Eau Claire City Council is seeking input on the best qualities for the role of city manager as the position is still open.

DALLAS MORNING NEWS POLL: COVID-19 RESPONSE

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is easing restrictions put in place during the coronavirus pandemic by allowing hair and nail salons and barbershops to open on Friday, May 8. Do you agree with his decision?

BEAUMONT ONLINE COMMUNITY SURVEY

The City of Beaumont is asking residents to participate in a community survey. The survey is designed to provide a baseline of how the city government is serving residents, to gauge perceptions of the City, and to make comparisons with peer cities.

MARION ISSUES SURVEY TO RESIDENTS TO UNDERSTAND COMFORT LEVELS AS BUSINESSES REOPEN

A new online survey could help businesses owners and community leaders in Marion understand the comfort level of residents as businesses prepare to reopen.

TAKE A SURVEY REGARDING THE BUDGET IMPACTS OF COVID-19

Let the City know what you think about the future of Creekside Community Center and the Bloomington Motor Vehicle Office. Your feedback is important as the City considers closing the facilities due to financial challenges in 2020 and beyond.

OEDIT JOINS NATIONAL AND LOCAL PARTNERS TO CAPTURE THE ECONOMIC CHALLENGES COVID-19 POSES TO COLORADO’S BUSINESS COMMUNITY

Colorado’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade, in partnership with POLCO and Downtown, Colorado Inc. (DCI), has released a Colorado COVID-19 Business Survey. Recorded from April 10 to April 30 during the peak of the state’s economic interruption, the survey chronicles the economic challenges facing Colorado businesses.

MISSOULA COUNTY LAUNCHES SURVEY TO IMPROVE SERVICES FOR RESIDENTS

APRIL 2020

WYOMING COUNCIL LOOKS AT COVID-19’S AFFECT ON CITY

Wyoming City Council reviewed the results of a survey on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the city as part of its meeting held Tuesday, April 21.

SURVEY SEEKS COVID-19 IMPACTED BUSINESSES

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade is conducting a statewide survey for businesses impacted by COVID-19.

POLCO POLL: DO YOU SUPPORT THE EXTENSION OF GOV. EVERS’ ‘SAFER AT HOME’ ORDER IN WISCONSIN?

Share your opinion on this topic by clicking into the link.

BEAUMONT’S COMMUNITY SURVEY

The City of Beaumont is asking residents to participate in its upcoming community survey. The scientific survey is designed to provide a baseline of how the city government is serving residents, to gauge perceptions of the city and to make comparisons with peer cities.

BEAUMONT RESIDENTS COULD RECEIVE COMMUNITY SURVEY IN THE MAIL

Approximately 2,500 Beaumont residents should be receiving a community survey in the mail from the city of Beaumont that will ask them about their perceptions of the city and how it compares with other peer cities.

JESSIE OPOIEN: WE HOPE YOU’LL PARTICIPATE IN A NEW SERIES OF READER POLLS ON KEY ISSUES

March 2020

HONOLULU’S SPENDING ON HOMELESS STAGNATES EVEN AS PROBLEM PERSISTS

As Oahu continues to struggle with one of the worst rates of homelessness in the nation, Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s final budget proposal as mayor includes little new funding to tackle the problem.

SURVEY OF CHANHASSEN RESIDENTS SHOWS SUPPORT FOR PARK IMPROVEMENTS LEVY

Chanhassen residents would support a park bond referendum, according to a city survey conducted late last year.

LOUISVILLE CITY COUNCIL APPROVES 2020 COMMUNITY SURVEY QUESTIONS

Louisville City Council last week approved questions some residents will see on a community survey in the next couple of months.

MIDDLETOWN TO OUTLINE MANY CHALLENGES IN STRATEGIC PLAN

Town Council members and department heads drew from a recent survey of town residents during an almost four-hour long strategic planning session Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

GRAND RAPIDS EARNS HIGH MARKS IN COMMUNITY SURVEY

Results of a recent community survey showed Grand Rapids residents have a positive view of living in Michigan’s second-largest city.

WOODINVALE QUALITY OF LIFE RATED HIGHLY

Woodinville residents enjoy a high quality of life, feel safe in their community, prioritize mobility and value the city’s overall economic health, according to a survey conducted by the National Research Center. Areas of improvement include quality affordable housing and traffic flow throughout town.

RICHFIELD COMMUNITY SURVEY FOR 2020 BEGINS

Starting today Richfield residents are being asked to participate in the 2020 Richfield Community Survey, administered by the National Research Center. The survey will measure resident satisfaction around quality of life, city services, programming and amenities. In addition to the online option, the survey has also been mailed to 2,500 residents.

PAUL FANLUND: THE CAP TIMES IS IN AN ERA OF ‘OPEN WATER’-HOW ARE WE DOING?

When I’m asked how my career in journalism has evolved, I often use this analogy: Early on, it felt like being on railroad tracks. Today, it’s like being on open water.

February 2020

WALNUT CREEK RESIDENTS GIVE CITY HIGH MARKS IN NATIONAL SURVEY

Most of the news was good, some of it was disappointing and very little of it was a surprise, with the 2019 National Community Survey results showing Walnut Creek residents love their downtown, schools, open spaces and general quality of life, and don’t like traffic congestion.

SURVEY SAYS: JUPITER RESIDENTS LUKEWARM ON INDOOR REC DEVELOPMENT; WORRY OVER TRAFFIC

Residents are pretty pleased with their town, generally giving Jupiter high marks across the board on a recent survey.

MO CITY SURVEYING CITIZEN SATISFACTION

Missouri City residents have the opportunity to make their voices heard regarding the future of their community.

APACHE JUNCTION RESIDENT SURVEY UNDERWAY

The City of Apache Junction is conducting a comprehensive quality-of-life survey and information about the survey is in the mail.

APACHE JUNCTION RESIDENT SURVEY ENTERS ONLINE PHASE

Residents of the city of Apache Junction are invited to respond to a comprehensive quality of life survey the city is conducting.

January 2020

CITY OF OAKLEY ASKS FOR RESIDENT FEEDBACK

The Oakley City Council and staff are inviting residents to chime in regarding various aspects of city operations.

600 PLUS RESIDENTS KICKED OFF DECATUR’S 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN

More than 600 Decatur residents gathered together Thursday evening at the Marriot Courtyard’s Decatur Conference Center to kick off the city’s 2020 strategic planning process. The last plan was released in 2010. Mayor Patti Garrett opened up the night saying that she was delighted to see so many people in the audience.

OAKLAND COUNTY SURVEY ASKING RESIDENTS TO RANK MOST IMPORTANT ISSUES

Oakland County leaders want residents to make their voices heard. Through Jan. 10, residents can visit www.OakGov.com to access the county’s Citizen Survey 2020.

SURVEY GIVES CITIZENS CHANCE TO VOICE THEIR CONCERNS

Making any decision without the necessary information is an easy way to make bad decisions. How can you effectively know what to improve or what should stay the same without asking the people who deal with those issues everyday? The answer is you can’t.

NORTHPORT RESIDENTS RATE CITY QUALITY OF LIFE HIGHLY

Eight in 10 residents of the city of North Port rated the quality of life good or excellent, according to the recently released 2019 version of the National Community Survey.

BOISE POLICE TO RAMP UP TRAFFIC SAFETY ENFORCEMENT

A 2020 goal for the Boise Police Department focuses on the fact that traffic safety is key to neighborhood safety. According to a Boise Police Department news release, officers across the city will be paying increased attention to traffic violations at major intersections, school zones, and neighborhoods.

IN THE CITY: COMMUNITY SURVEY REVEALS STRENGTHS AND OPPORTUNITIES TO IMPROVE SERVICES

Since 2011, the city of Fort Collins has conducted a Community Survey in order to hear directly from residents about their satisfaction with community amenities, their local government, and the overall quality of life in Fort Collins.