In the heart of Davenport City Hall, a pivotal discussion unfolded as city officials reviewed the results of the 2024 community survey, a vital tool for gauging resident satisfaction and priorities. City administrator Max Einer had previously shared the survey findings, but Hannah, a key presenter, brought the data to life, highlighting both the strengths and areas for improvement within the community.

This year marked the tenth iteration of the survey, which has been conducted biennially since 2006. With a robust response rate of 808 from a randomly selected 5,000 residents, the survey provided a statistically significant snapshot of public sentiment. The results revealed that while many residents appreciate the quality of essential services—such as fire and paramedic services, library offerings, and garbage collection—there are pressing concerns that need addressing.

Top priorities for the next two years, as identified by residents, include improving city streets, enhancing neighborhood quality, and bolstering police services. Notably, public safety emerged as a significant concern, with 75% of respondents prioritizing it, alongside city infrastructure and job retention efforts. Despite a general sense of safety, only 36% of residents rated crime prevention efforts positively, indicating a desire for increased police visibility, particularly in downtown areas.

The survey also underscored the community's appreciation for city amenities like parks and libraries, though only 41% of residents reported utilizing recreational facilities in the past year. This presents an opportunity for the city to engage more residents in its diverse offerings.

Customer service ratings were high, with 85% of respondents reporting positive interactions with city employees. However, access to information and effective public engagement were highlighted as areas needing improvement, with less than half of residents feeling well-informed about city matters.

Perhaps most striking was the finding that 59% of residents rated major city streets as being in poor condition, making street maintenance the top concern among citizens. This feedback signals a clear call to action for city officials as they prepare the operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

As Davenport City moves forward, the insights gleaned from this survey will be instrumental in shaping policies and initiatives that resonate with the community's needs and aspirations. The city stands at a crossroads, with the opportunity to enhance its image and services, ensuring that Davenport remains a place where residents feel proud to live and work.