The URL can be used to link to this page

Home My WebLink AboutCommunity Survey Report - 2024 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey Findings Report Presented to the City of South Bend, Indiana September 2024 Contents Executive Summary .................................................................... i Section 1: Charts and Graphs .................................................. 1 Section 2: Trend Charts ......................................................... 50 Section 3: Benchmarking Analysis ..................................... 78 Section 4: Importance-Satisfaction Analysis .................. 91 Section 5: Tabular Data ........................................................ 101 Section 6: Survey Instrument ............................................. 161 Executive Summary 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page i ETC Institute (2024) Page ii 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey Executive Summary Purpose During the summer of 2024, ETC Institute administered a Community Survey to residents of the City of South Bend. The purpose of the survey was to gather resident opinions and feedback on City programs and services. The results will be used to improve and expand existing programs and determine future needs of residents in the City of South Bend. This is the fourth community survey ETC Institute has administered by the City; previous surveys were conducted in 2022, 2020 and 2018. Methodology A six-page survey was mailed to a random sample of households in the City. Each survey packet contained a cover letter, a copy of the survey, and a postage-paid return envelope. Residents who received the survey were given the option of returning the survey by mail or completing it online. Ten days after the surveys were mailed, ETC Institute sent follow-up messages to the households that received the survey to encourage participation. The messages contained a link to the online version of the survey to make it easy for residents to complete the survey. To prevent people who were not residents of the City of South Bend from participating, everyone who completed the survey online was required to enter their home address prior to submitting the survey. ETC Institute then matched the addresses that were entered online with the addresses that were originally selected for the random sample. If the address from a survey completed online did not match one of the addresses selected for the sample, the online survey was not counted. A total of 628 households completed the survey. The results for the random sample of 628 households have a 95% level of confidence with a precision of at least +/-3.9%. This report contains the following: • charts and graphs detailing the overall results of the survey (Section 1) • trend charts comparing the 2024 results to survey results from 2022, 2020 and 2018 (Section 2) • benchmarking data that show how the survey results for South Bend compare to other cities in North Central Region and nationally (Section 3) • Importance-Satisfaction analysis that shows investment priorities for the City (Section 4) • tabular data for all questions on the survey (Section 5) • a copy of the survey instrument (Section 6) 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024) Page iii 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey Executive Summary Interpretation of “Don’t Know” Responses. The percentage of persons who provide “don’t know” responses is important because it often reflects the level of utilization of city services. For graphical purposes, the percentage of “don’t know” responses has been excluded to facilitate valid comparisons with data from previous years. The percentage of “don’t know” responses for each question is provided in the Tabular Data Section of this report. When the “don’t know” responses have been excluded, the text of this report will indicate that the responses have been excluded with the phrase “who had an opinion.” Overall Satisfaction with City Leadership The major areas of city leadership that had the highest levels of satisfaction, based upon the combined percentage of "very satisfied" and "satisfied" responses among residents who had an opinion, were: the overall quality of life in the community (53.6%), the quality of local government services (41%), and the quality of community health services (38.7%). Respondents were least satisfied with the overall quality of public schools in South Bend (11.2%). Overall Ratings of the City The ratings that had the highest levels of satisfaction, based upon the combined percentage of "very satisfied" and "satisfied" responses among residents who had an opinion, were: the City as a place to live (59.7%), as a place to work (55.5%), and as a place to visit (46.8%). Respondents were least satisfied with the City as a place with affordable housing options (31.2%). Overall Satisfaction with City Services The major categories of city services that had the highest levels of satisfaction, based upon the combined percentage of "very satisfied" and "satisfied" responses among residents who had an opinion, were: the overall quality of fire services (83%), overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical services (81%), overall quality of trash collection services (76.9%), and overall quality of parks and recreation programs and facilities (62.5%). Respondents were least satisfied with overall enforcement of local codes and ordinances (20.8%). The overall maintenance of city streets, sidewalks and infrastructure was the top priority for improvement based on the Importance-Satisfaction Analysis. Satisfaction with Specific City Services • Community Investment. The highest levels of satisfaction with community investment, based upon the combined percentage of "very satisfied" and "satisfied" responses among residents who had an opinion, were: overall appearance of the neighborhood (46.1%), overall quality of new development in Downtown (44.1%), housing quality in the neighborhood (42.7%), and quality of Animal Control (39.9%). The community investment items residents indicated should receive the most emphasis over the next two years were: overall quality of Downtown and enforcing clean-up of trash and debris on private property. 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024) Page iv 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey Executive Summary • Solid Waste. The highest levels of satisfaction with city solid waste services, based upon the combined percentage of "very satisfied" and "satisfied" responses among residents who had an opinion, were: timeliness of trash services (82.9%), City efforts to inform about disruptions to trash service (71.4%), and quality of yard waste collection services (70.7%). The two items respondents indicated should receive the most emphasis over the next two years were: what is being charged for trash service and bulky item pick up/removal services. • Public Safety. The highest levels of satisfaction with public safety services, based upon the combined percentage of "very satisfied" and "satisfied" responses among residents who had an opinion, were: the professionalism of fire and EMS personnel (85.7%), the professionalism of City police officers (68%), and how quickly police respond to emergencies (64.5%). The three items respondents indicated should receive the most emphasis over the next two years were: efforts by local government to prevent crime, the visibility of police in neighborhoods, and the overall feeling of safety in neighborhoods. • Traffic and Transportation. The highest levels of satisfaction with traffic and transportation services, based upon the combined percentage of "very satisfied" and "satisfied" responses among residents who had an opinion, were: snow removal on major city streets (61.9%), the condition of street signs and traffic signals (61.8%), and the adequacy of street lighting in neighborhoods (57.6%). The three items residents indicated should receive the most emphasis over the next two years were: the condition of major city streets, the condition of sidewalks/curbs in neighborhoods, and the condition of streets in neighborhoods. • Water Services. The highest levels of satisfaction with water utilities, based upon the combined percentage of "very satisfied" and "satisfied" responses among residents who had an opinion, were: water pressure on a typical day (74.6%), the ease of understanding the utility bill (68.2%), and the smell of tap water (53.8%). The two items residents indicated should receive the most emphasis over the next two years were: what respondents are charged for utilities and taste of tap water. • Venues, Parks, and Arts. Seventy-five percent (75%) of respondents have visited a city recreation facility or park in the past year. The highest levels of satisfaction with parks and recreation services, based upon the combined percentage of "very satisfied" and "satisfied" responses among residents who had an opinion, were: the maintenance of city parks (67.7%), the number of walking and biking trails (63%), and access to parks in neighborhoods (61.4%). The top two parks and recreation services respondents indicated should receive the most emphasis over the next two years were: the condition of restrooms in public parks and the maintenance of city parks. 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024) Page v 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey Executive Summary Additional Findings ► More than half (52.1%) of respondents indicated that they do not feel their neighborhood has improved over the past five years, 34.6% indicated their neighborhood has improved, and 13.2% indicated they have not lived in their neighborhood for five years. ► Most (76%) of the respondents surveyed do not belong to a neighborhood association. Of those who belong to a neighborhood association, 25.9% are "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with the city's engagement with the neighborhood association, while 48.2% of respondents indicated they were neutral, and 25.9% were either "dissatisfied" or "very dissatisfied." ► More than one-fourth (28.2%) of respondents indicated they have met the current Mayor of South Bend, and 23% have met their Council person. ► When respondents were asked about their primary sources of information about City issues, services, and events, the top responses were local news (71.3%), social media (50.2%), and the City website (31.8%). The top two most preferred sources of information were local news (59.2%) and social media (45.8%). ► Most respondents (90.3%) indicated they have access to a smartphone in their home, 69.6% have access to a laptop computer, 49.2% have access to a tablet, and 36.3% have access to a desktop computer. Only 1.6% of respondents indicated they did not have access to any of these digital devices. ► Forty-five percent (44.8%) of respondents “strongly agreed” or “agreed” with the statement, “I can find broadband internet providers in a price that I can afford in South Bend.” Twenty-seven percent (27.4%) of respondents were “neutral”,” and 27.8% “disagreed” or “strongly disagreed” with this statement. ► More than half (59.4%) of respondents indicated they had called or visited the City with a question, problem, or complaint during the past year. More than three-fourths (77.4%) of the respondents contacted the city by phone, and 82.4% contacted 311. Of those who called or visited the City during the past year, 56.1% indicated it was either "very easy" or "easy" to address their issue with the City. More than three-fourths (77.3%) of respondents indicated that the employee they interacted with was "always" or "usually" courteous and polite, and 58.2% indicated the employee they interacted with "always" or "usually" gave accurate answers to questions. 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024) Page vi 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey Executive Summary Investment Priorities Recommended Priorities for the Next Two Years. In order to help the city identify investment priorities for the next two years, ETC Institute conducted an Importance-Satisfaction (I-S) analysis. This analysis examined the importance residents placed on each city service and the level of satisfaction with each service. By identifying services of high importance and low satisfaction, the analysis identified which services will have the most impact on overall satisfaction with city services over the next two years. If the city wants to improve its overall satisfaction rating, the city should prioritize investments in services with the highest Importance Satisfaction (I-S) ratings. Details regarding the methodology for the analysis are provided in Section 4 of this report. Overall Priorities for the City by Major Category. This analysis reviewed the importance of and satisfaction with major categories of city services. This analysis was conducted to help set the overall priorities for the city. Based on the results of this analysis, the major services that are recommended as the top priorities for investment over the next two years to raise the city's overall satisfaction rating are listed below: • Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, & infrastructure (I-S Rating = 0.5497) • Overall enforcement of local codes and ordinances (I-S Rating = 0.3501) • How well City is planning growth (I-S Rating = 0.2860) • Overall quality of local police protection (I-S Rating = 0.1823) The table on the following page shows the Importance-Satisfaction rating for all 10 major categories of City services that were rated. 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024) Page vii 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey Executive Summary 2024 Importance-Satisfaction Rating City of South Bend Major Categories of City Services Category of Service Most Important % Most Important Rank Satisfaction % Satisfaction Rank Importance-Satisfaction Rating I-S Rating Rank Very High Priority (IS >.20) Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and infrastructure 71%1 23%9 0.5497 1 Overall enforcement of local codes and ordinances by Neighborhood Services and Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement)44%2 21%10 0.3501 2 How well City is planning growth 44%3 35%7 0.2860 3 High Priority (IS .10-.20) Overall quality of local police protection 41%4 55%6 0.1823 4 Medium Priority (IS <.10) Overall quality of parks and recreation programs and facilities 27%5 63%4 0.0994 5Overall quality of water utility services 16%6 59%5 0.0643 6 The process for getting a construction and/or renovation permit 5% 10 28%8 0.0361 7Overall quality of trash collection services 9%7 77%3 0.0206 8 Overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical services 8%8 81%2 0.0156 9 Overall quality of fire services 6%9 83%1 0.0100 10 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ©2021 ETC Institute Page ii 1 Charts and Graphs 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 1 10%7%6%7%7%4%3%2%1%43%34%32%28%22%24%18%12%10%22%31%35%29%35%20%35%25%20%24%28%26%36%36%52%44%61%69%Overall quality of life in your communityOverall quality of local government servicesOverall quality of community health services in SoLeadership of elected officialsCommunication of opportunities for public involvemOverall value you receive for your taxes and feesLevel of public involvement in local decision-makiOverall efforts to improve homelessness in CityOverall quality of public schools in South Bend0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Satisfied (5) Satisfied (4) Neutral (3) Dissatisfied (1/2)Q1. City Leadershipby percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)Level of public involvement in local decision-making and planningCommunication of opportunities for public involvement in City decision-making and planningOverall quality of community health services in South Bend2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 2 16%13%10%11%10%8%8%44%42%37%31%31%32%23%22%28%30%29%26%30%24%19%17%23%30%34%30%45%As a place to liveAs a place to workAs a place to visitcommunity that is moving in the right directiAs a place to retireAs a place to raise childrenace with affordable housing options for you0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Satisfied (5) Satisfied (4) Neutral (3) Dissatisfied (1/2)Q2. Overall Ratings of South Bendby percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)As a community that is moving in the right directionAs a place with affordable housing options for your household or family2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 3 Q3. How do you feel about South Bend?by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 1 to 10 on a 10-point scale (excluding don't knows)15%34%30%14%8%10-9 8-7 6-5 4-3 2-12024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 4 5%7%6%4%36%32%31%32%39%33%49%44%21%28%15%20%Hours that customer service is availableAvailability of information about local governmentQuality of social media outlets (e.g., Facebook, TOverall usefulness of the City's website0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Satisfied (5) Satisfied (4) Neutral (3) Dissatisfied (1/2)Q4. Customer Service and Communicationby percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)Availability of information about local government services and activitiesQuality of social media outlets (e.g., Facebook, Twitter)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 5 71%50%32%21%9%7%Local newsSocial mediaCity websiteContacting City directlyPublic meetingsOther0%20%40%60%80%100%Q5. Which of the following are your primary sources of information about city issues, services, and events?by percentage of respondents (multiple selections could be made)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 6 59%46%33%16%11%10%Local newsSocial mediaCity websiteContacting City directlyPublic meetingsOther0%20%40%60%1st Choice 2nd ChoiceQ6. Which two information sources do you most prefer to learn about city issues, services, and events?by percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top two choices2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 7 90%70%49%36%2%SmartphoneLaptop computerTabletDesktop computerNone0%20%40%60%80%100%Q7. Which of the following digital devices do you have access to in your home?by percentage of respondents (multiple selections could be made)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 8 Q8. Rate your level of agreement with the following statement: “I can find broadband internet providers in a price that I can afford in South Bend”by percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)12%33%27%19%8%Strongly agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly disagree2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 9 Q9. Have you called or visited the city with a question, problem, or complaint during the past year?by percentage of respondents59%41%Yes No2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 10 Q9a. How did you contact the city?77%12%10%1%Phone Email In-person Social mediaby percentage of respondents who have contacted the city in the last year 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 11 Q9b. Did you contact 311?by percentage of respondents who have contacted the city in the last year 82%18%Yes No2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 12 Q9c. How easy was it to address your issue?23%33%13%19%12%Very easy Somewhat easy Neutral Difficult Very difficultby percentage of respondents who have contacted the city in the last year 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 13 43%32%35%27%16%28%7%14%They were courteous and politeThey gave accurate answers to your questions0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Always (5) Usually (4) Sometimes (3) Seldom/Never (1/2)Q9d. Quality of Customer Serviceby percentage of respondents who have contacted the city in the last year (excluding don't knows)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 14 43%43%27%22%18%21%10%5%3%5%40%38%50%41%40%35%25%23%20%16%15%17%14%25%26%27%34%55%20%27%2%3%9%13%16%18%31%17%57%52%Overall quality of fire servicesOverall quality of ambulance/emergency medical serOverall quality of trash collection servicesOverall quality of parks and recreation programs aOverall quality of water utility servicesOverall quality of local police protectionHow well City is planning growthThe process for getting a construction and/or renoOverall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, anOverall enforcement of local codes and ordinances 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Satisfied (5) Satisfied (4) Neutral (3) Dissatisfied (1/2)Q10. Major Categories of City Servicesby percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and infrastructureOverall quality of ambulance/emergency medical servicesOverall quality of parks and recreation programs and facilitiesThe process for getting a construction and/or renovation permitOverall enforcement of local codes and ordinances by Neighborhood Services and Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 15 71%44%44%41%27%16%9%8%6%5%Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, anOverall enforcement of local codes and ordinances How well City is planning growthOverall quality of local police protectionOverall quality of parks and recreation programs aOverall quality of water utility servicesOverall quality of trash collection servicesOverall quality of ambulance/emergency medical serOverall quality of fire servicesThe process for getting a construction and/or reno0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd ChoiceQ11. Major Categories of City Services That Should Receive the Most Emphasis Over the Next Two Yearsby percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top three choicesOverall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and infrastructureOverall quality of ambulance/emergency medical servicesOverall quality of parks and recreation programs and facilitiesThe process for getting a construction and/or renovation permitOverall enforcement of local codes and ordinances by Neighborhood Services and Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 16 12%9%11%12%9%6%5%5%4%3%2%2%3%34%35%33%31%31%24%19%18%16%16%14%14%12%21%30%33%26%38%36%36%37%40%30%40%41%29%33%26%23%32%22%34%40%41%40%51%44%43%56%Overall appearance of your neighborhoodOverall quality of DowntownOverall quality of new development in DowntownHousing quality in your neighborhoodQuality of Animal ControlOverall satisfaction with economic investment comiCity efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inopeOverall quality of new development in your neighboCommunication of plans for development projectsEnforcing mowing and cutting of grass and weeds onEnforcing exterior maintenance of residential propEnforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/businEnforcing clean-up of trash and debris on private 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Satisfied (5) Satisfied (4) Neutral (3) Dissatisfied (1/2)Q12. Community Investmentby percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)Overall quality of new development in your neighborhoodOverall satisfaction with economic investment coming into CityCity efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inoperative vehiclesEnforcing mowing and cutting of grass and weeds on private propertyEnforcing exterior maintenance of residential propertyEnforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/business propertyEnforcing clean-up of trash and debris on private property2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 17 22%21%17%17%15%15%14%14%14%13%12%12%7%Overall quality of DowntownEnforcing clean-up of trash and debris on private Overall quality of new development in DowntownCity efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inopeCommunication of plans for development projectsOverall quality of new development in your neighboOverall appearance of your neighborhoodEnforcing mowing and cutting of grass and weeds onEnforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/businOverall satisfaction with economic investment comiHousing quality in your neighborhoodEnforcing exterior maintenance of residential propQuality of Animal Control0%10%20%30%40%1st Choice 2nd ChoiceQ13. Community Investments That Should Receive the Most Emphasis Over the Next Two Yearsby percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top two choicesOverall quality of new development in your neighborhoodOverall satisfaction with economic investment coming into CityEnforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/business propertyEnforcing mowing and cutting of grass and weeds on private propertyCity efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inoperative vehiclesEnforcing clean-up of trash and debris on private propertyEnforcing exterior maintenance of residential property2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 18 Q14. How important is taking action to reduce or mitigate greenhouse gas emission and adapt to climate change for you?by percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)33%28%18%10%12%Very important Important Neutral Not important Not at all important2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 19 Q15. How well informed do you believe you are on the effects of climate change?by percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)30%46%16%6%2%Very well informed Informed Neutral Not informed Not at all informed2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 20 Q16. In terms of priority, how would you rank the following sustainability strategies for South Bend?85%79%78%75%0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd Choice 4th Choiceby percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top four choicesCity should prioritize projects that will prepare my community for future climate emergencies and natural disastersCity should develop programs to make it easier for property owners to be powered by renewable energy resourcesCity should develop programs that provide clean energy and green infrastructure workforce development opportunitiesCity should prioritize programs that assist residentwho are most impacted by the effects of climate change2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 21 Q17. Do you feel that your neighborhood has improved over the past five years?by percentage of respondents (excluding "not provided”)35%52%13%Yes No Have not lived in my neighborhood for 5 years2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 22 Q18. Do you belong to a neighborhood association?24%76%Yes Noby percentage of respondents (excluding "not provided”)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 23 Q18a. How satisfied are you with the City’s engagement with your neighborhood association?9%17%48%15%11%Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfiedby percentage of respondents (excluding "not provided”)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 24 Q19. Are you aware of development plans for your neighborhood?21%79%Yes Noby percentage of respondents (excluding "not provided”)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 25 41%30%31%27%12%42%42%40%38%32%12%21%20%21%32%5%7%9%14%24%Timeliness of your trash serviceCity efforts to keep you informed about disruptionQuality of yard waste collection servicesBulky item pick-up/removal services (e.g., old furWhat you are charged for trash service0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Satisfied (5) Satisfied (4) Neutral (3) Dissatisfied (1/2)Q20. Solid Wasteby percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)City efforts to keep you informed about disruptions to trash serviceBulky item pick-up/removal services (e.g., old furniture, appliances)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 26 52%39%21%17%17%What you are charged for trash serviceBulky item pick-up/removal services (e.g., old furCity efforts to keep you informed about disruptionTimeliness of your trash serviceQuality of yard waste collection services0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%1st Choice 2nd ChoiceQ21. Solid Waste Services That Should Receive the Most Emphasis Over the Next Two Yearsby percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top two choicesCity efforts to keep you informed about disruptions to trash serviceBulky item pick-up/removal services (e.g., old furniture, appliances)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 27 49%31%22%13%12%11%10%6%5%4%37%37%42%40%32%32%33%26%24%18%13%20%23%23%44%34%35%33%29%36%2%12%13%24%12%23%22%35%42%43%Professionalism of fire and EMS personnelProfessionalism of City police officersHow quickly police respond to emergenciesOverall feeling of safety in your neighborhoodFire education programs in your communityVisibility of police in commercial & retail areasRelationship between police officers & communityVisibility of police in neighborhoodsEnforcement of local traffic lawsEfforts by local government in your area to preven0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Satisfied (5) Satisfied (4) Neutral (3) Dissatisfied (1/2)Q22. Public Safetyby percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)Efforts by local government in your area to prevent crime2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 28 44%41%37%33%32%25%18%17%8%4%Efforts by local government in your area to prevenVisibility of police in neighborhoodsOverall feeling of safety in your neighborhoodRelationship between police officers & communityEnforcement of local traffic lawsVisibility of police in commercial & retail areasHow quickly police respond to emergenciesProfessionalism of City police officersFire education programs in your communityProfessionalism of fire & EMS personnel0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd ChoiceQ23. Public Safety Services That Should Receive the Most Emphasis Over the Next Two Yearsby percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top three choicesEfforts by local government in your area to prevent crime2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 29 12%11%12%5%8%7%4%6%3%5%6%50%51%46%35%29%30%31%28%30%28%26%20%22%21%26%43%24%26%23%31%44%38%18%16%21%34%20%39%39%44%36%23%30%Snow removal on major City streetsCondition of street signs and traffic signalsAdequacy of street lighting in your neighborhoodSnow removal on neighborhood streetsQuality of public transportation servicesCondition of streets in your neighborhoodCondition of major City streetsCondition of sidewalks & curbs in your neighborhooCleanliness of streets and other public areasOn-street bicycle and scooter infrastructureCondition of catch basins in your neighborhood0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Satisfied (5) Satisfied (4) Neutral (3) Dissatisfied (1/2)Q24. Traffic and Transportationby percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)Condition of sidewalks & curbs in your neighborhood2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 30 42%39%38%32%27%19%17%13%12%11%11%Condition of major City streetsCondition of sidewalks & curbs in your neighborhooCondition of streets in your neighborhoodCleanliness of streets & other public areasSnow removal on neighborhood streetsAdequacy of street lighting in your neighborhoodQuality of public transportation servicesSnow removal on major City streetsOn-street bicycle & scooter infrastructureCondition of street signs & traffic signalsCondition of catch basins in your neighborhood0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd ChoiceQ25. Traffic and Transportation Services That Should Receive the Most Emphasis Over the Next Two Yearsby percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top three choicesCondition of sidewalks & curbs in your neighborhood2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 31 28%19%15%9%10%11%7%3%47%49%39%37%33%32%27%23%17%23%28%40%27%34%43%27%8%9%18%14%29%23%23%46%Water pressure on a typical dayHow easy your utility bill is to understandSmell of your tap waterHow easy it is to resolve billing problemsTaste of your tap waterHow well City keeps you informed about water qualiStormwater management/flood controlWhat you are charged for utilities0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Satisfied (5) Satisfied (4) Neutral (3) Dissatisfied (1/2)Q26. Water Servicesby percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)How well City keeps you informed about water quality issues2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 32 47%30%29%22%12%10%6%5%What you are charged for utilitiesTaste of your tap waterStormwater management/flood controlHow well City keeps you informed about water qualiSmell of your tap waterWater pressure on a typical dayHow easy it is to resolve billing problemsHow easy your utility bill is to understand0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%1st Choice 2nd ChoiceQ27. Water Services That Should Receive the Most Emphasis Over the Next Two Yearsby percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top two choicesHow well City keeps you informed about water quality issues2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 33 18%18%15%12%9%7%4%50%45%47%30%27%25%24%21%24%24%47%50%41%34%11%13%15%12%15%27%38%Maintenance of City parksNumber of walking and biking trailsAccess to parks in your neighborhoodEase of registering for recreation programs such aFees charged for recreation programsAvailability of recreation programming in your neiCondition of restrooms in public parks0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%Very Satisfied (5) Satisfied (4) Neutral (3) Dissatisfied (1/2)Q28. Venues, Parks, and Artsby percentage of respondents (excluding don't knows)Ease of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, and special eventsAvailability of recreation programming in your neighborhood2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 34 32%32%22%20%13%12%9%Condition of restrooms in public parksMaintenance of City parksAvailability of recreation programming in your neiNumber of walking and biking trailsAccess to parks in your neighborhoodFees charged for recreation programsEase of registering for recreation programs such a0%10%20%30%40%1st Choice 2nd ChoiceQ29. Venues, Parks, and Arts That Should Receive the Most Emphasis Over the Next Two Yearsby percentage of respondents who selected the item as one of their top two choicesEase of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, and special eventsAvailability of recreation programming in your neighborhood2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 35 Q30. In the past year, have you visited a city recreation facility or park?75%25%Yes Noby percentage of respondents (excluding "not provided”)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 36 Q31. Approximately, how many years have you lived in South Bend?by percentage of respondents 10%9%6%7%17%51%0-5 6-10 11-15 16-20 21-30 31+2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 37 Q32. Have you met the current Mayor?by percentage of respondents28%72%Yes No2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 38 Q33. Have you met your Council person?by percentage of respondents23%77%Yes No2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 39 Q34. Do you own or rent your current residence?by percentage of respondents66%34%Own Rent2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 40 Q35. What is your age?by percentage of respondents 20%19%21%20%21%18-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 41 Q36. What is your gender identity?by percentage of respondents49%50%1%Male Female Gender variant/non-conforming2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 42 Q37. Including yourself, how many people live in your household?by percentage of respondents 20%44%16%10%9%12345+2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 43 Q38. How many people in your household are employed?by percentage of respondents 21%34%34%8%2%01234+2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 44 Q39. Which of the following best describes your employment status?by percentage of respondents 55%10%2%4%24%1%4%Employed full timeEmployed part time Not employed, looking for workNot employed, not looking for work RetiredStudentDisabled, not able to work2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 45 Q40. Would you say your total annual household income is...by percentage of respondents 11%19%28%24%9%9%Under $15K $15K to $29,999 $30K to $59,999$60K to $99,999 $100K to $124,999 $125K+2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 46 56%25%16%2%1%1%0%White or CaucasianBlack or African AmericanHispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/xAsian or Asian IndianOtherAmerican Indian or Alaska NativeNative Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander0%20%40%60%80% 100%Q41. Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity?by percentage of respondents (multiple selections could be made)0.2%2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 47 Q42. How would you describe your overall state of health these days?by percentage of respondents14%46%23%12%5%Excellent Good Average Fair Poor2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 48 Q43. How would you compare your standard of living to your parents’ when they were your age?by percentage of respondents14%26%29%21%10%Much better Somewhat better About the same Somewhat worse Much worse2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 49 ©2021 ETC Institute Page iii 2 Trend Charts 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 50 54%41%39%35%29%28%21%14%11%51%38%42%28%25%26%19%13%14%56%38%34%25%29%19%50%41%43%34%33%29%Overall quality of life in your communityOverall quality of local government servicesOverall quality of community health services in SoLeadership of elected officialsCommunication of opportunities for public involvemOverall value you receive for your taxes and feesLevel of public involvement in local decision-makiOverall efforts to improve homelessness in the CitOverall quality of public schools in South Bend0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q1. City Leadership2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)Communication of opportunities for public involvement in City decision-making and planningLevel of public involvement in local decision-making and planningOverall efforts to improve homelessness in the CityOverall quality of community health services in South BendNot asked before 2022Not asked before 2022Not asked before 20222024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 51 60%56%47%42%40%40%31%54%50%44%33%35%35%33%58%52%41%41%38%42%59%54%45%49%35%45%As a place to liveAs a place to workAs a place to visitAs a community that is moving in the right directiAs a place to retireAs a place to raise childrenAs a place with affordable housing options for you0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q2. Overall Ratings of South Bend2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)As a community that is moving in the right directionAs a place with affordable housing options for your household or familyNot asked before 20222024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 52 15%34%30%14%8%12%33%33%15%7%14%34%29%15%8%14%38%34%9%6%10-98-76-54-32-10%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q3. How do you feel about South Bend?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 1 to 10 on a 10-point scale (excluding don't knows)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 53 41%39%37%36%41%36%37%33%43%39%33%48%49%43%Hours that customer service is availableAvailability of information about local governmentQuality of social media outletsOverall usefulness of the City's website0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q4. Customer Service and Communication2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)Availability of information about local government services and activitiesNot asked before 20222024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 54 71%50%32%21%9%7%75%40%31%21%9%11%79%44%32%18%8%12%83%44%33%19%10%15%Local newsSocial mediaCity websiteContacting City directlyPublic meetingsOther0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q5. Which of the following are your PRIMARY SOURCES of information about city issues, services, and events?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 55 90%70%49%36%2%88%68%54%40%3%80%65%47%38%7%78%63%52%43%7%SmartphoneLaptop computerTabletDesktop computerNone0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q7. Which of the following digital devices do you have access to in your home?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 56 12%33%27%19%8%10%34%25%21%10%Strongly agreeAgreeNeutralDisagreeStrongly disagree0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022Q8. Rate your level of agreement with the following statement: “I can find broadband internet providers in a price that I can afford in South Bend”2024 and 2022by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 57 59%55%58%56%Yes0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q9. Have you called or visited the City with a question, problem, or complaint during the past year?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 58 77%12%10%1%84%10%6%1%91%5%4%1%85%7%7%0%PhoneEmailIn-personSocial media0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q9a. How did you contact the city?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 59 82%81%81%79%Yes0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q9b. Did you contact 311?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 60 23%33%14%19%12%29%32%12%18%9%29%29%15%16%11%39%29%14%10%8%Very easySomewhat easyNeutralDifficultVery difficult0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q9c. How easy was it to address your issue?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 61 93%86%72%62%79%68%80%71%They were courteous and politeThey gave accurate answers to your questions0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q9d. Customer Service2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 62 83%81%77%63%59%55%35%28%23%21%84%84%74%64%62%55%28%26%19%21%83%83%67%67%63%60%32%33%24%28%83%79%67%63%58%56%50%37%19%38%Overall quality of fire servicesOverall quality of ambulance/emergency medical serOverall quality of trash collection servicesOverall quality of parks and recreation programs aOverall quality of water utility servicesOverall quality of local police protectionHow well City is planning growthThe process for getting a permitOverall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, anOverall enforcement of local codes and ordinances0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q10. Major Categories of City Services2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)Overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical servicesOverall quality of parks and recreation programs and facilitiesOverall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and infrastructure2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 63 46%44%43%40%30%24%22%20%19%16%16%15%47%43%46%45%20%28%24%17%24%17%19%21%44%54%39%49%34%20%16%25%22%23%21%46%55%49%44%32%55%29%29%22%28%30%Overall appearance of your neighborhoodOverall quality of new development in DowntownHousing quality in your neighborhoodQuality of Animal ControlOverall satisfaction with economic investment comiCity efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inopeOverall quality of new development in your neighboCommunication of plans for development projectsEnforcing mowing and cutting of grass and weeds onEnforcing exterior maintenance of residential propEnforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/businEnforcing clean-up of trash and debris on private 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q12. Community Investment2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)Overall quality of new development in your neighborhoodOverall satisfaction with economic investment coming into the CityCity efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inoperative vehiclesEnforcing mowing and cutting of grass and weeds on private propertyEnforcing exterior maintenance of residential propertyEnforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/business propertyEnforcing clean-up of trash and debris on private propertyNot asked before 20222024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 64 33%28%18%10%12%36%26%17%10%11%Very importantImportantNeutralNot importantNot at all important0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022Q14. How important is taking action to reduce or mitigate greenhouse gas emission and adapt to climate change for you?2024 and 2022by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 65 30%46%16%6%2%29%48%17%5%2%Very well informedInformedNeutralNot informedNot at all infomred0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022Q15. How well informed do you believe you are on the effects of climate change?2024 and 2022by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 66 35%52%13%31%57%12%30%51%19%27%52%20%YesNoHave not lived in my neighborhood for 5 years0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q17. Do you feel that your neighborhood has improved over the past FIVE years?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 67 24%76%23%77%19%81%15%85%YesNo0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q18. Do you belong to a neighborhood association?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 68 9%17%48%15%11%5%17%41%24%13%6%24%43%17%10%8%26%42%17%8%Very satisfiedSatisfiedNeutralDissatisfiedVery dissatisfied0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q18a. How satisfied are you with the city's engagement with your neighborhood association?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 69 21%79%13%87%9%91%13%87%YesNo0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q19. Are you aware of development plans for your neighborhood?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 70 83%71%71%65%44%83%70%69%61%46%79%58%56%57%46%82%62%61%62%44%Timeliness of your trash serviceCity efforts to keep you informed about disruptionQuality of yard waste collection servicesBulky item pick-up/removal servicesWhat you are charged for trash service0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q20. Solid Waste2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)City efforts to keep you informed about disruptions to trash service2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 71 86%68%65%54%44%44%32%29%21%86%67%61%49%37%40%31%31%17%87%65%62%51%39%50%34%39%24%76%62%57%49%44%49%47%45%31%Professionalism of fire and EMS personnelProfessionalism of City police officersHow quickly police respond to emergenciesOverall feeling of safety in your neighborhoodFire education programs in your communityVisibility of police in commercial & retail areasVisibility of police in neighborhoodsEnforcement of local traffic lawsEfforts by local government in your area to preven0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q22. Public Safety2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)Efforts by local government in your area to prevent crime2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 72 62%62%58%42%40%37%37%35%34%34%33%32%64%61%52%39%42%38%35%32%34%36%36%32%68%66%52%40%46%36%39%32%41%42%34%60%58%49%37%45%22%13%35%30%42%40%Snow removal on major City streetsCondition of street signs and traffic signalsAdequacy of street lighting in your neighborhoodRelationship between police officers & communitySnow removal on neighborhood streetsQuality of public transportation servicesCondition of streets in your neighborhoodCondition of major City streetsCondition of sidewalks/curbs in your neighborhoodCleanliness of streets and other public areasOn-street bicycle/scooter infrastructureCondition of catch basins in your neighborhood0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q24. Traffic and Transportation2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)Not asked before 20222024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 73 75%68%54%46%43%43%27%78%71%56%46%50%40%26%75%73%59%49%49%44%31%65%64%55%49%48%43%33%Water pressure on a typical dayHow easy your utility bill is to understandSmell of your tap waterHow easy it is to resolve billing problemsTaste of your tap waterHow well City keeps you informed about water qualiWhat you are charged for utilities0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q26. Water Services2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)How well City keeps you informed about water quality issues2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 74 68%63%61%41%35%34%32%28%68%65%66%40%37%38%29%22%72%64%67%44%42%34%22%62%61%60%39%35%33%22%Maintenance of City parksNumber of walking and biking trailsAccess to parks in your neighborhoodEase of registering for recreation programs such aFees charged for recreation programsStormwater management/flood controlAvailability of recreation programming in your neiCondition of restrooms in public parks0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%20242022 2020 2018Q28. Venues, Parks, and Arts2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale (excluding don't knows)Ease of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, and special eventsAvailability of recreation programming in your neighborhoodNot asked before 20222024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 75 75%80%72%73%Yes0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q30. In the past year have you visited a city recreation facility or park? 2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 76 28%17%11%40%Yes0%20%40%60%80%100%20242022 2020 2018Q32. Have you met the current Mayor of South Bend?2024, 2022, 2020, and 2018by percentage of respondents 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 77 ©2021 ETC Institute Page iv 3 Benchmark Analysis 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 78 Benchmarking Analysis Overview ETC Institute's DirectionFinder® program was originally developed in 1999 to help community leaders across the United States use statistically valid community survey data as a tool for making better decisions. Since November of 1999, the survey has been administered in more than 500 communities in 50 states. Most participating communities conduct the survey on an annual or biennial basis. This report contains benchmarking data from two sources: (1) a national survey that was administered by ETC Institute during the summer of 2023 to a random sample of more than 10,000 residents across the United States, and (2) a regional survey administered during the summer of 2023 to a random sample of residents in the North Central Region of the United States. The North Central Region includes the states of Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. Interpreting the Charts The charts on the following pages show how the overall results for South Bend compare to the national and regional averages based on the results survey that was administered by ETC Institute during the summer of 2023. The “National Average” shown in the charts reflects the overall results of ETC Institute’s national survey of more than 10,000 residents, and the “North Central Region” reflects the results of the survey of residents in the North Central Region of the United States. 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 79 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 80 41%35%28%21%11%49%38%33%33%46%48%40%34%34%49%Overall quality of local government servicesLeadership of elected officialsOverall value you receive for your taxes and feesLevel of public involvement in local decision-makiOverall quality of public schools in South Bend0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%South BendUS North Central City LeadershipSouth Bend vs. the United States vs. North Central Regionby percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scaleLevel of public involvement in local decision-making and planning2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 81 60%56%47%40%40%49%57%58%52%61%42%57%57%51%65%As a place to liveAs a place to workAs a place to visitAs a place to retireAs a place to raise children0%20%40%60%80%100%South BendUS North Central Overall Ratings South Bend vs. the United States vs. North Central Regionby percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 82 39%37%36%46%39%42%51%43%41%Availability of information about local governmentQuality of social media outlets (e.g., Facebook, TOverall usefulness of the City's website0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%South BendUS North Central Customer Service and CommunicationSouth Bend vs. the United States vs. North Central Regionby percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scaleAvailability of information about local government services and activitiesQuality of social media outlets (e.g., Facebook, Twitter)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 83 83%81%77%63%59%55%35%23%21%76%71%55%49%52%53%39%41%40%78%75%53%52%51%60%48%39%42%Overall quality of fire servicesOverall quality of ambulance/emergency medical serOverall quality of trash collection servicesOverall quality of parks and recreation programs aOverall quality of water utility servicesOverall quality of local police protectionHow well City is planning growthOverall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, anOverall enforcement of local codes and ordinances0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%South BendUS North CentralMajor Categories of ServicesSouth Bend vs. the United States vs. North Central Regionby percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scaleOverall quality of ambulance/emergency medical servicesOverall quality of parks and recreation programs and facilitiesOverall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and infrastructure2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 84 46%44%40%19%16%16%15%55%48%49%46%44%44%45%54%53%60%48%43%43%50%Overall appearance of your neighborhoodOverall quality of DowntownQuality of Animal ControlEnforcing mowing and cutting of grass and weeds onEnforcing exterior maintenance of residential propEnforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/businEnforcing clean-up of trash and debris on private 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%South BendUS North Central Community InvestmentSouth Bend vs. the United States vs. North Central Regionby percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scaleEnforcing mowing and cutting of grass and weeds on private propertyEnforcing exterior maintenance of residential propertyEnforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/business propertyEnforcing clean-up of trash and debris on private property2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 85 71%65%54%47%48%49%Quality of yard waste collection servicesBulky item pick-up/removal services (e.g., old fur0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%South BendUS North Central Solid WasteSouth Bend vs. the United States vs. North Central Regionby percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scaleBulky item pick-up/removal services (e.g., old furniture, appliances)2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 86 65%54%44%44%32%29%21%56%66%49%51%54%50%49%61%68%50%54%54%51%48%How quickly police respond to emergenciesOverall feeling of safety in your neighborhoodFire education programs in your communityVisibility of police in commercial & retail areasVisibility of police in neighborhoodsEnforcement of local traffic lawsEfforts by local government in your area to preven0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%South BendUS North Central Public SafetySouth Bend vs. the United States vs. North Central Regionby percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scaleEfforts by local government in your area to prevent crime2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 87 62%62%58%40%37%37%35%34%34%33%58%63%59%58%37%53%50%47%53%42%66%76%69%66%34%62%51%46%62%39%Snow removal on major City streetsCondition of street signs and traffic signalsAdequacy of street lighting in your neighborhoodSnow removal on neighborhood streetsQuality of public transportation servicesCondition of streets in your neighborhoodCondition of major City streetsCondition of sidewalks and curbs in your neighborhCleanliness of streets and other public areasOn-street bicycle and scooter infrastructure0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%South BendUS North CentralTraffic and TransportationSouth Bend vs. the United States vs. North Central Regionby percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scaleCondition of sidewalks and curbs in your neighborhood2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 88 75%54%43%34%27%66%58%59%50%38%78%71%77%45%40%Water pressure on a typical daySmell of your tap waterTaste of your tap waterStormwater management/flood controlWhat you are charged for utilities0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%South BendUS North CentralWater ServicesSouth Bend vs. the United States vs. North Central Regionby percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scale2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 89 63%41%35%62%38%31%64%41%37%Number of walking and biking trailsEase of registering for recreation programs such aFees charged for recreation programs0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%South BendUS North Central Venues, Parks, and ArtsSouth Bend vs. the United States vs. North Central Regionby percentage of respondents who rated the item as a 4 or 5 on a 5-point scaleEase of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, and special events2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 90 ©2021 ETC Institute Page v Importance-Satisfaction Analysis 4 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 91 Overview Today, community leaders have limited resources which need to be targeted to activities that are of the most benefit to their citizens. Two of the most important criteria for decision making are (1) to target resources toward services of the highest importance to citizens; and (2) to target resources toward those services where citizens are the least satisfied. The Importance‐Satisfaction (I‐S) rating is a unique tool that allows public officials to better understand both of these highly important decision‐making criteria for each of the services they are providing. The Importance‐Satisfaction (I‐S) rating is based on the concept that public agencies will maximize overall customer satisfaction by emphasizing improvements in those areas where the level of satisfaction is relatively low, and the perceived importance of the service is relatively high. The rating is calculated by summing the percentage of responses for items selected as the first, second, and third most important services for the City to emphasize over the next 2 years. The sum is then multiplied by 1 minus the percentage of respondents who indicated they were positively satisfied with the City’s performance in the related area (the sum of the ratings of 4 and 5 on a 5‐point scale excluding “Don’t Know” responses). “Don’t Know” responses are excluded from the calculation to ensure the satisfaction ratings among service categories are comparable. I‐S Rating = Importance x (1‐Satisfaction) Example of the Calculation Respondents were asked to identify the major City services that are most important to emphasize over the next 2 years. Nearly three‐fourths (71.3%) of the households selected “overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and infrastructure” as one of the most important services for the City to emphasize. With regard to satisfaction, 22.9% of respondents surveyed rated “overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and infrastructure” as a “4” or “5” on a 5‐point scale (where “5” means “Very Satisfied”) excluding “Don’t Know” responses. The I‐S rating was calculated by multiplying the sum of the most important percentages by one minus the sum of the satisfaction percentages. In this example, 71.3% was multiplied by 77.1% (1‐0.229). This calculation yielded an I‐S rating of 0.5497, which ranked first out of 10 major categories of City services analyzed. Importance-Satisfaction Analysis 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 92 The maximum rating is 1.00 and would be achieved when 100% of the respondents select an item as one of their top two choices of importance and 0% indicate they are positively satisfied with the delivery of the service. The lowest rating is 0.00 and could be achieved under either of the following two situations: If 100% of the respondents were positively satisfied with the delivery of the service If none (0%) of the respondents selected the service as one of the two most important areas. Interpreting the Ratings Ratings that are greater than or equal to 0.20 identify areas that should receive significantly more emphasis. Ratings from 0.10 to 0.20 identify service areas that should receive increased emphasis. Ratings less than 0.10 should continue to receive the current level of emphasis. Definitely Increase Emphasis (I‐S > 0.20) Increase Current Emphasis (I‐S = 0.10 ‐ 0.20) Maintain Current Emphasis (I‐S < 0.10) Tables showing the results for the City of South Bend are provided on the following pages. Importance-Satisfaction Analysis 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 93 2024 Importance-Satisfaction RatingCity of South BendMajor Categories of City ServicesCategory of ServiceMost Important %Most Important Rank Satisfaction %Satisfaction RankImportance-Satisfaction Rating I-S Rating RankVery High Priority (IS >.20)Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and infrastructure71% 1 23% 9 0.5497 1Overall enforcement of local codes and ordinances by Neighborhood Services and Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement)44% 2 21% 10 0.3501 2How well City is planning growth44% 335%70.28603High Priority (IS .10-.20)Overall quality of local police protection41% 4 55% 6 0.1823 4Medium Priority (IS <.10)Overall quality of parks and recreation programs and facilities27% 5 63% 4 0.0994 5Overall quality of water utility services16% 6 59% 5 0.0643 6The process for getting a construction and/or renovation permit5% 10 28% 8 0.0361 7Overall quality of trash collection services9% 7 77% 3 0.0206 8Overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical services8% 8 81% 2 0.0156 9Overall quality of fire services6% 9 83% 1 0.0100 10Note: The I-S Rating is calculated by multiplying the "Most Important" % by (1-'Satisfaction' %)Most Important %: The "Most Important" percentage represents the sum of the first, second, and thirdmost important responses for each item. Respondents were asked to identifythe items they thought should be the City's top priorities.Satisfaction %:The "Satisfaction" percentage represents the sum of the ratings "5" and "4" excluding 'don't knows.'Respondents ranked their level of satisfaction with each of the items on a scaleof 5 to 1 with "5" being Very Satisfied and "1" being Very Dissatisfied.© 2024 DirectionFinder by ETC Institute2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 94 2024 Importance‐Satisfaction RatingCity of South BendCommunity InvestmentCategory of ServiceMost Important %Most Important Rank Satisfaction %Satisfaction RankImportance‐Satisfaction Rating I‐S Rating RankHigh Priority (IS .10‐.20)Enforcing clean‐up of trash and debris on private property21% 2 15% 13 0.1815 1City efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inoperative vehicles17% 4 24% 7 0.1279 2Overall quality of Downtown22% 1 44% 2 0.1244 3Communication of plans for development projects15% 5 20% 9 0.1216 4Enforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/business property14% 9 16% 12 0.1151 5Enforcing mowing and cutting of grass and weeds on private property14% 8 19% 10 0.1134 6Overall quality of new development in your neighborhood15% 622%80.11257Medium Priority (IS <.10)Enforcing exterior maintenance of residential property12% 12 16% 11 0.0998 8Overall quality of new development in Downtown17% 3 44% 3 0.0961 9Overall satisfaction with economic investment coming into the City13% 10 30% 6 0.0943 10Overall appearance of your neighborhood14% 7 46% 1 0.0765 11Housing quality in your neighborhood12% 11 43% 4 0.0693 12Quality of Animal Control7% 13 40% 5 0.0421 13Note: The I‐S Rating is calculated by multiplying the "Most Important" % by (1‐'Satisfaction' %)Most Important %: The "Most Important" percentage represents the sum of the first and secondmost important responses for each item. Respondents were asked to identifythe items they thought should be the City's top priorities.Satisfaction %:The "Satisfaction" percentage represents the sum of the ratings "5" and "4" excluding 'don't knows.'Respondents ranked their level of satisfaction with each of the items on a scaleof 5 to 1 with "5" being Very Satisfied and "1" being Very Dissatisfied.© 2024 DirectionFinder by ETC Institute2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 95 2024 Importance‐Satisfaction RatingCity of South BendSolid WasteCategory of ServiceMost Important %Most Important Rank Satisfaction %Satisfaction RankImportance‐Satisfaction Rating I‐S Rating RankVery High Priority (IS >.20)What you are charged for trash service52% 144%50.29011Medium Priority (IS <.10)Bulky item pick‐up/removal services (e.g., old furniture, appliances)39% 2 65% 4 0.1376 2High Priority (IS .10‐.20)City efforts to keep you informed about disruptions to trash service21% 3 71% 2 0.0601 3Quality of yard waste collection services17% 5 71% 3 0.0486 4Timeliness of your trash service17% 483%10.02845Note: The I‐S Rating is calculated by multiplying the "Most Important" % by (1‐'Satisfaction' %)Most Important %: The "Most Important" percentage represents the sum of the first and secondmost important responses for each item. Respondents were asked to identifythe items they thought should be the City's top priorities.Satisfaction %:The "Satisfaction" percentage represents the sum of the ratings "5" and "4" excluding 'don't knows.'Respondents ranked their level of satisfaction with each of the items on a scaleof 5 to 1 with "5" being Very Satisfied and "1" being Very Dissatisfied.© 2024 DirectionFinder by ETC Institute2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 96 2024 Importance‐Satisfaction RatingCity of South BendPublic SafetyCategory of ServiceMost Important %Most Important Rank Satisfaction %Satisfaction RankImportance‐Satisfaction Rating I‐S Rating RankVery High Priority (IS >.20)Efforts by local government in your area to prevent crime44% 1 21% 10 0.3435 1Visibility of police in neighborhoods41% 2 32% 8 0.2755 2Enforcement of local traffic laws32% 5 29% 9 0.2286 3High Priority (IS .10‐.20)Relationship between police officers and the community33% 4 42% 7 0.1901 4Overall feeling of safety in your neighborhood37% 354%40.16975Visibility of police in commercial and retail areas25% 644%60.14136Medium Priority (IS <.10)How quickly police respond to emergencies18% 765%30.06507Professionalism of City police officers17% 868%20.05388Fire education programs in your community8%944%50.04349Professionalism of fire and EMS personnel4% 1086%10.0050 10Note: The I‐S Rating is calculated by multiplying the "Most Important" % by (1‐'Satisfaction' %)Most Important %: The "Most Important" percentage represents the sum of the first, second, and thirdmost important responses for each item. Respondents were asked to identifythe items they thought should be the City's top priorities.Satisfaction %:The "Satisfaction" percentage represents the sum of the ratings "5" and "4" excluding 'don't knows.'Respondents ranked their level of satisfaction with each of the items on a scaleof 5 to 1 with "5" being Very Satisfied and "1" being Very Dissatisfied.© 2024 DirectionFinder by ETC Institute2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 97 2024 Importance‐Satisfaction RatingCity of South BendTraffic and TransportationCategory of ServiceMost Important %Most Important Rank Satisfaction %Satisfaction RankImportance‐Satisfaction Rating I‐S Rating RankVery High Priority (IS >.20)Condition of major City streets42% 1 35% 7 0.2739 1Condition of sidewalks and curbs in your neighborhood39% 2 34% 8 0.2562 2Condition of streets in your neighborhood38% 3 37% 6 0.2391 3Cleanliness of streets and other public areas32% 4 34% 9 0.2155 4High Priority (IS .10‐.20)Snow removal on neighborhood streets27% 5 40% 4 0.1644 5Quality of public transportation services17% 7 37% 5 0.1063 6Medium Priority (IS <.10)Adequacy of street lighting in your neighborhood19% 6 58% 3 0.0810 7On‐street bicycle and scooter infrastructure12% 933%10 0.07848Condition of catch basins in your neighborhood11% 1132%11 0.07159Snow removal on major City streets13% 862%10.0488 10Condition of street signs and traffic signals11% 1062%20.0420 11Note: The I‐S Rating is calculated by multiplying the "Most Important" % by (1‐'Satisfaction' %)Most Important %: The "Most Important" percentage represents the sum of the first, second, and thirdmost important responses for each item. Respondents were asked to identifythe items they thought should be the City's top priorities.Satisfaction %:The "Satisfaction" percentage represents the sum of the ratings "5" and "4" excluding 'don't knows.'Respondents ranked their level of satisfaction with each of the items on a scaleof 5 to 1 with "5" being Very Satisfied and "1" being Very Dissatisfied.© 2024 DirectionFinder by ETC Institute2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 98 2024 Importance‐Satisfaction RatingCity of South BendWater ServicesCategory of ServiceMost Important %Most Important Rank Satisfaction %Satisfaction RankImportance‐Satisfaction Rating I‐S Rating RankVery High Priority (IS >.20)What you are charged for utilities47% 1 27% 8 0.3426 1High Priority (IS .10‐.20)Stormwater management/flood control29% 3 34% 7 0.1898 2Taste of your tap water30% 2 43% 5 0.1675 3How well City keeps you informed about water quality issues22% 4 43% 6 0.1246 4Medium Priority (IS <.10)Smell of your tap water12% 5 54% 3 0.0564 5How easy it is to resolve billing problems6% 7 46% 4 0.0332 6Water pressure on a typical day10% 6 75% 1 0.0251 7How easy your utility bill is to understand5% 8 68% 2 0.0146 8Note: The I‐S Rating is calculated by multiplying the "Most Important" % by (1‐'Satisfaction' %)Most Important %: The "Most Important" percentage represents the sum of the first and secondmost important responses for each item. Respondents were asked to identifythe items they thought should be the City's top priorities.Satisfaction %:The "Satisfaction" percentage represents the sum of the ratings "5" and "4" excluding 'don't knows.'Respondents ranked their level of satisfaction with each of the items on a scaleof 5 to 1 with "5" being Very Satisfied and "1" being Very Dissatisfied.© 2024 DirectionFinder by ETC Institute2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 99 2024 Importance‐Satisfaction RatingCity of South BendVenues, Parks, and ArtsCategory of ServiceMost Important %Most Important Rank Satisfaction %Satisfaction RankImportance‐Satisfaction Rating I‐S Rating RankVery High Priority (IS >.20)Condition of restrooms in public parks32% 1 28% 7 0.2318 1High Priority (IS .10‐.20)Availability of recreation programming in your neighborhood22% 3 32% 6 0.1503 2Maintenance of City parks32% 2 68% 1 0.1024 3Medium Priority (IS <.10)Fees charged for recreation programs12% 6 35% 5 0.0752 4Number of walking and biking trails20% 4 63% 2 0.0736 5Ease of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, and special events9% 7 41% 4 0.0533 6Access to parks in your neighborhood13% 5 61% 3 0.0502 7Note: The I‐S Rating is calculated by multiplying the "Most Important" % by (1‐'Satisfaction' %)Most Important %: The "Most Important" percentage represents the sum of the first and secondmost important responses for each item. Respondents were asked to identifythe items they thought should be the City's top priorities.Satisfaction %:The "Satisfaction" percentage represents the sum of the ratings "5" and "4" excluding 'don't knows.'Respondents ranked their level of satisfaction with each of the items on a scaleof 5 to 1 with "5" being Very Satisfied and "1" being Very Dissatisfied.© 2024 DirectionFinder by ETC Institute2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings ReportETC Institute (2024)Page 100 ©2021 ETC Institute Page vi Tabular Data 5 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 101 Q1. City Leadership. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (N=628) Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q1-1. Overall quality of life in your community 10.2% 43.2% 22.0% 17.4% 6.8% 0.5% Q1-2. Leadership of elected officials 7.0% 26.9% 28.3% 21.7% 12.9% 3.2% Q1-3. Overall quality of local government services 6.5% 33.4% 30.3% 20.7% 6.7% 2.4% Q1-4. Communication of opportunities for public involvement in City decision- making & planning 6.5% 21.3% 33.0% 23.6% 10.7% 4.9% Q1-5. Overall value you receive for your taxes & fees 4.1% 23.7% 19.6% 28.2% 22.8% 1.6% Q1-6. Level of public involvement in local decision- making & planning 3.0% 16.6% 32.5% 27.5% 13.1% 7.3% Q1-7. Overall quality of public schools in South Bend 0.8% 9.1% 17.5% 26.9% 34.1% 11.6% Q1-8. Overall quality of community health services in South Bend 5.7% 29.0% 31.7% 15.6% 7.8% 10.2% Q1-9. Overall efforts to improve homelessness in City 1.8% 11.3% 22.9% 26.8% 28.5% 8.8% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 102 WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q1. City Leadership. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (without "don't know") (N=628) Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q1-1. Overall quality of life in your community 10.2% 43.4% 22.1% 17.4% 6.9% Q1-2. Leadership of elected officials 7.2% 27.8% 29.3% 22.4% 13.3% Q1-3. Overall quality of local government services 6.7% 34.3% 31.0% 21.2% 6.9% Q1-4. Communication of opportunities for public involvement in City decision-making & planning 6.9% 22.4% 34.7% 24.8% 11.2% Q1-5. Overall value you receive for your taxes & fees 4.2% 24.1% 19.9% 28.6% 23.1% Q1-6. Level of public involvement in local decision-making & planning 3.3% 17.9% 35.1% 29.7% 14.1% Q1-7. Overall quality of public schools in South Bend 0.9% 10.3% 19.8% 30.5% 38.6% Q1-8. Overall quality of community health services in South Bend 6.4% 32.3% 35.3% 17.4% 8.7% Q1-9. Overall efforts to improve homelessness in City 1.9% 12.4% 25.1% 29.3% 31.2% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 103 Q2. Overall Ratings of South Bend. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (N=628) Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q2-1. As a place to live 15.4% 43.9% 21.5% 11.8% 6.8% 0.5% Q2-2. As a place to work 12.3% 39.8% 26.3% 10.4% 5.3% 6.1% Q2-3. As a community that is moving in the right direction 10.5% 30.3% 28.2% 18.6% 10.2% 2.2% Q2-4. As a place to visit 9.2% 36.3% 29.6% 16.1% 6.2% 2.5% Q2-5. As a place to raise children 7.5% 29.5% 27.9% 18.8% 9.4% 7.0% Q2-6. As a place to retire 8.9% 28.2% 24.2% 17.5% 13.7% 7.5% Q2-7. As a place with affordable housing options for your household or family 7.5% 22.5% 22.9% 26.9% 16.1% 4.1% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 104 WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q2. Overall Ratings of South Bend. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (without "don't know") (N=628) Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q2-1. As a place to live 15.5% 44.2% 21.6% 11.8% 6.9% Q2-2. As a place to work 13.1% 42.4% 28.0% 11.0% 5.6% Q2-3. As a community that is moving in the right direction 10.7% 30.9% 28.8% 19.1% 10.4% Q2-4. As a place to visit 9.5% 37.3% 30.4% 16.5% 6.4% Q2-5. As a place to raise children 8.0% 31.7% 30.0% 20.2% 10.1% Q2-6. As a place to retire 9.6% 30.5% 26.2% 18.9% 14.8% Q2-7. As a place with affordable housing options for your household or family 7.8% 23.4% 23.9% 28.1% 16.8% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 105 Q3. On a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 means "Hostile" and 10 means "Love," how do you feel about South Bend? (N=628) Not provid- Love 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 Hostile ed Q3. How do you feel about South Bend 7.3% 7.0% 16.9% 14.8% 11.9% 15.8% 8.6% 4.1% 3.3% 3.8% 6.4% WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q3. On a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 means "Hostile" and 10 means "Love," how do you feel about South Bend? (without "not provided") (N=628) Love 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 Hostile Q3. How do you feel about South Bend 7.8% 7.5% 18.0% 15.8% 12.8% 16.8% 9.2% 4.4% 3.6% 4.1% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 106 Q4. Customer Service and Communication. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (N=628) Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q4-1. Availability of information about local government services & activities 6.2% 30.1% 31.2% 20.2% 6.4% 5.9% Q4-2. Hours that customer service is available 4.5% 31.8% 34.1% 14.0% 4.1% 11.5% Q4-3. Quality of social media outlets (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) 4.6% 24.7% 39.2% 8.8% 3.0% 19.7% Q4-4. Overall usefulness of City's website 3.0% 26.8% 37.1% 11.9% 4.9% 16.2% WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q4. Customer Service and Communication. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (without "don't know") (N=628) Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q4-1. Availability of information about local government services & activities 6.6% 32.0% 33.2% 21.5% 6.8% Q4-2. Hours that customer service is available 5.0% 36.0% 38.5% 15.8% 4.7% Q4-3. Quality of social media outlets (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) 5.8% 30.8% 48.8% 10.9% 3.8% Q4-4. Overall usefulness of City's website 3.6% 31.9% 44.3% 14.3% 5.9% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 107 Q5. Which of the following are your PRIMARY SOURCES of information about City issues, services, and events? Q5. Your primary sources of information about City issues, services, & events Number Percent City website 200 31.8 % Social media 315 50.2 % Public meetings 57 9.1 % Local news 448 71.3 % Contacting City directly 129 20.5 % Other 44 7.0 % Total 1193 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 108 Q6. Which TWO of the information sources listed in Question 5 do you MOST PREFER to learn about City issues, services, and events? Q6. Top choice Number Percent City website 106 16.9 % Social media 146 23.2 % Public meetings 30 4.8 % Local news 250 39.8 % Contacting City directly 36 5.7 % None chosen 60 9.6 % Total 628 100.0 % Q6. Which TWO of the information sources listed in Question 5 do you MOST PREFER to learn about City issues, services, and events? Q6. 2nd choice Number Percent City website 99 15.8 % Social media 142 22.6 % Public meetings 40 6.4 % Local news 122 19.4 % Contacting City directly 63 10.0 % None chosen 162 25.8 % Total 628 100.0 % SUM OF TOP 2 CHOICES Q6. Which TWO of the information sources listed in Question 5 do you MOST PREFER to learn about City issues, services, and events? (top 2) Q6. Top choice Number Percent City website 205 32.6 % Social media 288 45.9 % Public meetings 70 11.1 % Local news 372 59.2 % Contacting City directly 99 15.8 % None chosen 60 9.6 % Total 1094 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 109 Q7. Which of the following digital devices do you have access to in your home? Q7. Digital devices you have access to in your home Number Percent Desktop computer 228 36.3 % Laptop computer 437 69.6 % Tablet 309 49.2 % Smartphone 567 90.3 % None 10 1.6 % Total 1551 WITHOUT “NONE” Q7. Which of the following digital devices do you have access to in your home? (without "none") Q7. Digital devices you have access to in your home Number Percent Smartphone 567 91.7 % Laptop computer 437 70.7 % Tablet 309 50.0 % Desktop computer 228 36.9 % Total 1541 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 110 Q8. Please rate your level of agreement with the following statement: I can find broadband internet providers in a price that I can afford in South Bend. Q8. I can find broadband internet providers for a price that I can afford in South Bend Number Percent Strongly agree 69 11.0 % Agree 196 31.2 % Neutral 162 25.8 % Disagree 115 18.3 % Strongly disagree 50 8.0 % Don't know 36 5.7 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q8. Please rate your level of agreement with the following statement: I can find broadband internet providers in a price that I can afford in South Bend. (without "don't know") Q8. I can find broadband internet providers for a price that I can afford in South Bend Number Percent Strongly agree 69 11.7 % Agree 196 33.1 % Neutral 162 27.4 % Disagree 115 19.4 % Strongly disagree 50 8.4 % Total 592 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 111 Q9. Have you called or visited the City with a question, problem, or complaint during the past year? Q9. Have you called or visited City with a question, problem, or complaint during past year Number Percent Yes 373 59.4 % No 255 40.6 % Total 628 100.0 % Q9a. How did you contact the City? Q9a. How did you contact City Number Percent Phone 287 76.9 % Email 43 11.5 % Social media 5 1.3 % In-person 36 9.7 % Not provided 2 0.5 % Total 373 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q9a. How did you contact the City? (without "not provided") Q9a. How did you contact City Number Percent Phone 287 77.4 % Email 43 11.6 % Social media 5 1.3 % In-person 36 9.7 % Total 371 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 112 Q9b. Did you contact 311? Q9b. Did you contact 311 Number Percent Yes 304 81.5 % No 65 17.4 % Not provided 4 1.1 % Total 373 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q9b. Did you contact 311? (without "not provided") Q9b. Did you contact 311 Number Percent Yes 304 82.4 % No 65 17.6 % Total 369 100.0 % Q9c. How easy was it to address your issue? Q9c. How easy was it to address your issue Number Percent Very easy 85 22.8 % Somewhat easy 123 33.0 % Neutral 50 13.4 % Difficult 70 18.8 % Very difficult 43 11.5 % Not provided 2 0.5 % Total 373 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q9c. How easy was it to address your issue? (without "not provided") Q9c. How easy was it to address your issue Number Percent Very easy 85 22.9 % Somewhat easy 123 33.2 % Neutral 50 13.5 % Difficult 70 18.9 % Very difficult 43 11.6 % Total 371 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 113 Q9d. For each of the factors below that may influence your perception of the quality of customer service you receive from City employees, please rate how often the employees you have contacted during the past year have displayed the behavior described using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Always" and 1 means "Never." (N=373) Always Usually Sometimes Seldom Never Don't know Q9d-1. They were courteous & polite 41.3% 33.5% 15.0% 5.9% 1.1% 3.2% Q9d-2. They gave accurate answers to your questions 29.8% 25.2% 26.3% 9.7% 3.5% 5.6% WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q9d. For each of the factors below that may influence your perception of the quality of customer service you receive from City employees, please rate how often the employees you have contacted during the past year have displayed the behavior described using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Always" and 1 means "Never." (without "don't know") (N=373) Always Usually Sometimes Seldom Never Q9d-1. They were courteous & polite 42.7% 34.6% 15.5% 6.1% 1.1% Q9d-2. They gave accurate answers to your questions 31.5% 26.7% 27.8% 10.2% 3.7% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 114 Q10. Major Categories of City Services. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (N=628) Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q10-1. Overall quality of fire services 36.1% 33.6% 12.7% 1.1% 0.5% 15.9% Q10-2. Overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical services 35.0% 31.4% 13.5% 1.4% 0.6% 18.0% Q10-3. Overall quality of trash collection services 26.4% 48.1% 14.0% 5.6% 2.9% 3.0% Q10-4. Overall quality of parks & recreation programs & facilities 20.9% 39.0% 23.7% 9.7% 2.5% 4.1% Q10-5. Overall quality of water utility services 17.4% 38.5% 24.8% 11.0% 3.8% 4.5% Q10-6. Overall quality of local police protection 19.6% 33.1% 25.5% 10.4% 7.2% 4.3% Q10-7. How well City is planning growth 9.1% 22.5% 30.9% 17.8% 10.5% 9.2% Q10-8. Overall enforcement of local codes & ordinances by Neighborhood Services & Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement) 4.0% 14.5% 24.2% 26.3% 19.9% 11.1% Q10-9. Process for getting a construction and/or renovation permit 2.5% 11.3% 27.1% 6.1% 2.5% 50.5% Q10-10. Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, & infrastructure 2.5% 19.9% 19.9% 32.3% 23.6% 1.8% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 115 WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q10. Major Categories of City Services. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (without "don't know") (N=628) Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q10-1. Overall quality of fire services 43.0% 40.0% 15.2% 1.3% 0.6% Q10-2. Overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical services 42.7% 38.3% 16.5% 1.7% 0.8% Q10-3. Overall quality of trash collection services 27.3% 49.6% 14.4% 5.7% 3.0% Q10-4. Overall quality of parks & recreation programs & facilities 21.8% 40.7% 24.8% 10.1% 2.7% Q10-5. Overall quality of water utility services 18.2% 40.3% 26.0% 11.5% 4.0% Q10-6. Overall quality of local police protection 20.5% 34.6% 26.6% 10.8% 7.5% Q10-7. How well City is planning growth 10.0% 24.7% 34.0% 19.6% 11.6% Q10-8. Overall enforcement of local codes & ordinances by Neighborhood Services & Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement) 4.5% 16.3% 27.2% 29.6% 22.4% Q10-9. Process for getting a construction and/or renovation permit 5.1% 22.8% 54.7% 12.2% 5.1% Q10-10. Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, & infrastructure 2.6% 20.3% 20.3% 32.9% 24.0% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 116 Q11. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 10 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q11. Top choice Number Percent Overall quality of fire services 11 1.8 % Overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical services 13 2.1 % Overall quality of trash collection services 12 1.9 % Overall quality of parks & recreation programs & facilities 25 4.0 % Overall quality of water utility services 19 3.0 % Overall quality of local police protection 125 19.9 % How well City is planning growth 91 14.5 % Overall enforcement of local codes & ordinances by Neighborhood Services & Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement) 95 15.1 % Process for getting a construction and/or renovation permit 2 0.3 % Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, & infrastructure 208 33.1 % None chosen 27 4.3 % Total 628 100.0 % Q11. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 10 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q11. 2nd choice Number Percent Overall quality of fire services 12 1.9 % Overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical services 11 1.8 % Overall quality of trash collection services 12 1.9 % Overall quality of parks & recreation programs & facilities 54 8.6 % Overall quality of water utility services 33 5.3 % Overall quality of local police protection 73 11.6 % How well City is planning growth 95 15.1 % Overall enforcement of local codes & ordinances by Neighborhood Services & Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement) 117 18.6 % Process for getting a construction and/or renovation permit 11 1.8 % Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, & infrastructure 155 24.7 % None chosen 55 8.8 % Total 628 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 117 Q11. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 10 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q11. 3rd choice Number Percent Overall quality of fire services 14 2.2 % Overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical services 27 4.3 % Overall quality of trash collection services 32 5.1 % Overall quality of parks & recreation programs & facilities 87 13.9 % Overall quality of water utility services 45 7.2 % Overall quality of local police protection 57 9.1 % How well City is planning growth 89 14.2 % Overall enforcement of local codes & ordinances by Neighborhood Services & Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement) 66 10.5 % Process for getting a construction and/or renovation permit 18 2.9 % Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, & infrastructure 85 13.5 % None chosen 108 17.2 % Total 628 100.0 % SUM OF TOP 3 CHOICES Q11. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 11 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? (top 3) Q11. Top choice Number Percent Overall quality of fire services 37 5.9 % Overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical services 51 8.1 % Overall quality of trash collection services 56 8.9 % Overall quality of parks & recreation programs & facilities 166 26.4 % Overall quality of water utility services 97 15.4 % Overall quality of local police protection 255 40.6 % How well City is planning growth 275 43.8 % Overall enforcement of local codes & ordinances by Neighborhood Services & Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement) 278 44.3 % Process for getting a construction and/or renovation permit 31 4.9 % Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, & infrastructure 448 71.3 % None chosen 27 4.3 % Total 1721 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 118 Q12. Community Investment. Please rate the City of South Bend with regard to each of the following using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied." (N=628) Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q12-1. Overall quality of Downtown 8.9% 34.4% 29.5% 18.8% 6.5% 1.9% Q12-2. Overall quality of new development in Downtown 10.4% 31.8% 31.1% 15.8% 6.5% 4.5% Q12-3. Overall quality of new development in your neighborhood 4.1% 16.1% 33.1% 22.9% 13.9% 9.9% Q12-4. Housing quality in your neighborhood 11.6% 29.8% 25.0% 20.7% 10.0% 2.9% Q12-5. Overall appearance of your neighborhood 11.9% 33.3% 20.9% 23.1% 9.1% 1.8% Q12-6. Communication of plans for development projects 3.3% 13.5% 34.1% 21.7% 11.9% 15.4% Q12-7. Overall satisfaction with economic investment coming into City 5.1% 20.4% 31.2% 18.3% 11.0% 14.0% Q12-8. Quality of Animal Control 6.8% 25.3% 30.4% 10.0% 8.0% 19.4% Q12-9. City efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inoperative vehicles 3.8% 15.0% 27.7% 17.0% 13.7% 22.8% Q12-10. Enforcing cleanup of trash & debris on private property 2.5% 10.0% 24.7% 27.9% 19.7% 15.1% Q12-11. Enforcing mowing & cutting of grass & weeds on private property 2.5% 14.0% 25.8% 25.5% 18.9% 13.2% Q12-12. Enforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/ business property 1.6% 11.9% 34.6% 23.1% 13.7% 15.1% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 119 Q12. Community Investment. Please rate the City of South Bend with regard to each of the following using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied." Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q12-13. Enforcing exterior maintenance of residential property 1.8% 11.8% 33.9% 21.5% 15.4% 15.6% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 120 WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q12. Community Investment. Please rate the City of South Bend with regard to each of the following using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied." (without "don't know") (N=628) Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q12-1. Overall quality of Downtown 9.1% 35.1% 30.0% 19.2% 6.7% Q12-2. Overall quality of new development in Downtown 10.8% 33.3% 32.5% 16.5% 6.8% Q12-3. Overall quality of new development in your neighborhood 4.6% 17.8% 36.7% 25.4% 15.4% Q12-4. Housing quality in your neighborhood 12.0% 30.7% 25.7% 21.3% 10.3% Q12-5. Overall appearance of your neighborhood 12.2% 33.9% 21.2% 23.5% 9.2% Q12-6. Communication of plans for development projects 4.0% 16.0% 40.3% 25.6% 14.1% Q12-7. Overall satisfaction with economic investment coming into City 5.9% 23.7% 36.3% 21.3% 12.8% Q12-8. Quality of Animal Control 8.5% 31.4% 37.7% 12.5% 9.9% Q12-9. City efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inoperative vehicles 4.9% 19.4% 35.9% 22.1% 17.7% Q12-10. Enforcing cleanup of trash & debris on private property 3.0% 11.8% 29.1% 32.8% 23.3% Q12-11. Enforcing mowing & cutting of grass & weeds on private property 2.9% 16.1% 29.7% 29.4% 21.8% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 121 WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q12. Community Investment. Please rate the City of South Bend with regard to each of the following using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied." (without "don't know") Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q12-12. Enforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/business property 1.9% 14.1% 40.7% 27.2% 16.1% Q12-13. Enforcing exterior maintenance of residential property 2.1% 14.0% 40.2% 25.5% 18.3% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 122 Q13. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 12 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q13. Top choice Number Percent Overall quality of Downtown 98 15.6 % Overall quality of new development in Downtown 46 7.3 % Overall quality of new development in your neighborhood 53 8.4 % Housing quality in your neighborhood 42 6.7 % Overall appearance of your neighborhood 44 7.0 % Communication of plans for development projects 48 7.6 % Overall satisfaction with economic investment coming into City 34 5.4 % Quality of Animal Control 23 3.7 % City efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inoperative vehicles 25 4.0 % Enforcing cleanup of trash & debris on private property 66 10.5 % Enforcing mowing & cutting of grass & weeds on private property 36 5.7 % Enforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/business property 40 6.4 % Enforcing exterior maintenance of residential property 34 5.4 % None chosen 39 6.2 % Total 628 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 123 Q13. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 12 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q13. 2nd choice Number Percent Overall quality of Downtown 42 6.7 % Overall quality of new development in Downtown 62 9.9 % Overall quality of new development in your neighborhood 38 6.1 % Housing quality in your neighborhood 34 5.4 % Overall appearance of your neighborhood 45 7.2 % Communication of plans for development projects 48 7.6 % Overall satisfaction with economic investment coming into City 50 8.0 % Quality of Animal Control 21 3.3 % City efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inoperative vehicles 81 12.9 % Enforcing cleanup of trash & debris on private property 68 10.8 % Enforcing mowing & cutting of grass & weeds on private property 52 8.3 % Enforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/business property 46 7.3 % Enforcing exterior maintenance of residential property 41 6.5 % Total 628 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 124 SUM OF TOP 2 CHOICES Q13. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 12 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? (top 2) Q13. Top choice Number Percent Overall quality of Downtown 140 22.3 % Overall quality of new development in Downtown 108 17.2 % Overall quality of new development in your neighborhood 91 14.5 % Housing quality in your neighborhood 76 12.1 % Overall appearance of your neighborhood 89 14.2 % Communication of plans for development projects 96 15.3 % Overall satisfaction with economic investment coming into City 84 13.4 % Quality of Animal Control 44 7.0 % City efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inoperative vehicles 50 8.0 % Enforcing cleanup of trash & debris on private property 134 21.3 % Enforcing mowing & cutting of grass & weeds on private property 88 14.0 % Enforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/business property 86 13.7 % Enforcing exterior maintenance of residential property 75 11.9 % None chosen 39 6.2 % Total 1200 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 125 Q14. How important is taking action to reduce or mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change for you? Q14. How important is taking action to reduce or mitigate greenhouse gas emissions & adapt to climate change for you Number Percent Very important 200 31.8 % Important 169 26.9 % Neutral 107 17.0 % Not important 60 9.6 % Not at all important 73 11.6 % Don't know 19 3.0 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q14. How important is taking action to reduce or mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change for you? (without "don't know") Q14. How important is taking action to reduce or mitigate greenhouse gas emissions & adapt to climate change for you Number Percent Very important 200 32.8 % Important 169 27.8 % Neutral 107 17.6 % Not important 60 9.9 % Not at all important 73 12.0 % Total 609 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 126 Q15. How well informed do you believe you are on the effects of climate change? Q15. How well informed are you on the effects of climate change Number Percent Very well informed 183 29.1 % Informed 284 45.2 % Neutral 97 15.4 % Not informed 39 6.2 % Not at all informed 10 1.6 % Don't know 15 2.4 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q15. How well informed do you believe you are on the effects of climate change? (without "don't know") Q15. How well informed are you on the effects of climate change Number Percent Very well informed 183 29.9 % Informed 284 46.3 % Neutral 97 15.8 % Not informed 39 6.4 % Not at all informed 10 1.6 % Total 613 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 127 Q16. In terms of priority, how would you rank the following sustainability strategies for South Bend? Q16. Top choice Number Percent City should prioritize programs that assist residents who are most impacted by the effects of climate change 83 13.2 % City should develop programs that provide clean energy & green infrastructure workforce development opportunities 108 17.2 % City should develop programs to make it easier for property owners to be powered by renewable energy resources, including installing solar panels on their property 178 28.3 % City should prioritize projects that will prepare my community for future climate emergencies & natural disasters 206 32.8 % None chosen 53 8.4 % Total 628 100.0 % Q16. In terms of priority, how would you rank the following sustainability strategies for South Bend? Q16. 2nd choice Number Percent City should prioritize programs that assist residents who are most impacted by the effects of climate change 95 15.1 % City should develop programs that provide clean energy & green infrastructure workforce development opportunities 146 23.2 % City should develop programs to make it easier for property owners to be powered by renewable energy resources, including installing solar panels on their property 162 25.8 % City should prioritize projects that will prepare my community for future climate emergencies & natural disasters 138 22.0 % None chosen 87 13.9 % Total 628 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 128 Q16. In terms of priority, how would you rank the following sustainability strategies for South Bend? Q16. 3rd choice Number Percent City should prioritize programs that assist residents who are most impacted by the effects of climate change 150 23.9 % City should develop programs that provide clean energy & green infrastructure workforce development opportunities 152 24.2 % City should develop programs to make it easier for property owners to be powered by renewable energy resources, including installing solar panels on their property 88 14.0 % City should prioritize projects that will prepare my community for future climate emergencies & natural disasters 106 16.9 % None chosen 132 21.0 % Total 628 100.0 % Q16. In terms of priority, how would you rank the following sustainability strategies for South Bend? Q16. 4th choice Number Percent City should prioritize programs that assist residents who are most impacted by the effects of climate change 166 26.4 % City should develop programs that provide clean energy & green infrastructure workforce development opportunities 98 15.6 % City should develop programs to make it easier for property owners to be powered by renewable energy resources, including installing solar panels on their property 92 14.6 % City should prioritize projects that will prepare my community for future climate emergencies & natural disasters 87 13.9 % None chosen 185 29.5 % Total 628 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 129 SUM OF TOP 4 CHOICES Q16. In terms of priority, how would you rank the following sustainability strategies for South Bend? (top 4) Q16. Top choice Number Percent City should prioritize programs that assist residents who are most impacted by the effects of climate change 494 78.7 % City should develop programs that provide clean energy & green infrastructure workforce development opportunities 504 80.3 % City should develop programs to make it easier for property owners to be powered by renewable energy resources, including installing solar panels on their property 520 82.8 % City should prioritize projects that will prepare my community for future climate emergencies & natural disasters 537 85.5 % None chosen 53 8.4 % Total 2108 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 130 Q17. Do you feel that your neighborhood has improved over the past FIVE years? Q17. Has your neighborhood improved over past five years Number Percent Yes 212 33.8 % No 319 50.8 % Have not lived in my neighborhood for 5 years 81 12.9 % Not provided 16 2.5 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q17. Do you feel that your neighborhood has improved over the past FIVE years? (without "not provided") Q17. Has your neighborhood improved over past five years Number Percent Yes 212 34.6 % No 319 52.1 % Have not lived in my neighborhood for 5 years 81 13.2 % Total 612 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 131 Q18. Do you belong to a neighborhood association? Q18. Do you belong to a neighborhood association Number Percent Yes 146 23.2 % No 463 73.7 % Not provided 19 3.0 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q18. Do you belong to a neighborhood association? (without "not provided") Q18. Do you belong to a neighborhood association Number Percent Yes 146 24.0 % No 463 76.0 % Total 609 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 132 Q18a. How satisfied are you with the City's engagement with your neighborhood association? Q18a. How satisfied are you with City's engagement with your neighborhood association Number Percent Very satisfied 13 8.9 % Satisfied 23 15.8 % Neutral 67 45.9 % Dissatisfied 21 14.4 % Very dissatisfied 15 10.3 % Not provided 7 4.8 % Total 146 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q18a. How satisfied are you with the City's engagement with your neighborhood association? (without "not provided") Q18a. How satisfied are you with City's engagement with your neighborhood association Number Percent Very satisfied 13 9.4 % Satisfied 23 16.5 % Neutral 67 48.2 % Dissatisfied 21 15.1 % Very dissatisfied 15 10.8 % Total 139 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 133 Q19. Are you aware of development plans for your neighborhood? Q19. Are you aware of development plans for your neighborhood Number Percent Yes 124 19.7 % No 476 75.8 % Not provided 28 4.5 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q19. Are you aware of development plans for your neighborhood? (without "not provided") Q19. Are you aware of development plans for your neighborhood Number Percent Yes 124 20.7 % No 476 79.3 % Total 600 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 134 Q20. Solid Waste. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (N=628) Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q20-1. Timeliness of your trash service 40.0% 40.3% 11.3% 4.3% 1.0% 3.2% Q20-2. City efforts to keep you informed about disruptions to trash service 28.0% 39.2% 19.9% 5.1% 1.9% 5.9% Q20-3. Bulky item pickup/ removal services (e.g., old furniture, appliances) 24.2% 34.1% 19.1% 8.9% 3.5% 10.2% Q20-4. Quality of yard waste collection services 28.3% 36.6% 18.5% 6.2% 2.2% 8.1% Q20-5. What you are charged for trash service 11.0% 30.7% 30.3% 16.1% 6.7% 5.3% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 135 WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q20. Solid Waste. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (without "don't know") (N=628) Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q20-1. Timeliness of your trash service 41.3% 41.6% 11.7% 4.4% 1.0% Q20-2. City efforts to keep you informed about disruptions to trash service 29.8% 41.6% 21.2% 5.4% 2.0% Q20-3. Bulky item pickup/ removal services (e.g., old furniture, appliances) 27.0% 37.9% 21.3% 9.9% 3.9% Q20-4. Quality of yard waste collection services 30.8% 39.9% 20.1% 6.8% 2.4% Q20-5. What you are charged for trash service 11.6% 32.4% 31.9% 17.0% 7.1% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 136 Q21. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 20 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q21. Top choice Number Percent Timeliness of your trash service 50 8.0 % City efforts to keep you informed about disruptions to trash service 58 9.2 % Bulky item pickup/removal services (e.g., old furniture, appliances) 140 22.3 % Quality of yard waste collection services 40 6.4 % What you are charged for trash service 214 34.1 % None chosen 126 20.1 % Total 628 100.0 % Q21. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 20 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q21. 2nd choice Number Percent Timeliness of your trash service 54 8.6 % City efforts to keep you informed about disruptions to trash service 74 11.8 % Bulky item pickup/removal services (e.g., old furniture, appliances) 106 16.9 % Quality of yard waste collection services 64 10.2 % What you are charged for trash service 111 17.7 % None chosen 219 34.9 % Total 628 100.0 % SUM OF TOP 2 CHOICES Q21. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 20 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? (top 2) Q21. Top choice Number Percent Timeliness of your trash service 104 16.6 % City efforts to keep you informed about disruptions to trash service 132 21.0 % Bulky item pickup/removal services (e.g., old furniture, appliances) 246 39.2 % Quality of yard waste collection services 104 16.6 % What you are charged for trash service 325 51.8 % None chosen 126 20.1 % Total 1037 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 137 Q22. Public Safety. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (N=628) Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q22-1. Professionalism of fire & EMS personnel 40.4% 30.7% 10.7% 1.1% 0.2% 16.9% Q22-2. Professionalism of City police officers 28.2% 33.1% 17.8% 7.0% 4.0% 9.9% Q22-3. How quickly police respond to emergencies 18.5% 35.2% 18.8% 6.8% 4.0% 16.7% Q22-4. Visibility of police in commercial & retail areas 10.4% 29.8% 31.2% 15.6% 5.3% 7.8% Q22-5. Overall feeling of safety in your neighborhood 12.9% 39.8% 22.6% 15.6% 7.6% 1.4% Q22-6. Visibility of police in neighborhoods 5.9% 24.4% 30.4% 22.6% 10.4% 6.4% Q22-7. Enforcement of local traffic laws 4.5% 22.3% 26.8% 17.2% 21.3% 8.0% Q22-8. Fire education programs in your community 8.1% 21.7% 30.3% 6.4% 1.8% 31.8% Q22-9. Efforts by local government in your area to prevent crime 3.2% 15.3% 31.1% 22.8% 13.9% 13.9% Q22-10. Relationship between police officers & the community 8.4% 29.1% 31.4% 11.6% 8.1% 11.3% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 138 WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q22. Public Safety. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (without "don't know") (N=628) Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q22-1. Professionalism of fire & EMS personnel 48.7% 37.0% 12.8% 1.3% 0.2% Q22-2. Professionalism of City police officers 31.3% 36.7% 19.8% 7.8% 4.4% Q22-3. How quickly police respond to emergencies 22.2% 42.3% 22.6% 8.2% 4.8% Q22-4. Visibility of police in commercial & retail areas 11.2% 32.3% 33.9% 16.9% 5.7% Q22-5. Overall feeling of safety in your neighborhood 13.1% 40.4% 22.9% 15.8% 7.8% Q22-6. Visibility of police in neighborhoods 6.3% 26.0% 32.5% 24.1% 11.1% Q22-7. Enforcement of local traffic laws 4.8% 24.2% 29.1% 18.7% 23.2% Q22-8. Fire education programs in your community 11.9% 31.8% 44.4% 9.3% 2.6% Q22-9. Efforts by local government in your area to prevent crime 3.7% 17.7% 36.0% 26.4% 16.1% Q22-10. Relationship between police officers & the community 9.5% 32.9% 35.4% 13.1% 9.2% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 139 Q23. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 22 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q23. Top choice Number Percent Professionalism of fire & EMS personnel 14 2.2 % Professionalism of City police officers 39 6.2 % How quickly police respond to emergencies 40 6.4 % Visibility of police in commercial & retail areas 43 6.8 % Overall feeling of safety in your neighborhood 99 15.8 % Visibility of police in neighborhoods 73 11.6 % Enforcement of local traffic laws 92 14.6 % Fire education programs in your community 7 1.1 % Efforts by local government in your area to prevent crime 94 15.0 % Relationship between police officers & the community 78 12.4 % None chosen 49 7.8 % Total 628 100.0 % Q23. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 22 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q23. 2nd choice Number Percent Professionalism of fire & EMS personnel 6 1.0 % Professionalism of City police officers 38 6.1 % How quickly police respond to emergencies 32 5.1 % Visibility of police in commercial & retail areas 54 8.6 % Overall feeling of safety in your neighborhood 72 11.5 % Visibility of police in neighborhoods 113 18.0 % Enforcement of local traffic laws 63 10.0 % Fire education programs in your community 18 2.9 % Efforts by local government in your area to prevent crime 91 14.5 % Relationship between police officers & the community 65 10.4 % None chosen 76 12.1 % Total 628 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 140 Q23. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 22 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q23. 3rd choice Number Percent Professionalism of fire & EMS personnel 2 0.3 % Professionalism of City police officers 28 4.5 % How quickly police respond to emergencies 43 6.8 % Visibility of police in commercial & retail areas 60 9.6 % Overall feeling of safety in your neighborhood 58 9.2 % Visibility of police in neighborhoods 70 11.1 % Enforcement of local traffic laws 48 7.6 % Fire education programs in your community 23 3.7 % Efforts by local government in your area to prevent crime 89 14.2 % Relationship between police officers & the community 64 10.2 % None chosen 143 22.8 % Total 628 100.0 % SUM OF TOP 3 CHOICES Q23. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 22 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? (top 3) Q23. Top choice Number Percent Professionalism of fire & EMS personnel 22 3.5 % Professionalism of City police officers 105 16.7 % How quickly police respond to emergencies 115 18.3 % Visibility of police in commercial & retail areas 157 25.0 % Overall feeling of safety in your neighborhood 229 36.5 % Visibility of police in neighborhoods 256 40.8 % Enforcement of local traffic laws 203 32.3 % Fire education programs in your community 48 7.6 % Efforts by local government in your area to prevent crime 274 43.6 % Relationship between police officers & the community 207 33.0 % None chosen 49 7.8 % Total 1665 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 141 Q24. Traffic and Transportation. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (N=628) Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q24-1. Snow removal on major City streets 11.9% 48.2% 19.6% 13.1% 4.5% 2.7% Q24-2. Condition of street signs & traffic signals 11.0% 49.7% 21.3% 10.8% 5.3% 1.9% Q24-3. Adequacy of street lighting in your neighborhood 11.5% 45.1% 20.7% 15.6% 5.3% 1.9% Q24-4. Quality of public transportation services 5.3% 19.4% 28.7% 8.9% 4.3% 33.4% Q24-5. On-street bicycle & scooter infrastructure 4.3% 23.1% 36.6% 11.8% 7.3% 16.9% Q24-6. Condition of catch basins in your neighborhood 4.3% 17.8% 26.6% 14.6% 5.9% 30.7% Q24-7. Snow removal on neighborhood streets 4.6% 34.1% 25.2% 22.5% 10.5% 3.2% Q24-8. Condition of sidewalks & curbs in your neighborhood 5.6% 26.9% 21.7% 25.5% 16.4% 4.0% Q24-9. Cleanliness of streets & other public areas 3.3% 29.5% 30.3% 25.0% 9.9% 2.1% Q24-10. Condition of streets in your neighborhood 7.2% 29.1% 24.0% 25.8% 12.3% 1.6% Q24-11. Condition of major City streets 3.8% 30.6% 25.8% 28.8% 8.9% 2.1% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 142 WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q24. Traffic and Transportation. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (without "don't know") (N=628) Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q24-1. Snow removal on major City streets 12.3% 49.6% 20.1% 13.4% 4.6% Q24-2. Condition of street signs & traffic signals 11.2% 50.6% 21.8% 11.0% 5.4% Q24-3. Adequacy of street lighting in your neighborhood 11.7% 45.9% 21.1% 15.9% 5.4% Q24-4. Quality of public transportation services 7.9% 29.2% 43.1% 13.4% 6.5% Q24-5. On-street bicycle & scooter infrastructure 5.2% 27.8% 44.1% 14.2% 8.8% Q24-6. Condition of catch basins in your neighborhood 6.2% 25.7% 38.4% 21.1% 8.5% Q24-7. Snow removal on neighborhood streets 4.8% 35.2% 26.0% 23.2% 10.9% Q24-8. Condition of sidewalks & curbs in your neighborhood 5.8% 28.0% 22.6% 26.5% 17.1% Q24-9. Cleanliness of streets & other public areas 3.4% 30.1% 30.9% 25.5% 10.1% Q24-10. Condition of streets in your neighborhood 7.3% 29.6% 24.4% 26.2% 12.5% Q24-11. Condition of major City streets 3.9% 31.2% 26.3% 29.4% 9.1% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 143 Q25. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 24 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q25. Top choice Number Percent Snow removal on major City streets 29 4.6 % Condition of street signs & traffic signals 23 3.7 % Adequacy of street lighting in your neighborhood 53 8.4 % Quality of public transportation services 43 6.8 % On-street bicycle & scooter infrastructure 33 5.3 % Condition of catch basins in your neighborhood 19 3.0 % Snow removal on neighborhood streets 56 8.9 % Condition of sidewalks & curbs in your neighborhood 80 12.7 % Cleanliness of streets & other public areas 54 8.6 % Condition of streets in your neighborhood 71 11.3 % Condition of major City streets 121 19.3 % None chosen 46 7.3 % Total 628 100.0 % Q25. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 24 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q25. 2nd choice Number Percent Snow removal on major City streets 26 4.1 % Condition of street signs & traffic signals 22 3.5 % Adequacy of street lighting in your neighborhood 30 4.8 % Quality of public transportation services 33 5.3 % On-street bicycle & scooter infrastructure 18 2.9 % Condition of catch basins in your neighborhood 22 3.5 % Snow removal on neighborhood streets 65 10.4 % Condition of sidewalks & curbs in your neighborhood 89 14.2 % Cleanliness of streets & other public areas 75 11.9 % Condition of streets in your neighborhood 96 15.3 % Condition of major City streets 85 13.5 % None chosen 67 10.7 % Total 628 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 144 Q25. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 24 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q25. 3rd choice Number Percent Snow removal on major City streets 26 4.1 % Condition of street signs & traffic signals 24 3.8 % Adequacy of street lighting in your neighborhood 37 5.9 % Quality of public transportation services 30 4.8 % On-street bicycle & scooter infrastructure 22 3.5 % Condition of catch basins in your neighborhood 25 4.0 % Snow removal on neighborhood streets 51 8.1 % Condition of sidewalks & curbs in your neighborhood 74 11.8 % Cleanliness of streets & other public areas 75 11.9 % Condition of streets in your neighborhood 71 11.3 % Condition of major City streets 59 9.4 % None chosen 134 21.3 % Total 628 100.0 % SUM OF TOP 3 CHOICES Q25. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 24 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? (top 3) Q25. Top choice Number Percent Snow removal on major City streets 81 12.9 % Condition of street signs & traffic signals 69 11.0 % Adequacy of street lighting in your neighborhood 120 19.1 % Quality of public transportation services 106 16.9 % On-street bicycle & scooter infrastructure 73 11.6 % Condition of catch basins in your neighborhood 66 10.5 % Snow removal on neighborhood streets 172 27.4 % Condition of sidewalks & curbs in your neighborhood 243 38.7 % Cleanliness of streets & other public areas 204 32.5 % Condition of streets in your neighborhood 238 37.9 % Condition of major City streets 265 42.2 % None chosen 46 7.3 % Total 1683 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 145 Q26. Water Services. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (N=628) Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q26-1. Water pressure on a typical day 26.9% 44.6% 16.6% 6.5% 1.3% 4.1% Q26-2. How easy your utility bill is to understand 17.7% 45.7% 21.5% 6.2% 1.8% 7.2% Q26-3. Smell of your tap water 13.9% 37.1% 26.9% 11.3% 5.6% 5.3% Q26-4. How easy it is to resolve billing problems 5.9% 23.9% 25.6% 7.3% 1.4% 35.8% Q26-5. Taste of your tap water 9.6% 30.4% 25.2% 18.0% 9.1% 7.8% Q26-6. How well City keeps you informed about water quality issues 9.2% 27.7% 29.0% 13.2% 6.5% 14.3% Q26-7. What you are charged for utilities 3.2% 21.8% 25.3% 27.2% 15.8% 6.7% Q26-8. Stormwater management/flood control 5.4% 21.5% 33.8% 13.2% 5.1% 21.0% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 146 WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q26. Water Services. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (without "don't know") (N=628) Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q26-1. Water pressure on a typical day 28.1% 46.5% 17.3% 6.8% 1.3% Q26-2. How easy your utility bill is to understand 19.0% 49.2% 23.2% 6.7% 1.9% Q26-3. Smell of your tap water 14.6% 39.2% 28.4% 11.9% 5.9% Q26-4. How easy it is to resolve billing problems 9.2% 37.2% 40.0% 11.4% 2.2% Q26-5. Taste of your tap water 10.4% 33.0% 27.3% 19.5% 9.8% Q26-6. How well City keeps you informed about water quality issues 10.8% 32.3% 33.8% 15.4% 7.6% Q26-7. What you are charged for utilities 3.4% 23.4% 27.1% 29.2% 16.9% Q26-8. Stormwater management/flood control 6.9% 27.2% 42.7% 16.7% 6.5% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 147 Q27. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 26 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q27. Top choice Number Percent Water pressure on a typical day 33 5.3 % How easy your utility bill is to understand 15 2.4 % Smell of your tap water 26 4.1 % How easy it is to resolve billing problems 13 2.1 % Taste of your tap water 97 15.4 % How well City keeps you informed about water quality issues 55 8.8 % What you are charged for utilities 202 32.2 % Stormwater management/flood control 95 15.1 % None chosen 92 14.6 % Total 628 100.0 % Q27. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 26 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q27. 2nd choice Number Percent Water pressure on a typical day 29 4.6 % How easy your utility bill is to understand 14 2.2 % Smell of your tap water 51 8.1 % How easy it is to resolve billing problems 26 4.1 % Taste of your tap water 89 14.2 % How well City keeps you informed about water quality issues 82 13.1 % What you are charged for utilities 92 14.6 % Stormwater management/flood control 86 13.7 % None chosen 159 25.3 % Total 628 100.0 % SUM OF TOP 2 CHOICES Q27. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 26 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? (top 2) Q27. Top choice Number Percent Water pressure on a typical day 62 9.9 % How easy your utility bill is to understand 29 4.6 % Smell of your tap water 77 12.3 % How easy it is to resolve billing problems 39 6.2 % Taste of your tap water 186 29.6 % How well City keeps you informed about water quality issues 137 21.8 % What you are charged for utilities 294 46.8 % Stormwater management/flood control 181 28.8 % None chosen 92 14.6 % Total 1097 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 148 Q28. Venues, Parks, and Arts. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (N=628) Very Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied dissatisfied Don't know Q28-1. Maintenance of City parks 16.6% 45.9% 19.3% 8.3% 2.2% 7.8% Q28-2. Number of walking & biking trails 15.8% 40.8% 21.5% 9.7% 2.1% 10.2% Q28-3. Access to parks in your neighborhood 13.7% 43.6% 22.0% 10.8% 3.3% 6.5% Q28-4. Ease of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, & special events 7.0% 17.8% 28.0% 4.9% 2.2% 40.0% Q28-5. Fees charged for recreation programs 5.3% 16.1% 30.3% 7.2% 1.9% 39.3% Q28-6. Availability of recreation programming in your neighborhood 4.6% 15.9% 26.6% 13.1% 4.0% 35.8% Q28-7. Condition of restrooms in public parks 2.5% 15.4% 22.0% 16.7% 7.8% 35.5% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 149 WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q28. Venues, Parks, and Arts. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied," with regard to each of the following. (without "don't know") (N=628) Very satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very dissatisfied Q28-1. Maintenance of City parks 18.0% 49.7% 20.9% 9.0% 2.4% Q28-2. Number of walking & biking trails 17.6% 45.4% 23.9% 10.8% 2.3% Q28-3. Access to parks in your neighborhood 14.7% 46.7% 23.5% 11.6% 3.6% Q28-4. Ease of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, & special events 11.7% 29.7% 46.7% 8.2% 3.7% Q28-5. Fees charged for recreation programs 8.7% 26.5% 49.9% 11.8% 3.1% Q28-6. Availability of recreation programming in your neighborhood 7.2% 24.8% 41.4% 20.3% 6.2% Q28-7. Condition of restrooms in public parks 4.0% 24.0% 34.1% 25.9% 12.1% 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 150 Q29. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 28 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q29. Top choice Number Percent Maintenance of City parks 143 22.8 % Number of walking & biking trails 73 11.6 % Access to parks in your neighborhood 36 5.7 % Ease of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, & special events 30 4.8 % Fees charged for recreation programs 24 3.8 % Availability of recreation programming in your neighborhood 66 10.5 % Condition of restrooms in public parks 98 15.6 % None chosen 158 25.2 % Total 628 100.0 % Q29. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 28 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? Q29. 2nd choice Number Percent Maintenance of City parks 56 8.9 % Number of walking & biking trails 52 8.3 % Access to parks in your neighborhood 46 7.3 % Ease of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, & special events 27 4.3 % Fees charged for recreation programs 49 7.8 % Availability of recreation programming in your neighborhood 73 11.6 % Condition of restrooms in public parks 104 16.6 % None chosen 221 35.2 % Total 628 100.0 % SUM OF TOP 2 CHOICES Q29. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 30 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? (top 2) Q29. Top choice Number Percent Maintenance of City parks 199 31.7 % Number of walking & biking trails 125 19.9 % Access to parks in your neighborhood 82 13.1 % Ease of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, & special events 57 9.1 % Fees charged for recreation programs 73 11.6 % Availability of recreation programming in your neighborhood 139 22.1 % Condition of restrooms in public parks 202 32.2 % None chosen 158 25.2 % Total 1035 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 151 Q30. In the past year, have you visited a City recreation facility or park? Q30. Have you visited a City recreation facility or park in past year Number Percent Yes 468 74.5 % No 156 24.8 % Not provided 4 0.6 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q30. In the past year, have you visited a City recreation facility or park? (without "not provided") Q30. Have you visited a City recreation facility or park in past year Number Percent Yes 468 75.0 % No 156 25.0 % Total 624 100.0 % Q31. Approximately how many years have you lived in South Bend? Q31. How many years have you lived in South Bend Number Percent 0-5 64 10.2 % 6-10 57 9.1 % 11-15 36 5.7 % 16-20 42 6.7 % 21-30 102 16.2 % 31+ 313 49.8 % Not provided 14 2.2 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q31. Approximately how many years have you lived in South Bend? (without "not provided") Q31. How many years have you lived in South Bend Number Percent 0-5 64 10.4 % 6-10 57 9.3 % 11-15 36 5.9 % 16-20 42 6.8 % 21-30 102 16.6 % 31+ 313 51.0 % Total 614 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 152 Q32. Have you met the current Mayor? Q32. Have you met the current Mayor Number Percent Yes 177 28.2 % No 450 71.7 % Not provided 1 0.2 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q32. Have you met the current Mayor? (without "not provided") Q32. Have you met the current Mayor Number Percent Yes 177 28.2 % No 450 71.8 % Total 627 100.0 % Q33. Have you met your Council Person? Q33. Have you met your Council Person Number Percent Yes 144 22.9 % No 481 76.6 % Not provided 3 0.5 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q33. Have you met your Council Person? (without "not provided") Q33. Have you met your Council Person Number Percent Yes 144 23.0 % No 481 77.0 % Total 625 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 153 Q34. Do you own or rent your current residence? Q34. Do you own or rent your current residence Number Percent Own 410 65.3 % Rent 210 33.4 % Not provided 8 1.3 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q34. Do you own or rent your current residence? (without "not provided") Q34. Do you own or rent your current residence Number Percent Own 410 66.1 % Rent 210 33.9 % Total 620 100.0 % Q35. What is your age? Q35. Your age Number Percent 18-34 120 19.1 % 35-44 116 18.5 % 45-54 125 19.9 % 55-64 122 19.4 % 65+ 126 20.1 % Not provided 19 3.0 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q35. What is your age? (without "not provided") Q35. Your age Number Percent 18-34 120 19.7 % 35-44 116 19.0 % 45-54 125 20.5 % 55-64 122 20.0 % 65+ 126 20.7 % Total 609 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 154 Q36. What is your gender identity? Q36. Your gender identity Number Percent Male 308 49.0 % Female 311 49.5 % Gender variant/non-conforming 4 0.6 % Not provided 5 0.8 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q36. What is your gender identity? (without "not provided") Q36. Your gender identity Number Percent Male 308 49.4 % Female 311 49.9 % Gender variant/non-conforming 4 0.6 % Total 623 100.0 % Q37. Including yourself, how many people live in your household? Q37. How many people live in your household Number Percent 1 124 19.7 % 2 272 43.3 % 3 100 15.9 % 4 60 9.6 % 5+ 57 9.1 % Not provided 15 2.4 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q37. Including yourself, how many people live in your household? (without "not provided") Q37. How many people live in your household Number Percent 1 124 20.2 % 2 272 44.4 % 3 100 16.3 % 4 60 9.8 % 5+ 57 9.3 % Total 613 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 155 Q38. How many people in your household are employed? Q38. How many people in your household are employed Number Percent 0 128 20.4 % 1 209 33.3 % 2 208 33.1 % 3 50 8.0 % 4 13 2.1 % 5+ 2 0.3 % Not provided 18 2.9 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q38. How many people in your household are employed? (without "not provided") Q38. How many people in your household are employed Number Percent 0 128 21.0 % 1 209 34.3 % 2 208 34.1 % 3 50 8.2 % 4 13 2.1 % 5+ 2 0.3 % Total 610 100.0 % Q39. Which of the following best describes your employment status? Q39. Your employment status Number Percent Employed full time 336 53.5 % Employed part time 63 10.0 % Not employed, looking for work 12 1.9 % Not employed, not looking for work 23 3.7 % Retired 150 23.9 % Student 5 0.8 % Disabled, not able to work 24 3.8 % Not provided 15 2.4 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q39. Which of the following best describes your employment status? (without "not provided") Q39. Your employment status Number Percent Employed full time 336 54.8 % Employed part time 63 10.3 % Not employed, looking for work 12 2.0 % Not employed, not looking for work 23 3.8 % Retired 150 24.5 % Student 5 0.8 % Disabled, not able to work 24 3.9 % Total 613 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 156 Q39a. What is the zip code where you work? Q39a. Zip code of your workplace Number Percent 46601 60 15.5 % 46614 55 14.2 % 46628 41 10.6 % 46617 38 9.8 % 46556 28 7.2 % 46545 25 6.4 % 46615 23 5.9 % 46613 21 5.4 % 46619 19 4.9 % 46544 11 2.8 % 46616 9 2.3 % 46514 7 1.8 % 46516 6 1.5 % 46517 5 1.3 % 46635 4 1.0 % 46552 4 1.0 % 46637 4 1.0 % 46528 3 0.8 % 46530 3 0.8 % 49120 2 0.5 % 46563 2 0.5 % 60606 1 0.3 % 49503 1 0.3 % 46371 1 0.3 % 46638 1 0.3 % 55408 1 0.3 % 49107 1 0.3 % 46506 1 0.3 % 46540 1 0.3 % 46536 1 0.3 % 46645 1 0.3 % 46561 1 0.3 % 49061 1 0.3 % 46526 1 0.3 % 46634 1 0.3 % 46675 1 0.3 % 49117 1 0.3 % 49047 1 0.3 % 46716 1 0.3 % Total 388 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 157 Q40. Would you say your total annual household income is… Q40. Your total annual household income Number Percent Under $15K 63 10.0 % $15K to $29,999 110 17.5 % $30K to $59,999 158 25.2 % $60K to $99,999 140 22.3 % $100K to $124,999 54 8.6 % $125K+ 49 7.8 % Not provided 54 8.6 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “NOT PROVIDED” Q40. Would you say your total annual household income is… (without "not provided") Q40. Your total annual household income Number Percent Under $15K 63 11.0 % $15K to $29,999 110 19.2 % $30K to $59,999 158 27.5 % $60K to $99,999 140 24.4 % $100K to $124,999 54 9.4 % $125K+ 49 8.5 % Total 574 100.0 % Q41. Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity? Q41. Your race/ethnicity Number Percent Asian or Asian Indian 13 2.1 % Black or African American 159 25.3 % American Indian or Alaska Native 5 0.8 % White or Caucasian 350 55.7 % Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander 1 0.2 % Hispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x 99 15.8 % Other 8 1.3 % Total 635 Q41-7. Self-describe your race/ethnicity: Q41-7. Self-describe your race/ethnicity Number Percent Mixed 2 25.0 % Italian 2 25.0 % Middle Eastern 1 12.5 % Eastern Europe, German, Scots, Nigerian 1 12.5 % White Hungarian American 1 12.5 % European 1 12.5 % Total 8 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 158 Q42. How would you describe your overall state of health these days. Would you say… Q42. Your overall state of health these days Number Percent Excellent 85 13.5 % Good 282 44.9 % Average 143 22.8 % Fair 76 12.1 % Poor 31 4.9 % Don't know 11 1.8 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q42. How would you describe your overall state of health these days. Would you say… (without "don't know") Q42. Your overall state of health these days Number Percent Excellent 85 13.8 % Good 282 45.7 % Average 143 23.2 % Fair 76 12.3 % Poor 31 5.0 % Total 617 100.0 % Q43. How would you compare your standard of living to your parents' when they were your age? Q43. Your standard of living compared to your parents' when they were your age Number Percent Much better 87 13.9 % Somewhat better 157 25.0 % About the same 178 28.3 % Somewhat worse 125 19.9 % Much worse 60 9.6 % Don't know 21 3.3 % Total 628 100.0 % WITHOUT “DON’T KNOW” Q43. How would you compare your standard of living to your parents' when they were your age? (without "don't know") Q43. Your standard of living compared to your parents' when they were your age Number Percent Much better 87 14.3 % Somewhat better 157 25.9 % About the same 178 29.3 % Somewhat worse 125 20.6 % Much worse 60 9.9 % Total 607 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 159 District: District Number Percent 1 106 16.9 % 2 101 16.1 % 3 100 15.9 % 4 103 16.4 % 5 117 18.6 % 6 101 16.1 % Total 628 100.0 % 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 160 ©2021 ETC Institute Page vii Survey Instrument 6 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey: Findings Report ETC Institute (2024)Page 161 CITY OF SOUTH BEND JAMES MUELLER, MAYOR OFFICE OF THE MAYOR 1400 COUNTY-CITY BUILDING ∙ 227 W. JEFFERSON BOULEVARD ∙ SOUTH BEND, INDIANA 46601 PHONE 574/235-9261 ∙ FAX 574/235-9892 ∙ TTY 574/235-5567 Dear South Bend Resident, The City of South Bend is requesting your help and a few minutes of your time. You have been selected to participate in a survey designed to gather feedback on City services and performance. The information you provide in this survey will be used to improve existing services and help us understand the evolving needs of residents of South Bend. We greatly appreciate your time, which we realize is valuable. Your answers will help us provide the very best city services possible and help me make better-informed decisions about the city's future. A postage-paid envelope addressed to ETC Institute has been provided for your convenience. If you would prefer to take the survey over the web, the address is SouthBendCommunitySurvey.org. The survey data will be compiled and analyzed by ETC Institute, one of the nation's leading firms in the field of local governmental research. Your individual responses to the survey will remain confidential. ETC will present the results to the City this summer. The results will also be posted on our website for your review at www.southbendin.gov once they have been presented to the City Council. If you have any questions, please contact David Finley, Director of Data & Performance, at dfinley@southbendin.gov. Thank you for helping the City of South Bend deliver services that empower everyone to thrive. Sincerely, Mayor James Mueller Si tiene preguntas acerca de la encuesta y no habla Inglés, por favor llame al 844-811-0411. Gracias. ©2024 ETC Institute for the City of South Bend Page 1 2024 City of South Bend Community Survey Please take a few minutes to complete this survey. Your input is an important part of the City's strategic planning process and will be used by City leaders to make planning and investment decisions. If you have questions, please contact Ryan Murray, Assistant Director of Community research, at ryan.murray@etcinstitute.com. 1. City Leadership. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied", with regard to each of the following. How satisfied are you with... Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know 1. Overall quality of life in your community 5 4 3 2 1 9 2. Leadership of elected officials 5 4 3 2 1 9 3. Overall quality of local government services 5 4 3 2 1 9 4. Communication of opportunities for public involvement in City decision-making and planning 5 4 3 2 1 9 5. Overall value you receive for your taxes and fees 5 4 3 2 1 9 6. Level of public involvement in local decision-making and planning 5 4 3 2 1 9 7. Overall quality of public schools in South Bend 5 4 3 2 1 9 8. Overall quality of community health services in South Bend 5 4 3 2 1 9 9. Overall efforts to improve homelessness in the City 5 4 3 2 1 9 2. Overall Ratings of South Bend. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied", with regard to each of the following. How would you rate South Bend... Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know 1. As a place to live 5 4 3 2 1 9 2. As a place to work 5 4 3 2 1 9 3. As a community that is moving in the right direction 5 4 3 2 1 9 4. As a place to visit 5 4 3 2 1 9 5. As a place to raise children 5 4 3 2 1 9 6. As a place to retire 5 4 3 2 1 9 7. As a place with affordable housing options for your household or family 5 4 3 2 1 9 3. On a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 means "Hostile" and 10 means "Love," how do you feel about South Bend? [Write a number between 1 and 10 in the space below.] ______ 4. Customer Service and Communication. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied", with regard to each of the following. How satisfied are you with... Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know 1. Availability of information about local government services and activities 5 4 3 2 1 9 2. Hours that customer service is available 5 4 3 2 1 9 3. Quality of social media outlets (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) 5 4 3 2 1 9 4. Overall usefulness of the City's website 5 4 3 2 1 9 5. Which of the following are your PRIMARY SOURCES of information about City issues, services, and events? [Check all that apply.] ____(1) City website ____(2) Social media ____(3) Public meetings ____(4) Local news ____(5) Contacting the City directly ____(6) Other: 6. Which TWO of the information sources listed in Question 5 do you MOST PREFER to learn about City issues, services, and events? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 5, or circle "NONE".] 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ NONE ©2024 ETC Institute for the City of South Bend Page 2 7. Which of the following digital devices do you have access to in your home? [Check all that apply.] ____(1) Desktop Computer ____(2) Laptop Computer ____(3) Tablet ____(4) Smartphone ____(5) None 8. Please rate your level of agreement with the following statement: I can find broadband internet providers for a price that I can afford in South Bend. ____(5) Strongly agree ____(4) Agree ____(3) Neutral ____(2) Disagree ____(1) Strongly disagree ____(9) Don't know 9. Have you called or visited the City with a question, problem, or complaint during the past year? ____(1) Yes [Answer 9a-9d.] ____(2) No [Skip to Q10.] 9a. How did you contact the City? ____(1) Phone ____(2) Email ____(3) Social media ____(4) In-person 9b. Did you contact 311? ____(1) Yes ____(2) No 9c. How easy was it to address your issue? ____(5) Very easy ____(4) Somewhat easy ____(3) Neutral ____(2) Difficult ____(1) Very difficult 9d. For each of the factors below that may influence your perception of the quality of customer service you receive from City employees, please rate how often the employees you have contacted during the past year have displayed the behavior described using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Always" and 1 means "Never". Frequency that... Always Usually Sometimes Seldom Never Don't Know 1. They were courteous and polite 5 4 3 2 1 9 2. They gave accurate answers to your questions 5 4 3 2 1 9 10. Major Categories of City Services. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied", with regard to each of the following. How satisfied are you with... Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know 01. Overall quality of fire services 5 4 3 2 1 9 02. Overall quality of ambulance/emergency medical services 5 4 3 2 1 9 03. Overall quality of trash collection services 5 4 3 2 1 9 04. Overall quality of parks and recreation programs and facilities 5 4 3 2 1 9 05. Overall quality of water utility services 5 4 3 2 1 9 06. Overall quality of local police protection 5 4 3 2 1 9 07. How well City is planning growth 5 4 3 2 1 9 08. Overall enforcement of local codes and ordinances by Neighborhood Services and Enforcement (formerly Code Enforcement) 5 4 3 2 1 9 09. The process for getting a construction and/or renovation permit 5 4 3 2 1 9 10. Overall maintenance of City streets, sidewalks, and infrastructure 5 4 3 2 1 9 11. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 10 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 10, or circle "NONE".] 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ NONE ©2024 ETC Institute for the City of South Bend Page 3 12. Community Investment. Please rate the City of South Bend with regard to each of the following using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied". How satisfied are you with... Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know 01. Overall quality of Downtown 5 4 3 2 1 9 02. Overall quality of new development in Downtown 5 4 3 2 1 9 03. Overall quality of new development in your neighborhood 5 4 3 2 1 9 04. Housing quality in your neighborhood 5 4 3 2 1 9 05. Overall appearance of your neighborhood 5 4 3 2 1 9 06. Communication of plans for development projects 5 4 3 2 1 9 07. Overall satisfaction with economic investment coming into the City 5 4 3 2 1 9 08. Quality of Animal Control 5 4 3 2 1 9 09. City efforts to remove abandoned vehicles or inoperative vehicles 5 4 3 2 1 9 10. Enforcing clean-up of trash and debris on private property 5 4 3 2 1 9 11. Enforcing mowing and cutting of grass and weeds on private property 5 4 3 2 1 9 12. Enforcing exterior maintenance of commercial/business property 5 4 3 2 1 9 13. Enforcing exterior maintenance of residential property 5 4 3 2 1 9 13. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 12 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 12, or circle "NONE".] 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ NONE 14. How important is taking action to reduce or mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change for you? ____(5) Very important ____(4) Important ____(3) Neutral ____(2) Not important ____(1) Not at all important ____(9) Don't know 15. How well informed do you believe you are on the effects of climate change? ____(5) Very well informed ____(4) Informed ____(3) Neutral ____(2) Not informed ____(1) Not at all informed ____(9) Don't know 16. In terms of priority, how would you rank the following sustainability strategies for South Bend? Rank the following items from most important to least important using the spaces below. 1. The City should prioritize programs that assist residents who are most impacted by the effects of climate change 2. The City should develop programs that provide clean energy and green infrastructure workforce development opportunities 3. The City should develop programs to make it easier for property owners to be powered by renewable energy resources, including installing solar panels on their property 4. The City should prioritize projects that will prepare my community for future climate emergencies and natural disasters Using the spaces below please rank the statements above in order of importance. [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 16.] 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ 4th: ____ 17. Do you feel that your neighborhood has improved over the past FIVE years? ____(1) Yes ____(2) No ____(3) Have not lived in my neighborhood 5 years 18. Do you belong to a neighborhood association? ____(1) Yes ____(2) No [Skip to Q19.] 18a. How satisfied are you with the City's engagement with your neighborhood association? ____(5) Very satisfied ____(4) Satisfied ____(3) Neutral ____(2) Dissatisfied ____(1) Very dissatisfied 19. Are you aware of development plans for your neighborhood? ____(1) Yes ____(2) No ©2024 ETC Institute for the City of South Bend Page 4 20. Solid Waste. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied", with regard to each of the following. How satisfied are you with... Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know 1. Timeliness of your trash service 5 4 3 2 1 9 2. City efforts to keep you informed about disruptions to trash service 5 4 3 2 1 9 3. Bulky item pick-up/removal services (e.g., old furniture, appliances) 5 4 3 2 1 9 4. Quality of yard waste collection services 5 4 3 2 1 9 5. What you are charged for trash service 5 4 3 2 1 9 21. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 20 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 20, or circle "NONE".] 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ NONE 22. Public Safety. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied", with regard to each of the following. How satisfied are you with... Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know 01. Professionalism of fire and EMS personnel 5 4 3 2 1 9 02. Professionalism of City police officers 5 4 3 2 1 9 03. How quickly police respond to emergencies 5 4 3 2 1 9 04. Visibility of police in commercial and retail areas 5 4 3 2 1 9 05. Overall feeling of safety in your neighborhood 5 4 3 2 1 9 06. Visibility of police in neighborhoods 5 4 3 2 1 9 07. Enforcement of local traffic laws 5 4 3 2 1 9 08. Fire education programs in your community 5 4 3 2 1 9 09. Efforts by local government in your area to prevent crime 5 4 3 2 1 9 10. Relationship between police officers and the community 5 4 3 2 1 9 23. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 22 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 22, or circle "NONE".] 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ NONE 24. Traffic and Transportation. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied", with regard to each of the following. How satisfied are you with... Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know 01. Snow removal on major City streets 5 4 3 2 1 9 02. Condition of street signs and traffic signals 5 4 3 2 1 9 03. Adequacy of street lighting in your neighborhood 5 4 3 2 1 9 04. Quality of public transportation services 5 4 3 2 1 9 05. On-street bicycle and scooter infrastructure 5 4 3 2 1 9 06. Condition of catch basins in your neighborhood 5 4 3 2 1 9 07. Snow removal on neighborhood streets 5 4 3 2 1 9 08. Condition of sidewalks and curbs in your neighborhood 5 4 3 2 1 9 09. Cleanliness of streets and other public areas 5 4 3 2 1 9 10. Condition of streets in your neighborhood 5 4 3 2 1 9 11. Condition of major City streets 5 4 3 2 1 9 25. Which THREE of the items listed in Question 24 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 24, or circle "NONE".] 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ 3rd: ____ NONE ©2024 ETC Institute for the City of South Bend Page 5 26. Water Services. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied", with regard to each of the following. How satisfied are you with... Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know 1. Water pressure on a typical day 5 4 3 2 1 9 2. How easy your utility bill is to understand 5 4 3 2 1 9 3. Smell of your tap water 5 4 3 2 1 9 4. How easy it is to resolve billing problems 5 4 3 2 1 9 5. Taste of your tap water 5 4 3 2 1 9 6. How well City keeps you informed about water quality issues 5 4 3 2 1 9 7. What you are charged for utilities 5 4 3 2 1 9 8. Stormwater management/flood control 5 4 3 2 1 9 27. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 26 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 26, or circle "NONE".] 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ NONE 28. Venues, Parks, and Arts. Please rate the City of South Bend using a scale of 1 to 5, where 5 means "Very Satisfied" and 1 means "Very Dissatisfied", with regard to each of the following. How satisfied are you with... Very Satisfied Satisfied Neutral Dissatisfied Very Dissatisfied Don't Know 1. Maintenance of City parks 5 4 3 2 1 9 2. Number of walking and biking trails 5 4 3 2 1 9 3. Access to parks in your neighborhood 5 4 3 2 1 9 4. Ease of registering for recreation programs such as classes, trips, and special events 5 4 3 2 1 9 5. Fees charged for recreation programs 5 4 3 2 1 9 6. Availability of recreation programming in your neighborhood 5 4 3 2 1 9 7. Condition of restrooms in public parks 5 4 3 2 1 9 29. Which TWO of the items listed in Question 28 do you think should receive the MOST EMPHASIS from City leaders over the next TWO years? [Write in your answers below using the numbers from the list in Question 28, or circle "NONE".] 1st: ____ 2nd: ____ NONE 30. In the past year, have you visited a City recreation facility or park? ____(1) Yes ____(2) No Demographics 31. Approximately how many years have you lived in South Bend? ______ years 32. Have you met the current Mayor? ____(1) Yes ____(2) No 33. Have you met your Council Person? ____(1) Yes ____(2) No 34. Do you own or rent your current residence? ____(1) Own ____(2) Rent 35. What is your age? ______ years 36. What is your gender identity? ____(1) Male ____(2) Female ____(3) Gender variant/Non-conforming 37. Including yourself, how many people live in your household? ______ people 38. How many people in your household are employed? ______ people ©2024 ETC Institute for the City of South Bend Page 6 39. Which of the following best describes your employment status? ____(1) Employed full time [Answer Q39a.] ____(2) Employed part time [Answer Q39a.] ____(3) Not employed, looking for work ____(4) Not employed, NOT looking for work ____(5) Retired ____(6) Student ____(7) Disabled, not able to work 39a. What is the zip code where you work? ____________ 40. Would you say your total annual household income is… ____(1) Under $15,000 ____(2) $15,000 to $29,999 ____(3) $30,000 to $59,999 ____(4) $60,000 to $99,999 ____(5) $100,000 to $124,999 ____(6) $125,000 or more 41. Which of the following best describes your race/ethnicity? [Check all that apply.] ____(01) Asian or Asian Indian ____(02) Black or African American ____(03) American Indian or Alaska Native ____(04) White or Caucasian ____(05) Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander ____(06) Hispanic, Spanish, or Latino/a/x ____(99) Other: 42. How would you describe your overall state of health these days. Would you say… ____(5) Excellent ____(4) Good ____(3) Average ____(2) Fair ____(1) Poor ____(9) Don't know 43. How would you compare your standard of living to your parents' when they were your age? ____(5) Much better ____(4) Somewhat better ____(3) About the same ____(2) Somewhat worse ____(1) Much worse ____(9) Don't know 44. Would you be willing to participate in future surveys sponsored by the City of South Bend? ____(1) Yes [Answer Q44a.] ____(2) No 44a. Please provide your contact information. Mobile Phone Number: Email Address: This concludes the survey. Thank you for your time! Please return your completed survey in the enclosed postage-paid envelope addressed to: ETC Institute, 725 W. Frontier Circle, Olathe, KS 66061 Your responses will remain completely confidential. The information printed to the right will ONLY be used to help identify which areas of the city are having problems with city services. If your address is not correct, please provide the correct information. Thank you.