by Dennis Dalman
The results of a citywide survey of Sartell residents reveal many good responses, most of them higher than national benchmarks.
However, some responses are concerning, such as respondents concerned about a lack of city-government transparency and a lack of informing city residents about issues facing the community.
The National Community Survey (formerly known as the National Citizens Survey) was mailed by the City of Sartell to 3,000 residents who had the choice of sending their survey answers back by mail or filling out the survey online instead.
It is the first time Sartell has used this particular citizen survey NCS survey, which compares local responses to national benchmarks from similar-sized cities in the nation.
The 10 major categories covered in the survey were Safety, Mobility, Natural Environment, Community Design, Utilities, Economy, Parks and Recreation, Education, Arts and Culture, Inclusivity and Engagement, and Health and Wellness.
Of the 3,000 surveys mailed to residents, 530 were filled out and mailed back – a return rate of 15 percent, said Sartell City Administrator Anna Gruber.
Ninety-five percent of respondents rated Sartell as a “good or excellent” place to live. Fifty-seven percent believe Sartell is acting in the best interests of the residents.
Most of the category-question responses showed those who took the survey were generally very well pleased with Sartell, with most ratings higher than 50 percent.
Survey respondents rated quality of life in Sartell (which includes health and safety) at a positive 87 percent, meaning excellent or good. Transportation system (auto, bike, foot) was rated 65 percent positive. Overall safety in the city garnered 90 percent. Economic health 81 percent, safety 81 percent. Overall quality of utility infrastructure 77 percent, good to excellent place to raise children 92 percent.
On the lower end of the spectrum were the following responses:
Shopping opportunities were rated 32 percent, vibrancy of a downtown area 29 percent, opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music events 38 percent, public library services 61 percent (much lower than national comparison benchmarks), ease of contacting city for help 35 percent, the city is open and transparent with the public 49 percent, the city welcomes citizen involvement 57 percent, the city informs residents about issues facing the community and being honest, 51 percent.
At the May 20 council meeting, Mayor Ryan Fitzthum said the issues of lack of transparency and the city not informing residents of issues are concerning. He suggested the city council hold workshops and other methods to do something about those grievances – or perceived grievances.
A more detailed report is available on the Sartell City website. Just google “Sartell MN.”
