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Home My WebLink About2022 National Community Survey ReportRochester, MN The National Community Survey Report of Results 2022 Report by: Visit us online! www.polco.us About The NCS™ The National Community Survey™ (The NCS™) report is about the “livability” of Rochester. A livable community is a place that is not simply habitable, but that is desirable. It is not only where people do live, but where they want to live. The survey was developed by the experts from National Research Center at Polco. Great communities are partnerships of the government, private sector, community-based organizations and residents, all geographically connected. The NCS captures residents’ opinions considering ten central facets of a community: • Economy • Mobility • Community Design • Utilities • Safety • Natural Environment • Parks and Recreation • Health and Wellness • Education, Arts, and Culture • Inclusivity and Engagement The report provides the opinions of a representative sample of 828 residents of the City of Rochester collected from March 9th, 2022 to April 27th, 2022. The margin of error around any reported percentage is 3% for all respondents and the response rate for the 2022 survey was 16%. Survey results were weighted so that the demographic profile of respondents was representative of the demographic profile of adults in Rochester. How the results are reported For the most part, the percentages presented in the following tabs represent the “percent positive.” Most commonly, the percent positive is the combination of the top two most positive response options (i.e., excellent/good, very safe/somewhat safe, etc.). On many of the questions in the survey respondents may answer “don’t know.” The proportion of respondents giving this reply is shown in the full set of responses included in the tab “Complete data.” However, these responses have been removed from the analyses presented in most of the tabs. In other words, the tables and graphs display the responses from respondents who had an opinion about a specific item. Comparisons to benchmarks NRC’s database of comparative resident opinion is comprised of resident perspectives gathered in surveys from over 600 communities whose residents evaluated the same kinds of topics on The National Community Survey. The comparison evaluations are from the most recent survey completed in each community in the last five years. NRC adds the latest results quickly upon survey completion, keeping the benchmark data fresh and relevant. The communities in the database represent a wide geographic and population range. In each tab, Rochester's results are noted as being “higher” than the benchmark, “lower” than the benchmark, or “similar” to the benchmark, meaning that the average rating given by Rochester residents is statistically similar to or different (greater or lesser) than the benchmark. Being rated as “higher” or “lower” than the benchmark means that Rochester's average rating for a particular item was more than 10 points different than the benchmark. If a rating was “much higher” or “much lower,” then Rochester's average rating was more than 20 points different when compared to the benchmark. The survey was administered during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time of challenge for many local governments. While we provide comparisons to national benchmarks, it is important to note that much of the benchmark data was collected prior to the pandemic. This may impact how your City's 2022 ratings compare to other communities’ ratings from the past five years. 1 Methods Selecting survey recipients All households within the City of Rochester were eligible to participate in the survey. A list of all households within the zip codes serving Rochester was purchased from Go-Dog Direct based on updated listings from the United States Postal Service. Since some of the zip codes that serve the City of Rochester households may also serve addresses that lie outside of the community, the exact geographic location of each housing unit was compared to community boundaries using the most current municipal boundary file. Addresses located outside of the City of Rochester boundaries were removed from the list of potential households to survey. Each address identified as being within city boundaries was further identified as being within one of the six areas. From that list, addresses were randomly selected as survey recipients, with multi-family housing units (defined as those with a unit number) sampled at a rate of 53 compared to single family housing units. An individual within each household was selected using the birthday method. The birthday method selects a person within the household by asking the “person whose birthday has most recently passed” to complete the questionnaire. The underlying assumption in this method is that day of birth has no relationship to the way people respond to surveys. This instruction was contained in the introduction of the survey. Conducting the survey The 5,500 randomly selected households received mailings beginning on March 9th, 2022 and the survey remained open for seven weeks. For 3,000 households, the first mailing was a postcard inviting the household to participate in the survey. The next mailing contained a cover letter with instructions, the survey questionnaire, and a postage-paid return envelope. The final mailing contained a reminder letter, another survey, and a postage-paid return envelope. For the remaining 2,500 households, the first mailing was a postcard inviting the household to participate, followed one week later by a reminder postcard. All mailings included a web link to give residents the opportunity to respond to the survey online. All follow-up mailings asked those who had not completed the survey to do so and those who had already done so to refrain from completing the survey again. About 4% of the 5,500 mailed invitations or surveys were returned because the household address was vacant or the postal service was unable to deliver the survey as addressed. Of the remaining 5,287 households that received the invitations to participate, 828 completed the survey, providing an overall response rate of 16%. The response rate was calculated using AAPOR’s response rate #2* for mailed surveys of unnamed persons. It is customary to describe the precision of estimates made from surveys by a “level of confidence” and accompanying “confidence interval” (or margin of error). A traditional level of confidence, and the one used here, is 95%. The 95% confidence interval can be any size and quantifies the sampling error or imprecision of the survey results because some residents’ opinions are relied on to estimate all residents’ opinions. The margin of error for the City of Rochester survey is no greater than plus or minus three percentage points around any given percent reported for all respondents (828 completed surveys). In addition to the randomly selected “probability sample” of households, a link to an online open participation survey was publicized by the City of Rochester. The open participation survey was identical to the probability sample survey with two small updates; it included a map at the beginning asking where the respondent lives and a question about where they heard about the survey. The open participation survey was open to all city residents and became available on April 13th, 2022. The survey remained open for two weeks. The data presented in the following tabs exclude the open participation survey data, but a tab at the end provides the complete frequency of responses to questions by the open participation respondents. The survey datasets were analyzed using all or some of a combination of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), R, Python, and Tableau. For the most part, the percentages presented in the reports represent the “percent positive.” The percent positive is the combination of the top two most positive response options (i.e., excellent/good, very safe/somewhat safe, essential/very important, etc.), or, in the case of resident behaviors/participation, the percent positive represents the proportion of respondents indicating “yes” or participating in an activity at least once a month. On many of the questions in the survey respondents may answer “don’t know.” The proportion of respondents giving this reply is shown in the full set of responses included in the tab “Complete data”. However, these responses have been removed from the analyses presented in the reports. In other words, the tables and graphs display the responses from respondents who had an opinion about a specific item. Contact The City of Rochester funded this research. Please contact Heather Heyer of the City of Rochester at hheyer@rochestermn.gov if you have any questions about the survey. Survey Validity See the Polco Knowledge Base article on survey validity at https://info.polco.us/knowledge/statistical-vali * See AAPOR's Standard Definitions for more information at https://www.aapor.org/Publications-Media/AAPOR-Journals/Standard-Definitions.aspx * Pasek, J. (2010). ANES Weighting Algorithm. Retrieved from https://web.stanford.edu/group/iriss/cgi-bin/anesrake/resources/RakingDescription.pdf * Targets come from the 2010 Census and 2019 American Community Survey Unweighted Weighted Target* Age 18-34 35-54 55+ Area Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6 Hispanic origin No, not Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino Housing tenure Own Rent Housing type Attached Detached Race & Hispanic origin Not white alone White alone, not Hispanic or Latino Sex Female Male Sex/age Female 18-34 Female 35-54 Female 55+ Male 18-34 Male 35-54 Male 55+ Analyzing the data Responses from mailed surveys were entered into an electronic dataset using a “key and verify” method, where all responses are entered twice and compared to each other. Any discrepancies were resolved in comparison to the original survey form. Range checks as well as other forms of quality control were also performed. Responses from surveys completed on Polco were downloaded and merged with the mailed survey responses. The demographics of the survey respondents were compared to those found in the 2010 Census and 2019 American Community Survey estimates for adults in the City of Rochester. The primary objective of weighting survey data is to make the survey respondents reflective of the larger population of the community. The characteristics used for weighting were age, sex, race, Hispanic origin, housing type, housing tenure, and area. No adjustments were made for design effects. Weights were calculated using an iterative, multiplicative raking model known as the ANES Weighting Algorithm.* The results of the weighting scheme for the probability sample are presented in the following table. NRC aligns demographic labels with those used by the U.S. Census for reporting purposes, when possible. Some categories (e.g., age, race/Hispanic origin, housing type, and length of residency) are combined into smaller subgroups. . 2 MethodsSelecting survey recipientsAll households within the City of Rochester were eligible to participate in the survey. A list of all households within the zip codesserving Rochester was purchased from Go-Dog Direct based on updated listings from the United States Postal Service. Sincesome of the zip codes that serve the City of Rochester households may also serve addresses that lie outside of the community,the exact geographic location of each housing unit was compared to community boundaries using the most current municipalboundary file. Addresses located outside of the City of Rochester boundaries were removed from the list of potential householdsto survey. Each address identified as being within city boundaries was further identified as being within one of the six areas.From that list, addresses were randomly selected as survey recipients, with multi-family housing units (defined as those with aunit number) sampled at a rate of 53 compared to single family housing units.An individual within each household was selected using the birthday method. The birthday method selects a person within thehousehold by asking the “person whose birthday has most recently passed” to complete the questionnaire. The underlyingassumption in this method is that day of birth has no relationship to the way people respond to surveys. This instruction wascontained in the introduction of the survey.Conducting the surveyThe 5,500 randomly selected households received mailings beginning on March 9th, 2022 and the survey remained open forseven weeks. For 3,000 households, the first mailing was a postcard inviting the household to participate in the survey. The nextmailing contained a cover letter with instructions, the survey questionnaire, and a postage-paid return envelope. The finalmailing contained a reminder letter, another survey, and a postage-paid return envelope. For the remaining 2,500 households,the first mailing was a postcard inviting the household to participate, followed one week later by a reminder postcard. Allmailings included a web link to give residents the opportunity to respond to the survey online. All follow-up mailings asked thosewho had not completed the survey to do so and those who had already done so to refrain from completing the survey again.About 4% of the 5,500 mailed invitations or surveys were returned because the household address was vacant or the postalservice was unable to deliver the survey as addressed. Of the remaining 5,287 households that received the invitations toparticipate, 828 completed the survey, providing an overall response rate of 16%. The response rate was calculated usingAAPOR’s response rate #2* for mailed surveys of unnamed persons.It is customary to describe the precision of estimates made from surveys by a “level of confidence” and accompanying“confidence interval” (or margin of error). A traditional level of confidence, and the one used here, is 95%. The 95% confidenceinterval can be any size and quantifies the sampling error or imprecision of the survey results because some residents’ opinionsare relied on to estimate all residents’ opinions. The margin of error for the City of Rochester survey is no greater than plus orminus three percentage points around any given percent reported for all respondents (828 completed surveys).In addition to the randomly selected “probability sample” of households, a link to an online open participation survey waspublicized by the City of Rochester. The open participation survey was identical to the probability sample survey with two smallupdates; it included a map at the beginning asking where the respondent lives and a question about where they heard about thesurvey. The open participation survey was open to all city residents and became available on April 13th, 2022. The surveyremained open for two weeks. The data presented in the following tabs exclude the open participation survey data, but a tab atthe end provides the complete frequency of responses to questions by the open participation respondents. The survey datasets were analyzed using all or some of a combination of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), R, Python, and Tableau. For the most part, the percentages presented in the reports represent the “percent positive.” The percent positive is the combination of the top two most positive response options (i.e., excellent/good, very safe/somewhat safe, essential/very important, etc.), or, in the case of resident behaviors/participation, the percent positive represents the proportion of respondents indicating “yes” or participating in an activity at least once a month. On many of the questions in the survey respondents may answer “don’t know.” The proportion of respondents giving this reply is shown in the full set of responses included in the tab “Complete data”. However, these responses have been removed from the analyses presented in the reports. In other words, the tables and graphs display the responses from respondents who had an opinion about a specific item. Contact The City of Rochester funded this research. Please contact Heather Heyer of the City of Rochester at hheyer@rochestermn.gov if you have any questions about the survey. Survey Validity See the Polco Knowledge Base article on survey validity at https://info.polco.us/knowledge/statistical-vali * See AAPOR's Standard Definitions for more information at https://www.aapor.org/Publications-Media/AAPOR-Journals/Standard-Definitions.aspx * Pasek, J. (2010). ANES Weighting Algorithm. Retrieved from https://web.stanford.edu/group/iriss/cgi-bin/anesrake/resources/RakingDescription.pdf * Targets come from the 2010 Census and 2019 American Community Survey Unweighted Weighted Target* Age 18-34 35-54 55+ Area Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6 Hispanic origin No, not Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino Housing tenure Own Rent Housing type Attached Detached Race & Hispanic origin Not white alone White alone, not Hispanic or Latino Sex Female Male Sex/age Female 18-34 Female 35-54 Female 55+ Male 18-34 Male 35-54 Male 55+ 35% 32% 32% 35% 32% 32% 59% 28% 13% 17% 17% 17% 15% 18% 17% 17% 17% 17% 15% 18% 17% 17% 19% 12% 14% 19% 18% 5% 95% 5% 95% 2% 98% 32% 68% 32% 68% 20% 80% 61% 39% 61% 39% 70% 30% 79% 21% 79% 21% 87% 13% 48% 52% 48% 52% 47% 53% 16% 16% 16% 20% 16% 17% 16% 16% 16% 20% 16% 17% 28% 14% 5% 31% 14% 8% Analyzing the data Responses from mailed surveys were entered into an electronic dataset using a “key and verify” method, where all responses are entered twice and compared to each other. Any discrepancies were resolved in comparison to the original survey form. Range checks as well as other forms of quality control were also performed. Responses from surveys completed on Polco were downloaded and merged with the mailed survey responses. The demographics of the survey respondents were compared to those found in the 2010 Census and 2019 American Community Survey estimates for adults in the City of Rochester. The primary objective of weighting survey data is to make the survey respondents reflective of the larger population of the community. The characteristics used for weighting were age, sex, race, Hispanic origin, housing type, housing tenure, and area. No adjustments were made for design effects. Weights were calculated using an iterative, multiplicative raking model known as the ANES Weighting Algorithm.* The results of the weighting scheme for the probability sample are presented in the following table. NRC aligns demographic labels with those used by the U.S. Census for reporting purposes, when possible. Some categories (e.g., age, race/Hispanic origin, housing type, and length of residency) are combined into smaller subgroups. . 3 MethodsSelecting survey recipientsAll households within the City of Rochester were eligible to participate in the survey. A list of all households within the zip codesserving Rochester was purchased from Go-Dog Direct based on updated listings from the United States Postal Service. Sincesome of the zip codes that serve the City of Rochester households may also serve addresses that lie outside of the community,the exact geographic location of each housing unit was compared to community boundaries using the most current municipalboundary file. Addresses located outside of the City of Rochester boundaries were removed from the list of potential householdsto survey. Each address identified as being within city boundaries was further identified as being within one of the six areas.From that list, addresses were randomly selected as survey recipients, with multi-family housing units (defined as those with aunit number) sampled at a rate of 53 compared to single family housing units.An individual within each household was selected using the birthday method. The birthday method selects a person within thehousehold by asking the “person whose birthday has most recently passed” to complete the questionnaire. The underlyingassumption in this method is that day of birth has no relationship to the way people respond to surveys. This instruction wascontained in the introduction of the survey.Conducting the surveyThe 5,500 randomly selected households received mailings beginning on March 9th, 2022 and the survey remained open forseven weeks. For 3,000 households, the first mailing was a postcard inviting the household to participate in the survey. The nextmailing contained a cover letter with instructions, the survey questionnaire, and a postage-paid return envelope. The finalmailing contained a reminder letter, another survey, and a postage-paid return envelope. For the remaining 2,500 households,the first mailing was a postcard inviting the household to participate, followed one week later by a reminder postcard. Allmailings included a web link to give residents the opportunity to respond to the survey online. All follow-up mailings asked thosewho had not completed the survey to do so and those who had already done so to refrain from completing the survey again.About 4% of the 5,500 mailed invitations or surveys were returned because the household address was vacant or the postalservice was unable to deliver the survey as addressed. Of the remaining 5,287 households that received the invitations toparticipate, 828 completed the survey, providing an overall response rate of 16%. The response rate was calculated usingAAPOR’s response rate #2* for mailed surveys of unnamed persons.It is customary to describe the precision of estimates made from surveys by a “level of confidence” and accompanying“confidence interval” (or margin of error). A traditional level of confidence, and the one used here, is 95%. The 95% confidenceinterval can be any size and quantifies the sampling error or imprecision of the survey results because some residents’ opinionsare relied on to estimate all residents’ opinions. The margin of error for the City of Rochester survey is no greater than plus orminus three percentage points around any given percent reported for all respondents (828 completed surveys).In addition to the randomly selected “probability sample” of households, a link to an online open participation survey waspublicized by the City of Rochester. The open participation survey was identical to the probability sample survey with two smallupdates; it included a map at the beginning asking where the respondent lives and a question about where they heard about thesurvey. The open participation survey was open to all city residents and became available on April 13th, 2022. The surveyremained open for two weeks. The data presented in the following tabs exclude the open participation survey data, but a tab atthe end provides the complete frequency of responses to questions by the open participation respondents. The survey datasets were analyzed using all or some of a combination of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), R, Python, and Tableau. For the most part, the percentages presented in the reports represent the “percent positive.” The percent positive is the combination of the top two most positive response options (i.e., excellent/good, very safe/somewhat safe, essential/very important, etc.), or, in the case of resident behaviors/participation, the percent positive represents the proportion of respondents indicating “yes” or participating in an activity at least once a month. On many of the questions in the survey respondents may answer “don’t know.” The proportion of respondents giving this reply is shown in the full set of responses included in the tab “Complete data”. However, these responses have been removed from the analyses presented in the reports. In other words, the tables and graphs display the responses from respondents who had an opinion about a specific item. Contact The City of Rochester funded this research. Please contact Heather Heyer of the City of Rochester at hheyer@rochestermn.gov if you have any questions about the survey. Survey Validity See the Polco Knowledge Base article on survey validity at https://info.polco.us/knowledge/statistical-vali * See AAPOR's Standard Definitions for more information at https://www.aapor.org/Publications-Media/AAPOR-Journals/Standard-Definitions.aspx * Pasek, J. (2010). ANES Weighting Algorithm. Retrieved from https://web.stanford.edu/group/iriss/cgi-bin/anesrake/resources/RakingDescription.pdf * Targets come from the 2010 Census and 2019 American Community Survey Unweighted Weighted Target*Age 18-3435-5455+Area Area 1Area 2Area 3Area 4Area 5Area 6Hispanic origin No, not Spanish, Hispanic, or LatinoSpanish, Hispanic, or LatinoHousing tenure OwnRentHousing type AttachedDetachedRace & Hispanicorigin Not white aloneWhite alone, not Hispanic or LatinoSexFemaleMaleSex/age Female 18-34Female 35-54Female 55+Male 18-34Male 35-54Male 55+Analyzing the dataResponses from mailed surveys were entered into an electronic dataset using a “key and verify” method, where all responses areentered twice and compared to each other. Any discrepancies were resolved in comparison to the original survey form. Rangechecks as well as other forms of quality control were also performed. Responses from surveys completed on Polco weredownloaded and merged with the mailed survey responses.The demographics of the survey respondents were compared to those found in the 2010 Census and 2019 American CommunitySurvey estimates for adults in the City of Rochester. The primary objective of weighting survey data is to make the surveyrespondents reflective of the larger population of the community. The characteristics used for weighting were age, sex, race,Hispanic origin, housing type, housing tenure, and area. No adjustments were made for design effects. Weights were calculatedusing an iterative, multiplicative raking model known as the ANES Weighting Algorithm.* The results of the weighting scheme forthe probability sample are presented in the following table.NRC aligns demographic labels with those used by the U.S. Census for reporting purposes, when possible. Some categories (e.g.,age, race/Hispanic origin, housing type, and length of residency) are combined into smaller subgroups.. 4 Highlights Residents enjoy a positive quality of life and strong sense of safety in Rochester. At least 8 in 10 residents gave high marks to Rochester as both a place to live and to raise children, on par with comparison communities across the nation. Most survey respondents positively rated the overall quality of life in the city (81% excellent or good), and a similarly high proportion planned to remain in Rochester for the next five years (80%) and would recommend living in Rochester to others (78%). About half of residents were also pleased with the city as a place to retire. Residents’ strong feelings of safety within Rochester likely contribute to the high quality of life experienced in the community. About 9 in 10 respondents reported feeling safe in their neighborhood and in Rochester’s downtown/commercial area during the day. Most residents also felt safe from natural disasters (89%), violent crime (80%), and property crime (78%). In addition, all safety-related City services received positive reviews on par with national averages. About 9 in 10 community members gave high marks to fire services and ambulance/EMS, and at least three-quarters favorably rated Rochester’s animal control, police/sheriff services, and fire prevention and education. Crime prevention and emergency preparedness were also viewed positively by over two-thirds. Rochester’s economy and employment opportunities are an asset to the community. Rochester received higher-than-average reviews for survey items relating to employment, identifying this area as a strength for the community. About 8 in 10 respondents favorably evaluated the city as a place to work, and two-thirds were pleased with the city’s employment opportunities, both of which surpassed the national benchmark comparisons. Three-quarters also approved of the city’s overall economic health and the quality of business and service establishments. Over half of gave high marks to Rochester’s economic development (61%), the variety of business and service establishments (60%), and shopping opportunities (53%), all of which were on par with comparison communities. Although sentiments about community design are generally positive, housing availability may be a concern for residents. Survey items pertaining to community design in Rochester tended to receive positive ratings on par with national averages, but few areas—particularly regarding housing—may warrant additional focus in the coming years. Most participants were pleased with their neighborhood as a place to live (84% excellent or good) and the overall appearance of the community (75%). Nearly two-thirds of respondents approved of the overall design or layout of residential and commercial areas in Rochester. More than half also gave positive ratings to the preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community, well-designed neighborhoods, and overall quality of new development. While still similar to benchmark comparisons, fewer than half of residents offered favorable reviews for public spaces where people want to spend time, well-planned residential and commercial growth, code enforcement, and land use planning, and zoning. Residents' ratings for the variety of housing options (32% excellent or good) and availability of affordable quality housing (16%) both were lower than in peer comparison communities, indicating an opportunity for growth. Rochester’s parks and recreational offerings are highly valued by residents. About 7 in 10 residents offered positive evaluations for the city’s parks and the overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities in Rochester. Fitness opportunities received favorable ratings from three-quarters of respondents, and 6 in 10 community members also gave high marks to the city’s recreational opportunities, recreation programs or classes, and recreation centers or facilities. All of these were on par with national averages. The availability of paths and walking trails in Rochester garnered the highest ratings in this category, with 84% excellent or good reviews, exceeding those given in benchmark comparison communities. 5 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Balancing performance and importance Every jurisdiction must balance limited resources while meeting resident needs and striving to optimize community livability. To this end, it is helpful to know what aspects of the community are most important to residents and which they perceive as being of higher or lower quality. It is especially helpful to know when a facet of livability is considered of high importance but rated as lower quality, as this should be a top priority to address. To help guide City staff and officials with decisions on future resource allocation, resident ratings of the importance of services were compared to their ratings of the quality of these services. To identify the services perceived by residents to have relatively lower quality at the same time as relatively higher importance, all services were ranked from highest perceived quality to lowest perceived quality and from highest perceived importance to lowest perceived importance. Some services were in the top half of both lists (higher quality and higher importance); some were in the top half of one list but the bottom half of the other (higher quality and lower importance or lower quality and higher importance); and some services were in the bottom half of both lists. Services receiving quality ratings of excellent or good by 71% or more of respondents were considered of “higher quality” and those with ratings lower than 71% were considered to be of “lower quality.” Services were classified as “more important” if they were rated as essential or very important by 77% or more of respondents. Services were rated as “less important” if they received a rating of less than 77%. This classification uses the median ratings for quality and importance to divide the services in half. The quadrants in the figure below show which community facets were given higher or lower importance ratings (right-left) and which had higher or lower quality ratings (up-down). Facets of livability falling closer to a diagonal line from the lower left to the upper right are those where performance ratings are more commensurate with resident priorities. Facets scoring closest to the lower right hand corner of the matrix ( higher in importance and lower in quality) are those that may warrant further investigation to see if changes to their delivery are necessary to improve their performance. This is the key part of this chart on which to focus. Facets falling in the top left hand corner of the chart (lower in importance but higher in quality) are areas where performance may outscore resident priorities, and may be a consideration for lower resource allocation. Overall economic health Overall quality of the transportation system Overall design or layout of residential and commercial areas Overall quality of the utility infrastructure Overall feeling of safety Overall quality of natural environment Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Overall health and wellness opportunities Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Residents' connection and engagement with their community Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar 76% 63% 64% 74% 75% 71% 71% 75% 59% 45% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good) Overall economic health Overall quality of the transportation system Overall design or layout of residential and commercial areas Overall quality of the utility infrastructure Overall feeling of safety Overall quality of natural environment Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Overall health and wellness opportunities Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Residents' connection and engagement with their community Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar 83% 71% 68% 84% 88% 82% 80% 75% 73% 67% Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Rochester community to focus on each of the following in the coming two years. (% essential or very important) Facets of livability Resident perceptions of quality and importance for each of the facets of community livability provide an overview of community strengths and challenges that are useful for planning, budgeting and performance evaluation. The charts below show the proportion of residents who rated the community facets positively for quality and the priority (importance) placed on each. Also displayed is whether local ratings were lower, similar, or higher than communities across the country (the national benchmark). vs. benchmark* 6 Balancing performance and importance Every jurisdiction must balance limited resources while meeting resident needs and striving to optimize community livability. To this end, it is helpful to know what aspects of the community are most important to residents and which they perceive as being of higher or lower quality. It is especially helpful to know when a facet of livability is considered of high importance but rated as lower quality, as this should be a top priority to address. To help guide City staff and officials with decisions on future resource allocation, resident ratings of the importance of services were compared to their ratings of the quality of these services. To identify the services perceived by residents to have relatively lower quality at the same time as relatively higher importance, all services were ranked from highest perceived quality to lowest perceived quality and from highest perceived importance to lowest perceived importance. Some services were in the top half of both lists (higher quality and higher importance); some were in the top half of one list but the bottom half of the other (higher quality and lower importance or lower quality and higher importance); and some services were in the bottom half of both lists. Services receiving quality ratings of excellent or good by 71% or more of respondents were considered of “higher quality” and those with ratings lower than 71% were considered to be of “lower quality.” Services were classified as “more important” if they were rated as essential or very important by 77% or more of respondents. Services were rated as “less important” if they received a rating of less than 77%. This classification uses the median ratings for quality and importance to divide the services in half. The quadrants in the figure below show which community facets were given higher or lower importance ratings (right-left) and which had higher or lower quality ratings (up-down). Facets of livability falling closer to a diagonal line from the lower left to the upper right are those where performance ratings are more commensurate with resident priorities. Facets scoring closest to the lower right hand corner of the matrix ( higher in importance and lower in quality) are those that may warrant further investigation to see if changes to their delivery are necessary to improve their performance. This is the key part of this chart on which to focus. Facets falling in the top left hand corner of the chart (lower in importance but higher in quality) are areas where performance may outscore resident priorities, and may be a consideration for lower resource allocation. Overall economic healthOverall quality of the transportation systemOverall design or layout of residential and commercial areasOverall quality of the utility infrastructureOverall feeling of safetyOverall quality of natural environmentOverall quality of parks and recreation opportunitiesOverall health and wellness opportunitiesOverall opportunities for education, culture, and the artsResidents' connection and engagement with their communityPlease rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole.(% excellent or good)Overall economic healthOverall quality of the transportation systemOverall design or layout of residential and commercial areasOverall quality of the utility infrastructureOverall feeling of safetyOverall quality of natural environmentOverall quality of parks and recreation opportunitiesOverall health and wellness opportunitiesOverall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Residents' connection and engagement with their community Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Rochester community to focus on each of the following in thecoming two years.(% essential or very important)Facets of livabilityResident perceptions of quality and importance for each of the facets of community livability provide an overview ofcommunity strengths and challenges that are useful for planning, budgeting and performance evaluation. The chartsbelow show the proportion of residents who rated the community facets positively for quality and the priority(importance) placed on each. Also displayed is whether local ratings were lower, similar, or higher than communitiesacross the country (the national benchmark). 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Importance 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% Qu a l i t y Parks and recreation Natural environment Community design Economy Education, arts, and culture Health and wellness Inclusivity and engagement Mobility SafetyUtilities Median Median vs.benchmark* 7 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 23% Good 58% Fair 15% Poor 4% The overall quality of life in Rochester Quality of life Measuring community livability starts with assessing the quality of life of those who live there, and ensuring that the community is attractive, accessible, and welcoming to all. Rochester as a place to live The overall quality of life Similar Similar 84% 81% Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Remain in Rochester for the next five years Recommend living in Rochester to someone who asks Similar Similar 80% 78% Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following. (% very or somewhat likely) Overall image or reputation Similar75% Please rate each of the following in the Rochester community. (% excellent or good) vs. benchmark* 8 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 8% Good 39%Fair 32% Poor 21% Overall confidence in Rochester government Governance Strong local governments produce results that meet the needs of residents while making the best use of available resources, and are responsive to the present and future needs of the community as a whole. Treating residents with respect Generally acting in the best interest of the community Being honest The overall direction that Rochester is taking Treating all residents fairly Overall confidence in Rochester government The value of services for the taxes paid to Rochester The job Rochester government does at welcoming resident involvement Being open and transparent to the public Informing residents about issues facing the community Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar 57% 51% 50% 49% 49% 47% 46% 45% 45% 44% Please rate the following categories of Rochester government performance. (% excellent or good) The City of Rochester The Federal Government Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided by each of the following? (% excellent or good) Overall customer service by Rochester employees Public information services Similar Similar 81% 66% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. (% excellent or good)vs. benchmark* 9 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Overall confidence in RochestergovernmentGovernanceStrong local governments produce results that meet the needs of residentswhile making the best use of available resources, and are responsive to thepresent and future needs of the community as a whole.Treating residents with respectGenerally acting in the best interest of the communityBeing honestThe overall direction that Rochester is takingTreating all residents fairlyOverall confidence in Rochester governmentThe value of services for the taxes paid to RochesterThe job Rochester government does at welcoming resident involvementBeing open and transparent to the publicInforming residents about issues facing the communityPlease rate the following categories of Rochester government performance.(% excellent or good) The City of Rochester The Federal Government Similar Similar 67% 43% Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided by each of the following? (% excellent or good) Overall customer service by Rochester employeesPublic information servicesPlease rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester.(% excellent or good)vs.benchmark* 10 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Very positive Somewhat positive Neutral Somewhat negative Very negative 12% 42% 31% 13% 3% What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be: Excellent 22% Good 55% Fair 17% Poor 6% Overall economic health of Rochester Economy Local governments work together with private and nonprofit businesses, and with the community at large, to foster sustainable growth, create jobs, and promote a thriving local economy. Overall quality of business and service establishments Employment opportunities Variety of business and service establishments Shopping opportunities Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area Cost of living Similar Higher Similar Similar Similar Similar 77% 68% 60% 53% 43% 30% Please rate each of the following in the Rochester community. (% excellent or good) Rochester as a place to work Rochester as a place to visit Higher Lower 83% 43% Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Economic development Similar61% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. (% excellent or good) What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be: What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be: (% very or somewhat positive) Overall economic health Similar76% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good) vs. benchmark* 11 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Very positiveSomewhat positiveNeutralSomewhat negativeVery negativeWhat impact, if any, do you think theeconomy will have on your family incomein the next 6 months? Do you think theimpact will be:Overall economic health ofRochesterEconomyLocal governments work together with privateand nonprofit businesses, and with thecommunity at large, to foster sustainablegrowth, create jobs, and promote a thrivinglocal economy.Overall quality of business and service establishmentsEmployment opportunitiesVariety of business and service establishmentsShopping opportunitiesVibrancy of downtown/commercial areaCost of livingPlease rate each of the following in the Rochester community.(% excellent or good)Rochester as a place to workRochester as a place to visitPlease rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester.(% excellent or good)Economic developmentPlease rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester.(% excellent or good) What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be:Lower15% What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be: (% very or somewhat positive) Overall economic healthPlease rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole.(% excellent or good)vs.benchmark* 12 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 15% Good 48% Fair 29% Poor 8% Overall quality of the transportation system in Rochester Mobility The ease with which residents can move about their communities, whether for commuting, leisure, or recreation, plays a major role in the quality of life for all who live, work, and play in the community. Ease of travel by car Traffic flow on major streets Ease of walking Ease of travel by bicycle Ease of public parking Ease of travel by public transportation Similar Higher Similar Similar Similar Similar 77% 67% 67% 64% 45% 41% Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. (% excellent or good) Walked or biked instead of driving Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone Used public transportation instead of driving Similar Similar Similar 56% 43% 26% Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. (% yes) Snow removal Street lighting Street cleaning Sidewalk maintenance Traffic enforcement Bus or transit services Traffic signal timing Street repair Similar Similar Similar 75% 72% 70% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Overall quality of the transportation system Similar63% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good)vs. benchmark* 13 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Overall quality of the transportationsystem in RochesterMobilityThe ease with which residents can move about their communities, whetherfor commuting, leisure, or recreation, plays a major role in the quality of lifefor all who live, work, and play in the community.Ease of travel by carTraffic flow on major streetsEase of walkingEase of travel by bicycleEase of public parkingEase of travel by public transportationPlease also rate each of the following in the Rochester community.(% excellent or good)Walked or biked instead of drivingCarpooled with other adults or children instead of driving aloneUsed public transportation instead of drivingPlease indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months.(% yes)Snow removal Street lighting Street cleaning Sidewalk maintenance Traffic enforcement Bus or transit services Traffic signal timing Street repair Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar 70% 65% 62% 59% 53% 46% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester.(% excellent or good)Overall quality of the transportation systemPlease rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole.(% excellent or good)vs.benchmark* 14 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 12% Good 53% Fair 27% Poor 8% Overall design or layout of Rochester's residential and commercial areas Community design A well-designed community enhances the quality of life for its residents by encouraging smart land use and zoning, ensuring that affordable housing is accessible to all, and providing access to parks and other green spaces. Overall appearance Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community Well-designed neighborhoods Overall quality of new development Public places where people want to spend time Well-planned residential growth Well-planned commercial growth Variety of housing options Availability of affordable quality housing Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Lower Lower 75% 57% 56% 52% 49% 49% 48% 32% 16% Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. (% excellent or good) Your neighborhood as a place to live Similar84% Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Code enforcement Land use, planning and zoning Similar Similar 47% 41% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Overall design or layout of residential and commercial areas Similar64% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good) vs. benchmark* 15 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 21% Good 52% Fair 22% Poor 4% Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Rochester Utilities Services such as water, gas, electricity, and internet access play a vital role in ensuring the physical and economic health and well-being of the communities they serve. Sewer services Storm water management Power (electric and/or gas) utility Drinking water Garbage collection Utility billing Affordable high-speed internet access Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar 85% 84% 82% 76% 74% 66% 47% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Overall quality of the utility infrastructure Similar74% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good) vs. benchmark* 16 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 21% Good 54% Fair 19% Poor 6% Overall feeling of safety in RochesterSafety Public safety is often the most important task facing local governments. All residents should feel safe and secure in their neighborhoods and in the greater community, and providing robust safety-related services is essential to residents' quality of life. Fire services Ambulance or emergency medical services Fire prevention and education Police/Sheriff services Animal control Emergency preparedness Crime prevention Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar 94% 92% 84% 78% 78% 72% 68% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Overall feeling of safety Similar75% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good) In your neighborhood during the day In Rochester's downtown/commercial area during the day From fire, flood, or other natural disaster From violent crime From property crime Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar 94% 91% 89% 80% 78% Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: (% very or somewhat safe) vs. benchmark* 17 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 21% Good 50% Fair 26% Poor 3% Overall quality of natural environment in Rochester Natural environment The natural environment plays a vital role in the health and well-being of residents. The natural spaces in which residents live and experience their communities has a direct and profound effect on quality of life. Recycling Preservation of natural areas Rochester open space Yard waste pick-up Similar Similar Similar Much lower 68% 61% 58% 43% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Air quality Cleanliness Water resources Similar Similar Similar 85% 77% 49% Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. (% excellent or good) Overall quality of natural environment Similar71% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good)vs. benchmark* 18 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 24% Good 47% Fair 22% Poor 7% Overall quality of the parks and recreation opportunitiesParks and recreation "There are no communities that pride themselves on their quality of life, promote themselves as a desirable location for businesses to relocate, or maintain that they are environmental stewards of their natural resources, without such communities having a robust, active system of parks and recreation programs for public use and enjoyment." - National Recreation and Park Association City parks Recreation programs or classes Recreation centers or facilities Similar Similar Similar 73% 61% 60% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Availability of paths and walking trails Fitness opportunities Recreational opportunities Higher Similar Similar 84% 77% 62% Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. (% excellent or good) Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Similar71% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good)vs. benchmark* 19 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 37% Good 38% Fair 20% Poor 4% Overall health and wellness opportunities in Rochester Health and wellness The characteristics of and amenities available in the communities in which people live has a direct impact on the health and wellness of residents, and thus, on their quality of life overall. Health services Higher83% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Please rate your overall health.Similar72% Please rate your overall health. (% excellent or very good) Availability of preventive health services Availability of affordable quality health care Availability of affordable quality food Availability of affordable quality mental health care Higher Similar Similar Similar 79% 71% 63% 51% Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. (% excellent or good) Overall health and wellness opportunities Similar75% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good)vs. benchmark* 20 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 14% Good 45% Fair 31% Poor 10% Overall opportunities for education, culture and the arts Education, arts, and culture Participation in the arts, in educational opportunities, and in cultural activities is linked to increased civic engagement, greater social tolerance, and enhanced enjoyment of the local community. Public library services Similar90% Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. (% excellent or good) K-12 education Adult educational opportunities Opportunities to attend special events and festivals Community support for the arts Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Lower 62% 61% 56% 54% 51% 32% Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. (% excellent or good) Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Similar59% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good)vs. benchmark* 21 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Excellent 7% Good 38% Fair 44% Poor 12% Residents' connection and engagement with their community Inclusivity and engagement Inclusivity refers to a cultural and environmental feeling of belonging; residents who feel invited to participate within their communities feel more included, involved, and engaged than those who do not. Rochester as a place to raise children Rochester as a place to retire Sense of community Similar Similar Similar 81% 51% 51% Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester. (% excellent or good) Residents' connection and engagement with their community Similar45% Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. (% excellent or good) Attracting people from diverse backgrounds Making all residents feel welcome Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds Taking care of vulnerable residents Similar Similar Similar Similar 70% 67% 65% 54% Please rate the job you feel the Rochester community does at each of the following. (% excellent or good) Opportunities to volunteer Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse backgrounds Neighborliness of residents Opportunities to participate in community matters Opportunities to participate in social events and activities Sense of civic/community pride Similar Similar Similar 72% 58% 56% Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. (% excellent or good) vs. benchmark* 22 * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Residents' connection and engagementwith their communityInclusivity and engagementInclusivity refers to a cultural and environmental feeling of belonging;residents who feel invited to participate within their communities feelmore included, involved, and engaged than those who do not.Rochester as a place to raise childrenRochester as a place to retireSense of communityPlease rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester.(% excellent or good)Residents' connection and engagement with their communityPlease rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole.(% excellent or good)Attracting people from diverse backgroundsMaking all residents feel welcomeValuing/respecting residents from diverse backgroundsTaking care of vulnerable residentsPlease rate the job you feel the Rochester community does at each of the following.(% excellent or good)Opportunities to volunteerOpenness and acceptance of the community toward people of diversebackgrounds Neighborliness of residents Opportunities to participate in community matters Opportunities to participate in social events and activities Sense of civic/community pride Similar Similar Similar 55% 53% 49% Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community.(% excellent or good)vs.benchmark* 23 Voted in your most recent local election Volunteered your time to some group/activity Contacted the City of Rochester for help or information Watched a local public meeting Contacted Rochester elected officials to express your opinion Attended a local public meeting Campaigned or advocated for a local issue, cause, or candidate Similar Higher Lower Similar Similar Similar Similar 77% 48% 35% 27% 19% 16% 16% Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. (% yes) * Comparison to the national benchmark is shown. If no comparison is available, this is left blank. Use or check email Access the internet from your home Access the internet from your cell phone Visit social media sites Shop online Share your opinions online Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar Similar 97% 94% 94% 78% 49% 23% In general, how many times do you: (% a few times a week or more) Residents' participation levels vs. benchmark* 24 The City of Rochester is considering changes to the ways it serves residents, to ensure easier access to Cityservices and related information. Please rate the quality of each of the following items. Ease of attending virtual City Council (or other) meetings Ease of conducting business in-person at City Hall during current hours of operation Ease of finding information about City services online Ease of accessing information about City services via phone To better serve residents, the City of Rochester is considering adjusting hours of operation for buildings like City Hall. Please indicate your preference, if any, for the following adjustments to.. Maintain current hours of 8am-5pm Monday through Friday New hours of 7am-530pm Monday through Thursday, closed Friday New hours of 730am-5pm Monday through Thursday, 730am-1130am Friday How much of a source, if at all, are each of the following for you for obtaining information about the City government and its activities, events, and services? City website Local news station programming In-person visits to city facilities (e.g., City Hall, library, DSIC, RPU) Newspaper (printed or digital) City's social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) Community organizations (e.g., Chamber, Diversity Council, etc.) 46% 55% 58% 60% 30% 36% 54% 40% 52% 53% 56% 73% 82% Custom questions Below are the results of each custom question on the survey. The percentage of positive responses (Excellent/Good, Strongly/Somewhat prefer, Major/Minor source) is shown. % positive 25 % p o s i t i v e Ra n k Nu m b e r o f co m m u n i t i e s Pe r c e n t i l e Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester. Rochester as a place to live Similar Your neighborhood as a place to live Similar Rochester as a place to raise children Similar Rochester as a place to work Higher Rochester as a place to visit Lower Rochester as a place to retire Similar The overall quality of life Similar Sense of community Similar Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. Overall economic health Similar Overall quality of the transportation system Similar Overall design or layout of residential and commercial areas Similar Overall quality of the utility infrastructure Similar Overall feeling of safety Similar Overall quality of natural environment Similar Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Similar Overall health and wellness opportunities Similar Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Similar Residents' connection and engagement with their community Similar Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following. Recommend living in Rochester to someone who asks Similar Remain in Rochester for the next five years Similar Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel:In your neighborhood during the day Similar In Rochester's downtown/commercial area during the day Similar 3640225784% 5033416584% 4340422981% 873875083% 1432828143% 2038830951% 3944426881% 1833627451% 6330911376% 681544963% 4830215864% 611505974% 3138426375% 2831322571% 2315612171% 733038075% 3430620259% 2515111445% 2131925078% 2631222980% 5436916894% National benchmark tables This table contains the comparisons of Rochester's results to those from other communities. The first column shows the comparison of Rochester's rating to the benchmark. Rochester's results are noted as being “higher”, “lower” or “similar” to the benchmark, meaning that the average rating given by Rochester residents is statistically similar to or different than the benchmark. The second column is Rochester's “percent positive.” Most commonly, the percent positive is the combination of the top two most positive response options (i.e., excellent/good). The third column is the rank assigned to Rochester's rating among communities where a similar question was asked. The fourth column is the number of communities that asked a similar question. The fifth column shows the percentile for Rochester's result -- that is what percent of surveyed communities had a lower rating than Rochester. 26 Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: In your neighborhood during the day Similar In Rochester's downtown/commercial area during the day Similar From property crime Similar From violent crime Similar From fire, flood, or other natural disaster Similar Please rate the job you feel the Rochester community does at each of the following. Making all residents feel welcome Similar Attracting people from diverse backgrounds Similar Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds Similar Taking care of vulnerable residents Similar Please rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Overall quality of business and service establishments Similar Variety of business and service establishments Similar Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area Similar Employment opportunities Higher Shopping opportunities Similar Cost of living Similar Overall image or reputation Similar Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Traffic flow on major streets Higher Ease of public parking Similar Ease of travel by car Similar Ease of travel by public transportation Similar Ease of travel by bicycle Similar Ease of walking Similar Well-planned residential growth Similar Well-planned commercial growth Similar Well-designed neighborhoods Similar Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community Similar Public places where people want to spend time Similar Variety of housing options Lower Availability of affordable quality housing Lower Overall quality of new development Similar Overall appearance Similar 4634318491% 441619178% 3516110480% 731494189% 3215710767% 791543370% 471558265% 361519754% 683119977% 431518660% 3129220243% 943402168% 4732617253% 1930524630% 4938219575% 793577367% 2428221345% 6733610977% 6328710641% 733389064% 5033817067% 511537549% 621535948% 431518756% 2814910857% 1729824649% 1531426732% 1333929316% 3733220952% 27 Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Overall quality of new development Similar Overall appearance Similar Cleanliness Similar Water resources Similar Air quality Similar Availability of paths and walking trails Higher Fitness opportunities Similar Recreational opportunities Similar Availability of affordable quality food Similar Availability of affordable quality health care Similar Availability of preventive health services Higher Availability of affordable quality mental health care Similar Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities Similar Community support for the arts Similar Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool Lower K-12 education Similar Adult educational opportunities Similar Sense of civic/community pride Similar Neighborliness of residents Similar Opportunities to participate in social events and activities Similar Opportunities to attend special events and festivals Similar Opportunities to volunteer Similar Opportunities to participate in community matters Similar Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse backgrounds Similar Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. Contacted the City of Rochester for help or information Lower Contacted Rochester elected officials to express your opinion Similar Attended a local public meeting Similar Watched a local public meeting Similar Volunteered your time to some group/activity Higher Campaigned or advocated for a local issue, cause, or candidate Similar Voted in your most recent local election Similar 4537020475% 4734018177% 2413710449% 5429313385% 803426684% 6429410677% 3332521762% 3428918963% 753027471% 922852279% 692858951% 3332221451% 471508054% 1430025932% 3030621562% 5729112661% 2615011149% 2429822656% 2930521553% 2431223656% 6330211172% 2730622455% 4933016758% 1135931835% 6630010219% 2929921216% 6127810727% 853044448% 2428821816% 28 Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. Campaigned or advocated for a local issue, cause, or candidate Similar Voted in your most recent local election Similar Used public transportation instead of driving Similar Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone Similar Walked or biked instead of driving Similar Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Public information services Similar Economic development Similar Traffic enforcement Similar Traffic signal timing Similar Street repair Similar Street cleaning Similar Street lighting Similar Snow removal Similar Sidewalk maintenance Similar Bus or transit services Similar Land use, planning and zoning Similar Code enforcement Similar Affordable high-speed internet access Similar Garbage collection Similar Drinking water Similar Sewer services Similar Storm water management Similar Power (electric and/or gas) utility Similar Utility billing Similar Police/Sheriff services Similar Crime prevention Similar Animal control Similar Ambulance or emergency medical services Similar Fire services Similar Fire prevention and education Similar Emergency preparedness Similar 491527877% 722707526% 6129311343% 4629716056% 3432421166% 6331511661% 3638424462% 3430420053% 5038419246% 5632514170% 733659972% 702848475% 6633011365% 722827959% 3832820441% 4138422447% 421468547% 1336031174% 5432715176% 5932913585% 843525784% 662488582% 3028019766% 3643527978% 3638324368% 6634711778% 733479492% 6138014894% 5631813884% 29 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Fire prevention and education Similar Emergency preparedness Similar Preservation of natural areas Similar Rochester open space Similar Recycling Similar Yard waste pick-up Much lower City parks Similar Recreation programs or classes Similar Recreation centers or facilities Similar Health services Higher Public library services Similar Overall customer service by Rochester employees Similar Please rate the following categories of Rochester government performance. The value of services for the taxes paid to Rochester Similar The overall direction that Rochester is taking Similar The job Rochester government does at welcoming resident involvement Similar Overall confidence in Rochester government Similar Generally acting in the best interest of the community Similar Being honest Similar Being open and transparent to the public Similar Informing residents about issues facing the community Similar Treating all residents fairly Similar Treating residents with respect Similar Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided by each .. The City of Rochester Similar The Federal Government Similar Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Rochester community to focus on each of the following in the coming two years. Overall economic health Similar Overall quality of the transportation system Similar Overall design or layout of residential and commercial areas Similar Overall quality of the utility infrastructure Similar Overall feeling of safety Similar Overall quality of natural environment Similar Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Similar 6131612472% 4529716461% 4028617158% 2836426068% 430629243% 2634225473% 2633624861% 2230924060% 942761683% 6635212090% 5339918581% 2740729446% 2335527149% 3234923745% 2931021947% 3031322051% 2630322450% 2615611645% 2616212044% 2631023049% 2015312357% 2540430067% 5929011843% 428627483% 461498171% 1028625768% 1314812984% 2528621488% 4828614882% 30 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Rochester community to focus on each of the following in the coming two years. Overall quality of natural environment Similar Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Similar Overall health and wellness opportunities Similar Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Similar Residents' connection and engagement with their community Similar In general, how many times do you: Access the internet from your home Similar Access the internet from your cell phone Similar Visit social media sites Similar Use or check email Similar Share your opinions online Similar Shop online Similar Please rate your overall health.Similar What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be:Lower 551496880% 4328616175% 3028619873% 2428621767% 471497994% 541496994% 3114810278% 511497397% 514914223% 2314911549% 812925572% 429428115% 31 Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester. Rochester as a place to live Excellent Good Fair Poor Your neighborhood as a place to live Excellent Good Fair Poor Rochester as a place to raise children Excellent Good Fair Poor Rochester as a place to work Excellent Good Fair Poor Rochester as a place to visit Excellent Good Fair Poor Rochester as a place to retire Excellent Good Fair Poor The overall quality of life Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 2% 14% 55% 29% 3% 13% 43% 42% 5% 13% 49% 33% 4% 13% 47% 36% 20% 37% 30% 13% 18% 31% 34% 17% 4% 15% 58% 23% Complete set of frequencies This dashboard contains a complete set of responses to each question on the survey. By default, "Don't know" responses are excluded, but may be added to the table using the response filter to the right. When a table for a question that only permitted a single response does not total to exactly 100%, it is due to the common practice of percentages being rounded to the nearest whole number. 32 Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester. The overall quality of life Poor Sense of community Excellent Good Fair Poor Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. Overall economic health Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall quality of the transportation system Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall design or layout of residential and commercial areas Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall quality of the utility infrastructure Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall feeling of safety Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall quality of natural environment Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor 12% 38% 39% 11% 6% 17% 55% 22% 8% 29% 48% 15% 8% 27% 53% 12% 4% 22% 52% 21% 6% 19% 54% 21% 3% 26% 50% 21% 22% 47% 24% 33 Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Fair Poor Overall health and wellness opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Excellent Good Fair Poor Residents' connection and engagement with their community Excellent Good Fair Poor Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following. Recommend living in Rochester to someone who asks Very likely Somewhat likely Somewhat unlikely Very unlikely Remain in Rochester for the next five years Very likely Somewhat likely Somewhat unlikely Very unlikely Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: In your neighborhood during the day Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe In Rochester's downtown/commercial area during the day Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Very safe 7% 4% 20% 38% 37% 10% 31% 45% 14% 12% 44% 38% 7% 8% 14% 46% 32% 11% 9% 25% 55% 0% 2% 3% 19% 75% 0% 3% 6% 33% 58% 34 Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: In Rochester's downtown/commercial area during the day Very unsafe From property crime Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe From violent crime Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe From fire, flood, or other natural disaster Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Please rate the job you feel the Rochester community does at each of the following. Making all residents feel welcome Excellent Good Fair Poor Attracting people from diverse backgrounds Excellent Good Fair Poor Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds Excellent Good Fair Poor Taking care of vulnerable residents Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 2% 11% 9% 48% 30% 2% 10% 9% 37% 43% 0% 3% 8% 36% 53% 8% 25% 50% 17% 9% 21% 45% 25% 9% 26% 45% 20% 16% 30% 41% 13% 35 Please rate the job you feel the Rochester community does at each of the following.Taking care of vulnerable residents Poor Please rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Overall quality of business and service establishments Excellent Good Fair Poor Variety of business and service establishments Excellent Good Fair Poor Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area Excellent Good Fair Poor Employment opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Shopping opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Cost of living Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall image or reputation Excellent Good Fair Poor Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Traffic flow on major streets Excellent Good Fair Poor 4% 20% 57% 20% 10% 30% 45% 15% 21% 36% 36% 7% 7% 25% 43% 25% 12% 35% 39% 14% 32% 39% 26% 3% 4% 20% 54% 21% 24% 53% 14% 36 Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Traffic flow on major streets Fair Poor Ease of public parking Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of travel by car Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of travel by public transportation Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of travel by bicycle Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of walking Excellent Good Fair Poor Well-planned residential growth Excellent Good Fair Poor Well-planned commercial growth Excellent Good Fair Poor Well-designed neighborhoods Excellent Good Fair 9% 22% 33% 36% 10% 3% 20% 52% 25% 17% 41% 34% 7% 7% 29% 45% 19% 8% 24% 49% 18% 14% 37% 40% 9% 16% 36% 39% 9% 46% 10% 37 Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Well-designed neighborhoods Good Fair Poor Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community Excellent Good Fair Poor Public places where people want to spend time Excellent Good Fair Poor Variety of housing options Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of affordable quality housing Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall quality of new development Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall appearance Excellent Good Fair Poor Cleanliness Excellent Good Fair Poor Water resources Excellent Good 10% 34% 15% 28% 43% 14% 16% 35% 40% 9% 29% 39% 27% 5% 51% 34% 13% 3% 11% 37% 45% 7% 2% 22% 58% 17% 4% 19% 53% 24% 10% 38 Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Water resources Excellent Good Fair Poor Air quality Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of paths and walking trails Excellent Good Fair Poor Fitness opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Recreational opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of affordable quality food Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of affordable quality health care Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of preventive health services Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 16% 34% 39% 2% 13% 57% 28% 2% 14% 45% 39% 3% 20% 49% 28% 9% 29% 47% 15% 8% 29% 48% 15% 11% 19% 37% 34% 5% 16% 41% 38% 39 Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Availability of preventive health services Poor Availability of affordable quality mental health care Excellent Good Fair Poor Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities Excellent Good Fair Poor Community support for the arts Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool Excellent Good Fair Poor K-12 education Excellent Good Fair Poor Adult educational opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Sense of civic/community pride Excellent Good Fair Poor Neighborliness of residents Excellent Good Fair Poor 19% 30% 34% 16% 16% 33% 39% 11% 11% 35% 41% 13% 32% 36% 25% 7% 12% 26% 46% 16% 8% 31% 49% 12% 11% 40% 39% 9% 35% 44% 12% 40 Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Neighborliness of residents Fair Poor Opportunities to participate in social events and activities Excellent Good Fair Poor Opportunities to attend special events and festivals Excellent Good Fair Poor Opportunities to volunteer Excellent Good Fair Poor Opportunities to participate in community matters Excellent Good Fair Poor Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse backgrounds Excellent Good Fair Poor Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. Contacted the City of Rochester for help or information No Yes Contacted Rochester elected officials to express your opinion No Yes Attended a local public meeting No Yes Watched a local public meeting No Yes Volunteered your time to some group/activity No Yes No 9% 10% 38% 41% 12% 9% 35% 43% 13% 5% 22% 48% 25% 11% 34% 43% 13% 10% 32% 41% 17% 35% 65% 19% 81% 16% 84% 27% 73% 48% 52% 41 Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. Volunteered your time to some group/activity Yes Campaigned or advocated for a local issue, cause, or candidate No Yes Voted in your most recent local election No Yes Used public transportation instead of driving No Yes Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone No Yes Walked or biked instead of driving No Yes Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Public information services Excellent Good Fair Poor Economic development Excellent Good Fair Poor Traffic enforcement Excellent Good Fair Poor Traffic signal timing Excellent Good Fair Poor Street repair Excellent Good Fair Poor Street cleaning Excellent Good 16% 84% 77% 23% 26% 74% 43% 57% 56% 44% 6% 28% 56% 10% 7% 32% 51% 10% 14% 24% 50% 12% 20% 27% 44% 9% 15% 39% 39% 7% 15% 42 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Street cleaning Excellent Good Fair Poor Street lighting Excellent Good Fair Poor Snow removal Excellent Good Fair Poor Sidewalk maintenance Excellent Good Fair Poor Bus or transit services Excellent Good Fair Poor Land use, planning and zoning Excellent Good Fair Poor Code enforcement Excellent Good Fair Poor Affordable high-speed internet access Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 5% 25% 55% 6% 23% 55% 17% 8% 18% 50% 25% 7% 28% 52% 12% 7% 34% 46% 13% 18% 41% 36% 5% 20% 33% 41% 6% 17% 36% 37% 10% 43 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Affordable high-speed internet access Poor Garbage collection Excellent Good Fair Poor Drinking water Excellent Good Fair Poor Sewer services Excellent Good Fair Poor Storm water management Excellent Good Fair Poor Power (electric and/or gas) utility Excellent Good Fair Poor Utility billing Excellent Good Fair Poor Police/Sheriff services Excellent Good Fair Poor Crime prevention Excellent Good Fair Poor 6% 20% 52% 22% 8% 15% 49% 27% 3% 12% 58% 26% 3% 14% 60% 24% 2% 16% 53% 29% 9% 25% 48% 18% 6% 16% 51% 27% 25% 54% 14% 44 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Crime prevention Fair Poor Animal control Excellent Good Fair Poor Ambulance or emergency medical services Excellent Good Fair Poor Fire services Excellent Good Fair Poor Fire prevention and education Excellent Good Fair Poor Emergency preparedness Excellent Good Fair Poor Preservation of natural areas Excellent Good Fair Poor Rochester open space Excellent Good Fair Poor Recycling Excellent Good Fair 7% 5% 17% 61% 17% 1% 7% 41% 51% 1% 5% 46% 48% 4% 11% 54% 30% 9% 20% 51% 21% 11% 28% 45% 16% 10% 32% 42% 16% 48% 20% 45 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Recycling Good Fair Poor Yard waste pick-up Excellent Good Fair Poor City parks Excellent Good Fair Poor Recreation programs or classes Excellent Good Fair Poor Recreation centers or facilities Excellent Good Fair Poor Health services Excellent Good Fair Poor Public library services Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall customer service by Rochester employees Excellent Good Fair Poor Please rate the following categories of Rochester government performance. The value of services for the taxes paid to Rochester Excellent Good 9% 23% 28% 29% 33% 10% 4% 23% 52% 21% 7% 32% 47% 14% 10% 30% 47% 13% 4% 12% 43% 40% 2% 8% 45% 45% 5% 13% 56% 26% 7% 46 Please rate the following categories of Rochester government performance. The value of services for the taxes paid to Rochester Excellent Good Fair Poor The overall direction that Rochester is taking Excellent Good Fair Poor The job Rochester government does at welcoming resident involvement Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall confidence in Rochester government Excellent Good Fair Poor Generally acting in the best interest of the community Excellent Good Fair Poor Being honest Excellent Good Fair Poor Being open and transparent to the public Excellent Good Fair Poor Informing residents about issues facing the community Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 20% 34% 39% 19% 31% 42% 8% 16% 39% 38% 7% 21% 32% 39% 8% 19% 31% 41% 10% 20% 30% 40% 10% 19% 36% 37% 8% 20% 36% 36% 8% 47 Please rate the following categories of Rochester government performance. Informing residents about issues facing the community Poor Treating all residents fairly Excellent Good Fair Poor Treating residents with respect Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided by each of the following? The City of Rochester Excellent Good Fair Poor The Federal Government Excellent Good Fair Poor Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Rochester community to focus on each of the following in the coming two years. Overall economic health Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall quality of the transportation system Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall design or layout of residential and commercial areas Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall quality of the utility infrastructure Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important 22% 30% 40% 9% 14% 29% 45% 11% 8% 25% 55% 12% 22% 35% 37% 6% 2% 15% 46% 37% 4% 25% 41% 30% 3% 29% 45% 23% 15% 47% 38% 48 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Rochester community to focus on each of the following in the coming two years. Overall quality of the utility infrastructure Somewhat important Not at all important Overall feeling of safety Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall quality of natural environment Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall health and wellness opportunities Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Residents' connection and engagement with their community Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important The City of Rochester is considering changes to the ways it serves residents, to ensure easier access to Cityservices and related information. Please rate the quality of each of the following items. Ease of finding information about City services online Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of accessing information about City services via phone Excellent Good Fair 1% 2% 10% 40% 48% 1% 16% 46% 36% 2% 18% 47% 33% 3% 22% 44% 31% 4% 23% 43% 30% 2% 31% 44% 23% 10% 35% 44% 11% 37% 9% 49 The City of Rochester is considering changes to the ways it serves residents, to ensure easier access to Cityservices and related information. Please rate the quality of each of the following items. Ease of accessing information about City services via phone Good Fair Poor Ease of conducting business in-person at City Hall during current hours of operation Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of attending virtual City Council (or other) meetings Excellent Good Fair Poor To better serve residents, the City of Rochester is considering adjusting hours of operation for buildings like City Hall. Please indicate your preference, if any, for the following adjustments to these facility hours. Maintain current hours of 8am-5pm Monday through Friday Strongly prefer Somewhat prefer Do not prefer No preference New hours of 7am-530pm Monday through Thursday, closed Friday Strongly prefer Somewhat prefer Do not prefer No preference New hours of 730am-5pm Monday through Thursday, 730am-1130am Friday Strongly prefer Somewhat prefer Do not prefer No preference How much of a source, if at all, are each of the following for you for obtaining information about the City government and its activities, events, and services? City website Major source Minor source Not a source City's social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)Major source Minor source Not a source Newspaper (printed or digital)Major source Minor source Not a source Major source 17% 37% 8% 35% 46% 11% 10% 30% 46% 14% 32% 14% 22% 31% 28% 37% 18% 17% 32% 38% 19% 11% 18% 27% 55% 48% 33% 19% 47% 30% 22% 50 How much of a source, if at all, are each of the following for you for obtaining information about the City government and its activities, events, and services? Newspaper (printed or digital)Not a source Local news station programming Major source Minor source Not a source In-person visits to city facilities (e.g., City Hall, library, DSIC, RPU) Major source Minor source Not a source Community organizations (e.g., Chamber, Diversity Council, etc.) Major source Minor source Not a source In general, how many times do you:Access the internet from your home Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Access the internet from your cell phone Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Visit social media sites Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Use or check email Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Share your opinions online Several times a day Once a day A few times a week 27% 35% 38% 44% 38% 18% 60% 32% 9% 3% 2% 7% 7% 81% 6% 1% 3% 4% 86% 18% 4% 12% 17% 50% 2% 1% 6% 14% 77% 4% 7% 51 In general, how many times do you:Share your opinions online Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Shop online Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Please rate your overall health.Excellent Very good Good Fair Poor What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be: Very positive Somewhat positive Neutral Somewhat negative Very negative How many years have you lived in Rochester?Less than 2 years 2-5 years 6-10 years 11-20 years More than 20 years Which best describes the building you live in?One family house detached from any other houses Building with two or more homes (duplex, townhome, apa.. Mobile home Other Do you rent or own your home?Rent Own About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live homeowners' association (HOA) fees)? About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property insurance and homeowners' association (HOA) fees)? Less than $500 $500 to $999 $1,000 to $1,499 66% 11% 12% 14% 38% 33% 6% 9% 0% 6% 22% 42% 30% 13% 31% 42% 12% 3% 44% 17% 13% 16% 11% 1% 0% 39% 60% 68% 32% 19% 8% 52 About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property insurance, and homeowners' association (HOA) fees)? About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property insurance and homeowners' association (HOA) fees)? $500 to $999 $1,000 to $1,499 $1,500 to $1,999 $2,000 to $2,499 $2,500 to $2,999 $3,000 to $3,499 $3,500 or more Do any children 17 or under live in your household? No Yes Are you or any other members of your household aged 65 or older? No Yes How much do you anticipate your household's total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.) Less than $25,000 $25,000 to $49,999 $50,000 to $74,999 $75,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $149,999 $150,000 or more Are you Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino?Are you Spanish, Hispanic or Latino?No, not Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino Yes, I consider myself to be Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino What is your race? (Mark one or more races to indicate what race you consider yourself to be.) American Indian or Alaskan Native Asian, Asian Indian, or Pacific Islander Black or African American White Other In which category is your age?18-24 years 25-34 years 35-44 years 45-54 years 55-64 years 65-74 years 75 years or older What is your gender?Female Male 3% 3% 4% 7% 21% 35% 29% 71% 27% 73% 19% 19% 16% 20% 18% 8% 5% 95% 5% 85% 4% 7% 2% 10% 14% 11% 15% 18% 27% 6% 51% 53 What is your gender? Female Male Identify in another way 1% 47% 54 Methods (open participation) As part of its participation in The National Community Survey™ (The NCS™), the City of Rochester conducted a survey of 828 residents. Survey invitations were mailed to randomly selected households and data were collected from March 9th, 2022 to April 27th, 2022. The results from this main survey effort represent the most robust estimate of your residents’ opinions. After the above data collection period was underway, a link to an online open participation survey was publicized by the City of Rochester. The open participation survey was identical to the probability sample survey with two small updates; it included a map at the beginning asking where the respondent lives and also a question about where they heard about the survey. The open participation survey was open to all city residents and became available on April 13th, 2022. The survey remained open for two weeks and there were 221 responses. The open participation survey data were not collected through a random sample and it is unknown who in the community was aware of the survey; therefore, a level of confidence in the representativeness of the sample cannot be estimated. However, to reduce bias where possible, these data were statistically weighted to match the demographic characteristics of the 2010 Census and 2019 American Community Survey estimates for adults in the City of Rochester. The characteristics used for weighting were age, sex, race, Hispanic origin, housing type, housing tenure, and area. No adjustments were made for design effects. Weights were calculated using an iterative, multiplicative raking model known as the ANES Weighting Algorithm.* The results of the weighting scheme for the open participation survey are presented in the following table. * Pasek, J. (2010). ANES Weighting Algorithm. Retrieved from https://web.stanford.edu/group/iriss/cgi-bin/anesrake/resources/RakingDescription.pdf Unweighted Weighted Target* Age 18-34 35-54 55+ Area Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6 Hispanic No, not Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino Yes, I consider myself to be Spanish, Hispa.. Housing type Attached Detached Race Not white White Race/ethnicity Not white alone White alone, not Hispanic or Latino Sex Female Male Sex/age Female 18-34 Female 35-54 Female 55+ Male 18-34 Male 35-54 Male 55+ Tenure Own Rent 35% 32% 32% 35% 32% 32% 34% 50% 16% 17% 17% 17% 15% 18% 17% 17% 17% 17% 15% 18% 17% 17% 26% 11% 18% 15% 13% 5% 95% 4% 96% 3% 97% 61% 39% 61% 39% 85% 15% 83% 17% 83% 17% 87% 13% 79% 21% 77% 23% 81% 19% 48% 52% 48% 52% 39% 61% 16% 16% 16% 20% 16% 17% 16% 16% 16% 20% 16% 17% 17% 16% 6% 16% 35% 11% 32% 68% 32% 68% 13% 87% 55 In which Ward of Rochester do you live? (Refer to map above.) Ward 1 Ward 2 Ward 3 Ward 4 Ward 5 Ward 6 None of these/I don't live in Rochester Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester. Rochester as a place to live Excellent Good Fair Poor Your neighborhood as a place to live Excellent Good Fair Poor Rochester as a place to raise children Excellent Good Fair Poor Rochester as a place to work Excellent Good Fair Poor Rochester as a place to visit Excellent Good Fair Poor Rochester as a place to retire Excellent Good 2% 16% 16% 17% 15% 17% 16% 8% 28% 48% 16% 5% 22% 47% 26% 14% 21% 47% 18% 6% 25% 47% 21% 36% 33% 22% 9% 10% Open participation survey results This dashboard contains a complete set of responses to each question on the open participation survey. By default, "don't know" responses are excluded, but may be added to the table using the response filter to the right. When a table for a question that only permitted a single response does not total to exactly 100%, it is due to the common practice of percentages being rounded to the nearest whole number. 56 Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester. Rochester as a place to retire Excellent Good Fair Poor The overall quality of life Excellent Good Fair Poor Sense of community Excellent Good Fair Poor Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. Overall economic health Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall quality of the transportation system Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall design or layout of residential and commercial areas Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall quality of the utility infrastructure Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall feeling of safety Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall quality of natural environment Excellent Good 35% 34% 22% 9% 32% 42% 16% 27% 39% 25% 8% 10% 32% 36% 21% 18% 32% 45% 5% 18% 32% 46% 4% 9% 24% 53% 15% 11% 22% 51% 16% 11% 57 Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. Overall quality of natural environment Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall health and wellness opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Excellent Good Fair Poor Residents' connection and engagement with their community Excellent Good Fair Poor Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following. Recommend living in Rochester to someone who asks Very likely Somewhat likely Somewhat unlikely Very unlikely Remain in Rochester for the next five years Very likely Somewhat likely Somewhat unlikely Very unlikely Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: In your neighborhood during the day Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Very safe 17% 30% 43% 18% 29% 39% 14% 13% 25% 39% 23% 16% 34% 39% 11% 22% 42% 31% 6% 23% 14% 41% 22% 17% 13% 23% 46% 2% 4% 8% 22% 64% 58 Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: In your neighborhood during the day Very unsafe In Rochester's downtown/commercial area during the day Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe From property crime Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe From violent crime Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe From fire, flood, or other natural disaster Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Please rate the job you feel the Rochester community does at each of the following. Making all residents feel welcome Excellent Good Fair Poor Attracting people from diverse backgrounds Excellent Good Fair Poor Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 3% 8% 9% 27% 53% 10% 16% 12% 39% 24% 6% 11% 13% 32% 38% 0% 2% 16% 36% 46% 21% 28% 42% 9% 17% 21% 42% 20% 23% 29% 31% 18% 59 Please rate the job you feel the Rochester community does at each of the following. Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds Poor Taking care of vulnerable residents Excellent Good Fair Poor Please rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Overall quality of business and service establishments Excellent Good Fair Poor Variety of business and service establishments Excellent Good Fair Poor Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area Excellent Good Fair Poor Employment opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Shopping opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Cost of living Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall image or reputation Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 31% 34% 25% 9% 4% 28% 53% 15% 20% 31% 35% 14% 31% 36% 31% 3% 13% 24% 42% 21% 18% 33% 39% 10% 54% 25% 20% 1% 17% 22% 46% 14% 60 Please rate each of the following in the Rochester community.Overall image or reputation Poor Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Traffic flow on major streets Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of public parking Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of travel by car Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of travel by public transportation Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of travel by bicycle Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of walking Excellent Good Fair Poor Well-planned residential growth Excellent Good Fair Poor Well-planned commercial growth Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 23% 22% 42% 13% 34% 34% 23% 9% 7% 24% 43% 26% 34% 26% 33% 6% 18% 28% 38% 17% 14% 26% 37% 23% 35% 34% 22% 8% 31% 32% 28% 9% 61 Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Well-planned commercial growth Poor Well-designed neighborhoods Excellent Good Fair Poor Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community Excellent Good Fair Poor Public places where people want to spend time Excellent Good Fair Poor Variety of housing options Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of affordable quality housing Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall quality of new development Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall appearance Excellent Good Fair Poor Cleanliness Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 26% 32% 36% 6% 28% 30% 31% 11% 27% 36% 34% 4% 50% 32% 15% 3% 73% 18% 7% 2% 28% 34% 32% 6% 12% 30% 51% 7% 11% 25% 50% 14% 62 Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Cleanliness Poor Water resources Excellent Good Fair Poor Air quality Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of paths and walking trails Excellent Good Fair Poor Fitness opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Recreational opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of affordable quality food Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of affordable quality health care Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of preventive health services Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 32% 35% 26% 7% 5% 20% 51% 24% 7% 20% 41% 32% 9% 25% 41% 25% 17% 41% 29% 13% 14% 31% 42% 14% 18% 21% 31% 30% 12% 24% 31% 33% 63 Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Availability of preventive health services Poor Availability of affordable quality mental health care Excellent Good Fair Poor Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities Excellent Good Fair Poor Community support for the arts Excellent Good Fair Poor Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool Excellent Good Fair Poor K-12 education Excellent Good Fair Poor Adult educational opportunities Excellent Good Fair Poor Sense of civic/community pride Excellent Good Fair Poor Neighborliness of residents Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 34% 33% 20% 14% 28% 31% 32% 9% 19% 31% 38% 12% 41% 41% 15% 3% 23% 25% 43% 9% 11% 40% 40% 10% 22% 38% 35% 6% 19% 33% 40% 8% 64 Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Neighborliness of residents Poor Opportunities to participate in social events and activities Excellent Good Fair Poor Opportunities to attend special events and festivals Excellent Good Fair Poor Opportunities to volunteer Excellent Good Fair Poor Opportunities to participate in community matters Excellent Good Fair Poor Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse backgrounds Excellent Good Fair Poor Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. Contacted the City of Rochester for help or information No Yes Contacted Rochester elected officials to express your opinion No Yes Attended a local public meeting No Yes Watched a local public meeting No Yes Volunteered your time to some group/activity No Yes Campaigned or advocated for a local issue, cause, or candidate No Yes No 19% 35% 39% 7% 21% 37% 34% 7% 7% 29% 45% 18% 24% 32% 33% 11% 23% 32% 28% 17% 53% 47% 38% 62% 33% 67% 45% 55% 61% 39% 42% 58% 65 Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. Campaigned or advocated for a local issue, cause, or candidate Yes Voted in your most recent local election No Yes Used public transportation instead of driving No Yes Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone No Yes Walked or biked instead of driving No Yes Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Public information services Excellent Good Fair Poor Economic development Excellent Good Fair Poor Traffic enforcement Excellent Good Fair Poor Traffic signal timing Excellent Good Fair Poor Street repair Excellent Good Fair Poor Street cleaning Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 93% 7% 27% 73% 51% 49% 53% 47% 18% 36% 38% 8% 23% 39% 29% 9% 18% 30% 43% 10% 36% 28% 33% 3% 32% 33% 29% 7% 7% 31% 47% 15% 66 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Street cleaning Poor Street lighting Excellent Good Fair Poor Snow removal Excellent Good Fair Poor Sidewalk maintenance Excellent Good Fair Poor Bus or transit services Excellent Good Fair Poor Land use, planning and zoning Excellent Good Fair Poor Code enforcement Excellent Good Fair Poor Affordable high-speed internet access Excellent Good Fair Poor Garbage collection Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 10% 22% 55% 12% 15% 20% 48% 17% 19% 27% 49% 5% 23% 32% 40% 5% 41% 25% 32% 2% 32% 33% 27% 8% 19% 35% 38% 7% 10% 26% 46% 19% 67 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Garbage collection Poor Drinking water Excellent Good Fair Poor Sewer services Excellent Good Fair Poor Storm water management Excellent Good Fair Poor Power (electric and/or gas) utility Excellent Good Fair Poor Utility billing Excellent Good Fair Poor Police/Sheriff services Excellent Good Fair Poor Crime prevention Excellent Good Fair Poor Animal control Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 10% 15% 44% 30% 1% 16% 57% 26% 5% 18% 54% 23% 13% 13% 48% 25% 21% 21% 42% 16% 13% 14% 43% 31% 16% 28% 38% 17% 8% 25% 49% 18% 68 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Animal control Poor Ambulance or emergency medical services Excellent Good Fair Poor Fire services Excellent Good Fair Poor Fire prevention and education Excellent Good Fair Poor Emergency preparedness Excellent Good Fair Poor Preservation of natural areas Excellent Good Fair Poor Rochester open space Excellent Good Fair Poor Recycling Excellent Good Fair Poor Yard waste pick-up Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 2% 8% 37% 53% 0% 3% 37% 60% 5% 16% 40% 39% 8% 21% 46% 25% 24% 34% 31% 11% 24% 29% 41% 6% 18% 27% 40% 15% 40% 28% 25% 6% 69 Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Yard waste pick-up Poor City parks Excellent Good Fair Poor Recreation programs or classes Excellent Good Fair Poor Recreation centers or facilities Excellent Good Fair Poor Health services Excellent Good Fair Poor Public library services Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall customer service by Rochester employees Excellent Good Fair Poor Please rate the following categories of Rochester government performance. The value of services for the taxes paid to Rochester Excellent Good Fair Poor The overall direction that Rochester is taking Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 11% 24% 49% 15% 18% 38% 37% 7% 22% 35% 33% 10% 9% 19% 35% 37% 12% 10% 37% 42% 15% 18% 44% 23% 35% 26% 35% 3% 39% 26% 28% 6% 70 Please rate the following categories of Rochester government performance. The overall direction that Rochester is taking Poor The job Rochester government does at welcoming resident involvement Excellent Good Fair Poor Overall confidence in Rochester government Excellent Good Fair Poor Generally acting in the best interest of the community Excellent Good Fair Poor Being honest Excellent Good Fair Poor Being open and transparent to the public Excellent Good Fair Poor Informing residents about issues facing the community Excellent Good Fair Poor Treating all residents fairly Excellent Good Fair Poor Treating residents with respect Excellent Good Fair Poor Excellent 32% 36% 29% 4% 40% 25% 30% 4% 37% 24% 35% 4% 32% 28% 31% 9% 37% 28% 26% 8% 31% 33% 32% 4% 36% 34% 23% 7% 28% 28% 32% 11% 71 Please rate the following categories of Rochester government performance.Treating residents with respect Poor Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided by each of the following? The City of Rochester Excellent Good Fair Poor The Federal Government Excellent Good Fair Poor Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Rochester community to focus on each of the following in the coming two years. Overall economic health Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall quality of the transportation system Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall design or layout of residential and commercial areas Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall quality of the utility infrastructure Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall feeling of safety Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall quality of natural environment Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Essential 21% 28% 43% 8% 30% 32% 35% 3% 3% 12% 36% 49% 6% 34% 27% 34% 6% 25% 38% 31% 1% 19% 38% 42% 4% 12% 39% 45% 4% 16% 42% 38% 72 Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Rochester community to focus on each of the following in the coming two years. Overall quality of natural environment Not at all important Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall health and wellness opportunities Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important Residents' connection and engagement with their community Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important The City of Rochester is considering changes to the ways it serves residents, to ensure easier access to Cityservices and related information. Please rate the quality of each of the following items. Ease of finding information about City services online Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of accessing information about City services via phone Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of conducting business in-person at City Hall during current hours of operation Excellent Good Fair Poor Ease of attending virtual City Council (or other) meetings Excellent Good Fair Poor Strongly prefer 0% 22% 50% 28% 10% 26% 37% 27% 5% 26% 40% 30% 3% 28% 43% 26% 20% 34% 38% 9% 27% 43% 22% 8% 21% 32% 38% 9% 13% 38% 40% 9% 73 The City of Rochester is consideringchanges to the ways it servesresidents, to ensure easier access to Cityservices and related information. Please rate the quality of each of the following items. Ease of attending virtual City Council (or other) meetings Poor To better serve residents, the City of Rochester is considering adjusting hours of operation for buildings like City Hall. Please indicate your preference, if any, for the following adjustments to these facility hours. Maintain current hours of 8am-5pm Monday through Friday Strongly prefer Somewhat prefer Do not prefer No preference New hours of 7am-530pm Monday through Thursday, closed Friday Strongly prefer Somewhat prefer Do not prefer No preference New hours of 730am-5pm Monday through Thursday, 730am-1130am Friday Strongly prefer Somewhat prefer Do not prefer No preference How much of a source, if at all, are each of the following for you for obtaining information about the City government and its activities, events, and services? City website Major source Minor source Not a source City's social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)Major source Minor source Not a source Newspaper (printed or digital)Major source Minor source Not a source Local news station programming Major source Minor source Not a source In-person visits to city facilities (e.g., City Hall, library, DSIC, RPU) Major source Minor source Not a source Community organizations (e.g., Chamber, Diversity Council, etc.) Major source Minor source Not a source In general, how many times do you:Access the internet from your home Several times a day Once a day A few times a week 26% 16% 29% 30% 25% 44% 18% 13% 29% 43% 16% 12% 10% 38% 52% 27% 42% 31% 46% 35% 19% 29% 38% 33% 41% 35% 24% 48% 33% 19% 6% 82% 74 In general, how many times do you:Access the internet from your home Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Access the internet from your cell phone Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Less often or never Visit social media sites Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Use or check email Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Share your opinions online Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Shop online Several times a day Once a day A few times a week Every few weeks Less often or never Please rate your overall health.Excellent Very good Good Fair Poor What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be: Very positive Somewhat positive Neutral 5% 0% 6% 3% 4% 3% 90% 8% 1% 5% 15% 72% 4% 9% 87% 37% 22% 22% 6% 12% 13% 40% 32% 9% 7% 3% 9% 26% 36% 26% 11% 1% 75 What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be: Somewhat positive Neutral Somewhat negative Very negative How many years have you lived in Rochester?Less than 2 years 2-5 years 6-10 years 11-20 years More than 20 years Which best describes the building you live in?One family house detached from any other houses Building with two or more homes (duplex, townhome, apa.. Other Do you rent or own your home?Rent Own About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property insurance, and homeowners' association (HOA) fees)? About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property insurance and homeowners' association (HOA) fees)? Less than $500 $500 to $999 $1,000 to $1,499 $1,500 to $1,999 $2,000 to $2,499 $2,500 to $2,999 $3,000 to $3,499 $3,500 or more Do any children 17 or under live in your household?No Yes Are you or any other members of your household aged 65 or older? No Yes How much do you anticipate your household's total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.) Less than $25,000 $25,000 to $49,999 $50,000 to $74,999 $75,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $149,999 $150,000 or more Are you Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino?Are you Spanish, Hispanic or Latino?No, not Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino Yes, I consider myself to be Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino 20% 34% 34% 46% 22% 10% 14% 8% 2% 38% 59% 68% 32% 5% 1% 3% 11% 14% 34% 25% 7% 31% 69% 21% 79% 16% 16% 16% 25% 13% 13% 96% 76 Are you Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino?Are you Spanish, Hispanic or Latino? No, not Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino Yes, I consider myself to be Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino What is your race? (Mark one or more races to indicate what race you consider yourself to be.) American Indian or Alaskan Native Asian, Asian Indian, or Pacific Islander Black or African American White Other In which category is your age?18-24 years 25-34 years 35-44 years 45-54 years 55-64 years 65-74 years 75 years or older What is your gender?Female Male Identify in another way How did you hear about this survey? (Select all that apply.) The City's website The City's social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,.. Received an email from the City In a City newsletter or utility bill Received a postcard or letter from the City Nextdoor In my Facebook feed Saw it in a newspaper article or ad (hard copy or online) Saw a flyer or poster about it Heard about it from a family member, friend or neighbor Heard about it from a business or social organization in my co.. Polco's weekly email Polco social media post On my Polco feed Other 4% 11% 89% 0% 1% 5% 6% 12% 16% 13% 20% 21% 12% 5% 45% 49% 10% 6% 1% 6% 11% 5% 0% 1% 23% 1% 2% 1% 17% 28% 7% 77 Th e N a t i o n a l C o m m u n i t y S u r v e y ™ • © 2 0 0 1 -20 2 2 Na t i o n a l R e s e a r c h C e n t e r , I n c . The City of Rochester 2022 Community Survey Page 1 of 5 Please complete this survey if you are the adult (age 18 or older) in the household who most recently had a birthday (the year of birth does not matter). Your responses are confidential and no identifying information will be shared. 1. Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Rochester. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Rochester as a place to live .................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Your neighborhood as a place to live .............................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Rochester as a place to raise children ............................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Rochester as a place to work .............................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Rochester as a place to visit ................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Rochester as a place to retire.............................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 The overall quality of life in Rochester ........................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Sense of community ................................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 2. Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Rochester as a whole. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Overall economic health of Rochester ............................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Rochester ........................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Overall design or layout of Rochester’s residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) ................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Rochester (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) ........................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Overall feeling of safety in Rochester .............................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Overall quality of natural environment in Rochester............................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities ............................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Overall health and wellness opportunities in Rochester ........................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts..................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Residents’ connection and engagement with their community .......................... 1 2 3 4 5 3. Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following. Very Somewhat Somewhat Very Don’t likely likely unlikely unlikely know Recommend living in Rochester to someone who asks ....................1 2 3 4 5 Remain in Rochester for the next five years ..........................................1 2 3 4 5 4. Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel: Very Somewhat Neither safe Somewhat Very Don’t safe safe nor unsafe unsafe unsafe know In your neighborhood during the day ...................................... 1 2 3 4 5 6 In Rochester’s downtown/commercial area during the day ............................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 6 From property crime ....................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 6 From violent crime ........................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 6 From fire, flood, or other natural disaster ............................. 1 2 3 4 5 6 5. Please rate the job you feel the Rochester community does at each of the following. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Making all residents feel welcome ................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Attracting people from diverse backgrounds .............................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds ...................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Taking care of vulnerable residents (elderly, disabled, homeless, etc.) ........... 1 2 3 4 5 6. Please rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Overall quality of business and service establishments in Rochester .............. 1 2 3 4 5 Variety of business and service establishments in Rochester .............................. 1 2 3 4 5 Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area ..................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Employment opportunities ................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Shopping opportunities ........................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Cost of living in Rochester .................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Overall image or reputation of Rochester ..................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Th e N a t i o n a l C o m m u n i t y S u r v e y ™ • © 2 0 0 1 -20 2 2 Na t i o n a l R e s e a r c h C e n t e r , I n c . Page 2 of 5 7. Please also rate each of the following in the Rochester community. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Traffic flow on major streets ............................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of public parking ............................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of travel by car in Rochester ..................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of travel by public transportation in Rochester ............................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of travel by bicycle in Rochester ............................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of walking in Rochester .............................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Well-planned residential growth ...................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Well-planned commercial growth .................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Well-designed neighborhoods ........................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Preservation of the historical or cultural character of the community ............ 1 2 3 4 5 Public places where people want to spend time ........................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Variety of housing options ................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of affordable quality housing ..................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Overall quality of new development in Rochester .................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Overall appearance of Rochester ...................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Cleanliness of Rochester ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Water resources (beaches, lakes, ponds, riverways, etc.) ..................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Air quality .................................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of paths and walking trails .......................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) ... 1 2 3 4 5 Recreational opportunities .................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of affordable quality food ............................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of affordable quality health care ............................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of preventive health services ..................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of affordable quality mental health care ............................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities .......................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Community support for the arts ........................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool ............................................ 1 2 3 4 5 K-12 education .......................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Adult educational opportunities ....................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Sense of civic/community pride ........................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Neighborliness of residents in Rochester ...................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Opportunities to participate in social events and activities .................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Opportunities to attend special events and festivals ............................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Opportunities to volunteer .................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Opportunities to participate in community matters ................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse backgrounds ..................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 8. Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. No Yes Contacted the City of Rochester (in-person, phone, email, or web) for help or information........................... 1 2 Contacted Rochester elected officials (in-person, phone, email, or web) to express your opinion .............. 1 2 Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City Council or County Commissioners, advisory boards, town halls, HOA, neighborhood watch, etc.) ............................................ 1 2 Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting ............................................................................................... 1 2 Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Rochester ........................................................................................ 1 2 Campaigned or advocated for a local issue, cause, or candidate .................................................................................. 1 2 Voted in your most recent local election ................................................................................................................................ 1 2 Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving ............................................................... 1 2 Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone .............................................................................. 1 2 Walked or biked instead of driving ........................................................................................................................................... 1 2 Th e N a t i o n a l C o m m u n i t y S u r v e y ™ • © 2 0 0 1 -20 2 2 Na t i o n a l R e s e a r c h C e n t e r , I n c . The City of Rochester 2022 Community Survey Page 3 of 5 9. Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Rochester. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Public information services ............................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Economic development ..................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Traffic enforcement ............................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Traffic signal timing ............................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Street repair ........................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Street cleaning ....................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Street lighting ........................................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Snow removal ........................................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Sidewalk maintenance ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Bus or transit services ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Land use, planning, and zoning ...................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) ...................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Affordable high-speed internet access ....................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Garbage collection ............................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Drinking water ...................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Sewer services ....................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) .................... 1 2 3 4 5 Power (electric and/or gas) utility ............................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Utility billing .......................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Police/Sheriff services ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Crime prevention ................................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Animal control ....................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Ambulance or emergency medical services ............................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Fire services ........................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Fire prevention and education ....................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations) ..................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) ..... 1 2 3 4 5 Rochester open space ........................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 Recycling .................................................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Yard waste pick-up .............................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 City parks ................................................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Recreation programs or classes .................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Recreation centers or facilities ...................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Health services ...................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Public library services ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Overall customer service by Rochester employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.) ..................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 10. Please rate the following categories of Rochester government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know The value of services for the taxes paid to Rochester .......................................... 1 2 3 4 5 The overall direction that Rochester is taking ........................................................ 1 2 3 4 5 The job Rochester government does at welcoming resident involvement ....................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Overall confidence in Rochester government ......................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Generally acting in the best interest of the community ...................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Being honest ........................................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Being open and transparent to the public ................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Informing residents about issues facing the community ................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Treating all residents fairly ............................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 Treating residents with respect .................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Th e N a t i o n a l C o m m u n i t y S u r v e y ™ • © 2 0 0 1 -20 2 2 Na t i o n a l R e s e a r c h C e n t e r , I n c . Page 4 of 5 11. Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided by each of the following? Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know The City of Rochester ......................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 The Federal Government .................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5 12. Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Rochester community to focus on each of the following in the coming two years. Very Somewhat Not at all Essential important important important Overall economic health of Rochester ...............................................................................1 2 3 4 Overall quality of the transportation system (auto, bicycle, foot, bus) in Rochester ..............................................................................................................................1 2 3 4 Overall design or layout of Rochester’s residential and commercial areas (e.g., homes, buildings, streets, parks, etc.) .....................................................1 2 3 4 Overall quality of the utility infrastructure in Rochester (water, sewer, storm water, electric/gas, broadband) ..........................................1 2 3 4 Overall feeling of safety in Rochester .................................................................................1 2 3 4 Overall quality of natural environment in Rochester..................................................1 2 3 4 Overall quality of parks and recreation opportunities ...............................................1 2 3 4 Overall health and wellness opportunities in Rochester ...........................................1 2 3 4 Overall opportunities for education, culture, and the arts........................................1 2 3 4 Residents’ connection and engagement with their community .............................1 2 3 4 13. The City of Rochester is considering changes to the ways it serves residents, to ensure easier access to City services and related information. Please rate the quality of each of the following items. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know Ease of finding information about City services online ....................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of accessing information about City services via phone ........................... 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of conducting business in-person at City Hall during current hours of operation ........................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5 Ease of attending virtual City Council (or other) meetings ............................... 1 2 3 4 5 14. To better serve residents, the City of Rochester is considering adjusting hours of operation for buildings like City Hall. Please indicate your preference, if any, for the following adjustments to these facility hours. Strongly Somewhat Do not No prefer prefer prefer preference Maintain current hours of 8am-5pm Monday through Friday ..................... 1 2 3 4 New hours of 7am-5:30pm Monday through Thursday, closed Friday .... 1 2 3 4 New hours of 7:30am-5pm Monday through Thursday, 7:30am-11:30am Friday ........................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 15. How much of a source, if at all, are each of the following for you for obtaining information about the City government and its activities, events, and services? Major Minor Not a source source source City website ............................................................................................................................................. 1 2 3 City’s social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) ............................................................... 1 2 3 Newspaper (printed or digital) ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 Local news station programming .................................................................................................. 1 2 3 In-person visits to city facilities (e.g., City Hall, library, DSIC, RPU) ............................... 1 2 3 Community organizations (e.g., Chamber, Diversity Council, etc.).................................. 1 2 3 Th e N a t i o n a l C o m m u n i t y S u r v e y ™ • © 2 0 0 1 -20 2 2 Na t i o n a l R e s e a r c h C e n t e r , I n c . The City of Rochester 2022 Community Survey Page 5 of 5 Our last questions are about you and your household. Again, all of your responses to this survey are confidential and no identifying information will be shared. D1. In general, how many times do you: Several Once A few times Every Less often Don’t times a day a day a week few weeks or never know Access the internet from your home using a computer, laptop, or tablet computer ......................1 2 3 4 5 6 Access the internet from your cell phone .......................1 2 3 4 5 6 Visit social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, etc. .......................................................1 2 3 4 5 6 Use or check email ....................................................................1 2 3 4 5 6 Share your opinions online ...................................................1 2 3 4 5 6 Shop online ..................................................................................1 2 3 4 5 6 D2. Please rate your overall health.  Excellent  Very good  Good  Fair  Poor D3. What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be:  Very positive  Somewhat positive  Neutral  Somewhat negative  Very negative D4. How many years have you lived in Rochester?  Less than 2 years  2-5 years  6-10 years  11-20 years  More than 20 years D5. Which best describes the building you live in?  One family house detached from any other houses  Building with two or more homes (duplex, townhome, apartment, or condominium)  Mobile home  Other D6. Do you rent or own your home?  Rent  Own D7. About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property insurance, and homeowners’ association (HOA) fees)?  Less than $500  $2,000 to $2,499  $500 to $999  $2,500 to $2,999  $1,000 to $1,499  $3,000 to $3,499  $1,500 to $1,999  $3,500 or more D8. Do any children 17 or under live in your household?  No  Yes D9. Are you or any other members of your household aged 65 or older?  No  Yes D10. How much do you anticipate your household’s total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.)  Less than $25,000  $75,000 to $99,999  $25,000 to $49,999  $100,000 to $149,999  $50,000 to $74,999  $150,000 or more D11. Are you Spanish, Hispanic or Latino?  No, not Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino  Yes, I consider myself to be Spanish, Hispanic, or Latino D12. What is your race? (Mark one or more races to indicate what race you consider yourself to be.)  American Indian or Alaskan Native  Asian, Asian Indian, or Pacific Islander  Black or African American  White  Other D13. In which category is your age?  18-24 years  55-64 years  25-34 years  65-74 years  35-44 years  75 years or older  45-54 years D14. What is your gender?  Female  Male  Identify in another way Thank you! Please return the completed survey in the postage-paid envelope to: National Research Center, Inc., PO Box 549, Belle Mead, NJ 08502