COLUMBIA, MO (April 7, 2011) -

A random sample of 800 Columbia households will receive surveys over the next few days, seeking views on a wide range of city services and issues. To make sure that the city’s priorities are in step with the needs of Columbia residents, every response counts.

Surveys should start arriving at homes by mail this week. The return address on the envelope will be that ofETCInstitute, which also conducted citizen surveys in 2003, 2005 and 2007.

The surveys will include postage-paid return envelopes, and individual responses will remain confidential. To encourage participation, ETC Institute will make reminder calls a few days after the surveys are mailed. Citizens can respond to the survey during that call, if they wish, or they may complete the survey online at www.Columbia2011Survey.org.

Every citizen who responds to the survey helps move Columbia forward. Some of the responses provide a report card on city services, such as public safety, utilities and other day-to-day operations. Other responses reflect the public’s priorities for the future.

Some survey questions have been consistent since 2003. This year’s survey also seeks deeper input on several issues, including:

• code enforcement and neighborhood services;
• customer service from city employees;
• communication effectiveness and personal preferences; and
• stormwater issues.

The survey period will end in mid-May. ETC Institute will share the results in a public session at the City Council’s retreat in early June.