Survey seeks city's priorities

SANDPOINT — A few minutes of time from local residents could make their community a better place, according to Sandpoint City Planner Jeremy Grimm.

The city recently sent out 1,200 surveys to locals as the first stage of a rural improvement program. Based on a collaboration with Idaho Rural Partnership, the community review will help city officials identify priorities for improvement in the coming years. By filling out the survey and mailing it back in the provided pre-stamped envelope, residents can help provide the initial data for the project, Grimm said. The deadline to respond to the survey is Monday, Aug. 19.

“This is really important because the city, along with community partners, residents and business, needs to have a path to follow in regards to how we tackle the challenges of downtown revitalization, economic development and development of policies that will ensure the sustainability of our community for future generations,” Grimm said.

A simple two-page, three-part document, the survey asks questions about local satisfaction with the local economy, public services like the SPOT bus system, availability of housing and more.

It also carries a special focus on the downtown, evaluating what attracts residents to the region and what discourages them from visiting. Finally, the survey will evaluate what qualities are important to maintain the city’s quality of living.

The surveys will serve as a foundation for a more involved process Sept. 17-19.

During that time period, around 18 community and economic professionals will visit town to listen to local officials and residents, offer suggestions and evaluate strengths and weaknesses.

 All of the collected information will then be focused into three areas: economic development, downtown revitalization and sustainability policies.

Idaho Rural Partnership selected Sandpoint for the project after Grimm applied for consideration in January. A specialized board established by Idaho statute, Idaho Rural Partnership is made up 36 individuals who work to improve economic and social conditions in rural communities.

 The organization has conducted 29 community reviews so far, making Sandpoint the 30th.  

“Their skilled team consistently provides communities with a clear understanding of what the shared vision is and who, how and what can be done to implement it,” Grimm said.

“This is truly a grassroots effort resulting in a document that will guide us into the future.”