During the recent Bartlesville City Council meeting, a significant presentation was made regarding the results of a community-wide survey conducted by Polco, a national community engagement platform. The survey, part of the Bartlesville Next strategic plan, aimed to gather resident feedback on various aspects of city life, including public safety, infrastructure, and local government services.

Kelsey Walker, the city’s communications and marketing manager, introduced the survey findings, emphasizing the importance of resident input in guiding future city planning. The survey, which took place in March and April 2025, reached thousands of households and yielded 390 completed responses, representing a 12% response rate. This response rate is considered typical for a community of Bartlesville's size, with a margin of error of plus or minus 5%.

Jason Neumeier, the director of survey research at Polco, presented the key findings, which highlighted both strengths and areas for improvement within the community. Notably, approximately 70% of residents rated the overall customer service provided by city employees as excellent or good. Additionally, perceptions of safety were strong, with 90% of residents feeling safe in their neighborhoods during the day.

However, the survey also revealed opportunities for growth, particularly in the local economy. While 60% of residents rated the quality of business and service establishments positively, only about 40% felt positively about the city's overall economic health. Furthermore, access to health and wellness resources was identified as an area needing improvement, with only half of residents rating these opportunities positively.

Transportation was another focal point, with nearly 90% of residents satisfied with car travel ease, though public transportation ratings were notably lower, indicating a potential area for development. Lastly, while residents valued education and recreation, there was a desire for stronger programs in these areas.

The survey results will serve as a critical tool for the city council as they plan for the future, helping to prioritize initiatives that align with resident needs and expectations. The council is expected to discuss these findings further in upcoming meetings, aiming to address the identified gaps and enhance the overall quality of life in Bartlesville.