Waukesha is on a quest to measure its livability, turning once again to the National Community Survey. Designed to capture the desires and sentiments of residents across various aspects of city life, from the economy to parks and recreation, the National Community Survey has been a pivotal tool for local governments, including Waukesha's, to gauge the pulse of their communities. According to the city's official website, the City of Waukesha survey is developed by the experts at the National Research Center at Polco.
The 2026 installment of the survey is especially noteworthy, not solely because it marks another year of Waukesha's commitment to continuous improvement, but because it offers an opportunity for engagement widely, randomly inviting selected households in the coming weeks to add their voice. A community-wide survey will follow for those not initially chosen, illustrating the city's dedication to inclusive civic participation, said the City of Waukesha's announcement.
Polco, the company tasked with facilitating this year's survey, is known for its focus on privacy and data integration, aiming to build stronger communities through engagement. The NCS, endorsed by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), stands apart as a tool used by over 500 local government agencies, offering insights and benchmark comparisons for participating localities. Not only does it measure present sentiments, but it also enables Waukesha to track trends over time across key facets of livability.
The importance of resident feedback cannot be overstated; it shapes decision-making and prioritization at the city level. In previous years, reports from the survey, notably the 2022 and 2024 results, have provided actionable insights. Wanting to understand its community's needs better, the City of Waukesha has funded the research, as Rebecca Pederson of the City of Waukesha conveyed the survey's significance in an official statement.
Residents are encouraged to watch the City of Waukesha's social media channels and email newsletters for announcements regarding the National Community Survey. Participation will shape the community's trajectory, ensuring Waukesha remains not just habitable but a place people truly desire to call home.
