Dubuque's Office of Shared Prosperity outlines comprehensive poverty reduction strategies

Dubuque's commitment to combating poverty took center stage during the City Council's FY 2026 Budget Meeting on April 3, 2025. Anderson Sainci, director of the Office of Shared Prosperity and Neighborhood Support, highlighted the city's ongoing efforts to address economic challenges faced by residents, emphasizing the importance of community partnerships and data-driven strategies.

Sainci began by acknowledging the collaborative spirit of the city, thanking the city manager and the budget department for their support. He stressed the need for strong partnerships, not only with established organizations but also with new community members, to create a more inclusive economic and social environment. "No one's coming to save Dubuque. The people that we need are right here in our community," he stated, underscoring the local responsibility to uplift residents.

The meeting also revisited the city's comprehensive plan, which identified poverty as a top priority following extensive community engagement. Sainci shared insights from a consultant's report that outlined promising practices to alleviate poverty, including the transformation of the neighborhood development department into the Office of Shared Prosperity. This shift aims to enhance the city's focus on poverty prevention and community empowerment.

Key initiatives discussed included the Employment Empowerment Expo, which connects residents with job opportunities and resources, and the ongoing collaboration with local nonprofits to provide essential services. Sainci noted the importance of data collection in understanding community needs and improving service delivery, mentioning a recent health needs assessment that engaged residents to identify health equity issues.

The city has also made strides in increasing neighborhood association participation and enhancing grant opportunities for community projects. Sainci reported that the department has successfully expanded the number of neighborhood associations and increased funding for community initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to grassroots involvement.

Looking ahead, Sainci expressed a desire to update the poverty prevention plan with concrete actions tailored to Dubuque's unique context. He emphasized the need for a unified approach to service delivery, aiming to create a "one-stop shop" for residents seeking assistance across various city services.

As the meeting concluded, Sainci reiterated the city's dedication to listening to its residents and adapting strategies to meet their needs. The collaborative efforts highlighted during the meeting reflect Dubuque's proactive stance in addressing poverty and fostering a supportive community environment.