Commission raises concerns about survey methodology and seeks meeting with city leadership before May presentation

Commissioners devoted a substantial portion of the April 3 meeting to the recent community assessment conducted by the consultant Rhema (referred to in the meeting transcript). Several commissioners said the consultant’s raw survey data appeared skewed and underrepresentative of Huber Heights’ racial and ethnic diversity.

Some commissioners pointed to question responses that suggested a large share of respondents were unaware of the commission’s existence or thought the commission was unnecessary. One founding commissioner, Jean, said the survey was highly biased and “so skewed that it cannot be taken seriously,” and urged a formal discussion with city leadership before the consultant gives a final presentation to council in May.

Staff acknowledged shortcomings in outreach and said the city will take responsibility for marketing shortfalls. Jeffrey said he would request a meeting with city leadership and the mayor’s office so commission representatives, staff and elected officials could discuss the raw data and determine next steps before the final May presentation.

Commissioners discussed several possible responses: request a sit-down with the city manager and assistant city managers plus council leadership; draft a commission recommendation about the validity of the data and the need for additional outreach investment; or propose a follow-up assessment with adjusted outreach and additional budget to reach underrepresented groups.

Some commissioners urged a grassroots approach for future work — door-to-door outreach, engagement with community leaders, and more visible in-person presence at events — to improve participation in future surveys and better reflect the city’s diversity.

Staff said he would email city leadership to request a meeting and provide proposed dates; commissioners asked that meeting occur before the consultant’s May presentation. The commission agreed to await staff’s scheduling update by email and to prepare to present recommendations should city leadership request them.

Commissioners also discussed how the raw data fit with the commission’s broader work, including Juneteenth and the Multicultural Festival; several members said they still intend to proceed with event planning while also seeking clarity on the commission’s role and support from city leadership.