Consultant presents Westmont survey, finds public safety and affordability top priorities

Corey, a CP2 consultant, told the Westmont Village Board on Jan. 8 that the village’s resident survey and six focus groups produced clear priorities and trade-offs to guide the village’s strategic plan. "Ninety‑one percent identified themselves as a resident of Westmont," Corey said, noting the survey collected 567 responses and was not a statistically valid random sample.

The consultant said public safety and affordability scored highest among respondents and that downtown vibrancy, infrastructure constraints and the railroad tracks emerged repeatedly in focus groups. "Public safety is at 97%," Corey said, calling that figure "a big old pat on the back" for Westmont but advising the board to examine areas where trust and openness could be strengthened.

Corey summarized recurring themes flagged in focus groups: a small‑town feel and community events were valued, while traffic congestion, parking, walkability and the railroad tracks were seen as barriers to cohesion and downtown vitality. The presentation included a follow‑on narrative report and slides; Corey said the village would receive detailed focus‑group transcripts and an executive summary for board review.

Mayor Nero and trustees thanked the consultant and noted the material will inform an upcoming strategic‑planning session where the board will be asked to set priorities and resource targets.

The consultant recommended the board review the full narrative report and use the highlights presentation to prepare for a workshop to set strategic priorities.