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Library presents community-survey results showing concerns about inclusion, youth services and water quality
Summary
Mount Angel’s librarian summarized input from dozens of groups and nearly 150 teen responses showing priorities that include better communication and internet access, more youth activities and concern about water taste and access to low-cost filters.
The Mount Angel library presented results of a community-conversation survey that asked residents and teens about priorities for the city. Jackie, the librarian, told council she gathered responses from the council, the library advisory board, middle- and high-school students (nearly 150 teen responses), homeschool parents, the Friends of the Library and the Chamber of Commerce.
The outreach divided responses into six categories: information access, health, community culture, economy, family support and infrastructure. Adults emphasized economic development, infrastructure and family support; teens emphasized family support, community culture and practical amenities such as a laundromat, skatepark or full basketball court. Jackie said she omitted responses on COVID-19 and items already resolved and that the raw data can be shared with council.
Respondents raised equity and inclusion concerns: adults asked for stronger minority representation and festivals that welcome BIPOC residents rather than relying solely on Bavarian-themed Oktoberfest events; teens described feeling judged or excluded. Water quality emerged as a notable infrastructure concern: respondents requested better-tasting water or access to low-cost filtration options.
Jackie offered to provide the full spreadsheet of results and suggested staff could present highlights or positives in written form at the next meeting. Councilors expressed interest in prioritizing projects for teens (such as a skatepark or basketball court), asking staff to return with the raw data and recommended next steps for the budget process.
The presentation will inform strategic planning and budget priorities in the coming cycle, per council direction.
