Before port supporters jump for joy or port naysayers weigh in on the quantity of surveys or question the methodology of the process, let’s discuss what the survey is and what it isn’t. First, a little background. As some port district members are aware, the port comprehensive plan is a strategic roadmap that the port staff and commission periodically update in order to fulfill the mission of the port and adjust direction and focus as the community, economy and demographics shift over time. It is an ongoing process with continual updates as needed. Think of it like a ship adjusting its rudder to steer its course safely and efficiently through the channel of a river. That said, the recent survey results, announced yesterday, are an important part of this information gathering process. However, the survey itself is just one of the tools and outreach efforts the port uses to gather citizen input. To be sure, citizen input is always welcome and necessary as part of the public process. That’s one reason for creating this blog! However, gathering citizen input, on any subject is an ongoing process. Often citizens will communicate via e-mail, letters, verbal conversations, meetings, interviews, focus groups, public forums, community group presentations, bi-weekly commission meetings, phone calls, open houses, particularly when there is an issue or a concern. Rest assured that there will be more surveys and research efforts designed to encourage and solicit citizen input, since it is a never ending process. It requires a constant effort to reach out to local citizens–as most politicians know. Consider the recent election results: of the 23,000 registered voters in the port district, only 43 percent of voters participated, approximately 8,500 people voted in the port district races. The voter turnout percentages closely match the rest of Clark County and the State of Washington. While we may not be able to solve the problem of voter apathy or the general decline of citizens engaged in the public process, we are using new tools and techniques to encourage and strengthen the public process, through surveys, open houses and public meetings. And we will continue to do so. Your feedback, as always, is welcomed and encouraged! Now, if you want to see the full results of the community survey, click on the port Web site at www.portcw.com and follow the links! If you would like to comment, do it right here!
