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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 19, 2025
The National Community Survey will gather resident input to inform budget decisions and strategic initiatives
PORT ORCHARD, Wash.–Kitsap County has launched The National Community Survey, inviting all residents to share their input on County services, quality of life, and community priorities. This marks the first time in two decades that the County has conducted a comprehensive resident survey, making it a historic opportunity for community members to directly influence local government decisions.
Why Your Input Matters Now
As Kitsap County faces an $8 million budget shortfall, resident feedback has never been more critical. The survey results will directly inform how County leaders prioritize services and allocate resources during these challenging financial times.
What the Survey Covers
The National Community Survey examines key aspects of life in Kitsap County, including:
- Transportation systems - traffic flow, public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian infrastructure
- Public safety services - police, fire, emergency medical services, and crime prevention
- Economic development - job opportunities, business climate, and economic health
- Housing and development - availability, affordability, and community design
- Environmental quality - natural resources, air and water quality, parks, and open spaces
- Utilities and infrastructure - water, sewer, storm water, broadband, and utilities
- Government performance - customer service, transparency, and value for tax dollars
- Community engagement - civic participation and neighborhood connections
Two Ways to Participate
The survey uses a two-phase approach to ensure broad community representation:
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Random Sample (Currently Underway) About 4,000 randomly selected households received survey invitations by mail. These responses provide a statistically representative sample of the community and responses are already being collected.
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Open Participation (Now Through Sept. 8) All Kitsap County residents age 18 and older can now participate online at polco.us/kitsapcounty2025.
The survey takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete, and all responses are completely anonymous. Polco, the survey provider, maintains strict privacy protections, and no identifying information will be shared. Personal data is securely stored and protected according to industry best practices.
What Happens Next
Survey data collection continues through Sept. 8, 2025. Following the close of the survey, the National Research Center will analyze the results and provide a comprehensive report showing:
- How residents rate various aspects of community life and county services
- What issues matter most to the community
- How Kitsap County compares to other similar communities nationwide
- Trends and patterns in resident feedback
The report will be shared with the County to inform the budget development process and strategic initiatives.
Get Involved
This is your opportunity to help shape the future of Kitsap County. Whether you're concerned about transportation, public safety, economic development, or environmental protection, your voice matters in guiding how the county moves forward during these pivotal times.
The more residents who participate, the stronger the data will be to inform county decisions and advocate for our community's needs. Don't miss this chance to make your voice heard.
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About The National Community Survey
Developed by National Research Center at Polco, The National Community Survey is used by more than 500 local government agencies nationwide and is endorsed by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). The standardized questionnaire allows Kitsap County to:
- Compare performance with other communities across the country
- Track trends and changes over time
- Identify community strengths and areas for improvement
- Make data-driven decisions based on resident priorities
About Kitsap County
Located in Washington, Kitsap County is home to over 270,000 residents across 566 square miles, making it the seventh-most populated county in the state. Bordered by the Hood Canal and Puget Sound, Kitsap offers residents, businesses, and visitors stunning natural beauty and a unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm. The county includes the cities of Bremerton, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and Bainbridge Island, as well as many unincorporated communities.
Kitsap County is led by a three-member Board of Commissioners that is committed to providing high-quality services and amenities that enhance the quality of life for all residents while fostering economic growth, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.
For more information about Kitsap County services and initiatives, visit www.kitsap.gov or follow us on social media @KitsapWa.
Connect with us
Stay informed about the latest news from Kitsap County. Visit our website, follow us on social media, or sign up for our updates.
Links in this document
The National Community Survey: https://info.polco.us/platform/benchmark-surveys/national-community-survey
polco.us/kitsapcounty2025: polco.us/kitsapcounty2025
help@kitsap1.com: help@kitsap1.com
Kitsap County: www.kitsap.gov
@KitsapWA: www.facebook.com/KitsapWa
Website: www.kitsap.gov
Sign up for our updates: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAKITSAP/subscriber/new
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