MISSOULA — Some residents from each of Missoula’s six wards will have a chance to voice their opinions on a range of local issues, including the quality of life and services provided by local government.

City officials said the recent message is not a scam, as some might think. Rather, it is a “legitimate professional survey” conducted on behalf of the city.

All residents can now participate in the survey online.

“I want to encourage people to participate in this survey,” said Mayor Andrea Davis. “It’s important to learn from our constituents’ perspective and I look forward to hearing their thoughts.”

The city has conducted a number of surveys in the past, including in 2018, that found housing, taxes and spending to be the top three challenges facing the city. In 2021, the survey found that housing remained the top issue, but homelessness and the cost of living moved behind.

Asked about residents’ satisfaction with various city services, the 2021 survey also found that parks and trails, as well as fire and police services, scored high. But access to mental health, permitting, traffic management, childcare and housing affordability all scored low in satisfaction levels.

The city said randomly selected households should have received a survey invitation in the mail with instructions in recent weeks. All residents will have the opportunity to share their views as the survey becomes available to the entire community.

“The National Community Survey is a great way for us to learn more about what our residents need and want,” said Eric Hallstrom, Chief Operations Officer for the City of Missoula. “It will also help us make smarter, data-driven decisions.”

Hallstrom said the 2024 National Community Survey was developed by Polco’s National Research Center, a leader in civic engagement and polling.

The probability-based survey will allow the city to collect statistically valid information about residents’ views on the economy, community design, utilities, safety, the natural environment, engagement and transportation.

The survey will be available to the entire community until December 4th.

“By participating, Missoula residents can share their thoughts on important topics like the local economy, transportation, safety and how we stay connected as a community,” Hallstrom said. “Their input will play an important role in shaping the future of our city.”