Communication Within Community and With Broader Community

Information (22 Responses)

• Increase communication: current, widespread, variety of methods
• Open lines of communication rather than select few being asked and heard
• Dispel myths about West Des Moines
• Inform families of resources – especially those with low income
• Publicize service learning opportunities
• Explain “why” cities do what they do
• Give more information on city financial decisions
• Acknowledge that there are people in need in West Des Moines
• Ask Register to cover district boundaries in special suburban sections
• People complain about what they don’t understand

Collaboration and Involvement (17 Responses)

• Be a better neighbor to Des Moines
• Develop west-side cooperation as driving force in metro
• Need real dialogue on regional issues and how to solve them
• Try multi-community activities
• Reach out and combat West Des Moines elitist view
• Address difficulty between suburbs and Des Moines
• Hold progressive dinners across metro
• Create permanent Westside cooperation council
• Motivate citizen involvement to solve problems and address public issues

Relationship Building (17 Responses)

• We have too much disparity
• Need to build community conversations among ethnic groups, various community groups, neighbors
• Build community spirit (Flood of 1993 spirit)
• Need to “get on same page”
• Increase civility, manners – especially when we disagree
• Establish priorities across the county
• Make new people feel welcome
• Address issues through dialogue
• Build trust through conversations and engagement