Students in Western Kentucky University’s Master of Public Administration program are collecting public input through a Quality of Life survey focused on Owensboro, aiming to gather opinions on local government performance and current policy discussions, such as accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
The project is overseen by Dr. Joel Turner, professor of political science and MPA program coordinator. He said the effort grew out of a research methods course that includes several city employees enrolled in the program.
“I could have easily just given them data to analyze, but I thought it would be a good idea to do a survey of the City of Owensboro,” Turner said. “It accomplishes a couple things — it gives students experience collecting real data, and it produces something useful I can turn over to city officials.”
Turner said while some city personnel provided input on questions, particularly related to ADUs, the survey is not tied to any advocacy effort.
“I’m not advocating for anything,” he said. “The city’s not pushing one thing or the other. This is just information gathering.”
The survey includes questions on quality of life, government transparency, and services such as road maintenance and parking. A “pretty lengthy section,” Turner said, is devoted to ADUs. Turner said responses will be compiled into a report.
“I’ll write it up and give it to the city,” he said. “I’m also willing to come to a meeting and present it if they want.”
He encouraged residents to take part, especially those who feel their voice isn’t often heard.
“A lot of people feel like they don’t have time to go to a public meeting,” he said. “You can take 5 to 10 minutes and take the survey and make your voice heard.”
The voluntary survey is open through Sunday. It can be accessed here.
