information from the WCCDA

White Center community members identified safety and housing, among other topics, as top community priorities in the 2016 White Center Community Survey.

The survey was conducted by the White Center Community Development Association in March and April 2016. A total of 590 community members completed the survey, including 158 middle and high school students.

When asked what issues community organizations should focus on to improve White Center, 54% of adults and 49% of youth identified safety as a top priority. Suggestions to improve safety included strengthening drug prevention, making public spaces more clean and inviting, increasing police presence, and expanding community-oriented policing programs. “Stronger internal family support, gang culture alternatives, safe drug use sites, decriminalizing minor drug use, infrastructure for individual empowerment,” one resident wrote.

Housing emerged as a number two priority, with 40% of both adults and youth identifying housing as a top issue. Suggestions to address housing concerns included implementing policies to control cost and prevent displacement, expanding supportive services for people who are homeless, and enforcing housing quality standards. As one resident wrote, “Maybe start a small-funds program to help folks maintain their homes/properties and/or attract additional development for affordable housing.”

Of those surveyed, 37% of adults and 62% of youth reported they know “Nothing” about possible White Center annexation. These data highlight the need for community outreach so residents can make an informed choice if an annexation vote goes to the ballot.

For the full survey report and infographic, visit the White Center Promise data page:http://whitecenterpromise.org/data/.

The White Center Community Development Association (CDA) is a community-based nonprofit organization that promotes a vibrant neighborhood and high quality of life for White Center residents and stakeholders through neighborhood revitalization, family development, and community building. Learn more at www.wccda.org or the WCCDA Facebook page.