HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 2310-21751.Presentation of the 2023 Annual Community Survey Results Presentation
City Council
Staff Report
From: City Manager
Report Type: STUDY SESSION
Lead Department: City Manager
Meeting Date: December 4, 2023
Report #:2310-2175
TITLE
Presentation of the 2023 Annual Community Survey Results
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council receive the Report of Results for the 2023 City of Palo
Alto Community Survey by Polco/National Research Center, Inc (Polco).
BACKGROUND
Since 2003, the City has annually or biennially conducted a community survey to gain insights
into residents’ perspectives about the community, including local amenities, services, public
trust, resident participation, and other aspects of the community. Survey information is used to
support budgeting, land use and strategic planning, and communication efforts with the
community. This report summarizes the latest survey conducted starting August 11, 2023,
through September 24, 2023.
ANALYSIS
The City takes pride in delivering outstanding programs and services to the community. An
essential gauge of community satisfaction is through polling. The data obtained from these
surveys serves as a valuable reference point for setting City Council priorities. City staff utilizes
this information to assess programs, services and shaping performance metrics during the
annual budget process.
The National Community Survey is one of several methods employed to engage the community
and evaluate the perceived quality of City services. This year's response rate was 17%, totaling
603 responses—an improvement from last year’s 398 responses. While historically responses
have hovered around 750, or about 23%, this year's 17% response rate, although lower,
remains statistically significant. It also aligns with the typical range observed in other
jurisdictions, which falls between a 12% to 20% response rate. Following last year's historically
low numbers, the City implemented a few changes to enhance participation. These changes
included adjusting survey timing to avoid summer and winter breaks, providing multiple
translation options (Simplified Chinese and Spanish), and implementing improvements to the
online survey format.
A few highlights in the Key Findings section based on respondent perspectives of the report are
provided below, as well as a summary of notable circumstances that may have affected the
results.
Palo Alto residents continue to rate their quality of life highly.
•About 9 in 10 residents rated Palo Alto, as well as their neighborhood, as an excellent or
good place to live. More than 8 in 10 residents highly rated the overall quality of life in
Palo Alto, the city as a place to work, and the city as a place to raise children. These
ratings were on par with previous years except for Palo Alto as a place to work, which
was rated higher in 2023 than 2022. This rating was also higher than the national
benchmark.
•More than 7 in 10 residents gave high marks to the city as a place to visit, which was
similar to previous years.
•More than half of residents rated Palo Alto as a place to retire as excellent or good. This
rating was higher in 2023 compared to 2022.
•While fewer residents in 2023 indicated that they were likely to remain in Palo Alto for
the next five years (77% very or somewhat likely), this rating remained similar to the
national benchmark.
•More than three-quarters of residents indicated that they would recommend living in
the city to someone who asked, which was similar to previous years and the national
benchmark.
•Nine in 10 residents would recommend Palo Alto’s libraries to friends, on par with
previous years.
While residents were highly satisfied with many City services, they indicate there were areas
for improvement with utilities.
•At least 9 in 10 residents gave excellent or good ratings to fire emergency services, Palo
Alto open space, City parks, public library services (e.g., hold requests, storytimes, teen
events, bookclubs), library facilities (buildings, computer equipment, accessibility),
ambulance or emergency medical services, and the variety of library materials (books, e-
books, streaming, databases, audiobooks). These ratings were similar to those given in
previous years. Palo Alto open space was rated much higher than the national
benchmark, and City parks were rated higher than the benchmark.
•More than 8 in 10 survey respondents positively rated sewer services, refuse collection
(garbage, recycling, yard waste, and e-waste), drinking water, utility payment options,
recreation centers or facilities, police services, the preservation of natural areas (open
space, farmlands, and greenbelts), recreation programs or classes, and art programs and
theater. All ratings were similar when compared to 2022, except for recreation centers
or facilities (higher in 2023), and art programs and theater (lower in 2023). Drinking
water, recreation centers or facilities, utility payment options, recreation centers, and
the preservation of natural areas were all rated higher than the national benchmarks.
•More than 8 in 10 residents positively rated the reliability of utility services and utilities
online customer self-service features, both on par with previous years.
•A number of utility-related questions were rated lower in 2023 compared to 2022,
including community value received from the City owning and operating its own
municipal utility services (79% excellent or good), speed of response after contacting
Utilities department staff (72%), value of Palo Alto Utilities’ customer communications
(72%), working hard to keep utilities prices competitive (56%), and the affordability of
utility services (51%).
Several unprecedented natural events and gas price hikes made 2023 a challenging year for its
customers. The City purchases natural gas at market prices and passes that cost through to
customers each month. Last winter market prices in the Western US spiked to unprecedented
levels and customers experienced very high bills for December and January usage. State and
federal investigations regarding the price spikes are underway. In September 2023, Council
approved a change in the gas purchasing strategy for the upcoming winter to include insurance
which will provide some mitigation against any unanticipated price spikes.
Additionally, low amounts of hydroelectric generation during the drought, increased
transmission costs related to wildfires and the need to accommodate more renewable energy
projects in the West, and Palo Alto’s climate-forward programs such as grid modernization all
put upward pressure on electric rates. Nonetheless, Palo Alto continues to offer competitive
electric rates, 25-50% below PG&E, depending on usage and rate class.
Ratings for Palo Alto government are on the rise.
•More than 6 in 10 residents gave Palo Alto high marks for treating residents with
respect, being honest, treating all residents fairly, and informing residents about issues
facing the community.
•Nearly 6 in 10 rated the value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto and the City
being open and transparent to the public as excellent or good. All other aspects of
government performance were positively rated by at least half of residents.
•Most aspects of government performance were rated higher in 2023 compared to 2022.
These aspects included being honest, treating all residents fairly, informing residents
about issues facing the community, the value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto,
the job Palo Alto does at welcoming resident involvement, and the overall direction that
Palo Alto is taking. All other aspects were on par with previous years.
•Where benchmark comparisons were available, Palo Alto ranked similar to the national
benchmarks.
Community engagement is an ongoing priority of the City, not only in receiving feedback and
listening to concerns, but also communicating important information out in a timely manner.
The City does this through various engagement strategies from leveraging its virtual platforms
like the City’s website and social media channels, to community newsletters and Council
meetings. In the last year, the City brought back in-person Town Hall meetings. Hosted
quarterly by different neighborhoods in Palo Alto, the meetings have been well received and
attended.
Issues related to affordable housing and cost of living remain a concern for residents, but
other community characteristics are highly rated.
•Fewer than 1 in 10 residents positively rated the cost of living in Palo Alto, similar to
previous years and much lower than the national benchmark.
•About in 1 in 10 survey respondents rated the availability of affordable quality housing
as excellent or good, similar to previous years and lower than the national benchmark.
•About one-quarter of residents gave high marks to the variety of housing options in the
city, similar to previous years and lower than the national benchmark.
•Many community characteristics were ranked higher than comparison communities
across the nation, including ease of walking in Palo Alto (80% excellent or good), ease of
travel by bicycle (77%), opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities (72%),
shopping opportunities (69%), and employment opportunities (62%).
•Compared to 2022, the availability of affordable quality mental health care (38%
excellent or good) and ease of travel by public transportation (32%) were rated higher in
2023.
Palo Alto continues to face challenges regarding the cost of living, particularly in terms of the
availability of affordable housing. When comparing with other Bay Area cities in the categories
of Housing Variety and Availability of Affordable Quality Housing, the positive percentages were
similar, at 26% and 11%, respectively.
Also noteworthy is the higher rating in ease of travel by public transportation. In March of 2023
we initiated a new public transportation service, the Palo Alto Link, which provides coverage
and service for all residents in Palo Alto. The shift in public sentiment towards public
transportation in Palo Alto, coinciding with the introduction of the Palo Alto Link, can be
attributed to several factors related to the service.
The attached report includes information on trends over time, geographic and demographic
comparisons, national benchmark comparisons, and verbatim responses to open-ended
questions. Also, included for awareness in Attachment B is a Bay Area benchmark comparison
in areas where information was available.
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
Funding for the Polco contract was approved in the FY 2024 budget. No additional funding is
requested at this time.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
The 2023 Palo Alto Community Survey process is a community engagement tool that helps the
City Council and City staff understand community perspectives on current services and
programs, as well as unmet needs and priorities. Staff continues to implement the existing
community engagement workplan and in early 2024, staff plans to review with Council, planned
community engagement efforts implementing the Council priority workplans.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Council action on this item is not a project as defined by CEQA because the Community Survey
is a continuing administrative or maintenance activity. CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(2).
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Palo Alto Community Survey 2023 Report of Results
Attachment B: 2023 Palo Alto Bay Area Benchmark Comparisons
APPROVED BY:
Ed Shikada, City Manager
City of Palo Alto Resident Survey
June 2022
8001 Terrace Ave Middleton, WI 53562
info.polco.us • 608-709-8683
CITY OF PALO ALTO COMMUNITY SURVEY
2023
Report of Results
October 2023
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Contents
Detailed Survey Methods ....................................................................................................................... 3
Survey Information ....................................................................................................................................... 3
Survey Validity ............................................................................................................................................... 3
Selecting Survey Recipients ......................................................................................................................... 4
Survey Administration and Response ......................................................................................................... 7
Confidence Intervals ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Survey Processing (Data Entry) ................................................................................................................... 8
Survey Data Weighting ............................................................................................................................. 8
Survey Data Analysis and Reporting ......................................................................................................... 10
Trends Over Time ....................................................................................................................................... 10
Geographic and Demographic Comparisons ........................................................................................... 11
National Benchmark Comparisons ........................................................................................................... 11
Comparison Data .................................................................................................................................... 11
Interpreting the Results .......................................................................................................................... 11
Key Findings ........................................................................................................................................ 13
Palo Alto residents continue to rate their quality of life highly. .............................................................. 13
While many City services are rated similar to or higher than the benchmarks, residents indicate there
are areas for improvement with utilities. .................................................................................................. 13
Aspects of Palo Alto government performance are on the rise. ............................................................. 14
Issues related to affordable housing and cost of living remain a concern for residents, but other
community characteristics are highly rated. ............................................................................................ 14
Appendix A: Results Tables ................................................................................................................. 15
Appendix B: Verbatim Responses to Open-ended Questions from Probability Survey ........................ 86
Appendix C: Results to Open Participation Survey ............................................................................ 113
Appendix D: Verbatim Responses to Open-ended Questions from Open Participation Survey.......... 137
Appendix E: Survey Materials ............................................................................................................ 144
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October 2023
Report of Results
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Detailed Survey Methods
Survey Information
The 2023 Palo Alto Community Survey was conducted by Polco/National Research Center, Inc. (NRC).
Results offer insight into residents’ perspectives about the community as a whole, including local
amenities, services, public trust, resident participation, and other aspects of the community in order to
support budgeting, land use and strategic planning, and communication with residents. Resident
demographic characteristics permit comparison to the Census and American Community Survey
estimates, and geographic location allows comparison of results for different subgroups of residents.
The City of Palo Alto funded this research. Please contact Lupita Alamos, Assistant to the City
Manager, City of Palo Alto, at Lupita.Alamos@cityofpaloalto.org, if you have any questions about the
survey.
Survey Validity
The question of survey validity has two parts: 1) how can a community be confident that the results
from those who completed the questionnaire are representative of the results that would have been
obtained had the survey been administered to the entire population? and 2) how closely do the
perspectives recorded on the survey reflect what residents really believe or do?
To answer the first question, the best survey research practices were used for the resources spent to
ensure that the results from the survey respondents reflect the opinions of residents in the entire
community. These practices include:
• Using a mail-out/mail-back methodology, which typically gets a higher response rate than phone for
the same dollars spent. A higher response rate lessens the worry that those who did not respond
are different than those who did respond.
• Selecting households at random within the community to receive the survey to ensure that the
households selected to receive the survey are representative of the larger community.
• Over-sampling multi-family housing units to improve response from hard-to-reach respondents.
• Selecting the respondent within the household using an unbiased sampling procedure; in this case,
the “birthday method.” The cover letter included an instruction requesting that the respondent in the
household be the adult (18 years old or older) who most recently had a birthday, irrespective of year
of birth.
• Contacting potential respondents three times to encourage response from people who may have
different opinions or habits than those who would respond with only a single prompt.
• Inviting response in a compelling manner (using appropriate letterhead/logos and a signature of a
visible leader) to appeal to recipients’ sense of civic responsibility.
• Providing a pre-addressed, postage-paid return envelope.
• Weighting the results to reflect the demographics of the population.
The answer to the second question about how closely the perspectives recorded on the survey reflect
what residents really believe or do is more complex. Resident responses to surveys are influenced by a
variety of factors. For questions about service quality, residents’ expectations for service quality play a
role as well as the “objective” quality of the service provided, the way the resident perceives the entire
community (that is, the context in which the service is provided), the scale on which the resident is
asked to record their opinion and, of course, the opinion, itself, that a resident holds about the service.
Similarly a resident’s report of certain behaviors is colored by what he or she believes is the socially
desirable response (e.g., reporting tolerant behaviors toward “oppressed groups,” likelihood of voting
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
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for a tax increase for services to poor people, use of alternative modes of travel to work besides the
single occupancy vehicle), their memory of the actual behavior (if it is not a question speculating about
future actions, like a vote), their confidence that they can be honest without suffering any negative
consequences (thus the need for anonymity) as well as the actual behavior itself.
How closely survey results come to recording the way a person really feels or behaves often is
measured by the coincidence of reported behavior with observed current behavior (e.g., driving habits),
reported intentions to behave with observed future behavior (e.g., voting choices) or reported opinions
about current community quality with objective characteristics of the community (e.g., feelings of
safety correlated with rates of crime). There is a body of scientific literature that has investigated the
relationship between reported behaviors and actual behaviors. Well-conducted surveys, by and large, do
capture true respondent behaviors or intentions to act with great accuracy. Predictions of voting
outcomes tend to be quite accurate using survey research, as do reported behaviors that are not about
highly sensitive issues (e.g., family abuse or other illegal or morally sanctioned activities). For self-
reports about highly sensitive issues, statistical adjustments can be made to correct for the
respondents’ tendency to report what they think the “correct” response should be.
Research on the correlation of resident opinion about service quality and “objective” ratings of service
quality vary, with some showing stronger relationships than others. NRC’s own research has
demonstrated that residents who report the lowest ratings of street repair live in communities with
objectively worse street conditions than those who report high ratings of street repair (based on road
quality, delay in street repair, number of road repair employees). Similarly, the lowest rated fire services
appear to be “objectively” worse than the highest rated fire services (expenditures per capita, response
time, “professional” status of firefighters, breadth of services and training provided). Resident opinion
commonly reflects objective performance data but is an important measure on its own. NRC principals
have written, “If you collect trash three times a day but residents think that your trash haul is lousy, you
still have a problem.”
Selecting Survey Recipients
“Sampling” refers to the method by which households were chosen to receive the survey. All
households within the City of Palo Alto were eligible to participate in the survey. A list of all households
within the zip codes serving Palo Alto was purchased from Go-Dog Direct based on updated listings
from the United States Postal Service. Since some of the zip codes that serve Palo Alto households
may also serve addresses that lie outside of the community, the exact geographic location of each
housing unit was compared to community boundaries using the most current municipal boundary file
(updated on a quarterly basis) and addresses located outside of Palo Alto boundaries were removed
from consideration. Each address identified as being within City boundaries was further identified as
being within one of six areas.
To choose the 3,600 survey recipients, a systematic sampling method was applied to the list of
households previously screened for geographic location. Systematic sampling is a procedure whereby
a complete list of all possible households is culled, selecting every Nth one, giving each eligible
household a known probability of selection, until the appropriate number of households is selected.
Multi-family housing units were selected at a higher rate as residents of this type of housing typically
respond at lower rates to surveys than do those in single-family housing units. Figure 1 displays a map
of the households selected to receive the survey. In general, because of the random sampling
techniques used, the displayed sampling density will closely mirror the overall housing unit density
(which may be different from the population density). While the theory of probability assumes no bias
in selection, there may be some minor variations in practice (meaning, an area with only 15% of the
housing units might be selected at an actual rate that is slightly above or below that).
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An individual within each household was selected using the birthday method. The birthday method
selects a person within the household by asking the “person whose birthday has most recently passed”
to complete the questionnaire. The underlying assumption in this method is that day of birth has no
relationship to the way people respond to surveys. This instruction was contained in the cover letter
accompanying the questionnaire.
In addition to the scientific, random selection of households, a link to an online open participation
survey was publicized and posted to the City of Palo Alto website. This opt-in survey was identical to
the scientific survey and open to all City residents. Results from the open participation survey are
separate from the address-based survey and can be found in Appendix C: Results to Open Participation
Survey.
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October 2023
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Figure 1: Location of Survey Recipients by Area
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October 2023
Report of Results
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Survey Administration and Response
Selected households received mailings beginning on August 11, 2023. All 3,600 households received
three notifications in the mail. The first mailing was a postcard announcing the upcoming survey with a
link and QR code to complete the survey online. The next mailing contained a letter from the City
Manager inviting the household to participate, a paper questionnaire, and a postage-paid return
envelope. Third final mailing was a reminder postcard. The second and third mailings also asked
respondents not to complete the survey a second time.
The online survey was available in English, Spanish, and Simplified Chinese. The paper survey was
available in English only, though it requested by a resident, the City mailed out a paper copy in any
language requested. All mailings included a URL through which the residents could choose to respond
online, along with instructions on how to access the survey in Spanish or Simplified Chinese.
Completed surveys were collected over six weeks. The online open participation survey was available
to residents beginning September 8, 2023 and remained open through September 24, 2023.
About 4% of the 3,600 surveys mailed were returned because the housing unit was vacant or the postal
service was unable to deliver the survey as addressed. Of the remaining 3,469 households that received
the survey, 603 completed the survey, providing an overall response rate of 17%. Of the 603 completed
surveys, 323 were completed online. Three surveys were completed in Simplified Chinese. Additionally,
responses were tracked by geographic subarea; response rates by area ranged from 13% to 27%. The
response rates were calculated using AAPOR’s response rate #2 1 for mailed surveys of unnamed
persons. Additionally, 93 residents completed the online opt-in survey.
Confidence Intervals
It is customary to describe the precision of estimates made from surveys by a “level of confidence” and
accompanying “confidence interval” (or margin of error). A traditional level of confidence, and the one
used here, is 95 percent. The 95 percent level of confidence can be any size and quantifies the
sampling error or imprecision of the survey results because some residents’ opinions are relied on to
estimate all residents’ opinions.2
The margin of error or confidence interval for the City of Palo Alto survey is no greater than plus or
minus four percentage points around any given percent reported for the entire sample (603 completed
surveys).
For subgroups of responses, the margin of error increases because the number of responses for the
subgroup is smaller. For subgroups of approximately 100 respondents, the margin of error is plus or
minus 10 percentage points. For each of the six areas within Palo Alto, the margin of error rises to
approximately plus or minus 13 percentage points since number of responses were 81 for Area 1, 123
for Area 2, 86 for Area 3, 121 for Area 4, 57 for Area 5 and 135 for Area 6. The margin of error for the six
1 See AAPOR’s Standard Definitions for more information: http://www.aapor.org/Standards-Ethics/Standard-Definitions-(1).aspx 2 A 95 percent level of confidence indicates that for every 100 random samples of this many residents, 95 of the confidence intervals created will include the “true” population response. This theory is applied in practice to mean that the “true” perspective of the target population lies within the confidence interval created for a single survey. For example, if 75 percent of residents rate a service as “excellent” or “good,” then the 4 percent margin of error (for the 95 percent level of confidence) indicates that the range of likely responses for the entire community is between 71 percent and 79 percent. This source of uncertainty is called sampling error. In addition to sampling error, other sources of error may affect any survey, including the nonresponse of residents with opinions different from survey responders. Differences in question wording, order, translation and data entry, as examples, can lead to somewhat varying results.
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areas within Palo Alto is based off the smallest number of returned surveys per area; thus margin of
error was calculated using the number of returned surveys from Area 5 (57).
Table 1: Survey Response Rates
Number mailed Undeliverable Eligible Returned Response rate
Area 1 360 57 303 81 27%
Area 2 649 6 643 123 19%
Area 3 449 41 408 86 21%
Area 4 748 0 748 121 16%
Area 5 348 0 348 57 16%
Area 6 1,046 27 1,019 135 13%
Overall 3,600 131 3,469 603 17%
Survey Processing (Data Entry)
Upon receipt, completed surveys were assigned a unique identification number. Additionally, each
survey was reviewed and “cleaned” as necessary. For example, a question may have asked a
respondent to pick two items out of a list of five, but the respondent checked three; in this case, NRC
would use protocols to randomly choose two of the three selected items for inclusion in the dataset.
All surveys then were entered twice into an electronic dataset; any discrepancies were resolved in
comparison to the original survey form. Range checks as well as other forms of quality control were
also performed.
NRC uses Polco, an online public engagement tool designed primarily for local governments, to collect
online survey data. The Polco platform includes many features of online survey tools, but also includes
elements tailored to the civic environment. For example, like NRC’s mailed surveys, surveys on Polco
are presented with the City name, logo (or other image) and a description, so residents understand who
is asking for input and why. Optionally, Polco can also verify respondents with local public data to
ensure respondents are residents or voters. More generally, an advantage of online programming and
data gathering is that it allows for more rigid control of the data format, making extensive data cleaning
unnecessary.
Survey Data Weighting
Upon completion of data collection for both the scientific (probability) and nonscientific open
participation online opt-in (non-probability) surveys, the demographics of each dataset were separately
compared to those found in the 2020 Census and 2021 American Community Survey estimates for
adults in the City of Palo Alto. The primary objective of weighting survey data is to make the survey
respondents reflective of the larger population of the community. Both survey datasets were weighted
independently to best match the Census. The characteristics used for weighting were housing tenure
(rent or own), housing unit type (attached or detached), sex, and age. No adjustments were made for
design effects. Results for the opt-in survey can be found in Appendix C: Results from Open
Participation Survey.
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Table 2: Palo Alto, CA 2023 Weighting Table
Characteristic Population Norm Unweighted Data Weighted Data
Housing
Rent home 44% 30% 43%
Own home 56% 70% 57%
Detached unit* 59% 68% 59%
Attached unit* 41% 32% 41%
Race and Ethnicity
White 57% 62% 58%
Not white 43% 38% 42%
Not Hispanic 94% 96% 95%
Hispanic 6% 4% 5%
Sex and Age
Female 52% 48% 52%
Male 48% 52% 48%
18-34 years of age 24% 7% 23%
35-54 years of age 35% 30% 34%
55+ years of age 41% 63% 43%
Females 18-34 11% 3% 11%
Females 35-54 18% 15% 17%
Females 55+ 23% 30% 24%
Males 18-34 13% 4% 13%
Males 35-54 17% 15% 17%
Males 55+ 18% 34% 18%
Area
Area 1 13% 13% 12%
Area 2 19% 20% 21%
Area 3 13% 14% 13%
Area 4 19% 20% 20%
Area 5 9% 9% 10%
Area 6 27% 22% 24% * U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2021 5-year estimates
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Survey Data Analysis and Reporting
The survey dataset was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). For the
most part, the percentages presented in the reports represent the “percent positive.” The percent
positive is the combination of the top two most positive response options (i.e., “excellent” and “good,”
“very safe” and “somewhat safe,” “essential” and “very important,” etc.), or, in the case of resident
behaviors/participation, the percent positive represents the proportion of respondents indicating “yes”
or participating in an activity at least once a month.
On many of the questions in the survey respondents may answer “don’t know.” The proportion of
respondents giving this reply is shown in the full set of responses included in Appendix A. However,
these responses have been removed from the analyses presented in the reports. In other words, the
tables and graphs display the responses from respondents who had an opinion about a specific item.
When a table for a question that only permitted a single response does not total to exactly 100%, it is
due to the common practice of percentages being rounded to the nearest whole number.
Trends Over Time
Trend tables display trends over time, comparing the 2023 ratings for the City of Palo Alto to the 12
previous iterations of survey results (going back to 2010) and displaying 2003 data, the year when
surveying started.
Trend data for Palo Alto represent important comparison data and should be examined for
improvements or declines. Deviations from stable trends over time, especially, represent opportunities
for understanding how local policies, programs or public information may have affected residents’
opinions.
Meaningful differences between survey years have been noted within the following tables as being
“higher” or “lower” if the differences are greater than approximately six percentage points 3 between the
2023 and 2022 surveys; otherwise, the comparisons between 2023 and 2022 are noted as being
“similar.” When comparing results over time, small differences (those with less than a 6 percent
difference compared to 2022) are more likely to be due to random variation (attributable to chance over
real change), while larger differences (those greater than 6 percent compared to 2021) may be due to a
real shift in resident perspective. However, it is often wise to continue to monitor results over a longer
period of time to rule out random variation due to chance in the sampling process. Sometimes small
changes in question wording can explain changes in results as well.
3 While the percentages are reported as rounded whole numbers, meaningful differences are identified based on unrounded percentages with decimals in place.
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Geographic and Demographic Comparisons
The geographic comparison tables on the following pages display differences in opinion of survey
respondents by the six geographic subareas. Demographic comparisons display differences in opinion
of survey respondents by race/ethnicity and sex. Responses have been summarized to show only the
proportion of respondents giving a certain answer; for example, the percent of respondents who rated
the quality of life as “excellent” or “good,” or the percent of respondents who participated in an activity
at least once. It should be noted that when a table that does include all responses (not a single
number) for a question that only permitted a single response does not total to exactly 100%, it is due to
the common practice of percentages being rounded to the nearest whole number.
The subgroup comparison tables contain the crosstabulations of survey questions by geographic area.
Chi-square or ANOVA tests of significance were applied to these breakdowns of survey questions. A “p-
value” of 0.05 or less indicates that there is less than a 5% probability that differences observed
between groups are due to chance; or in other words, a greater than 95% probability that the
differences observed in the selected categories of the sample represent “real” differences among those
populations. As subgroups vary in size and each group (and each comparison to another group) has a
unique margin of error, statistical testing is used to determine whether differences between subgroups
are statistically significant.
Each column in the following tables is labeled with a letter for each subgroup being compared. The
“Overall” column, which shows the ratings for all respondents, also has a column designation of “(A)”,
but no statistical tests were done for the overall rating.
For each pair of subgroup ratings within a row (a single question item) that has a statistically
significant difference, an uppercase letter denoting significance is shown in the cell with the larger
column proportion. The letter denotes the subgroup with the smaller column proportion from which it is
statistically different. Subgroups that have no uppercase letter denotation in their column and that are
also not referred to in any other column were not statistically different.
National Benchmark Comparisons
Comparison Data
NRC’s database of comparative resident opinion is comprised of resident perspectives gathered in
surveys from over 600 communities whose residents evaluated the same kinds of topics as on the Palo
Alto Community Survey. The surveys gathered for NRC’s database include data from communities that
have been conducted by NRC, as well as citizen surveys unaffiliated with NRC. The comparison
evaluations are from the most recent survey completed in each community; most communities
conduct surveys every year or in alternating years. NRC adds the latest results quickly upon survey
completion, keeping the benchmark data fresh and relevant, and the comparisons are to jurisdictions
that have conducted a survey within the last five years. The communities in the database represent a
wide geographic and population range. The City of Palo Alto chose to have comparisons made to the
entire database.
Interpreting the Results
Ratings are compared for standard items in questions 1 through 12 when there are at least five
communities in which a similar question was asked. Where comparisons are available, four columns
are provided in the table. The first column is Palo Alto’s average rating, converted to a 100-point scale.
The second column is the rank assigned to Palo Alto’s rating among communities where a similar
question was asked. The third column is the number of communities that asked a similar question. The
final column shows the comparison of Palo Alto’s rating to the benchmark.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 12
Although responses to many of the evaluative questions were made on a four-point scale with 1
representing the best rating and 4 the worst, the benchmarks are calculated on a common scale where
0 is the worst possible rating and 100 is the best possible rating.
In that final column, Palo Alto’s results are noted as being “higher” than the benchmark, “lower” than the
benchmark, or “similar” to the benchmark, meaning that the average rating given by Palo Alto residents
is statistically similar to or different (greater or lesser) than the benchmark. More extreme differences
are noted as “much higher” or “much lower.” A rating is considered “similar” if it is within the standard
range of 10 points; “higher” or “lower” if the difference between Palo Alto’s rating and the benchmark is
greater than the standard range but less than twice the standard range; and “much higher” or “much
lower” if the difference between Palo Alto’s rating and the benchmark is higher or lower by more than
twice the standard range. Where benchmark ratings were not available, “NA” indicates that this
information is not applicable (these were questions specific to Palo Alto and not asked in other
communities).
The 100-point scale is not a percent. It is a conversion of responses to an average rating. Each
response option is assigned a value that is used in calculating the average score. For example, “very
good”= 100, “good”= 75, “neither good nor bad”= 50, “bad”= 25, and “very bad”= 0. If everyone reported
“very good,” then the average rating would be 100 on the 100-point scale. Likewise, if all respondents
gave a “very bad” rating, the result would be 0 on the 100-point scale. If half the respondents gave a
score of “very good” and half gave a score of “very bad,” the average would be 50, in the middle of the
scale (like the center post of a teeter totter) or “neither good nor bad.” An example of how to convert
survey frequencies into an average rating appears below.
Table 3: Example of Converting Responses to the 100-point Scale
How do you rate the community as a place to live?
Response
option
Total with
“don’t
know”
Step1: Remove
“don’t know”
responses
Total
without
“don’t
know”
Step 2:
Assign
scale
values
Step 3:
Multiply % by
scale value
Step 4: Sum to
calculate
average rating
Very good 15% =15÷(100-2)= 15.3% 100 =15.3% x 100
= 15.3
Good 53% =53÷(100-2)= 54.1% 75 =54.1% x 75 = 40.6
Neither
good nor
bad
26% =26÷(100-2)= 26.5% 50 =26.5% x 50 = 13.3
Bad 3% =3÷(100-2)= 3.1% 25 =3.1% x 25 = 0.8
Very bad 0% =0÷(100-2)= 0% 0 =0% x 0 = 0
Don’t know 2% --
Total 100% 100% 70
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 13
Key Findings
Palo Alto residents continue to rate their quality of life highly.
• About 9 in 10 residents rated Palo Alto, as well as their neighborhood, as an excellent or good
place to live. More than 8 in 10 residents highly rated the overall quality of life in Palo Alto, the
city as a place to work, and the city as a place to raise children. These ratings were on par with
previous years except for Palo Alto as a place to work, which was rated higher in 2023 than
2022. This rating was also higher than the national benchmark.
• More than 7 in 10 residents gave high marks to the city as a place to visit, which was similar to
previous years.
• More than half of residents rated Palo Alto as a place to retire as excellent or good. This rating
was higher in 2023 compared to 2022.
• While fewer residents in 2023 indicated that they were likely to remain in Palo Alto for the next
five years (77% very or somewhat likely), this rating remained similar to the national benchmark.
• More than three-quarters of residents indicated that they would recommend living in the city to
someone who asked, which was similar to previous years and the national benchmark.
• Nine in 10 residents would recommend Palo Alto’s libraries to friends, on par with previous
years.
While residents were highly satisfied with many City services, they
indicate there are areas for improvement with utilities.
• At least 9 in 10 residents gave excellent or good ratings to fire emergency services, Palo Alto
open space, City parks, public library services (e.g., hold requests, storytimes, teen events,
bookclubs), library facilities (buildings, computer equipment, accessibility), ambulance or
emergency medical services, and the variety of library materials (books, e-books, streaming,
databases, audiobooks). These ratings were similar to those given in previous years. Palo Alto
open space was rated much higher than the national benchmark, and City parks were rated
higher than the benchmark.
• More than 8 in 10 survey respondents positively rated sewer services, refuse collection
(garbage, recycling, yard waste, and e-waste), drinking water, utility payment options, recreation
centers or facilities, police services, the preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands,
and greenbelts), recreation programs or classes, and art programs and theater. All ratings were
similar when compared to 2022, except for recreation centers or facilities (higher in 2023), and
art programs and theater (lower in 2023). Drinking water, recreation centers or facilities, utility
payment options, recreation centers, and the preservation of natural areas were all rated higher
than the national benchmarks.
• More than 8 in 10 residents positively rated the reliability of utility services and utilities online
customer self-service features, both on par with previous years.
• A number of utility-related questions were rated lower in 2023 compared to 2022, including
community value received from the City owning and operating its own municipal utility services
(79% excellent or good), speed of response after contacting Utilities department staff (72%),
value of Palo Alto Utilities’ customer communications (72%), working hard to keep utilities
prices competitive (56%), and the affordability of utility services (51%).
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 14
Ratings for Palo Alto government performance are on the rise.
• More than 6 in 10 residents gave Palo Alto high marks for treating residents with respect, being
honest, treating all residents fairly, and informing residents about issues facing the community.
• Nearly 6 in 10 rated the value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto and the City being open
and transparent to the public as excellent or good. All other aspects of government
performance were positively rated by at least half of residents.
• Most aspects of government performance were rated higher in 2023 compared to 2022. These
aspects included being honest, treating all residents fairly, informing residents about issues
facing the community, the value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto, the job Palo Alto
does at welcoming resident involvement, and the overall direction that Palo Alto is taking. All
other aspects were on par with previous years.
• Where benchmark comparisons were available, Palo Alto ranked similar to the national
benchmarks.
Issues related to affordable housing and cost of living remain a
concern for residents, but other community characteristics are highly
rated.
• Fewer than 1 in 10 residents positively rated the cost of living in Palo Alto, similar to previous
years and much lower than the national benchmark.
• About in 1 in 10 survey respondents rated the availability of affordable quality housing as
excellent or good, similar to previous years and lower than the national benchmark.
• About one-quarter of residents gave high marks to the variety of housing options in the city,
similar to previous years and lower than the national benchmark.
• Many community characteristics were ranked higher than comparison communities across the
nation, including ease of walking in Palo Alto (80% excellent or good), ease of travel by bicycle
(77%), opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities (72%), shopping opportunities
(69%), and employment opportunities (62%).
• Compared to 2022, the availability of affordable quality mental health care (38% excellent or
good) and ease of travel by public transportation (32%) were rated higher in 2023.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 15
Appendix A: Results Tables
The following pages contain results for each question on the survey, the first set of results includes the
“don’t know” responses, followed by results excluding the “don’t know” responses (where “don’t know”
was an option), trends over time and geographic comparisons. For the questions in the survey where
respondents could answer “don’t know,” the proportion of respondents giving this reply were not
included for the comparisons over time and by geography. In other words, these tables display the
responses from respondents who had an opinion about a specific item.
For the basic frequencies, the percent of respondents giving a particular response is shown followed by
the number of respondents (denoted with “N=”); the number of respondents is specific to each item,
based on the actual number of responses received for the question or question item and based on the
weighted data (weighted responses are rounded to the nearest whole number and may not exactly add
up to the total number of responses). Generally, a small portion of respondents select “don’t know” for
most survey items and, inevitably, some items have a larger “don’t know” percentage. Comparing
responses to a set of items on the same scale can be misleading when the “don’t know” responses
have been included. If two items have disparate “don’t know” percentages (2 percent versus 17 percent,
for example), any apparent similarities or differences across the remaining response options may
disappear once the “don’t know” responses are removed.
Tables displaying trend data appear only for the years in which the questions were asked. Meaningful
differences between survey years have been noted within the following tables as being “higher” or
“lower” if the differences are greater than approximately six percentage points between the 2023 and
2022 surveys; otherwise, the comparison between 2023 and 2022 are noted as being “similar.”
Geographic and demographic comparisons have been provided for questions 1 through 17 (some
questions having multiple, non-scaled responses are not included). Chi-square or ANOVA tests of
significance were applied to these breakdowns of survey questions. A “p-value” of 0.05 or less
indicates that there is less than a 5% probability that differences observed between groups are due to
chance; or in other words, a greater than 95% probability that the differences observed in the selected
categories of the sample represent “real” differences among those populations. As subgroups vary in
size and each group (and each comparison to another group) has a unique margin of error, statistical
testing is used to determine whether differences between subgroups are statistically significant.
Each column in the following tables is labeled with a letter for each subgroup being compared. The
“Overall” column, which shows the ratings for all respondents, also has a column designation of “(A)”,
but no statistical tests were done for the overall rating.
For each pair of subgroup ratings within a row (a single question item) that has a statistically
significant difference, an upper case letter denoting significance is shown in the cell with the larger
column proportion. The letter denotes the subgroup with the smaller column proportion from which it is
statistically different. Subgroups that have no upper case letter denotation in their column and that are
also not referred to in any other column were not statistically different.
For example, in Table 8 on page 18, respondents in Area 3 (C) gave significantly higher ratings to the
overall quality of life in Palo Alto than respondents in both Area 4 (D), as denoted by the “D” listed in the
cell of the ratings for Area 3.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 16
Question 1
Table 4: Question 1 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following aspects of quality
of life in Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Palo Alto as a place to live 46% N=276 43% N=259 8% N=48 2% N=12 0% N=1 100% N=596
Your neighborhood as a place to live 49% N=294 43% N=253 7% N=40 1% N=7 0% N=2 100% N=596
Palo Alto as a place to raise children 39% N=234 30% N=181 12% N=71 2% N=15 16% N=93 100% N=593
Palo Alto as a place to work 31% N=182 34% N=198 9% N=55 2% N=13 24% N=142 100% N=591
Palo Alto as a place to visit 32% N=193 36% N=213 19% N=112 6% N=36 7% N=39 100% N=594
Palo Alto as a place to retire 21% N=125 23% N=136 21% N=123 19% N=113 17% N=99 100% N=596
The overall quality of life in Palo Alto 39% N=230 47% N=280 11% N=67 3% N=15 0% N=2 100% N=594
Table 5: Question 1 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Palo
Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Palo Alto as a place to live 46% N=276 43% N=259 8% N=48 2% N=12 100% N=595
Your neighborhood as a place to live 50% N=294 43% N=253 7% N=40 1% N=7 100% N=594
Palo Alto as a place to raise children 47% N=234 36% N=181 14% N=71 3% N=15 100% N=500
Palo Alto as a place to work 41% N=182 44% N=198 12% N=55 3% N=13 100% N=448
Palo Alto as a place to visit 35% N=193 38% N=213 20% N=112 7% N=36 100% N=555
Palo Alto as a place to retire 25% N=125 27% N=136 25% N=123 23% N=113 100% N=497
The overall quality of life in Palo Alto 39% N=230 47% N=280 11% N=67 3% N=15 100% N=592
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 17
Table 6: Question 1 - Historical Results
Please rate each of the
following aspects of quality of
life in Palo Alto:
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Palo Alto as a place to live 95% 95% 94% 95% 92% 95% 92% 91% 91% 89% 88% 88% 90% Similar
Your neighborhood as a place
to live 88% 91% 90% 90% 91% 92% 90% 91% 91% 90% 89% 88% 92% Similar
Palo Alto as a place to raise
children 90% 93% 93% 92% 90% 93% 87% 84% 84% 82% 82% 87% 83% Similar
Palo Alto as a place to work NA 87% 89% 88% 89% 86% 87% 82% 82% 80% 82% 79% 85% Higher
Palo Alto as a place to visit NA NA NA NA NA 75% 74% 72% 71% 68% 70% 69% 73% Similar
Palo Alto as a place to retire 62% 65% 68% 68% 56% 60% 52% 50% 51% 40% 52% 46% 53% Higher
The overall quality of life in
Palo Alto 92% 93% 94% 92% 94% 91% 91% 88% 85% 89% 84% 88% 86% Similar
Table 7: Question 1 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo Alto rating Rank Number of jurisdictions for comparison Comparison to benchmark
Palo Alto as a place to live 78 127 357 Similar
Your neighborhood as a place to live 80 71 319 Similar
Palo Alto as a place to raise children 76 144 360 Similar
Palo Alto as a place to work 74 28 352 Higher
Palo Alto as a place to visit 67 86 316 Similar
Palo Alto as a place to retire 52 268 357 Similar
The overall quality of life in Palo Alto 74 120 374 Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 18
Table 8: Question 1 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Palo Alto as a place to live 94% 91% 94% 86% 86% 90% 90%
Your neighborhood as a place to live
96%
D
90% 94%
D
86% 97%
D
94%
D
92%
Palo Alto as a place to raise children
80% 82% 92%
D E
80% 76% 85% 83%
Palo Alto as a place to work 86% 83% 86% 84% 77% 88% 85%
Palo Alto as a place to visit
79%
D
73% 79%
D
62% 71% 78%
D
73%
Palo Alto as a place to retire
53% 48% 54% 51% 37% 62%
B E
53%
The overall quality of life in Palo Alto
86% 87% 92%
D
80% 89% 86% 86%
Table 9: Question 1 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not Hispanic Hispanic and/or other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Palo Alto as a place to live 91% 89% 90% 91% 90%
Your neighborhood as a place to live
95%
B
88% 93% 91% 92%
Palo Alto as a place to raise children 83% 83% 85% 82% 83%
Palo Alto as a place to work
89%
B
80% 85% 84% 85%
Palo Alto as a place to visit
74% 73% 78%
B
69% 73%
Palo Alto as a place to retire 56% 50% 52% 54% 53%
The overall quality of life in Palo Alto 88% 84%
89%
B 83% 86%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 19
Question 2
Table 10: Question 2 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they
relate to Palo Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor
Don't
know Total
Overall "built environment" of Palo Alto (including overall
design, buildings, parks and transportation systems) 23% N=136 49% N=293 22% N=128 6% N=35 1% N=4 100% N=596
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto 42% N=250 42% N=249 12% N=70 4% N=24 0% N=1 100% N=594
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 41% N=244 49% N=292 8% N=49 1% N=9 0% N=3 100% N=595
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 38% N=226 41% N=243 12% N=71 3% N=18 6% N=34 100% N=593
Residents' connection and engagement with their
community 14% N=85 42% N=252 28% N=164 9% N=54 6% N=38 100% N=593
Table 11: Question 2 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Palo
Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Overall "built environment" of Palo Alto (including overall design,
buildings, parks and transportation systems) 23% N=136 50% N=293 22% N=128 6% N=35 100% N=592
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto 42% N=250 42% N=249 12% N=70 4% N=24 100% N=593
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 41% N=244 49% N=292 8% N=49 1% N=9 100% N=593
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 41% N=226 43% N=243 13% N=71 3% N=18 100% N=559
Residents' connection and engagement with their community 15% N=85 45% N=252 29% N=164 10% N=54 100% N=555
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 20
Table 12: Question 2 - Historical Results
Please rate each of the following
characteristics as they relate to
Palo Alto as a whole:
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Overall "built environment" of
Palo Alto (including overall
design, buildings, parks and
transportation systems) NA NA NA NA NA 67% 63% 59% 65% 62% 76% 72% 72% Similar
Overall feeling of safety in Palo
Alto NA NA NA NA NA 92% 91% 94% 94% 91% 87% 84% 84% Similar
Overall quality of natural
environment in Palo Alto NA 84% 84% 88% 83% 88% 86% 84% 89% 87% 90% 88% 90% Similar
Health and wellness
opportunities in Palo Alto NA NA NA NA NA 88% 88% 85% 88% 84% 88% 90% 84% Lower
Residents' connection and
engagement with their
community NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 62% 63% 61% Similar
Table 13: Question 2 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo
Alto rating Rank
Number of jurisdictions for
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall “built environment” of Palo Alto (including overall design,
buildings, parks and transportation systems) 63 54 303 Similar
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto 74 119 346 Similar
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 77 60 312 Similar
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 74 41 305 Higher
Residents’ connection and engagement with their community 55 95 249 Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 21
Table 14: Question 2 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Overall "built environment" of Palo Alto (including overall design, buildings, parks and
transportation systems)
78%
D
78%
D
73%
D
59% 75%
D
73%
D
72%
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto
83% 86% 87% 85% 91%
F
78% 84%
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 89% 92% 87% 90% 91% 90% 90%
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto
89%
F
87%
F
86% 79% 96%
D F
77% 84%
Residents' connection and engagement with their community
65%
E
61%
E
76%
B D E
F
57% 43% 61%
E
61%
Table 15: Question 2 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or
other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Overall "built environment" of Palo Alto (including overall design, buildings,
parks and transportation systems)
75% 70% 74% 71% 72%
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto
87% 83% 81% 89%
A
84%
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto
93% 89% 88% 94%
A
90%
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto
90%
B
78% 84% 84% 84%
Residents' connection and engagement with their community 63% 58% 61% 62% 61%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 22
Question 3
Table 16: Question 3 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to
do each of the following: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely Don't know Total
Recommend living in Palo Alto to someone who
asks 40% N=240 36% N=217 13% N=78 10% N=58 1% N=5 100% N=598
Remain in Palo Alto for the next five years 54% N=321 21% N=127 12% N=74 11% N=63 3% N=15 100% N=600
Recommend Palo Alto’s libraries to friends 57% N=339 24% N=142 5% N=30 4% N=23 11% N=64 100% N=598
Table 17: Question 3 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the
following: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely Total
Recommend living in Palo Alto to someone who asks 41% N=240 37% N=217 13% N=78 10% N=58 100% N=593
Remain in Palo Alto for the next five years 55% N=321 22% N=127 13% N=74 11% N=63 100% N=585
Recommend Palo Alto’s libraries to friends 63% N=339 27% N=142 6% N=30 4% N=23 100% N=534
Table 18: Question 3 - Historical Results
Please indicate how likely or
unlikely you are to do each of
the following:
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Recommend living in Palo Alto
to someone who asks NA 90% 91% 92% 89% 86% 80% 72% 75% 73% 74% 75% 77% Similar
Remain in Palo Alto for the
next five years NA 83% 87% 87% 87% 83% 80% 75% 76% 78% 78% 84% 77% Lower
Recommend Palo Alto’s
libraries to friends NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 91% 92% 91% 92% 90% Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 23
Table 19: Question 3 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo Alto
rating Rank
Number of jurisdictions for
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Recommend living in Palo Alto to someone who
asks 77 229 311 Similar
Remain in Palo Alto for the next five years 77 255 309 Similar
Table 20: Question 3 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "very likely" or "somewhat likely"
Area Overall
Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Recommend living in Palo Alto to someone who asks
79%
E
78%
E
78%
E
77%
E
61% 81%
E
77%
Remain in Palo Alto for the next five years
84%
E
78% 86%
D E F
73% 69% 73% 77%
Recommend Palo Alto’s libraries to friends 94% 93% 92% 87% 84% 88% 90%
Table 21: Question 3 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "very likely" or "somewhat likely"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not Hispanic Hispanic and/or other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Recommend living in Palo Alto to someone who asks 75% 80% 77% 78% 77%
Remain in Palo Alto for the next five years 74% 80% 77% 77% 77%
Recommend Palo Alto’s libraries to friends
94%
B 86% 90% 91% 90%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 24
Question 4
Table 22: Question 4 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the job you feel the Palo Alto community
does at each of the following. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Making all residents feel welcome 21% N=126 39% N=236 23% N=138 8% N=46 9% N=52 100% N=598
Attracting people from diverse backgrounds 20% N=122 33% N=194 21% N=128 18% N=110 7% N=42 100% N=596
Valuing/respecting residents from diverse
backgrounds 27% N=160 35% N=204 22% N=128 7% N=44 9% N=55 100% N=592
Taking care of vulnerable residents (elderly, disabled,
homeless, etc.) 11% N=67 29% N=170 21% N=127 18% N=108 21% N=124 100% N=596
Table 23: Question 4 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the job you feel the Palo Alto community does at each of
the following. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Making all residents feel welcome 23% N=126 43% N=236 25% N=138 8% N=46 100% N=546
Attracting people from diverse backgrounds 22% N=122 35% N=194 23% N=128 20% N=110 100% N=554
Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds 30% N=160 38% N=204 24% N=128 8% N=44 100% N=537
Taking care of vulnerable residents (elderly, disabled, homeless, etc.) 14% N=67 36% N=170 27% N=127 23% N=108 100% N=472
Table 24: Question 4 - Historical Results
Please rate the job you feel the Palo Alto community does at each of the following.
Percent positive
2023 rating compared to 2022 2021 2022 2023
Making all residents feel welcome 59% 62% 66% Similar
Attracting people from diverse backgrounds 52% 51% 57% Higher
Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds 65% 65% 68% Similar
Taking care of vulnerable residents (elderly, disabled, homeless, etc.) 47% 45% 50% Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 25
Table 25: Question 4 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo Alto
rating Rank
Number of jurisdictions for
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Making all residents feel welcome 60 135 253 Similar
Attracting people from diverse backgrounds 53 130 250 Similar
Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds 63 63 251 Similar
Taking care of vulnerable residents (elderly, disabled,
homeless, etc.) 47 157 247 Similar
Table 26: Question 4 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Making all residents feel welcome
67% 74%
E F
75%
E F
66% 57% 59% 66%
Attracting people from diverse backgrounds
61%
E
59%
E
68%
E F
62%
E
41% 50% 57%
Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds
70%
E
70%
E
77%
E
69%
E
49% 67%
E
68%
Taking care of vulnerable residents (elderly, disabled, homeless, etc.)
53% 51% 63%
E F
50% 36% 46% 50%
Table 27: Question 4 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or other
race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Making all residents feel welcome 65% 69% 66% 67% 66%
Attracting people from diverse backgrounds 56% 58% 52%
62%
A 57%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 26
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or other
race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds
68% 66% 59% 75%
A
68%
Taking care of vulnerable residents (elderly, disabled, homeless,
etc.)
47% 54% 44% 56%
A
50%
Question 5
Table 28: Question 5 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as
they relate to Palo Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Overall quality of business and service
establishments in Palo Alto 23% N=134 49% N=291 22% N=129 4% N=21 2% N=15 100% N=590
Variety of business and service establishments in
Palo Alto 19% N=114 37% N=218 29% N=173 12% N=73 2% N=12 100% N=589
Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 20% N=119 43% N=251 26% N=152 8% N=45 4% N=22 100% N=590
Employment opportunities 13% N=78 28% N=166 20% N=120 5% N=27 34% N=200 100% N=591
Shopping opportunities 27% N=159 41% N=241 23% N=133 9% N=50 1% N=5 100% N=589
Cost of living in Palo Alto 1% N=5 7% N=41 27% N=160 65% N=383 1% N=4 100% N=593
Overall image or reputation of Palo Alto 34% N=201 40% N=238 19% N=110 5% N=28 2% N=13 100% N=590
Traffic flow on major streets 8% N=48 42% N=250 34% N=203 15% N=87 1% N=6 100% N=593
Ease of public parking 17% N=100 50% N=298 24% N=141 8% N=45 2% N=9 100% N=593
Ease of travel by car in Palo Alto 24% N=142 48% N=284 21% N=122 6% N=33 1% N=7 100% N=589
Ease of travel by public transportation in Palo Alto 4% N=21 19% N=111 21% N=125 26% N=156 30% N=180 100% N=594
Ease of travel by bicycle in Palo Alto 28% N=165 38% N=224 15% N=86 5% N=31 13% N=79 100% N=584
Ease of walking in Palo Alto 40% N=238 39% N=234 12% N=71 8% N=45 1% N=5 100% N=592
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 27
Please rate each of the following characteristics as
they relate to Palo Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Variety of housing options 5% N=28 19% N=111 29% N=173 37% N=221 9% N=56 100% N=589
Availability of affordable quality housing 2% N=13 7% N=44 14% N=82 63% N=372 13% N=75 100% N=586
Overall quality of new development in Palo Alto 5% N=31 23% N=132 28% N=167 14% N=79 30% N=177 100% N=586
Availability of paths and walking trails 30% N=176 40% N=238 22% N=131 4% N=25 4% N=21 100% N=591
Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and
paths or trails, etc.) 28% N=163 41% N=243 18% N=105 3% N=20 10% N=57 100% N=588
Recreational opportunities 27% N=159 43% N=253 17% N=103 4% N=23 9% N=52 100% N=592
Availability of affordable quality mental health care 6% N=38 11% N=63 11% N=65 17% N=98 55% N=328 100% N=591
Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 26% N=156 41% N=241 20% N=121 6% N=33 7% N=39 100% N=590
Table 29: Question 5 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to
Palo Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Overall quality of business and service establishments in Palo Alto 23% N=134 51% N=291 22% N=129 4% N=21 100% N=576
Variety of business and service establishments in Palo Alto 20% N=114 38% N=218 30% N=173 13% N=73 100% N=577
Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 21% N=119 44% N=251 27% N=152 8% N=45 100% N=567
Employment opportunities 20% N=78 42% N=166 31% N=120 7% N=27 100% N=391
Shopping opportunities 27% N=159 41% N=241 23% N=133 9% N=50 100% N=583
Cost of living in Palo Alto 1% N=5 7% N=41 27% N=160 65% N=383 100% N=589
Overall image or reputation of Palo Alto 35% N=201 41% N=238 19% N=110 5% N=28 100% N=577
Traffic flow on major streets 8% N=48 43% N=250 35% N=203 15% N=87 100% N=588
Ease of public parking 17% N=100 51% N=298 24% N=141 8% N=45 100% N=584
Ease of travel by car in Palo Alto 24% N=142 49% N=284 21% N=122 6% N=33 100% N=581
Ease of travel by public transportation in Palo Alto 5% N=21 27% N=111 30% N=125 38% N=156 100% N=414
Ease of travel by bicycle in Palo Alto 33% N=165 44% N=224 17% N=86 6% N=31 100% N=505
Ease of walking in Palo Alto 41% N=238 40% N=234 12% N=71 8% N=45 100% N=587
Variety of housing options 5% N=28 21% N=111 32% N=173 41% N=221 100% N=533
Availability of affordable quality housing 3% N=13 9% N=44 16% N=82 73% N=372 100% N=511
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 28
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to
Palo Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Overall quality of new development in Palo Alto 8% N=31 32% N=132 41% N=167 19% N=79 100% N=409
Availability of paths and walking trails 31% N=176 42% N=238 23% N=131 4% N=25 100% N=570
Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails,
etc.) 31% N=163 46% N=243 20% N=105 4% N=20 100% N=531
Recreational opportunities 30% N=159 47% N=253 19% N=103 4% N=23 100% N=539
Availability of affordable quality mental health care 14% N=38 24% N=63 25% N=65 37% N=98 100% N=264
Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 28% N=156 44% N=241 22% N=121 6% N=33 100% N=551
Table 30: Question 5 - Historical Results
Please rate each of the following
characteristics as they relate to
Palo Alto as a whole:
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Overall quality of business and
service establishments in Palo
Alto NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 85% 80% 74% Lower
Variety of business and service
establishments in Palo Alto NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 66% 58% 58% Similar
Vibrancy of
downtown/commercial areas NA NA NA NA NA 77% 76% 73% 73% 71% 72% 62% 65% Similar
Employment opportunities 33% 52% 56% 68% 68% 69% 66% 70% 74% 73% 68% 73% 62% Lower
Shopping opportunities NA 70% 71% 69% 73% 82% 79% 80% 82% 79% 78% 73% 69% Similar
Cost of living in Palo Alto NA NA NA NA NA 11% 8% 7% 8% 8% 6% 5% 8% Similar
Overall image or reputation of
Palo Alto NA 90% 92% 92% 90% 92% 88% 86% 86% 83% 78% 76% 76% Similar
Traffic flow on major streets 36% 46% 47% 40% 36% 34% 35% 31% 30% 33% 49% 47% 51% Similar
Ease of public parking NA NA NA NA NA NA 38% 36% 33% 32% 59% 67% 68% Similar
Ease of travel by car in Palo Alto 55% 65% 66% 62% 51% 55% 52% 44% 44% 42% 70% 72% 73% Similar
Ease of travel by public
transportation in Palo Alto NA 63% 62% 64% 71% 65% 36% 26% 28% 29% 30% 24% 32% Higher
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 29
Please rate each of the following
characteristics as they relate to
Palo Alto as a whole:
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Ease of travel by bicycle in Palo
Alto 84% 81% 77% 81% 78% 78% 77% 74% 78% 74% 79% 76% 77% Similar
Ease of walking in Palo Alto NA 85% 83% 82% 84% 84% 83% 80% 86% 83% 86% 85% 80% Similar
Variety of housing options NA 37% 37% 29% 26% 27% 20% 17% 18% 13% 27% 21% 26% Similar
Availability of affordable quality
housing 6% 15% 14% 12% 13% 11% 8% 6% 6% 5% 9% 6% 11% Similar
Overall quality of new
development in Palo Alto NA 55% 53% 57% 56% 44% 51% 49% 42% 50% 38% 36% 40% Similar
Availability of paths and walking
trails NA 75% 75% 75% 77% 71% 74% 73% 76% 77% 76% 76% 73% Similar
Fitness opportunities (including
exercise classes and paths or
trails, etc.) NA NA NA NA NA NA 78% 78% 79% 78% 79% 77% 76% Similar
Recreational opportunities NA 80% 81% 81% 81% 77% 80% 77% 81% 75% 77% 79% 77% Similar
Availability of affordable quality
mental health care NA NA NA NA NA 63% 53% 46% 52% 38% 44% 26% 38% Higher
Opportunities to attend
cultural/arts/music activities NA 74% 73% 77% 69% 81% 79% 77% 81% 74% 71% 78% 72% Lower
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 30
Table 31: Question 5 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo Alto
rating Rank
Number of jurisdictions for
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall quality of business and service establishments in
Palo Alto 64 119 312 Similar
Variety of business and service establishments in Palo Alto 55 127 248 Similar
Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 59 77 292 Similar
Employment opportunities 58 44 323 Higher
Shopping opportunities 62 59 315 Higher
Cost of living in Palo Alto 15 294 303 Much Lower
Overall image or reputation of Palo Alto 69 114 351 Similar
Traffic flow on major streets 48 167 326 Similar
Ease of public parking 59 97 292 Similar
Ease of travel by car in Palo Alto 64 141 321 Similar
Ease of travel by public transportation in Palo Alto 33 172 296 Similar
Ease of travel by bicycle in Palo Alto 68 25 320 Higher
Ease of walking in Palo Alto 71 39 324 Higher
Variety of housing options 30 273 310 Lower
Availability of affordable quality housing 14 309 331 Lower
Overall quality of new development in Palo Alto 43 242 321 Similar
Availability of paths and walking trails 66 137 323 Similar
Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths
or trails, etc.) 68 106 300 Similar
Recreational opportunities 67 97 317 Similar
Availability of affordable quality mental health care 39 170 295 Similar
Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 65 55 313 Higher
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 31
Table 32: Question 5 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Overall quality of business and service establishments in Palo Alto 75% 71% 81% 73% 73% 73% 74%
Variety of business and service establishments in Palo Alto
65%
E
56% 68%
D E
53% 44% 59%
E
58%
Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 61% 69% 65% 63% 59% 69% 65%
Employment opportunities 65% 60% 60% 71% 58% 58% 62%
Shopping opportunities 69% 72% 67% 65% 71% 68% 69%
Cost of living in Palo Alto 10% 9% 11% 6% 7% 6% 8%
Overall image or reputation of Palo Alto 77% 80% 75% 75% 75% 74% 76%
Traffic flow on major streets
50% 57%
E
54% 47% 40% 52% 51%
Ease of public parking 69% 73% 72% 66% 62% 66% 68%
Ease of travel by car in Palo Alto
77% 82%
D E F
73% 68% 68% 71% 73%
Ease of travel by public transportation in Palo Alto
31% 37%
D
35% 22% 38% 32% 32%
Ease of travel by bicycle in Palo Alto
76% 83%
D
86%
D
65% 78% 76% 77%
Ease of walking in Palo Alto
90%
D F
86%
D
89%
D
62% 89%
D
78%
D
80%
Variety of housing options 34% 25% 34% 23% 18% 25% 26%
Availability of affordable quality housing
18%
E F
12% 27%
B D E F
9% 6% 5% 11%
Overall quality of new development in Palo Alto
39% 45% 50%
E
37% 27% 36% 40%
Availability of paths and walking trails 71% 77% 70% 73% 68% 73% 73%
Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) 72% 82% 72% 76% 81% 75% 76%
Recreational opportunities
79% 83%
D
81%
D
67% 75% 76% 77%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 32
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Availability of affordable quality mental health care
36% 36% 64%
A B D E F
38% 21% 38% 38%
Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities
82%
D E
83%
D E F
74%
E
65% 55% 70%
E
72%
Table 33: Question 5 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or other
race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Overall quality of business and service establishments in Palo Alto 76% 72% 76% 72% 74%
Variety of business and service establishments in Palo Alto 58% 56% 56% 59% 58%
Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area
63% 70% 61% 70%
A
65%
Employment opportunities 66% 59% 59% 65% 62%
Shopping opportunities 67% 71% 69% 68% 69%
Cost of living in Palo Alto 7% 9% 8% 8% 8%
Overall image or reputation of Palo Alto 75% 79% 74% 79% 76%
Traffic flow on major streets
54% 49% 47% 56%
A
51%
Ease of public parking 67% 69% 64% 72% 68%
Ease of travel by car in Palo Alto 72% 76% 70% 76% 73%
Ease of travel by public transportation in Palo Alto 36% 29% 36% 28% 32%
Ease of travel by bicycle in Palo Alto
81%
B
73% 77% 77% 77%
Ease of walking in Palo Alto
87%
B
73% 83%
B
77% 80%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 33
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or other
race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Variety of housing options
22% 31%
A
19% 33%
A
26%
Availability of affordable quality housing
8% 15%
A
7% 15%
A
11%
Overall quality of new development in Palo Alto 36% 45% 37% 43% 40%
Availability of paths and walking trails 74% 74% 73% 74% 73%
Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails,
etc.)
83%
B
69% 76% 76% 76%
Recreational opportunities
84%
B
69% 77% 75% 77%
Availability of affordable quality mental health care
33% 48%
A
33% 44% 38%
Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 75% 68% 71% 72% 72%
Question 6
Table 34: Question 6 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as
they relate to Palo Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 7% N=41 14% N=82 15% N=90 12% N=72 52% N=305 100% N=590
K-12 education 35% N=207 27% N=161 7% N=41 2% N=14 28% N=165 100% N=588
Adult educational opportunities 19% N=111 33% N=192 11% N=66 4% N=22 33% N=193 100% N=584
Opportunities to participate in social events and
activities 15% N=90 39% N=230 24% N=141 6% N=34 15% N=88 100% N=583
Openness and acceptance of the community toward
people of diverse backgrounds 21% N=122 36% N=209 24% N=138 9% N=52 11% N=63 100% N=583
Opportunities to learn about City services through
social media such as Twitter, Facebook, and Nextdoor 14% N=82 32% N=187 14% N=84 5% N=31 35% N=204 100% N=587
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 34
Table 35: Question 6 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Palo
Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 14% N=41 29% N=82 32% N=90 25% N=72 100% N=286
K-12 education 49% N=207 38% N=161 10% N=41 3% N=14 100% N=423
Adult educational opportunities 28% N=111 49% N=192 17% N=66 6% N=22 100% N=391
Opportunities to participate in social events and activities 18% N=90 46% N=230 28% N=141 7% N=34 100% N=495
Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse
backgrounds 23% N=122 40% N=209 26% N=138 10% N=52 100% N=520
Opportunities to learn about City services through social media such as
Twitter, Facebook, and Nextdoor 21% N=82 49% N=187 22% N=84 8% N=31 100% N=383
Table 36: Question 6 - Historical Results*
Please rate each of the
following characteristics as
they relate to Palo Alto as a
whole:
Percent positive
2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Availability of affordable quality
child care/preschool 25% 25% 35% 27% 31% 49% 49% 39% 47% 37% 44% 34% 43% Higher
K-12 education NA NA 92% 92% 94% 95% 92% 90% 91% 91% 90% 88% 87% Similar
Adult educational opportunities NA NA NA NA NA 89% 83% 78% 82% 77% 83% 81% 78% Similar
Opportunities to participate in
social events and activities NA 74% 76% 74% 74% 71% 74% 70% 72% 65% 62% 65% 65% Similar
Openness and acceptance of
the community toward people of
diverse backgrounds 73% 79% 78% 80% 76% 76% 68% 72% 72% 72% 59% 60% 64% Similar
Opportunities to learn about City
services through social media
such as Twitter, Facebook, and
Nextdoor NA NA 63% 63% 71% 73% 75% 68% 76% 67% 71% 58% 70% Higher
*Prior to 2023, “Opportunities to learn about City services through social media such as Twitter, Facebook, and Nextdoor” was “Opportunities to learn about City services through
social media websites such as Twitter and Facebook”.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 35
Table 37: Question 6 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo Alto
rating Rank
Number of jurisdictions for
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Availability of affordable quality child care/preschool 44 148 306 Similar
K-12 education 78 39 308 Higher
Adult educational opportunities 67 25 298 Higher
Opportunities to participate in social events and activities 59 115 308 Similar
Opportunities to participate in community matters 60 79 304 Similar
Openness and acceptance of the community towards people of
diverse backgrounds 59 85 322 Similar
Table 38: Question 6 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 41% 49% 56% 36% 33% 43% 43%
K-12 education 84% 92% 90% 84% 88% 84% 87%
Adult educational opportunities
76% 80% 79% 73% 92%
D F
72% 78%
Opportunities to participate in social events and activities
69%
E
74%
D E
73%
D E
57% 46% 65%
E
65%
Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse backgrounds
76%
D E F
66% 69% 59% 54% 60% 64%
Opportunities to learn about City services through social media such as Twitter,
Facebook, and Nextdoor
74% 82%
D F
66% 66% 71% 63% 70%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 36
Table 39: Question 6 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or
other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool
38% 47% 34% 50%
A
43%
K-12 education
89% 86% 84% 91%
A
87%
Adult educational opportunities
85%
B
68% 77% 78% 78%
Opportunities to participate in social events and activities
70%
B
60% 67% 63% 65%
Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse
backgrounds
69%
B
57% 58% 70%
A
64%
Opportunities to learn about City services through social media such as
Twitter, Facebook, and Nextdoor
74% 66% 69% 73% 70%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 37
Question 7
Table 40: Question 7 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. No Yes Total
Used Palo Alto recreation centers or their services 47% N=276 53% N=311 100% N=587
Visited a neighborhood park or City park 6% N=38 94% N=550 100% N=588
Used Palo Alto public libraries or their services 30% N=178 70% N=414 100% N=592
Participated in religious or spiritual activities in Palo Alto 76% N=446 24% N=143 100% N=589
Attended a City-sponsored event 49% N=290 51% N=300 100% N=590
Participated in a club 81% N=476 19% N=113 100% N=589
Talked to or visited with your immediate neighbors 11% N=66 89% N=525 100% N=591
Done a favor for a neighbor 23% N=134 77% N=457 100% N=591
Used the City’s website to conduct business or pay bills 37% N=220 63% N=370 100% N=590
Used the Utilities webpage to conduct business or pay bills 27% N=160 73% N=426 100% N=586
Contacted the City of Palo Alto (in-person, phone, email or web) for help or information 46% N=274 54% N=316 100% N=590
Contacted Palo Alto elected officials (in-person, phone, email or web) to express your opinion 83% N=487 17% N=96 100% N=584
Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City Council or County Commissioners,
advisory boards, town halls, HOA, neighborhood watch, etc.) 80% N=471 20% N=116 100% N=587
Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 82% N=482 18% N=106 100% N=588
Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Palo Alto 61% N=361 39% N=229 100% N=590
Voted in your most recent local election 30% N=179 70% N=411 100% N=590
Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving 56% N=328 44% N=262 100% N=590
Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 41% N=243 59% N=344 100% N=587
Walked or biked instead of driving 16% N=93 84% N=497 100% N=591
Observed a code violation or other hazard in Palo Alto (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 58% N=338 42% N=249 100% N=586
Household member was a victim of a crime in Palo Alto 87% N=514 13% N=74 100% N=588
Reported a crime to the police in Palo Alto 84% N=494 16% N=95 100% N=589
Stocked 14 days’ worth of supplies in case of a major disaster where you have no electricity, water,
internet, or telephone service 70% N=407 30% N=175 100% N=583
This question did not have a “don’t know” response option.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 38
Table 41: Question 7 - Historical Results*
Please indicate whether or not you
have done each of the following in
the last 12 months (percent
“yes”).
Percent positive
2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Used Palo Alto recreation centers
or their services NA 60% 60% 65% 58% 63% 65% 63% 63% 65% 39% 47% 53% Higher
Visited a neighborhood park or City
park NA 94% 91% 95% 94% 91% 94% 93% 91% 94% 94% 94% 94% Similar
Used Palo Alto public libraries or
their services NA 76% 74% 77% 77% 68% 76% 73% 75% 78% 62% 72% 70% Similar
Participated in religious or spiritual
activities in Palo Alto NA NA NA 40% NA 30% 30% 31% 30% 30% 24% 24% 24% Similar
Attended a City-sponsored event NA NA NA NA NA 50% 57% 51% 55% 52% 30% 45% 51% Higher
Participated in a club NA 31% 31% 38% 29% 27% 34% 30% 29% 31% 17% 22% 19% Similar
Talked to or visited with your
immediate neighbors NA NA NA NA NA 91% 89% 88% 92% 90% 88% 88% 89% Similar
Done a favor for a neighbor NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 78% 76% 77% Similar
Used the City’s website to conduct
business or pay bills NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 53% 60% 63% Similar
Used the Utilities webpage to
conduct business or pay bills NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 69% 69% 73% Similar
Contacted the City of Palo Alto (in-
person, phone, email or web) for
help or information NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 55% 58% 54% Similar
Contacted Palo Alto elected
officials (in-person, phone, email or
web) to express your opinion NA NA NA NA NA 17% 15% 17% 20% 21% 25% 21% 17% Similar
Attended a local public meeting (of
local elected officials like City
Council or County Commissioners,
advisory boards, town halls, HOA,
neighborhood watch, etc.) NA 27% 27% 25% 28% 22% 22% 21% 24% 25% 26% 21% 20% Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 39
Please indicate whether or not you
have done each of the following in
the last 12 months (percent
“yes”).
Percent positive
2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Watched (online or on television) a
local public meeting NA 28% 27% 21% 24% 16% 18% 14% 16% 12% 29% 23% 18% Similar
Volunteered your time to some
group/activity in Palo Alto NA 51% 45% 54% 50% 40% 46% 45% 47% 47% 37% 45% 39% Lower
Voted in your most recent local
election NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 83% 77% 70% Lower
Used bus, rail, subway, or other
public transportation instead of
driving NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 34% 43% 44% Similar
Carpooled with other adults or
children instead of driving alone NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 41% 60% 59% Similar
Walked or biked instead of driving NA NA NA NA NA 85% 87% 87% 84% 88% 86% 88% 84% Similar
Did NOT observe a code violation
or other hazard in Palo Alto NA NA NA NA NA 70% 67% 67% 62% 63% 60% 60% 58% Similar
Household member was NOT the
victim of a crime in Palo Alto NA 91% 91% 91% 94% 92% 93% 91% 90% 93% 86% 88% 87% Similar
Did NOT report a crime to the
police in Palo Alto NA NA NA NA NA 87% 87% 86% 85% 87% 79% 85% 84% Similar
Stocked 14 days’ worth of supplies
in case of a major disaster where
you have no electricity, water,
internet, and telephone service NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 26% 49% 34% 30% Similar
*Some questions were re-worded in the Historical Results table to reflect the positive rating of 'yes.' Prior to 2023, “Used the Utilities webpage to conduct business or pay bills”
was “Used the Utilities website to conduct business or pay bills”.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 40
Table 42: Question 7 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo
Alto rating Rank
Number of jurisdictions for
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Contacted the City of Palo Alto (in-person, phone, email or web) for help
or information 54 72 326 Similar
Contacted Palo Alto elected officials (in-person, phone, email or web) to
express your opinion 17 120 297 Similar
Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City
Council or County Commissioners, advisory boards, 20 138 300 Similar
Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 18 214 289 Similar
Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Palo Alto 39 81 303 Similar
Voted in your most recent local election 70 184 246 Similar
Used bus, rail or other public transportation instead of driving 44 27 279 Much Higher
Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 59 20 295 Higher
Walked or biked instead of driving 84 13 297 Much Higher
Table 43: Question 7 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent "yes"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Used Palo Alto recreation centers or their services
70%
B C D
F
54% 48% 49% 61%
F
46% 53%
Visited a neighborhood park or City park 94% 95% 93% 94% 92% 93% 94%
Used Palo Alto public libraries or their services
81%
E
68%
E
79%
E
68%
E
52% 70%
E
70%
Participated in religious or spiritual activities in Palo Alto
28% 23% 25% 19% 18% 30%
D
24%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 41
Percent "yes"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Attended a City-sponsored event
65%
B C D
E
46% 37% 45% 44% 63%
B C D
E
51%
Participated in a club 25% 20% 20% 15% 16% 20% 19%
Talked to or visited with your immediate neighbors
96%
E F
90%
E
95%
E
91%
E
72% 86%
E
89%
Done a favor for a neighbor
92%
B D E
F
68% 85%
B E
76% 67% 79%
B E
77%
Used the City’s website to conduct business or pay bills
74%
D F
63% 67% 58% 65% 58% 63%
Used the Utilities webpage to conduct business or pay bills
80%
F
77%
F
71% 72% 75% 66% 73%
Contacted the City of Palo Alto (in-person, phone, email or web) for help or information 59% 54% 53% 49% 48% 58% 54%
Contacted Palo Alto elected officials (in-person, phone, email or web) to express your
opinion
19% 11% 18% 16% 15% 20% 17%
Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City Council or County
Commissioners, advisory boards, town halls, HOA, neighborhood watch, etc.)
17% 13% 28%
B E
22% 14% 23% 20%
Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting
18% 13% 28%
B
18% 15% 19% 18%
Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Palo Alto
46%
B D
29% 45%
B D
30% 41% 47%
B D
39%
Voted in your most recent local election
82%
B F
64% 72% 70% 75% 64% 70%
Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving
33% 47%
C
30% 40% 54%
A C
55%
A C D
44%
Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 61% 61% 58% 56% 56% 59% 59%
Walked or biked instead of driving
88% 78% 84% 77% 93%
B D
89%
B D
84%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 42
Percent "yes"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Observed a code violation or other hazard in Palo Alto (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.)
39% 40% 41% 41% 56%
B
42% 42%
Household member was a victim of a crime in Palo Alto
8% 13% 15% 8% 9% 18%
A D
13%
Reported a crime to the police in Palo Alto 16% 15% 20% 12% 15% 19% 16%
Stocked 14 days’ worth of supplies in case of a major disaster where you have no
electricity, water, internet, or telephone service
32% 24% 35% 26% 27% 37%
B
30%
Table 44: Question 7 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent "yes"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or
other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Used Palo Alto recreation centers or their services 56% 49% 55% 51% 53%
Visited a neighborhood park or City park 93% 94% 93% 95% 94%
Used Palo Alto public libraries or their services
66% 75%
A
73% 67% 70%
Participated in religious or spiritual activities in Palo Alto
27% 22% 29%
B
20% 24%
Attended a City-sponsored event 54% 46% 51% 50% 51%
Participated in a club
22%
B
15% 20% 18% 19%
Talked to or visited with your immediate neighbors 90% 86% 88% 89% 89%
Done a favor for a neighbor
82%
B
71% 78% 76% 77%
Used the City’s website to conduct business or pay bills 61% 64% 59% 66% 63%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 43
Percent "yes"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or
other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Used the Utilities webpage to conduct business or pay bills
67% 79%
A
70% 76% 73%
Contacted the City of Palo Alto (in-person, phone, email or web) for help or
information
53% 53% 54% 53% 54%
Contacted Palo Alto elected officials (in-person, phone, email or web) to express
your opinion
19% 13% 18% 14% 17%
Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City Council or County
Commissioners, advisory boards, town halls, HOA, neighborhood watch, etc.)
20% 18% 23%
B
16% 20%
Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting
18% 17% 22%
B
14% 18%
Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Palo Alto
41% 35% 44%
B
34% 39%
Voted in your most recent local election
79%
B
57% 71% 68% 70%
Used bus, rail, subway, or other public transportation instead of driving 48% 42% 43% 47% 44%
Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone 60% 57% 60% 57% 59%
Walked or biked instead of driving 85% 85% 83% 86% 84%
Observed a code violation or other hazard in Palo Alto (weeds, abandoned buildings,
etc.)
51%
B
32% 45% 40% 42%
Household member was a victim of a crime in Palo Alto
13% 12% 15%
B
9% 13%
Reported a crime to the police in Palo Alto 17% 14% 18% 13% 16%
Stocked 14 days’ worth of supplies in case of a major disaster where you have no
electricity, water, internet, or telephone service
33% 26% 33%
B
25% 30%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 44
Question 8
Table 45: Question 8 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Please rate the following categories of Palo Alto
government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
The value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto 9% N=51 40% N=234 28% N=162 9% N=53 14% N=82 100% N=583
The overall direction that Palo Alto is taking 8% N=47 39% N=224 27% N=154 14% N=80 13% N=76 100% N=581
The job Palo Alto government does at welcoming
resident involvement 9% N=51 32% N=185 24% N=137 10% N=55 26% N=151 100% N=580
Overall confidence in Palo Alto government 10% N=56 37% N=211 26% N=153 16% N=92 11% N=66 100% N=579
Generally acting in the best interest of the community 11% N=64 38% N=220 28% N=162 12% N=67 11% N=64 100% N=578
Being honest 12% N=72 32% N=183 22% N=125 5% N=31 29% N=169 100% N=580
Being open and transparent to the public 10% N=59 33% N=190 25% N=146 8% N=43 24% N=136 100% N=576
Informing residents about issues facing the community 11% N=62 41% N=234 25% N=141 8% N=49 16% N=90 100% N=575
Treating all residents fairly 11% N=63 33% N=190 17% N=97 10% N=58 30% N=171 100% N=579
Treating residents with respect 17% N=98 37% N=215 18% N=103 4% N=25 24% N=136 100% N=576
Table 46: Question 8 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the following categories of Palo Alto government
performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
The value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto 10% N=51 47% N=234 32% N=162 11% N=53 100% N=501
The overall direction that Palo Alto is taking 9% N=47 44% N=224 31% N=154 16% N=80 100% N=505
The job Palo Alto government does at welcoming resident involvement 12% N=51 43% N=185 32% N=137 13% N=55 100% N=428
Overall confidence in Palo Alto government 11% N=56 41% N=211 30% N=153 18% N=92 100% N=513
Generally acting in the best interest of the community 12% N=64 43% N=220 32% N=162 13% N=67 100% N=514
Being honest 17% N=72 45% N=183 30% N=125 7% N=31 100% N=411
Being open and transparent to the public 13% N=59 43% N=190 33% N=146 10% N=43 100% N=439
Informing residents about issues facing the community 13% N=62 48% N=234 29% N=141 10% N=49 100% N=486
Treating all residents fairly 15% N=63 47% N=190 24% N=97 14% N=58 100% N=407
Treating residents with respect 22% N=98 49% N=215 24% N=103 6% N=25 100% N=440
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 45
Table 47: Question 8 - Historical Results
Please rate the following
categories of Palo Alto
government performance:
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
The value of services for the
taxes paid to Palo Alto NA 62% 66% 67% 66% 66% 65% 58% 61% 58% 53% 51% 57% Higher
The overall direction that Palo
Alto is taking 54% 57% 55% 59% 54% 50% 48% 40% 45% 42% 40% 42% 54% Higher
The job Palo Alto government
does at welcoming resident
involvement 65% 57% 57% 58% 55% 54% 61% 50% 56% 56% 51% 46% 55% Higher
Overall confidence in Palo Alto
government NA NA NA NA NA 52% 53% 44% 49% 46% 49% 47% 52% Similar
Generally acting in the best
interest of the community NA NA NA NA NA 54% 53% 44% 51% 45% 50% 52% 55% Similar
Being honest NA NA NA NA NA 58% 62% 55% 61% 56% 55% 53% 62% Higher
Being open and transparent to
the public NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 50% 53% 57% Similar
Informing residents about
issues facing the community NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 55% 51% 61% Higher
Treating all residents fairly NA NA NA NA NA 57% 53% 47% 56% 51% 57% 50% 62% Higher
Treating residents with respect NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 67% 68% 71% Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 46
Table 48: Question 8 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo Alto
rating Rank
Number of jurisdictions for
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
The value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto 52 132 358 Similar
The overall direction that Palo Alto is taking 49 207 337 Similar
The job Palo Alto government does at welcoming citizen
involvement 51 135 333 Similar
Overall confidence in Palo Alto government 48 163 306 Similar
Generally acting in the best interest of the community 52 146 310 Similar
Being honest 57 101 301 Similar
Being open and transparent to the public 53 94 253 Similar
Informing residents about issues facing the community 55 69 258 Similar
Treating all residents fairly 54 137 307 Similar
Treating residents with respect 62 88 250 Similar
Table 49: Question 8 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent "excellent" or "good".
Area Overall
Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
The value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto 53% 58% 53% 53% 70% 58% 57%
The overall direction that Palo Alto is taking 46% 53% 52% 55% 54% 59% 54%
The job Palo Alto government does at welcoming resident involvement 55% 62% 48% 56% 48% 54% 55%
Overall confidence in Palo Alto government 47% 56% 55% 50% 47% 54% 52%
Generally acting in the best interest of the community 58% 58% 57% 53% 44% 57% 55%
Being honest 72% 69% 59% 55% 57% 60% 62%
Being open and transparent to the public
62% 63%
E
52% 57% 44% 55% 57%
Informing residents about issues facing the community 71% 61% 55% 58% 57% 63% 61%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 47
Percent "excellent" or "good".
Area Overall
Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Treating all residents fairly
70%
E
61% 59% 63% 45% 66%
E
62%
Treating residents with respect
76%
E
71%
E
74%
E
73%
E
52% 72%
E
71%
Table 50: Question 8 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent "excellent" or "good".
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or other
race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
The value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto
65%
B
48% 60% 55% 57%
The overall direction that Palo Alto is taking 52% 58% 53% 55% 54%
The job Palo Alto government does at welcoming resident
involvement
60% 51% 59% 52% 55%
Overall confidence in Palo Alto government 50% 57% 51% 54% 52%
Generally acting in the best interest of the community 54% 59% 56% 56% 55%
Being honest 62% 65% 64% 62% 62%
Being open and transparent to the public 57% 59% 52% 61% 57%
Informing residents about issues facing the community 63% 60% 60% 62% 61%
Treating all residents fairly 62% 62% 57% 66% 62%
Treating residents with respect 70% 74% 71% 71% 71%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 48
Question 9
Table 51: Question 9 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services
provided by each of the following? Excellent Good Fair Poor
Don't
know Total
The City of Palo Alto 21% N=119 51% N=296 20% N=118 5% N=29 3% N=18 100% N=580
The State Government 7% N=42 39% N=227 32% N=185 15% N=84 7% N=40 100% N=579
The Federal Government 6% N=34 36% N=207 35% N=205 15% N=86 8% N=48 100% N=579
Table 52: Question 9 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided by
each of the following? Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
The City of Palo Alto 21% N=119 53% N=296 21% N=118 5% N=29 100% N=562
The State Government 8% N=42 42% N=227 34% N=185 16% N=84 100% N=538
The Federal Government 6% N=34 39% N=207 39% N=205 16% N=86 100% N=531
Table 53: Question 9 - Historical Results
Overall, how would you rate the
quality of the services provided
by each of the following?
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
The City of Palo Alto 87% 80% 83% 88% 84% 83% 85% 81% 86% 82% 73% 72% 74% Similar
State Government 38% 27% 26% 41% 33% NA 47% 46% 54% 46% 52% 57% 50% Lower
The Federal Government 32% 43% 41% 50% 37% 48% 46% 46% 36% 33% 27% 47% 45% Similar
Table 54: Question 9 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo Alto rating Rank Number of jurisdictions for comparison Comparison to benchmark
The City of Palo Alto 63 150 353 Similar
The Federal Government 45 40 293 Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 49
Table 55: Question 9 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
The City of Palo Alto
80%
D
73% 78% 66% 79% 73% 74%
The State Government
48% 50%
D
45% 35% 71%
A B C D
56%
D
50%
The Federal Government 44% 43% 45% 39% 53% 50% 45%
Table 56: Question 9 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not Hispanic Hispanic and/or other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
The City of Palo Alto 76% 73% 74% 76% 74%
The State Government
60%
B
40% 53% 48% 50%
The Federal Government
54%
B
36% 47% 44% 45%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 50
Question 10
Table 57: Question 10 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the quality of each of the following
services in Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Traffic enforcement 14% N=84 42% N=247 20% N=119 11% N=64 12% N=70 100% N=583
Traffic signal timing 15% N=85 47% N=273 25% N=147 11% N=64 2% N=12 100% N=580
Street repair 9% N=53 33% N=190 30% N=176 26% N=154 2% N=11 100% N=584
Street cleaning 23% N=131 55% N=319 16% N=94 5% N=29 2% N=10 100% N=582
Street tree maintenance 21% N=121 45% N=262 22% N=131 9% N=54 3% N=17 100% N=585
Sidewalk maintenance 13% N=76 48% N=276 26% N=149 10% N=56 3% N=18 100% N=574
Land use, planning, and zoning 7% N=40 25% N=142 28% N=163 20% N=115 20% N=113 100% N=574
Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 8% N=44 31% N=176 21% N=119 14% N=78 27% N=153 100% N=571
Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands,
and greenbelts) 28% N=161 49% N=280 13% N=76 3% N=15 7% N=42 100% N=575
Building and planning application processing services 5% N=26 16% N=90 14% N=80 18% N=106 47% N=271 100% N=572
Affordable high-speed internet access 11% N=65 23% N=134 23% N=133 19% N=107 23% N=133 100% N=572
Electric utility 23% N=130 47% N=272 20% N=114 6% N=32 5% N=26 100% N=575
Gas utility 22% N=126 41% N=235 20% N=116 7% N=39 11% N=61 100% N=578
Utility payment options 31% N=176 45% N=259 12% N=67 2% N=11 11% N=60 100% N=573
Drinking water 43% N=251 39% N=223 11% N=66 2% N=12 4% N=25 100% N=577
Sewer services 31% N=177 48% N=276 12% N=67 1% N=4 9% N=53 100% N=577
Storm water management (storm drainage, dams,
levees, etc.) 19% N=111 43% N=248 18% N=102 5% N=30 15% N=83 100% N=573
Refuse collection (garbage, recycling, yard waste, and
e-waste) 38% N=217 46% N=261 12% N=66 1% N=8 3% N=19 100% N=572
Police services 21% N=122 33% N=192 8% N=47 2% N=12 35% N=199 100% N=572
Crime prevention 16% N=94 38% N=217 18% N=106 6% N=37 21% N=123 100% N=576
Animal control 18% N=104 30% N=169 11% N=60 3% N=16 38% N=217 100% N=566
Ambulance or emergency medical services 22% N=123 27% N=155 5% N=28 0% N=1 46% N=262 100% N=570
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 51
Please rate the quality of each of the following
services in Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Fire emergency services 26% N=149 26% N=149 4% N=20 0% N=2 43% N=244 100% N=564
Fire prevention and education 18% N=99 26% N=145 11% N=61 2% N=11 44% N=244 100% N=560
Palo Alto open space 52% N=301 34% N=194 5% N=31 1% N=8 7% N=40 100% N=574
City parks 51% N=291 41% N=237 6% N=35 1% N=5 1% N=5 100% N=574
Recreation programs or classes 25% N=141 37% N=212 10% N=59 2% N=14 25% N=145 100% N=571
Recreation centers or facilities 26% N=149 38% N=216 9% N=53 2% N=10 24% N=139 100% N=567
Public library services (e.g., hold requests, storytimes,
teen events, bookclubs) 48% N=279 27% N=154 4% N=23 1% N=8 20% N=114 100% N=578
Library facilities (buildings, computer equipment,
accessibility) 49% N=279 28% N=161 5% N=26 1% N=8 17% N=98 100% N=571
Variety of library materials (books, e-books,
streaming, databases, audiobooks) 44% N=254 29% N=163 6% N=35 2% N=12 19% N=109 100% N=572
Art programs and theater 26% N=147 32% N=178 10% N=55 2% N=14 30% N=171 100% N=565
City-sponsored special events 18% N=99 33% N=188 15% N=82 2% N=13 32% N=182 100% N=565
City website (cityofpaloalto.org) 20% N=115 42% N=236 20% N=115 2% N=14 15% N=84 100% N=563
Public information (Police/public safety) 19% N=108 41% N=233 16% N=90 3% N=19 20% N=115 100% N=566
Public information (non-Police/public safety) 19% N=109 39% N=216 17% N=94 3% N=16 22% N=125 100% N=559
Overall customer service by Palo Alto employees
(police, receptionists, planners, etc.) 22% N=120 41% N=228 15% N=81 3% N=19 19% N=104 100% N=552
Table 58: Question 10 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Traffic enforcement 16% N=84 48% N=247 23% N=119 12% N=64 100% N=513
Traffic signal timing 15% N=85 48% N=273 26% N=147 11% N=64 100% N=568
Street repair 9% N=53 33% N=190 31% N=176 27% N=154 100% N=573
Street cleaning 23% N=131 56% N=319 16% N=94 5% N=29 100% N=572
Street tree maintenance 21% N=121 46% N=262 23% N=131 9% N=54 100% N=567
Sidewalk maintenance 14% N=76 50% N=276 27% N=149 10% N=56 100% N=556
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 52
Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Land use, planning, and zoning 9% N=40 31% N=142 35% N=163 25% N=115 100% N=461
Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 11% N=44 42% N=176 28% N=119 19% N=78 100% N=418
Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 30% N=161 53% N=280 14% N=76 3% N=15 100% N=533
Building and planning application processing services 9% N=26 30% N=90 26% N=80 35% N=106 100% N=301
Affordable high-speed internet access 15% N=65 31% N=134 30% N=133 24% N=107 100% N=439
Electric utility 24% N=130 50% N=272 21% N=114 6% N=32 100% N=548
Gas utility 24% N=126 46% N=235 23% N=116 8% N=39 100% N=517
Utility payment options 34% N=176 50% N=259 13% N=67 2% N=11 100% N=513
Drinking water 45% N=251 40% N=223 12% N=66 2% N=12 100% N=553
Sewer services 34% N=177 53% N=276 13% N=67 1% N=4 100% N=524
Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 23% N=111 51% N=248 21% N=102 6% N=30 100% N=490
Refuse collection (garbage, recycling, yard waste, and e-waste) 39% N=217 47% N=261 12% N=66 1% N=8 100% N=553
Police services 33% N=122 51% N=192 13% N=47 3% N=12 100% N=373
Crime prevention 21% N=94 48% N=217 23% N=106 8% N=37 100% N=453
Animal control 30% N=104 48% N=169 17% N=60 5% N=16 100% N=349
Ambulance or emergency medical services 40% N=123 50% N=155 9% N=28 0% N=1 100% N=308
Fire emergency services 47% N=149 47% N=149 6% N=20 1% N=2 100% N=320
Fire prevention and education 31% N=99 46% N=145 19% N=61 3% N=11 100% N=316
Palo Alto open space 56% N=301 36% N=194 6% N=31 1% N=8 100% N=534
City parks 51% N=291 42% N=237 6% N=35 1% N=5 100% N=569
Recreation programs or classes 33% N=141 50% N=212 14% N=59 3% N=14 100% N=426
Recreation centers or facilities 35% N=149 50% N=216 12% N=53 2% N=10 100% N=428
Public library services (e.g., hold requests, storytimes, teen events,
bookclubs) 60% N=279 33% N=154 5% N=23 2% N=8 100% N=464
Library facilities (buildings, computer equipment, accessibility) 59% N=279 34% N=161 6% N=26 2% N=8 100% N=474
Variety of library materials (books, e-books, streaming, databases,
audiobooks) 55% N=254 35% N=163 7% N=35 3% N=12 100% N=464
Art programs and theater 37% N=147 45% N=178 14% N=55 4% N=14 100% N=394
City-sponsored special events 26% N=99 49% N=188 22% N=82 3% N=13 100% N=382
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 53
Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
City website (cityofpaloalto.org) 24% N=115 49% N=236 24% N=115 3% N=14 100% N=479
Public information (Police/public safety) 24% N=108 52% N=233 20% N=90 4% N=19 100% N=450
Public information (non-Police/public safety) 25% N=109 50% N=216 22% N=94 4% N=16 100% N=434
Overall customer service by Palo Alto employees (police,
receptionists, planners, etc.) 27% N=120 51% N=228 18% N=81 4% N=19 100% N=448
Table 59: Question 10 - Historical Results*
Please rate the quality of each of
the following services in Palo
Alto:
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Traffic enforcement 64% 64% 61% 66% 64% 62% 60% 60% 60% 53% 65% 55% 65% Higher
Traffic signal timing NA 56% 52% 47% 53% 53% 47% 50% 49% 45% 59% 50% 63% Higher
Street repair 50% 43% 40% 42% 47% 55% 51% 57% 55% 46% 56% 46% 42% Similar
Street cleaning 75% 76% 79% 80% 76% 80% 75% 77% 78% 72% 83% 82% 79% Similar
Street tree maintenance 62% 69% 70% 71% 66% 80% 73% 71% 75% 72% 75% 76% 67% Lower
Sidewalk maintenance 50% 51% 51% 53% 56% 62% 62% 61% 65% 61% 63% 61% 63% Similar
Land use, planning and zoning 41% 49% 45% 51% 36% 43% 40% 37% 40% 39% 40% 38% 40% Similar
Code enforcement (weeds,
abandoned buildings, etc.) 55% 53% 56% 61% 57% 62% 59% 52% 56% 55% 52% 51% 53% Similar
Preservation of natural areas
(open space, farmlands, and
greenbelts) NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 83% 83% 83% Similar
Building and planning application
processing services NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 44% 43% 35% 38% Similar
Affordable high-speed internet
access NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 39% 41% 45% Similar
Electric utility NA 79% 85% 84% 80% 72% 87% 86% 87% 83% 77% 80% 73% Lower
Gas utility NA 80% 82% 86% 81% 88% 88% 87% 89% 84% 78% 81% 70% Lower
Utility payment options NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 85% 86% 87% 85% Similar
Drinking water 82% 84% 86% 83% 88% 89% 88% 87% 88% 87% 88% 91% 86% Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 54
Please rate the quality of each of
the following services in Palo
Alto:
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Sewer services 84% 82% 84% 82% 84% 89% 88% 88% 88% 85% 87% 87% 87% Similar
Storm water management (storm
drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 65% 74% 74% 75% 69% 80% 71% 75% 81% 71% 83% 78% 73% Similar
Refuse collection (garbage,
recycling, yard waste, and e-
waste) NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 85% 87% 85% 87% Similar
Police services 89% 87% 88% 86% 86% 87% 88% 88% 93% 89% 78% 86% 84% Similar
Crime prevention NA 79% 81% 74% 75% 80% 79% 80% 81% 78% 67% 64% 68% Similar
Animal control 79% 76% 72% 78% 76% 80% 80% 77% 80% 75% 82% 81% 78% Similar
Ambulance or emergency
medical services 95% 94% 93% 96% 93% 97% 95% 96% 96% 93% 93% 88% 90% Similar
Fire emergency services 96% 93% 92% 96% 93% 95% 97% 97% 97% 94% 94% 93% 93% Similar
Fire prevention and education NA 79% 76% 80% 82% 85% 85% 85% 87% 84% 82% 81% 77% Similar
Palo Alto open space NA NA NA NA NA 82% 84% 81% 86% 83% 86% 92% 93% Similar
City parks 90% 90% 94% 91% 93% 92% 93% 91% 94% 91% 91% 93% 93% Similar
Recreation programs or classes 83% 82% 81% 87% 87% 87% 84% 84% 87% 81% 83% 79% 83% Similar
Recreation centers or facilities 77% 81% 75% 85% 80% 84% 86% 81% 86% 82% 82% 79% 85% Higher
Public library services (e.g., hold
requests, storytimes, teen events,
bookclubs) NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 92% 93% 93% Similar
Library facilities (buildings,
computer equipment,
accessibility) NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 92% 94% 95% 93% Similar
Variety of library materials
(books, e-books, streaming,
databases, audiobooks) 60% 75% 72% 88% 81% 88% 83% 82% 86% 88% 86% 92% 90% Similar
Art programs and theater NA 78% 81% 82% 82% 69% 80% 78% 82% 76% 82% 89% 83% Lower
City-sponsored special events NA NA NA NA NA 75% 75% 73% 75% 77% 72% 74% 75% Similar
City website (cityofpaloalto.org) NA 73% 67% 70% 69% 88% 69% 66% 72% 65% 69% 70% 73% Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 55
Please rate the quality of each of
the following services in Palo
Alto:
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2003 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Public information (Police/public
safety) NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 77% 74% 71% 76% Similar
Public information (non-
Police/public safety) NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 75% 75% 69% 75% Higher
Overall customer service by Palo
Alto employees (police,
receptionists, planners, etc.) 78% 77% 76% 81% 79% 81% 74% 77% 84% 77% 79% 80% 78% Similar
*Prior to 2023, “Public information (Police/public safety)” was “Public information services (Police/public safety)” and “Public information (non-Police/public safety)” was
“Public information services (non-Police/public safety)”.
Table 60: Question 10 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo Alto
rating Rank
Number of jurisdictions for
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Traffic enforcement 56 144 346 Similar
Traffic signal timing 56 64 304 Similar
Street repair 42 212 345 Similar
Street cleaning 66 74 313 Similar
Sidewalk maintenance 56 117 314 Similar
Land use, planning and zoning 41 190 315 Similar
Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc) 48 137 338 Similar
Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands and
greenbelts) 70 27 298 Higher
Affordable high-speed internet access 45 163 243 Similar
Utility payment options 72 7 288 Higher
Drinking water 76 29 311 Higher
Sewer services 73 77 309 Similar
Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 63 147 320 Similar
Police emergency services 71 153 368 Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 56
City of Palo Alto
rating Rank
Number of jurisdictions for
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Crime prevention 60 195 344 Similar
Animal control 68 58 321 Similar
Ambulance or emergency medical services 77 118 315 Similar
Fire emergency services 80 125 335 Similar
Fire prevention and education 68 142 308 Similar
Palo Alto open space (e.g. Foothills, Baylands) 83 2 296 Much Higher
City parks 81 21 324 Higher
Recreation programs or classes 71 45 318 Higher
Recreation centers or facilities 73 35 306 Higher
Overall customer service by Palo Alto employees (police,
receptionists, planners, etc.) 67 198 352 Similar
Table 61: Question 10 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4 Area 5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Traffic enforcement 61% 67% 57% 68% 66% 65% 65%
Traffic signal timing
70%
D
62% 71%
D
53% 55% 67%
D
63%
Street repair
55%
D
47%
D
48%
D
24% 39% 46%
D
42%
Street cleaning 77% 84% 79% 74% 81% 77% 79%
Street tree maintenance 74% 70% 69% 60% 73% 65% 67%
Sidewalk maintenance 64% 68% 67% 60% 69% 57% 63%
Land use, planning, and zoning
40% 47%
D E
40% 29% 28% 46%
D E
40%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 57
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4 Area 5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.)
46% 63%
A D
46% 43% 59% 56% 53%
Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts)
91%
D
80% 92%
B D
78% 81% 82% 83%
Building and planning application processing services
36% 47%
F
50%
F
40% 31% 28% 38%
Affordable high-speed internet access
45% 44% 43% 39% 69%
A B C D
F
44% 45%
Electric utility 72% 74% 76% 72% 78% 71% 73%
Gas utility 67% 71% 73% 72% 77% 62% 70%
Utility payment options
85% 87% 90%
D
78% 90% 83% 85%
Drinking water
88%
D
89%
D
94%
D
75% 90%
D
85%
D
86%
Sewer services
87% 89%
D
87% 79% 93%
D
88% 87%
Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.)
63% 75% 86%
A F
72% 84%
A F
68% 73%
Refuse collection (garbage, recycling, yard waste, and e-waste)
87% 90%
F
89% 85% 94%
F
81% 87%
Police services 86% 82% 83% 83% 92% 84% 84%
Crime prevention 69% 66% 70% 69% 74% 68% 68%
Animal control 82% 81% 79% 74% 87% 73% 78%
Ambulance or emergency medical services
91% 94%
D
92% 82% 93% 92% 90%
Fire emergency services 93% 93% 93% 92% 94% 94% 93%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 58
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4 Area 5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Fire prevention and education
87%
D
79% 84% 70% 74% 74% 77%
Palo Alto open space 95% 90% 90% 92% 96% 95% 93%
City parks
98%
F
93% 93% 92% 96% 90% 93%
Recreation programs or classes
88%
D
91%
D F
83% 74% 88% 78% 83%
Recreation centers or facilities
87% 92%
D
83% 78% 87% 83% 85%
Public library services (e.g., hold requests, storytimes, teen events, bookclubs)
94% 97%
D
95% 89% 94% 92% 93%
Library facilities (buildings, computer equipment, accessibility)
97%
D
97%
D
93% 89% 90% 90% 93%
Variety of library materials (books, e-books, streaming, databases, audiobooks) 95% 92% 92% 87% 87% 88% 90%
Art programs and theater 87% 87% 86% 77% 72% 82% 83%
City-sponsored special events 79% 83% 72% 73% 67% 72% 75%
City website (cityofpaloalto.org) 73% 80% 68% 74% 66% 71% 73%
Public information (Police/public safety)
82%
E
75%
E
86%
E
74%
E
57% 76%
E
76%
Public information (non-Police/public safety)
85%
E
80%
E
77% 72% 60% 73% 75%
Overall customer service by Palo Alto employees (police, receptionists, planners,
etc.)
79% 82%
D
85%
D
69% 73% 78% 78%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 59
Table 62: Question 10 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or other
race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Traffic enforcement
59% 71%
A
61% 68% 65%
Traffic signal timing
59% 68%
A
62% 64% 63%
Street repair
38% 49%
A
36% 50%
A
42%
Street cleaning 81% 78% 77% 82% 79%
Street tree maintenance
71% 65% 63% 73%
A
67%
Sidewalk maintenance 63% 66% 61% 66% 63%
Land use, planning, and zoning
34% 47%
A
38% 42% 40%
Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.)
48% 59%
A
50% 56% 53%
Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts)
87%
B
79% 79% 87%
A
83%
Building and planning application processing services
31% 48%
A
33% 44%
A
38%
Affordable high-speed internet access
49% 42% 38% 51%
A
45%
Electric utility
79%
B
67% 67% 79%
A
73%
Gas utility
77%
B
63% 61% 79%
A
70%
Utility payment options
89%
B
80% 80% 89%
A
85%
Drinking water
92%
B
79% 84% 89% 86%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 60
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or other
race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Sewer services
91%
B
81% 84% 89% 87%
Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.)
76% 72% 69% 79%
A
73%
Refuse collection (garbage, recycling, yard waste, and e-waste)
92%
B
82% 88% 86% 87%
Police services
89%
B
78% 85% 84% 84%
Crime prevention
78%
B
61% 64% 75%
A
68%
Animal control
83%
B
74% 78% 79% 78%
Ambulance or emergency medical services 93% 87% 92% 88% 90%
Fire emergency services 94% 92% 94% 93% 93%
Fire prevention and education
84%
B
67% 77% 76% 77%
Palo Alto open space
97%
B
90% 92% 95% 93%
City parks
97%
B
90% 92% 94% 93%
Recreation programs or classes
91%
B
74% 84% 83% 83%
Recreation centers or facilities
91%
B
80% 87% 84% 85%
Public library services (e.g., hold requests, storytimes, teen events,
bookclubs)
96%
B
91% 94% 93% 93%
Library facilities (buildings, computer equipment, accessibility)
97%
B
88% 93% 93% 93%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 61
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or other
race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Variety of library materials (books, e-books, streaming, databases,
audiobooks)
93%
B
85% 91% 89% 90%
Art programs and theater
86%
B
77% 85% 80% 83%
City-sponsored special events
83%
B
66% 78% 73% 75%
City website (cityofpaloalto.org) 72% 75% 70% 75% 73%
Public information (Police/public safety) 78% 73% 74% 77% 76%
Public information (non-Police/public safety) 79% 72% 73% 77% 75%
Overall customer service by Palo Alto employees (police, receptionists,
planners, etc.)
78% 79% 70% 86%
A
78%
Question 11
Table 63: Question 11 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the following as they relate to Palo Alto
Utilities’ services: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Reliability of utility services 46% N=264 42% N=241 6% N=34 2% N=13 3% N=19 100% N=572
Affordability of utility services 14% N=80 34% N=196 31% N=178 15% N=88 5% N=30 100% N=572
Community value received from the City owning and
operating its own municipal utility services 35% N=201 29% N=163 13% N=72 4% N=24 19% N=110 100% N=571
Utilities online customer self-service features 24% N=138 37% N=207 12% N=67 1% N=4 26% N=150 100% N=566
Providing opportunities for energy and water efficiency
at home or business 22% N=122 36% N=203 15% N=84 2% N=13 25% N=141 100% N=564
Working hard to keep utilities prices competitive 16% N=90 25% N=142 22% N=127 9% N=54 27% N=156 100% N=569
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 62
Please rate the following as they relate to Palo Alto
Utilities’ services: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Value of all the services Palo Alto Utilities provides for
the price you pay 20% N=112 36% N=203 25% N=141 7% N=39 12% N=66 100% N=562
Ease of obtaining information or performing a
transaction through the City’s website 19% N=108 35% N=198 17% N=98 5% N=27 23% N=132 100% N=563
Value of Palo Alto Utilities’ customer communications 22% N=125 35% N=195 19% N=107 3% N=16 21% N=120 100% N=563
Ease of contacting Utilities department staff 22% N=125 30% N=172 13% N=72 4% N=22 31% N=177 100% N=567
Speed of response after contacting Utilities department
staff 23% N=130 26% N=146 13% N=74 3% N=16 35% N=197 100% N=563
Table 64: Question 11 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the following as they relate to Palo Alto Utilities’ services: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Reliability of utility services 48% N=264 44% N=241 6% N=34 2% N=13 100% N=552
Affordability of utility services 15% N=80 36% N=196 33% N=178 16% N=88 100% N=543
Community value received from the City owning and operating its own
municipal utility services 44% N=201 35% N=163 16% N=72 5% N=24 100% N=460
Utilities online customer self-service features 33% N=138 50% N=207 16% N=67 1% N=4 100% N=416
Providing opportunities for energy and water efficiency at home or
business 29% N=122 48% N=203 20% N=84 3% N=13 100% N=422
Working hard to keep utilities prices competitive 22% N=90 34% N=142 31% N=127 13% N=54 100% N=413
Value of all the services Palo Alto Utilities provides for the price you
pay 23% N=112 41% N=203 29% N=141 8% N=39 100% N=495
Ease of obtaining information or performing a transaction through the
City’s website 25% N=108 46% N=198 23% N=98 6% N=27 100% N=431
Value of Palo Alto Utilities’ customer communications 28% N=125 44% N=195 24% N=107 4% N=16 100% N=443
Ease of contacting Utilities department staff 32% N=125 44% N=172 18% N=72 6% N=22 100% N=390
Speed of response after contacting Utilities department staff 36% N=130 40% N=146 20% N=74 4% N=16 100% N=366
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 63
Table 65: Question 11 - Historical Results
Please rate the following as they relate to Palo Alto Utilities' services:
Percent positive 2023 rating compared to
2022 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Reliability of utility services 96% 94% 93% 88% 91% Similar
Affordability of utility services 64% 59% 58% 60% 51% Lower
Community value received from the City owning and operating its own municipal
utility services 81% 79% 84% 86% 79% Lower
Utilities online customer self-service features NA 78% 86% 82% 83% Similar
Providing opportunities for energy and water efficiency at home or business 83% 75% 80% 76% 77% Similar
Working hard to keep utilities prices competitive 63% 59% 62% 68% 56% Lower
Value of all the services Palo Alto Utilities provides for the price you pay 68% 62% 66% 68% 64% Similar
Ease of obtaining information or performing a transaction through the City’s
website 65% 61% 72% 75% 71%
Similar
Value of Palo Alto Utilities’ customer communications 76% 70% 80% 78% 72% Lower
Ease of contacting Utilities department staff NA 75% 84% 81% 76% Similar
Speed of response after contacting Utilities department staff NA 76% 83% 84% 75% Lower
Table 66: Question 11 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Reliability of utility services 95% 91% 90% 93% 90% 90% 91%
Affordability of utility services
54% 43% 60%
B
50% 48% 55% 51%
Community value received from the City owning and operating its own municipal utility
services
78% 77% 81% 80% 75% 82% 79%
Utilities online customer self-service features 78% 84% 86% 80% 92% 82% 83%
Providing opportunities for energy and water efficiency at home or business 72% 83% 80% 77% 73% 73% 77%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 64
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Working hard to keep utilities prices competitive
47% 46% 61% 56% 64% 67%
A B
56%
Value of all the services Palo Alto Utilities provides for the price you pay
61% 61% 60% 57% 78%
B D
69% 64%
Ease of obtaining information or performing a transaction through the City’s website
82%
D F
72% 76% 66% 67% 67% 71%
Value of Palo Alto Utilities' customer communications 79% 69% 80% 66% 81% 68% 72%
Ease of contacting Utilities department staff 84% 72% 82% 76% 80% 70% 76%
Speed of response after contacting Utilities department staff
87%
B F
72% 89%
B D F
72% 77% 68% 75%
Table 67: Question 11 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or other
race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Reliability of utility services
94%
B
88% 90% 92% 91%
Affordability of utility services
57%
B
45% 48% 56% 51%
Community value received from the City owning and operating its own
municipal utility services
84%
B
73% 75% 83% 79%
Utilities online customer self-service features
88%
B
79% 82% 85% 83%
Providing opportunities for energy and water efficiency at home or
business
80% 74% 75% 79% 77%
Working hard to keep utilities prices competitive
63%
B
49% 51% 62%
A
56%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 65
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or other
race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Value of all the services Palo Alto Utilities provides for the price you pay
70%
B
56% 61% 67% 64%
Ease of obtaining information or performing a transaction through the
City’s website
71% 71% 68% 73% 71%
Value of Palo Alto Utilities' customer communications 75% 70% 70% 75% 72%
Ease of contacting Utilities department staff
80%
B
71% 74% 77% 76%
Speed of response after contacting Utilities department staff 77% 74% 73% 78% 75%
Question 12
Table 68: Question 12 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Palo
Alto community to focus on each of the following in the coming
two years. Essential
Very
important
Somewhat
important
Not at all
important Total
Overall “built environment” of Palo Alto (including overall design,
buildings, parks and transportation systems) 45% N=254 36% N=203 18% N=100 1% N=8 100% N=565
Overall economic health of Palo Alto 41% N=236 45% N=259 11% N=65 2% N=12 100% N=572
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto 56% N=323 31% N=177 9% N=54 4% N=21 100% N=575
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 40% N=228 44% N=251 14% N=80 2% N=13 100% N=571
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 24% N=139 46% N=267 25% N=143 4% N=26 100% N=575
Overall opportunities for education, culture and the arts 29% N=168 42% N=244 25% N=141 4% N=22 100% N=576
Residents' connection and engagement with their community 20% N=117 40% N=233 35% N=200 4% N=26 100% N=576
Reducing community greenhouse gas emissions 38% N=217 30% N=175 23% N=133 9% N=53 100% N=579
Increasing local solar generation capacity within city boundaries 36% N=205 31% N=178 24% N=139 9% N=52 100% N=574
Increasing electric storage capacity within city boundaries 34% N=196 34% N=192 23% N=132 8% N=48 100% N=568
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 66
Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Palo
Alto community to focus on each of the following in the coming
two years. Essential
Very
important
Somewhat
important
Not at all
important Total
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for Utilities
billing issues, efficiency tips, outage information 23% N=132 34% N=195 35% N=199 8% N=48 100% N=574
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for public
safety issues 34% N=193 41% N=231 21% N=119 5% N=26 100% N=570
This question did not have a “don’t know” response option.
Table 69: Question 12 - Historical Results
Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Palo Alto
community to focus on each of the following in the coming two years.
Percent positive 2023 rating
compared to 2022 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Overall “built environment” of Palo Alto (including overall design, buildings,
parks and transportation systems) 80% 82% 75% 78% 81% 84% 81% Similar
Overall economic health of Palo Alto 78% 82% 76% NA 85% 81% 87% Higher
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto 82% 80% 80% 81% 83% 87% 87% Similar
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 81% 84% 79% 78% 85% 83% 84% Similar
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 61% 65% 62% NA 66% 66% 71% Similar
Overall opportunities for education, culture and the arts 67% 70% 67% NA 70% 74% 72% Similar
Residents’ connection and engagement with their community 71% 73% 70% NA 66% 68% 61% Lower
Reducing community greenhouse gas emissions NA NA 58% 64% 67% 70% 68% Similar
Increasing local solar generation capacity within city boundaries NA NA 57% 55% 62% 63% 67% Similar
Increasing electric storage capacity within city boundaries NA NA NA 50% 61% 67% 68% Similar
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for Utilities billing
issues, efficiency tips, outage information NA NA NA 45% 46% 53% 57% Similar
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for public safety issues NA NA NA 63% 64% 68% 74% Higher
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 67
Table 70: Question 12 - Benchmark Comparisons
City of Palo
Alto rating Rank
Number of jurisdictions for
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall “built environment” of Palo Alto (including overall design,
buildings, parks and transportation systems) 75 46 286 Higher
Overall economic health of Palo Alto. 75 240 286 Similar
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto 80 187 286 Similar
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 74 129 286 Similar
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 63 237 286 Similar
Overall opportunities for education, culture and the arts 66 178 286 Similar
Residents’ connection and engagement with their community 59 258 286 Similar
Table 71: Question 12 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Overall "built environment" of Palo Alto (including overall design, buildings, parks and
transportation systems)
82% 79% 75% 85% 79% 82% 81%
Overall economic health of Palo Alto
92%
B
81% 88% 87% 85% 88% 87%
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto
94%
F
86% 90% 88% 84% 83% 87%
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 80% 83% 89% 84% 81% 84% 84%
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 68% 71% 75% 69% 72% 69% 71%
Overall opportunities for education, culture and the arts 70% 65% 78% 75% 65% 75% 72%
Residents' connection and engagement with their community
69%
E
58% 73%
B D E
57% 51% 61% 61%
Reducing community greenhouse gas emissions 59% 70% 66% 69% 73% 67% 68%
Increasing local solar generation capacity within city boundaries 59% 65% 69% 72% 74% 63% 67%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 68
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Increasing electric storage capacity within city boundaries 64% 65% 71% 74% 65% 68% 68%
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for Utilities billing issues, efficiency
tips, outage information
52%
E
61%
E
69%
A E F
63%
E
34% 54%
E
57%
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for public safety issues
72% 72%
E
84%
E
83%
E
57% 73%
E
74%
Table 72: Question 12 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or
other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Overall "built environment" of Palo Alto (including overall design, buildings,
parks and transportation systems)
82% 80% 77% 85%
A
81%
Overall economic health of Palo Alto 86% 87% 87% 86% 87%
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto
81% 93%
A
84% 90%
A
87%
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 81% 86% 84% 83% 84%
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 68% 73% 73% 67% 71%
Overall opportunities for education, culture and the arts
67% 77%
A
74% 68% 72%
Residents' connection and engagement with their community 57% 63% 63% 58% 61%
Reducing community greenhouse gas emissions
74%
B
64% 73%
B
64% 68%
Increasing local solar generation capacity within city boundaries
72%
B
62% 69% 64% 67%
Increasing electric storage capacity within city boundaries 71% 66% 70% 67% 68%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 69
Percent rating "excellent" or "good"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or
other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for Utilities billing issues,
efficiency tips, outage information
52% 63%
A
55% 59% 57%
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for public safety issues
68% 81%
A
77% 71% 74%
Question 13
Table 73: Question 13 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents Including "Don't Know" Responses
In a typical week, how likely are you to: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely Very unlikely
Don't
know Total
Participate in organized group activities (such as
clubs, sports teams, volunteer your time, attend
church/temple) 30% N=170 22% N=127 20% N=113 27% N=155 2% N=11 100% N=577
Spend quality time with local friends, family, and/or
neighbors 58% N=336 27% N=156 8% N=47 6% N=32 1% N=8 100% N=580
Table 74: Question 13 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents Without "Don't Know" Responses
In a typical week, how likely are you to: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely Very unlikely Total
Participate in organized group activities (such as clubs, sports
teams, volunteer your time, attend church/temple) 30% N=170 23% N=127 20% N=113 27% N=155 100% N=566
Spend quality time with local friends, family, and/or neighbors 59% N=336 27% N=156 8% N=47 6% N=32 100% N=572
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 70
Table 75: Question 13 - Historical Results
In a typical week, how likely are you to:
Percent positive (e.g., very/somewhat
likely)
2023
rating
compared
to 2022 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Participate in organized group activities (such as clubs, sports teams volunteer your time,
attend church/temple) 52% 56% 47% 55% 53% Similar
Spend quality time with local friends, family, and/or neighbors 85% 88% 82% 86% 86% Similar
Table 76: Question 13 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "very likely" or "somewhat likely"
Area Overall
Area 1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Participate in organized group activities (such as clubs, sports teams, volunteer your
time, attend church/temple)
69%
B C D F
51% 49% 48% 58% 50% 53%
Spend quality time with local friends, family, and/or neighbors
99%
B C D E
F
87% 81% 87% 82% 82% 86%
Table 77: Question 13 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "very likely" or "somewhat likely"
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or
other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Participate in organized group activities (such as clubs, sports teams,
volunteer your time, attend church/temple) 53% 54% 57% 49% 53%
Spend quality time with local friends, family, and/or neighbors 86% 86% 85% 87% 86%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 71
Question 14
Table 78: Question 14 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What mode of transportation do you use most for your typical daily needs for getting around town? Percent Number
Driving 77% N=447
Walking 12% N=69
Biking 8% N=49
Bus 1% N=4
Train 0% N=1
Free shuttle 0% N=3
Taxi 0% N=0
Uber/Lyft or similar rideshare service 1% N=4
Carpooling 0% N=2
Total 100% N=580
Table 79: Question 14 - Historical Results
What mode of transportation do you use most for your typical daily
needs for getting around town?
Percent selecting each response 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Driving 77% 73% 76% 71% 67% 77% Higher
Walking 13% 13% 11% 14% 16% 12% Similar
Biking 8% 11% 10% 13% 15% 8% Lower
Bus 1% 1% 0% 1% 1% 1% Similar
Train 0% 1% 1% 0% 0% 0% Similar
Free shuttle 0% 0% 1% 0% 0% 0% Similar
Taxi 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% Similar
Uber/Lyft or similar rideshare service 0% 1% 0% 0% 0% 1% Similar
Carpooling 0% 0% 0% 0% 1% 0% Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 72
Question 15
Table 80: Question 15 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
In a typical week, how likely are you to: Very convenient Somewhat convenient Somewhat inconvenient Very inconvenient Total
Walking 35% N=197 35% N=194 18% N=101 12% N=69 100% N=561
Biking 44% N=246 34% N=187 10% N=57 12% N=65 100% N=554
Bus 6% N=31 25% N=135 42% N=229 27% N=145 100% N=540
Train 10% N=54 29% N=156 30% N=161 30% N=162 100% N=534
Free shuttle 18% N=92 39% N=207 30% N=157 13% N=70 100% N=526
Taxi 16% N=85 24% N=128 27% N=141 32% N=169 100% N=523
Uber/Lyft or similar rideshare service 42% N=231 37% N=202 12% N=68 9% N=52 100% N=554
Carpooling 9% N=48 27% N=143 35% N=185 29% N=154 100% N=529
Table 81: Question 15 - Historical Results
If you did not have access to a car for your usual
daily transportation around town, how convenient
(based on time and proximity) would you consider
each of the following methods of getting around?
Percent positive (e.g., very/somewhat convenient)
2023 rating
compared to
2022 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Walking 92% 94% 92% 69% 76% 66% 70% Similar
Biking 76% 75% 75% 77% 83% 80% 78% Similar
Bus 53% 50% 52% 33% 33% 33% 31% Similar
Train 68% 66% 60% 41% 39% 43% 39% Similar
Free shuttle 78% 75% 74% 46% 45% 48% 57% Higher
Taxi 26% 27% 24% 35% 30% 31% 41% Higher
Uber/Lyft or similar rideshare service 52% 62% 66% 83% 77% 74% 78% Similar
Carpooling 52% 45% 49% 33% 26% 41% 36% Similar
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 73
Table 82: Question 15 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "very" or "somewhat" likely
Area Overall
Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Walking
78%
D
75%
D
64%
D
46% 78%
D
79%
C D
70%
Biking
83%
D
83%
C D
70% 68% 85%
C D
80%
D
78%
Bus
28% 25% 35% 30% 51%
A B C D F
28% 31%
Train
42% 36% 29% 32% 51%
C D
47%
C D
39%
Free shuttle
55% 64%
D
50% 49% 63% 59% 57%
Taxi 36% 47% 44% 38% 44% 37% 41%
Uber/Lyft or similar rideshare service 72% 80% 79% 73% 81% 83% 78%
Carpooling
34% 39% 31% 36% 55%
A B C D F
30% 36%
Table 83: Question 15 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "very" or "somewhat" likely
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not Hispanic Hispanic and/or other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Walking
72% 68% 78%
B
62% 70%
Biking
77% 82% 74% 83%
A
78%
Bus 28% 35% 29% 33% 31%
Train 39% 42% 42% 38% 39%
Free shuttle 60% 55% 56% 58% 57%
Taxi 39% 44% 41% 41% 41%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 74
Percent rating "very" or "somewhat" likely
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not Hispanic Hispanic and/or other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Uber/Lyft or similar rideshare service 76% 82% 79% 78% 78%
Carpooling
34% 40% 42%
B
30% 36%
Question 16
Table 84: Question 16 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents with "Don't Know" Responses
If you plan to purchase a new car within the next
two years, what is the likelihood of it being: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely Very unlikely Don't know Total
All-electric 41% N=212 22% N=112 10% N=50 16% N=83 11% N=58 100% N=516
Plug-in hybrid 24% N=123 37% N=183 11% N=54 17% N=86 11% N=55 100% N=501
Hydrogen fuel cell 2% N=11 11% N=54 11% N=53 54% N=263 21% N=104 100% N=485
Other 9% N=31 6% N=21 4% N=12 15% N=49 66% N=223 100% N=336
Respondents were able to write a response in their own words. These verbatim responses are shown in Appendix B: Verbatim Responses to Open-ended Questions from
Probability Survey.
Table 85: Question 16 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
If you plan to purchase a new car within the next two years,
what is the likelihood of it being: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely Very unlikely Total
All-electric 46% N=212 24% N=112 11% N=50 18% N=83 100% N=457
Plug-in hybrid 28% N=123 41% N=183 12% N=54 19% N=86 100% N=446
Hydrogen fuel cell 3% N=11 14% N=54 14% N=53 69% N=263 100% N=381
Other 27% N=31 19% N=21 11% N=12 43% N=49 100% N=113
Respondents were able to write a response in their own words. These verbatim responses are shown in Appendix B: Verbatim Responses to Open-ended Questions from
Probability Survey.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 75
Table 86: Question 16 - Historical Results
If you plan to purchase a new car within the next two years, what is the likelihood of
it being:
Percent rating positively (e.g., very/somewhat
likely)
2023
rating
compared
to 2022 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Plug-in hybrid 59% 62% 62% 61% 65% 69% Similar
All-electric 65% 71% 67% 76% 68% 71% Similar
Hydrogen fuel cell 10% 14% 11% 14% 12% 17% Similar
Other NA NA NA NA 48% 46% Similar
Table 87: Question 16 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "very" or "somewhat" likely
Area Overall
Area 1 Area 2 Area 3 Area 4 Area 5 Area 6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
All-electric 67% 76% 77% 64% 71% 69% 71%
Plug-in hybrid 74% 74% 68% 64% 76% 62% 69%
Hydrogen fuel cell 16% 15% 14% 19% 28% 14% 17%
Other
58% 27% 38% 64%
B F
49% 31% 46%
Table 88: Question 16 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "very" or "somewhat" likely
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not Hispanic Hispanic and/or other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
All-electric
71% 72% 64% 79%
A
71%
Plug-in hybrid 69% 67% 68% 70% 69%
Hydrogen fuel cell
12% 21%
A
14% 19% 17%
Other 46% 43% 45% 43% 46%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 76
Question 17
Table 89: Question 17 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents with "Don't Know" Responses
Palo Alto is committed to addressing climate change
by engaging in strategies that reduce Greenhouse Gas
Emissions (GHGs). Space heating is the largest source
of GHG in most Palo Alto homes, followed by water
heating. What is the likelihood of you… Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely Don't know Total
Replacing your gas water heater with a heat pump
water heater when you are ready to replace the water
heater? 23% N=132 22% N=125 8% N=43 17% N=97 30% N=172 100% N=569
Replacing your gas furnace with a heat pump HVAC
system (that provides heating and cooling) when you
are ready to replace the furnace? 22% N=124 23% N=128 7% N=38 18% N=99 31% N=176 100% N=565
Table 90: Question 17 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Palo Alto is committed to addressing climate change by engaging in
strategies that reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGs). Space
heating is the largest source of GHG in most Palo Alto homes,
followed by water heating. What is the likelihood of you… Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely Total
Replacing your gas water heater with a heat pump water heater when
you are ready to replace the water heater? 33% N=132 31% N=125 11% N=43 24% N=97 100% N=397
Replacing your gas furnace with a heat pump HVAC system (that
provides heating and cooling) when you are ready to replace the
furnace? 32% N=124 33% N=128 10% N=38 26% N=99 100% N=390
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 77
Table 91: Question 17 - Historical Results
Palo Alto is committed to addressing climate change by engaging in strategies that
reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGs). Space heating is the largest source of
GHG in most Palo Alto homes, followed by water heating. What is the likelihood of
you…
Percent rating positively (e.g.,
very/somewhat likely) 2023 rating
compared to
2022 2022 2023
Replacing your gas water heater with a heat pump water heater when you are ready to
replace the water heater?
65% 65% Similar
Replacing your gas furnace with a heat pump HVAC system (that provides heating and
cooling) when you are ready to replace the furnace?
68% 65% Similar
Table 92: Question 17 - Geographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "very" or "somewhat" likely
Area Overall
Area
1
Area
2
Area
3
Area
4
Area
5
Area
6
(A) (A) (B) (C) (D) (E) (F)
Replacing your gas water heater with a heat pump water heater when you are ready to
replace the water heater?
67% 58% 66% 65% 65% 69% 65%
Replacing your gas furnace with a heat pump HVAC system (that provides heating and
cooling) when you are ready to replace the furnace?
69% 59% 54% 66% 72% 71%
C
65%
Table 93: Question 17 - Demographic Subgroup Results
Percent rating "very" or "somewhat" likely
Race/ethnicity Sex Overall
White alone, not
Hispanic
Hispanic and/or
other race Female Male
(A) (A) (B) (A) (B)
Replacing your gas water heater with a heat pump water heater when you are
ready to replace the water heater?
61% 70% 65% 65% 65%
Replacing your gas furnace with a heat pump HVAC system (that provides heating
and cooling) when you are ready to replace the furnace?
61% 70% 65% 65% 65%
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 78
Question 18
Table 94: Question 18 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
As a resident of Palo Alto, what one change could the City make that would make you happier? Percent Number
Housing changes (amount, type, affordability/cost of living); addressing homelessness 23% N=105
Street conditions and traffic concerns, roads 15% N=67
City services, utilities and amenities, sustainability/clean energy 11% N=53
General government operations, communication; tax concerns 9% N=42
Local businesses, retail/shopping options, downtown improvements, development 9% N=40
Safety, crime, policing and law enforcement 7% N=32
Permits, code/ordinance enforcement; upkeep; noise control 5% N=25
Public transportation and parking concerns 4% N=18
Improvements for walking and biking; accessibility 3% N=14
Parks and recreation amenities/services; community activities, library 3% N=15
Schools, programs for children, students 2% N=7
Affordability 2% N=9
Other 2% N=11
Nothing/Don't know 5% N=24
Total 100% N=462
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 79
Question 19
Table 95: Question 19 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
As a resident of Palo Alto, what one thing do you believe the City does well and would want to maintain? Percent Number
Parks, open space, and natural environment 21% N=84
Utilities and city services 15% N=61
Safety services 12% N=48
Activities and Recreation (arts, libraries, museums, theaters, etc.) 10% N=38
Government/leadership; government communication 10% N=39
Schools and education, programs for the youth 6% N=22
Cleanliness of community; upkeep 3% N=13
Quality of life, reputation 2% N=9
Infrastructure, streets, transportation 2% N=9
Ease of bicycle travel/walking 2% N=9
Sustainability 2% N=6
Culture, diversity 1% N=5
Other 4% N=13
Nothing/don’t know/something negative 10% N=38
Total 100% N=394
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 80
Demographic Questions
Table 96: Question D1 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will
be: Percent Number
Very positive 5% N=28
Somewhat positive 17% N=98
Neutral 51% N=293
Somewhat negative 24% N=137
Very negative 3% N=15
Total 100% N=571
Table 97: Question D2 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What is your employment status? Percent Number
Working full time for pay 59% N=346
Working part time for pay 6% N=37
Unemployed, looking for paid work 2% N=13
Unemployed, not looking for paid work 3% N=20
Fully retired 28% N=164
College student, unemployed 1% N=6
Total 100% N=585
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 81
Table 98: Question D3 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Do you work inside the boundaries of Palo Alto? Percent Number
Yes, outside the home 23% N=128
Yes, from home 23% N=125
No 54% N=301
Total 100% N=553
Table 99: Question D4 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
How many years have you lived in Palo Alto? Percent Number
Less than 2 years 17% N=102
2 to 5 years 14% N=82
6 to 10 years 10% N=61
11 to 20 years 18% N=106
More than 20 years 40% N=236
Total 100% N=586
Table 100: Question D5 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Which best describes the building you live in? Percent Number
One family house detached from any other houses 58% N=342
Building with two or more homes (duplex, townhome, apartment or condominium) 38% N=221
Mobile home 0% N=2
Other 4% N=21
Total 100% N=586
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 82
Table 101: Question D6 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Do you rent or own your home? Percent Number
Rent 43% N=251
Own 57% N=330
Total 100% N=581
Table 102: Question D7 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property
insurance and homeowners' association (HOA) fees)? Percent Number
Less than $500 per month 2% N=13
$500 to $999 per month 4% N=20
$1,000 to $1,499 per month 5% N=29
$1,500 to $1,999 per month 4% N=24
$2,000 to $2,499 per month 11% N=58
$2,500 to $2,999 per month 11% N=58
$3,000 to $3,499 per month 10% N=52
$3,500 to $3,999 per month 7% N=36
$4,000 to $4,499 per month 5% N=28
$4,500 to $4,999 per month 6% N=31
$4,500 to $4,999 per month 5% N=26
$5,500 to $5,999 per month 3% N=14
$6,000 to $6,499 per month 3% N=18
$6,500 to $6,999 per month 3% N=18
$7,000 to $7,499 per month 2% N=11
$7,500 to $7,999 per month 2% N=11
$8,000 to $8,499 per month 2% N=9
$8,500 to $8,999 per month 2% N=12
$9,000 to $9,499 per month 1% N=4
$9,500 to $9,999 per month 1% N=8
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 83
About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property
insurance and homeowners' association (HOA) fees)? Percent Number
$10,000 or more per month 11% N=59
Total 100% N=538
Table 103: Question D8 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Do any children 17 or under live in your household? Percent Number
No 69% N=402
Yes 31% N=179
Total 100% N=581
Table 104: Question D9 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Are you or any other members of your household aged 65 or older? Percent Number
No 64% N=373
Yes 36% N=206
Total 100% N=579
Table 105: Question D10 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
How much do you anticipate your household's total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total
income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.) Percent Number
Less than $25,000 3% N=14
$25,000 to $49,999 5% N=25
$50,000 to $74,999 15% N=78
$75,000 to $99,999 16% N=82
$100,000 to $149,999 10% N=51
$150,000 to $199,999 8% N=42
$200,000 to $249,999 7% N=38
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 84
How much do you anticipate your household's total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total
income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.) Percent Number
$250,000 to $299,999 7% N=36
$300,000 to $349,999 4% N=21
$350,000 to $399,999 3% N=16
$400,000 to $449,999 3% N=14
$450,000 to $499,999 19% N=95
$500,000 or more 0% N=0
Total 100% N=513
Table 106: Question D11 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Are you Spanish, Hispanic or Latino? Percent Number
No, not Spanish, Hispanic or Latino 95% N=541
Yes, I consider myself to be Spanish, Hispanic or Latino 5% N=30
Table 107: Question D12 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What is your race? (Mark one or more races to indicate what race(s) you consider yourself to be.) Percent Number
American Indian or Alaskan Native 1% N=4
Asian, Asian Indian or Pacific Islander 35% N=200
Black or African American 0% N=2
White 61% N=346
Other 5% N=30
Total may exceed 100% as respondents were able to select more than one response.
Table 108: Question D13 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
In which category is your age? Percent Number
18 to 24 years 4% N=20
25 to 34 years 19% N=112
35 to 44 years 14% N=81
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In which category is your age? Percent Number
45 to 54 years 20% N=118
55 to 64 years 13% N=76
65 to 74 years 12% N=72
75 years or older 17% N=98
Total 100% N=578
Table 109: Question D14 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What is your gender? Percent Number
Female 52% N=299
Male 48% N=275
Identify in another way 0% N=0
Total 100% N=574
Table 110: Question D14 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What is your sexual orientation? Percent Number
Heterosexual 91% N=480
Lesbian 1% N=3
Gay 4% N=19
Bisexual 2% N=13
Identify another way 2% N=10
Total 100% N=525
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Appendix B: Verbatim Responses to Open-ended
Questions from Probability Survey
Following are responses to questions 18 and 19. Responses are presented here in verbatim form,
including any typographical, grammatical or other mistakes. Responses are in alphabetical order within
the category in which the response was categorized.
Question 18: As a resident of Palo Alto, what one change could the
City make that would make you happier?
Housing changes (amount, type, affordability/cost of living); addressing
homelessness
• (1) More affordable housing (2) More pickleball.
• Actually affordable low income housing
• Add affordable non-market housing. This would be a game changer and propel Palo Alto into one of the
best cities in the world. Non-market housing is housing that is owned by a group of people rather than
and individual and it's aim is to provide the lowest cost highest quality living. The reason non-market
housing is great is because there is no profit motive for it. Instead a group of people collectively own a
multi unit building and once the group pays off the loan they use to build the building, the payments now
turn into a pot that handles repairs and new additions to the housing unit. I have seen this work in Vienna
and Vancouver. A group of 20 people for example, first take a loan out for 10 million to construct a multi
unit complex. The terms of the loan are negotiated between the people and the loan provider. Over the
next 10-20 years the loan will be paid off. Once the loan is paid off now rents will dramatically drop in
price. This is because no. profit group ownership means there is no single person reaping the benefits of
overcharging its tenant. I have seen examples in Vancouver where for the first 10 years people pay 2-3K /
mo but after the loan is paid off the rent drops closer to 500-1k for the buildings maintenance. What is
beautiful about this system is that it really gives people the power to control their own rents, because they
own the building as a collective. Please consider this option, as it will make Palo Alto the best city in the
world. Affordable housing is scarce and we need a REAL solution.
• Add more lower-priced apartments and condos
• Address affordable housing for middle class
• Address the homeless. Huge increase in homeless is unsafe + worrisome.
• AFFORDABLE HOMES / ROAD REPAIRS.
• Affordable housing
• Affordable housing
• Affordable housing
• Affordable housing for senior residence and disabled residence.
• Affordable housing for teachers (and I'm not a teacher)
• Affordable housing for teachers.
• Affordable housing, but not imposing on my space.
• Affordable senior living & rental accommodations.
• All labor is skilled + respected so we can provide affordable housing for Drs, RNs, EMT, tenders, dental
health, janitors CNAs, + service fields, severe shortage due to housing will eventually senovhic fleet [?] ! &
community is too $ + not green.
• Allow more housing incl. apartments / condos; Drive or invite more weekend events for the public;
Encourage new stores / malls supporting diverse communities' needs
• Anything to help with cost of living for renters
• Be far more amenable to renters. End hostility to Stanford
• better care of unhoused
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• Build equal amounts of new housing in both north and south Palo Alto. Seems like most of it is built in
south Palo Alto
• Build more affordable housing.
• Build more affordable housing.
• Build more housing in the form of mixed use so it is cheaper to live here and businesses and individuals
can spend less on cost of living. It is stupid expensive to live here, not just housing but a meal in a
restaurant is so pricey. My typical lunch on a weekday when I work downtown is never less than $15-17.
The cost of mortgage options in this survey is laughable; a $10k mortgage is a dream in most of the Bay
Area and in Palo Alto buying a condo is at least $1m. Most people spend triple or quadruple that so the
option to share mortgage costs should go up to about $30k. Lack of housing options at a variety of price
points makes Palo Alto insanely expensive for cost of housing but also general cost of living.You need to
work on this problem. Doing nothing is not an option.
• Build more housing.
• build more multi-family housing
• Build more multi-unit (5 over 1, two flats, etc) housing on and around El Camino Real so my friends who
are looking to move here can afford to raise their families here.
• Cheaper housing!
• Continued work on housing for teachers + other city employees. Continue building in suitable areas.
• Cost of Living is way too high
• Deport all the homeless people to another city and tell them not to return never again.
• Do not build dense housing or apartments or high rises.
• Dramatically increase the amount of housing.
• Eliminate the building of additional residential housing.
• Encourage development of lower-cost housing
• encourage more low income housing so local businesses can survive and attract low wage employees
and discourage offices and restaurants
• Expanded affordable housing
• facilitate creation of more types and overall number of units of housing that are more affordable to a
wider range of people
• Focus on affordable housing & needs of renters who make up 45-50% of population. The city council
seems solely focused on interests of SF home owners.
• Focus on homeless people living downtown. Tree inspections.
• Get homeless off the streets (and stop car camping too).
• Get some religion on the need to build a lot of housing including a lot of affordable housing. Draft and
submit a Housing Element proposal that the state will actually approve. I'm a homeowner and I've lived in
Palo Alto for 38 of my 53 years. We have ever decreasing amounts of economic diversity in this city. I
want that fixed. Living among ever increasing amounts of wealthy people noticeably lowers my quality of
life here.
• Have a true affordable housing scheme for middle class residents. One doesn't exist and to suggest it
does is insulting.
• Homeless
• House homeless. Get real help not lip service for mentally ill folks who can't care for themselves. At least
as well as stray cats and dogs are cared for. Enforcement of vagrancy laws.
• Housing & rent costs; I will have to move because only the rich can buy.
• Housing affordability
• Housing for low-income households.
• Housing is unaffordable! Waiting lists are for homeless folks not for anyone else. We think everyone is
rich here! & transportation!
• I am opposed to the plan to add over 6,000 residences in P.A. over the next 7 or 8 years. That would add
another 20,000 residents, which would make the traffic and other living conditions much less tolerable
than they already are. I chose to live in my neighborhood in P.A. for the peaceful and tranquil
environment it has been since I purchase my home in here in 1985. P.A. is already overcrowded and
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there is no reason to destroy the existing quality of life here. The city streets already carry too much
traffic, as do all our surrounding highways. The notion of "affordable" housing in P.A. is ridiculous. There
is no easy way to build "affordable" housing in P.A with local construction costs. Cities in the Bay Area
need to stop giving developers free reign to build properties wherever they choose to build. If I wanted to
live in tenement type environment, I would live in a place like NY City. Remember, it is not possible to put
20 lbs. of horse manure in a 10 pound bag! And how about fixing the extreme hourly noise from aircraft
landings at SFO all low flight paths over P.A. The residents have been bombarded with this noxious
environmental hazard since the new NextGen GPS system was installed at SFO in 2016.
• I am renting a home here - work as a nurse at Stanford. I'll have to leave this wonderful community in the
next 5 years because cost of living is too high. We need affordable housing for middle income people!!
Also more bike lanes.
• I do not really know as a child, but maybe decreasing house prices.
• I wish I could buy a home here
• Improve the cost of living
• increase access to below market housing
• increase the supply of housing at all sizes, all density levels, and all price points.
• Invest in affordable housing and educational support for low income students and families.
• Legalize housing production at scale so my kids don't have to move away when they grow up.
• Less homelessness.
• Loosening zoning laws so we can have more teachers + police who can afford to live here.
• Low income housing.
• Lower house price.
• Lower rent
• Lower the cost of living & more diversity.
• Make rents affordable.
• More "low cost" housing.
• More affordable housing
• More affordable housing
• More affordable housing
• More affordable housing
• More affordable housing (and we mean ACTUALLY affordable, not just "affordable" as in 2k a month for a
studio apartment)
• More affordable housing and better community activities. I'm 20 and I work in Emergency services but I'm
also a student. I find it difficult to see myself living here in the future because the city is to expensive to
live in. Even if it was affordable, most of the community activities seem to be catered either to the very
young or very old.
• More affordable housing and feel safer - crime prevention.
• More affordable housing for people working in the City.
• More affordable housing that preserves & protects green spaces - not more mega complexes that are
expensive + replace parks/yards & cleaner drinking water.
• More affordable housing.
• More affordable housing.
• More affordable housing.
• More affordable housing.
• More and cheaper apartments ; more walkability; more and more frequent buses
• More dense & low income housing
• More dense housing opportunities in the right places for both access, equity and traffic decongenstion.
• More housing for very low income seniors like myself
• More housing, allocated in all neighborhoods all over town, not just relegated to outskirts.
• More low income housing please.
• More options for low cost of living services
• More quality affordable housing like Wilton Court Apartments
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• MORE TOWNHOUSES & APARTMENTS NEAR CALTRAIN STATIONS.
• Move forward (rapidly) with plans and incentives to develop more affordable housing.
• Newer affordable housing options
• Reduce housing costs by increasing the allocation zoning for dense housing.
• Reduce housing prices
• Reduce new housing. Too much construction already.
• Reduced cost of rent + utilities.
• Reduced housing cost.
• Reduction in cost of living - only way to do that is build more affordable housing.
• Remove campers on El Camino Real and keep Churchill open
• Remove campers parked on city streets.
• Rent control
• Replace the empty fenced lots on either side of El Camino with low-cost housing.
• Track rents & rental units to increase transparency we need more affordable housing desperately.
• We need to figure out a way to add housing on transportation corridors - more than we have been
perhaps not as much as builders would like. North Palo Alto needs to build too - why not near Caltrain?
Don't push all development to South. Three hundred units is too much for Creekside but maybe 100?
• We would like to see more affordable housing built.
• Zone for enough affordable housing to house those that live and work in our community. Including very
low income folks. Ensure we focus on most at need. And ensure that permitting processes and other
resources for small businesses allow for them to be competitive and stay in business.
• Zoning to allow families owning small homes (with a record of living there for years) an ability to expand
their home size by building up and a larger foot print in order to stay in the area as family ages! and
allows tree removal with a higher priority on dwelling safety!
Street conditions and traffic concerns, roads
• -> Both access to electrification -> decreased speeds along embarcadero. -> Better math Palo Alto
schools.
• 1. Stop wasting funds on round-abouts on side streets 2. Better protection from bike thefts and car break-
ins
• Better road quality / less potholes and bumps
• Better roads.
• better street maintenance
• BETTER TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT.
• Better traffic flow, particularly at Town & Country
• Better traffic signaling everywhere.
• CITY STREET CHANGES OFTEN MAKE THINGS MORE INCONVENIENT AND DANGEROUS. NEW RULES
ON GAS STOVE SEEM DUMB. FRIEND WON'T REBUILD AS DOESN'T WANT TO GIVE UP GAS STOVE.
THERE MUST BE A BETTER WAY, SUCH AS OVERALL LESS IMPACT (GIVE UP OTHER GAS), REQUIRE
EFFICIENT GAS STOVE, ETC.POLICE DO NOT SEEM PRESENT, BUT WHEN THEY ARE, THEY ARE
USUALLY SPEEDING AND/OR TALKING ON PHONE--NOT HANDS FREE. POOR ROLE MODELING.BIKES
ARE ENCOURAGED (BY POLICE) TO RIDE ON SIDEWALK, ENDANGERING BOTH THE PEDESTRIANS AND
BIKES--DRIVEWAYS, ETC.
• Clean sidewalks & streets; remove traffic posts along Middlefield. Want 2 lanes in each direction; less
fussy roadways (ie w/o interferences); less development.
• Continue efforts on reducing traffic congestion by cars which provides many benefits for the city and our
community
• Enforce traffic laws
• Enforcing speed limits in downtown area; catching red light violators.
• Fix el Camino real
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• Fix El Camino Real Avenue roads (tons of potholes). The streets of El Camino Real are constantly in
horrible shape, I have damaged 4 wheels in less than a year due to potholes and my primary route is El
Camino. Please fix it.
• FIX POTHOLES IN ROADS.
• fix road lights plz
• Fix roads too many potholed
• Fix the asphalt streets that are in desperate need of repair.
• Fix the incessant traffic backup that traps people in their houses for hours each day.
• Fix the potholes along El Camino Real from Page Mill to San Antonio. Thanks!
• Fix the road conditions of major roads (El Camino).
• Fix the roads especially El Camino. I know this is a state route, but its very frustrating to see the city
spend on projects like the Charleston erastradero corridor that don't really help and them to drive over the
pot holes on El Camino.
• FIX THE STREETS, REDUCE CRIME, IMPROVE CITY SERVICES, REPLACE FOUR WAY STOP SIGNS WITH
ROUNDABOUTS, DROP THE FIBER PC AN (TOTAL WASTE OF MONEY), IMPROVE PERMIT PROCESS -
EVERYTHING ELSE IS SECONDARY.
• Fix the streets, stop the dangerous red light runners.
• fix the train crossings
• Fixing potholes and resurfacing main road (El Camino/Page Mill Rd, etc)
• Fixing the roads. Helping figuring out how to plan the Midtown Shopping Center.
• For decades the roads have been terrible, especially El Camino Real - Why doesn't the city regularly review
road conditions and contact CalTrans for those roads the State is responsible for maintaining. The City is
NOT Pro-Active. Campers for decades parked on El Camino Real and side streets, for periods way, way
beyond the 72 hour limit by law. Neighboring cities: Menlo Park, Moutain View and Los Altos do not have
campers lining the streets - which is a huge hazard for pedestrians, bicyclist, cars, trucks, pulling onto
streets. This issue still has not been addressed by the city - why? Palo Alto is headed in the same
direction as San Francisco.
• For the past couple of decades, El Camino Real has been filled with large/deep potholes, patching takes
place and within a week, pothole re-appears. The City needs to be very proactive to work with Caltrans to
fix ASAP! For Silicon Valley it's a disgrace, not safe for kids, adults, walking, bikes, cars. The excuse that
the horrendous El Camino Real conditions are due to this past year of storms is misleading. The City was
contacted months ago about stretches of El Camino, and still not fixed. Problem for 10 years plus years -
Move Campers off El Camino, it's not safe for bikes or cars/buses, etc., waste of city time, resources to
constantly put signs on these campers every 72 hours. Crime in neighborhoods is an issue due to
changes enforcement.
• Get the rue off the streets.
• Have a plan for citz train grossings.
• Immediate increase in traffic and code enforcement.
• Improve lights on the streets in Palo Alto.
• IMPROVE TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT AND STREET REPAIR.
• Improve traffic flow and road repair (especially El Camino!!)
• Maintain the infrastructure like fixing pot holes, power lines, etc.
• Make University and California Avenues as no-car streets AND increase the amount of affordable housing
• More proactive handling / addressing traffic / speed violations.
• Pave El Camino / (stonehole force Caltrans to!).
• Pave El Camino.
• Permanently closing off University Avenue to pedestrian only, as California Avenue has done, and Castro
Street in Mountain View.
• PLEASE repair our terrible road surfaces. I know my car will need work due to all the holes, cracks, and
issues. I swerve around in the lanes to avoid the problem areas
• Potholes on El Camino (if caltrons issue, then allow E-Bikes for seniors in Baylands).
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• Put in a stoplight at Middlefield and Addison. A tragic death will occur any day now if that is not
addressed. Accidents and near accidents take place every week. This may cause us to leave Palo Alto.
Huge problem not being addressed fast or aggressively enough! Everything else here is truly
phenomenal.
• QUIT SCREWING AROUND WITH THE ROADS MAKING THEM SINGLE LANE. PEOPLE ARE DRIVING
FASTER BECAUSE OF IT AND WHEN THE LANE IS BLOCKED, IT'S ALL OVER!
• Redesign Churchill Crossing
• REDESIGN PEDESTRIAN SECTION OF CAL. AVG. TO MAKE PERMANENT OUT DOOR SEATING FOR
RESTAURANTS.
• Reduce traffic speed / noise.
• Refresh, regularly clean, and improve lighting in the California Ave pedestrian underpass.
• Repair our roads and streets, lots of pot holes. More free parking spaces. Reduce number of stop lights.
Remove unnecessary stop lights. Build elevated pedestrian crossings and walkways.
• Repair pot holes.
• Repair the streets (El Camino).
• Repave roads properly!
• Resurfacing roads, "esp. El Camino", clean up the grounds around the downtown post office.
• Revitalize California Ave
• Round about at Kingsley & Bryant St or a stop sign at Lincoln & Bryant St.
• slowing down residential traffic around schools
• SLOWING TRAFFIC ON LYTTON AVE BETWEEN BRYANT + MIDDLEFIELD.
• Solve Caltrain grade crossing
• Speed bump on Waverley, 2900 block.
• Speed up permitting process and reduce the hoops one must jump through for additions / remodels. It is
patheticly slow and arcane
• Speed up review processes in Palo Alto to make City Council and City services more efficient
• Street / sidewalk maintenance.
• The traffic signal at Churchill and Alma indicates left turn only from 8:30-9:15. This is totally ignored and
always has been. Enforce or remove sign.
• Traffic flow and traffic lights designed to minimize idle time therefore unnecessary GHGs emissions
• Update faded street signs improve litter collection, find homes for homeless.
City services, utilities and amenities, sustainability/clean energy
• (1) Moving utility lines underground (2) Minimize "ghost houses" (3) Increase diversity of residents.
• . Work to ensure what we recycle is actually used instead of trashed . Establish more community gardens.
• A quiet street cleaner! The current one is deafening, wakes me at night, and thus has had an adverse
effect on my health.
• Accelerate the implementation and wide deployment of Palo Alto's fiber to the home plan.
• Bring more cost effective green engery solutions that are easier for residents to apply or take advanrage
of, such as easier process to replace heat source with heat pump solutions, more eletric car charger,
easier and cheaper solar energy storage solution, ...etc. The permitting process for me to replace my old
gas water heater to heat pump was really more difficult than necessary.
• Citywide Fiber Internet - hearing about this for the last 20+ years. I think it is too late to spend City
money/resources on this. Why was it not done 20 years ago? Now it's too late - let AT&T do it instead.
• Climate/environmental efforts: enforced limits on artificial-grass, over-paving. And also control leaf-
blowers.
• collective thermal energy storage, ease of switching from gas to electric heater and water heater at time
of failure, this survey linked on city website (it is not), also being in a link that reflects city owns it, if
individual (I got QR code, but did not use it) let it be accessed through utility account log in. Give me an
idea how long the survey is before I start it.
• Complete the fiber Internet project please.
• EXPAND HOURS FOR P.A. LINK.
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• FAST, RELIABLE INTERNET SERVICE.
• Faster and more reliable internet connections.
• Fiber Optic Internet to the Home
• Focus less on climate change, and more on providing essential services, such as road maintenance
• Get citywide fiber internet finally implemented!
• Give Palo Alto residents access to services: our child was overflowed from his local elementary school;
the tennis courts are always full at nearby Rinconada Park; cannot get a spot in Palo Alto Recreational
Services even when trying to sign up the same day.
• Have a list of reasonable contractors that can install the heat-pump utilities. Perhaps some assistance in
designing and paying for heat-pump heating/cooling.
• Have service available for mentally disabled who are not able to access on-line information.
• I don't like these heat pumps in the like because I can't just put it where I wanna put it on my yard. There's
all these rules about distances between the house and the next neighbor. Also, I feel we should have a
variety of things that we use, even if we, want to promote electricity over everything
• Improve Cell Tower Coverage in midtown (and Palo Alto in general)
• improve drainiage of san francisquito creek so my house doesnt flood
• Incentives for utilities/water savings
• Include high speed fiber internet to the home as part of our locally owned utilities
• Increase reliability of the electric grid before pushing more people to use electricity. There should be no
power shutoffs.
• Keep promoting sustainable power generation and electric utilities.
• lower utility cost
• Lower utility costs.
• Lower water prices, fix the bumps in El Camino Rd.
• Make solar installations easily achieved
• Make solar installs on homes far more easier
• Make utilities cheaper. We live in a rental unit so we don't control the type of furnace or water heater
installed. Renters are punished in Palo Alto for their landlord's decisions (our furnace was outlawed in
1950's, that's how old it is). We live in a 500 sq ft apartment and paid $500-$600 a month for utilities in
the winter. Absolutely outrageous. Our elderly neighbors (also renters) paid even more because they had
to keep the house warmer. If we want Palo Alto to be a welcoming place for all people, we can't have
utilities prices the way they are now.
• More big trees (tunnel like) on every street
• Not ban gas stoves.
• Offer high speed internet to everyone (fiber)
• On East Meadow (between Alma & Middlefield), in the center of road, plant some trees sporadically.
Traffic is heavy at times & seems to be getty worse. Trees give a calming effect, not bushes.
• Palo Alto Link service starting at 7am instead of 8am
• Place electrical lines underground where they are safer and less likely to cause fires (such as in Lahaina,
Hawai'i)
• Plant more trees.
• Prioritize quality of traditional core City services (parks, streets, police, fire, recreation, civic events). I
grew up in this town and retuned to raise my family.The City did a better job in previous iterations over the
past 50 years. Prioritize the City, not saving the world.
• Reducing price of utilities - unable to heat house in winter due to cost.
• REPLACING GAS WATER HEATER & FURNACE IS UNKNOWN AT PRESENT.
• Require all new homes to incorporate a grey water system into every home. Also, use more grey water
and rain water harvesting.
• Starting this year, street sweeping became erratic. We would go weeks without sweeping (Professorville)
and when the sweeper did come, it's at an unpredictable time so we can't plan to move parked cars. It's
pointless when the street is parked up because no one knows when it's coming. Prior to this year the
sweeping was very regular and well done!
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• Stop BS about greenhouse gases.
• Stop having two utility bills to pay for and the cost of the utility bills to go down because I'm barely home
and I pay a lot on gas and water and I'm barely ever home. I've come to a point I can't even call it a f******
home. I had to have the gas turned off so I can survive a little and I still can't barely make it. And I live in a
f****** Studio.
• Stream-line and lower costs for installing residential solar panels (i.e., permit process).
• Strengthen support for electrification. Moving too slowly and processes outdated for approvals.
• The sewers on my street sometimes overflow. Pretty grass. (University south neighborhood - Forest Ave).
• Trim the trees -- and start planting native trees, not redwood and oak in this small condensed areas those
types are not only very expensive to maintain they also do damage to structures. The sidewalks are
uplifted and dangerous and tripping hazards. The streets are patched in areas and with cracks that harbor
ant colonies that are invasive to our homes. This is the worst year I have ever seen for pests. There is
also a rat problem -- what is the city planning to do about the rodents?
• Underground electrical cables, remove electrical poles.
• Underground utilities.
• Water conservation (I dread it but need to be told-- it is inevitable!) and Affordable housing prioritized for
those who teach/work w our kids/adults perhaps cross collab with Mt View, other county areas; local
store keepers, teachers, grocery store clerks, loose connections (acquaintences) are quite important to
mental and physical health, sense of community esp in a growing/innovative city.
• Wireless utility, property tax relief for retired home owners.
General government operations, communication; tax concerns
• 1. Replaced 1/2 (50%) of police dept. with un-armed mental health experts! 2. Get Stanford to provide
their own parking for ALL employees! No 2 hour stickers.
• alert neighborhoods/streets in advance of city work that will be occurring (street, sewer, tree trimming,
etc.)City se
• Be more forthcoming and less of "bureaucracy speak". Use fewer acronyms -- hey really but me off by
implying only experts understand this stuff.
• Be more proud of all your successes
• Become less arrogant/smug and more accepting of other views. Don't demonize those who think
differently.
• Better goals, plan and execution to move to electric and innovative ways to overcome the issues (taking
too long, need more pragmatism and urgency)
• Change city mgrs compensation from higher union wages, incentive for work i.e. separate
• Conduct community meetings to discuss the City's S/CAP and development plans in the context of global
climate change. The City faces a conundrum: Whatever new projects the City undertakes to benefit the
human species (new housing, new Cubberley complex, etc.) is a strike against the ecosystem of the
planet. It is fine for the City to have an ambitious S/CAP, but how does that make a difference in the
larger scheme of things? There are no simple answers - but that does not preclude us from honestly
admitting that we are not doing enough, and that Palo Altans are not willing to do what it takes to truly
mitigate climate change.
• Effective government leadership
• Faster decisions, for example on issues like grade separation of rail crossings.
• Focus on actions not inclusive talk. Examples: rail crossing debates & grant not willing to increase height
limit of PA bldgs for affordable housing. Focus on "climate change" despite broken sidewalks; new ell
bridge; roads needing work now.
• FOCUS ON LOCAL ISSUES ONLY (NOT NATIONAL ISSUES).
• Get City Staff to represent the Citizens, especially noticeable in the Castilleja TDM process! Also, please
protect our City from the State takeover of all our zoning laws and threatened beautiful neighborhoods
from turning into high rise apt. buildings, 4-plexes next to my home. Stop the Builders Remedy
Developments from getting built by suing the STATE! The next election will vote these new laws down,
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but the damage will be done unless YOU fight these developments from getting off the blueprint stage.
The damage that they will do is incomprehendable. Stop building more housing, we are only becoming
denser and denser to the detriment of the residents who own homes and have lived here a long time.
Keep in mind that for me, as the quality of life diminishes, I can move to a nicer, less DENSE place with
great quality of life in a natural setting.
• Getting Stanford to pay property taxes for their Palo Alto properties; finding a place for vehicles to park
who are [?] people.
• Have City Council more responsive to resident concerns. The one-way open comment period at City
Council meetings is an insult to the people in the community who care about Palo Alto.
• I am a lifelong resident at Palo Alto and I think it is the best place to live. Palo Alto government needs to
position itself to be the best place to live in 50 years from now.
• Keep doing a amazing Job like today , and improve every day , for keep our community safe, healthy and
happy !!! I'm proud of all this big team they really work hard every day !!
• Less pandering to special interests.
• Less taxes
• Lower property taxes for retired seniors
• Lower taxes and utility bills
• make decisions and rulings faster, especially around housing, zoning, roads and railloc
• Make the city functional: decisions, actions, progress. Focus on results, not process!
• Make the difficult decisions needed to adapt Palo Alto to the electrification of Caltrain. We need
leadership, not more consulting.
• Make the property taxes more fair. As newer homeowners we are paying massive taxes while neighbors
pay way less for much larger lots and homes. I am fine with subsidizing property tax for long term
residents who need it, but we shouldn't be having billionaires with ridiculously low taxes due to prop 13. I
would also like to see a higher tax for so-called investment homes that sit empty while there are people in
dire need of affordable housing. Park City in Utah does this.
• MORE ACTION, LESS PONTIFICATING!
• Much faster decision making by city government.
• Reduce city government spendings.
• REDUCE PROPERTY TAX, OR IMPROVE QUALITY OF EDUCATION.
• Reduce property taxes
• Reduce the "Palo Alto process" for getting projects done. Way too becorocratic.
• Reduce the amount of time it takes to make government decisions.
• Remove redundant and incompetent employees
• Respect individual choices.
• somehow stop the trend of these super rich people who move here and buy up multiple lots and tear
down perfectly good houses to build their mega houses and their compounds. I am so sad to see any
small house go up for sale, knowing that it will end up being torn down. I believe some disincentive for
leveling a house as opposed to fixing up a house might help, but unfortunately, I doubt it. I understand
that regulations make fixing up a house very difficult in Palo Alto. I do like that new houses must be all
electric.
• Stop being so hostile to Stanford Universty and the Palo Alto residents who work at Stanford. Stanford
employees who live in Palo Alto have never felt welcome in Palo Alto, I work at Stanford, and I have lived
here for 23 years.
• Stop pretending to care about the residents with all the virtue casting
• Stop taking money from people for the service never used. For example, stop taking the gas charge every
month for the gas that I have never used. Stop ignoring parents asking for help at school. I have been
requesting 504 evaluation for my child for over 2 years and PAUSD would not provide service, I believe it
is illegal to ignore children's right who need support.
• TAKE CONTROL OF CITY PLANNING FROM THE STATE.
• To have a better working association with state govt when it comes to roads (i.e. El Camino Real)!
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• Try to engage with more residents over issues important to the community. The City Council listens only
to roughly 64 people of the 64,000 who live in the city. Many residents have families, or jobs, that prevent
them from attending City Council and other evening meetings and so the City Council only hears from the
same vocal few. The Council believes somehow that this minority of residents' opinions represent the
larger community and makes decisions based on their input. Engage with the community at PTA
meetings, or at weekend farmers markets or parks where families and other residents are, to learn what
the majority of residents care about. Closing Churchill is a perfect example - the city hasn't engaged with
PAUSD or parents about the ramifications of closing the crossing, and makes its decision based on the
opinions of a vocal few who live in Southgate. Don't assume that the 64 people you always see at
meetings represent the city!
• Well thought out, Goal oriented ( what, when and costs) oriented city planning.
Local businesses, retail/shopping options, downtown improvements,
development
• (1) Demolish Cubberly + get city & school district to make a decision.
• Be more welcoming to Retail -- many stores leave but retain or add other locations...latest relevant to me
was "Footwear Etc" in downtown PA on University Ave. It was there for 20+ years and now poof, gone!
• beautiful, green and clean downtown environment, and diverse retail and gathering placesNO Homeless
on the sidewalk. More calm, safe biking paths
• Better design scrutiny of new buildings. Many building's architecture is not consistent with surrounding
buildings/homes. I've lived and worked here for over 50years. Palo Alto, in my view, is not an aesthetcially
pleasing city any longer and has not been so for the last 20-30 years.
• Better environment for small business = less rent! by wealthy owners.
• Better gym access in downtown area
• Better infrastructure planning and development for future technologies that will better prepare and serve
community
• better midtown, cal ave, university ave destinations
• Better restaurants.
• Bring back land mark theatres @ Palo Alto square.
• Cleaning up University Ave. Help local businesses.
• Do not add any more residential housing or business (I'm not in support of growth that taps our tight
energy + water resources).
• ensure that University Avenue has a variety of businesses to patronize. We need clothing and gift stores.
We have too many rug stores.
• Figure how to use all of the empty houses in town | to help with housing shortage.
• Forbid business locations from being empty because landlords are trying to maintain high prices. It is
killing downtown by having these empty spaces instead of a vibrant downtown.
• Instead of turning that building in heritage park into a Palo Alto historical museum (USELESS!) please
make that building into a children's rec center where kids can learn to arts and crafts and have soccer and
other sports classes. Do something cool. For one month we can house a horse and have intro to horses
or something unique. That building and property behind can be so amazing - DO NOT BUILD A USELESS
HISTORICAL MUSEUM!
• Introduce grocery stores of minority ethnicities.
• Keep California Ave, Midtown & Downtown areas vibrant.
• Less building.
• Less new building.
• Lowering development fees for the construction of new housing units, especially those on existing lots
using ADU or SB9 provisions.
• Make downtown attractive for families not just tech workers by bringing/encouraging a variety of retail
and services. Los Altos and Menlo Park are good examples. And clean the sidewalks!!
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• MAKE THE ACCESSIBILITY OF THE CAL AVE FARMER'S MARKET BETTER (RESTAURANTS HAVE
PUSHED TO ALMOST THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET MAKING THE BOOTHS PUSH TO THE STREET,
CAUSING ACCESSIBILITY LIMITATIONS, BOTTLE-NECK THE FOOT-TRAFFIC.
• Make University Ave. in downtown sealed for business & pedestrians. (no car can drive through, save it
for walking).
• Mixed zoning like Europe has = all amenities in walking distance.
• More eatery options in the midtown area.
• More frequently close the downtown core to motor vehicles while allowing pedestrians/bicycles only, with
outdoor dining (like during pandemic).
• MORE FRIENDLY ATTITUDE FROM VENDORS, ETC. HOW ABOUT A SMILE?
• More small retailers, like midtown, town & country.
• OPEN CAL AVE. AND PUT A FIVE YEAR MORATORIUM ON NEW OFFICE BUILDINGS IN THE CITY.
• Promoting more local restaurants and shops near the neighborhoods.
• Protect tenants by controlling rental rates
• Raise the height limit on apt bldg by transit corridors
• Revitalize retail sectors - downtown, Cal Ave, midtown.
• Slow down the rate of growth to reduce empty buildings. Also stop allowing new business buildings that
don't have enough parking hoping people will take more public transportation but meanwhile the options
for trains are being cut.
• Small daily-life shops downtown.
• stop replacing one story buildings with high rises. The traffic and population growth is a huge problem.
• Stop screwing over local businesses like mikes deli! Do something about jet noise over south Palo Alto!
• Stricter Eichler neighborhood conservation monitoring midtown shopping/restaurant center restoration &
encouragement.
• The construction of fewer business / office buildings.
Safety, crime, policing and law enforcement
• 1) Home crime prevention, 2) Repave the streets (i.e., ECR),
• Bring back police force to make our neighborhood safer from crime, speeding commuters-not the same
safe Palo Alto 1 grew up in.
• Combat bicycle theft more vigorously. Synchronize the traffic lights
• Continue to improve safety and introduce more suppliers for Internet
• Crime
• Feel safe
• Get unregistered vehicles off the streets
• IMPROVE SAFETY
• Increase residence safety
• Less crime, more tolerance of different ethnicities in the police dept. and in the general population. Less
brutality when unnecessary.
• Less theft and feeling safer.
• Maintain police services
• More ticketing car speeders.
• Police the bicycles same as vehicles
• Prioritize police, time, roads & parks - first.
• Public safety
• Put a fire engine in station [?].
• Reduce property crimes and reduce homeless encampments
• Safe, no homeless people on university & cal ave.
• Safer place to live
• Safer with crime and break ins. Also more friendly cooperative people to work with at the city. What's with
the attitude? Better management of developing areas and homes so that it doesn't feel so
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overdeveloped. Some bad decisions on what has passed. One home on our street has a ADU across a
neighbors driveway? What!
• Safer, more convenient options for walking and biking (such as bike boulevards, paths and pedestrian-
only zones), especially to connect to train
• Safety
• SAFETY
• Safety is the most important issue.
• SAFETY, AND CLEANLINESS. GET RID OF CRIME, AND THE SLEEPING HOMELESS POPULATION
DOWNTOWN; AND BUILD MENTAL INSTITUTES INSTEAD OF HOUSING FOR THOSE WHO NEED IT.
DON'T ALLOW PAN HANDLING, IT JUST BRINGS MORE. I'VE WATCHED THEM GET INTO A MERCEDES
AT THE END OF THE DAY, AND HAVE HEARD OTHERS HAVE APARTMENT COMPLEXES THEY RENT
OUT. THAT IS TAX FREE MONEY AND WE PAY FOR THOSE WHO SLEEP IN VEHICLES. THERE IS WORK
OUT THERE BUT PEOPLE DON'T WANT IT. PROSECUTE THEIVES, HIRE MORE POLICE AND NEVER
DEFUND THE PEOPLE WHO RISK THEIR LIVES TO PROTECT US! I FEEL I CAN NO LONGER WALK
SAFELY WITHOUT FEARING MY SAFETY. IT SMELLS DOWNTOWN IN CERTAIN AREAS THAT I FEEL IT
WILL SOON TURN INTO WHAT SAN FRANCISCO IS NOW EXPERIENCING. WHY IS IT THAT LOS ALTOS
YOU DON'T SEE THE HOMELESS SLEEPING IN THEIR DOWNTOWN? WHY ARE WE ALLOWING THIS?
THERE ARE "NO LOITERING" LAWS THAT MUST BE ENFORCED, WHY AREN'T THEY? PEOPLE JUST
DON'T SAY ANYTHING BECAUSE OF RETALIATION. A LOT OF PEOPLE FEEL THE SAME AS ME.
• Safety.
• Safety.
• Safety.
• Take Palo Alto off the list of places criminals use for easy pickings. These include residential crimes of
homes and cars as well as midday, mid-city assaults.
• Traffic enforcement - speeders, noise control on cars and motorcycles, radios. getting much worse in last
year on University Avenue
• Worry about increase in burglaries and assault on streets.
Permits, code/ordinance enforcement; upkeep; noise control
• Applying for a permit has been a frustrating experience. The city employees in planning, utility and
building depts are there to help and facilitate the residents request, but they have been [?].
• Bring lawsuit against the Port of Oakland (SFO) to stop or reroute what is now unbearable commercial
airline flights overhead in Palo Alto. It's ruining my quiet enjoyment of my life.
• Clean up the city! Trash is everywhere -downtown, city parks, around the station, and even at the Palo Alto
Tree. A city that claims to be "advanced and progressive" cannot be that trashy!
• Easier to deal with building department on permits, inspections, etc.
• Eliminate freight- train horn noise at Churchill. And elsewhere. (Passenger train-ok. Freight-train horns are
excessively loud.).
• Enforce code violations. I have reported dangerous, hazardous situations for years and nothing is ever
done.
• Enforce leash laws!
• Enforce the ban against gas powered leaf blowers!
• Enforce the CUP with Castilleja, stop giving them special treatment and hold them accountable. They
create dangerous traffic situations, are allowed to police themselves, and everyone looks the other way.
I've almost been hit a few times. They whole process with casti administration over the last five-plus
years has been eye opening. They care not a bit about the neighborhood, it's just stuff they have to say. I
don't trust them for a nano second.
• ENFORCEMENT OF ORDINANCES (NOISE, DOGS, LEAF BLOWERS).
• Faster, more efficient permitting & inspection processes.
• Get rid of gas powered leaf blowers !!
• Go after airplane noise more aggressively. Sue the airplanes- FAA flight paths no defense - airline use of
noisy safe pert and middle of the night fly hts is their choice & they should pay!
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• I would be happier if the CPA stopped all orders, directives, mandates, building code enforcements, etc.,
related to climate change efforts. Residents should be able to freely chose how they want to respond to
climate change, and they should not have the CPA (or any other government entity) tell them what they
can and cannot do.
• IMPROVE PERMITTING EASE/SPEED FOR SOLAR, EU CHARGING, BATTERIES ETC.
• Monitor absentee homeowners - too many "ghost houses" where owner doesn't live there. Huge change
in 30 years!
• Planning permit review. Please prioritize drafting procedures instead of being reviews on 1:1
conversations.
• Reasonable or no restrictions to home design!
• Reduce early morning (4 AM e.g.) noise from street sweepers and garbage trucks in the downtown area.
• Remodel Caltrain road crossings so that noise from train horns are eliminated.
• Replace Chancer Bridge to reduce flooding threat.
• Replace the earsplitting street cleaners with quiet ones. Street-cleaning wakes me in the middle of the
night 2x/wk. and has seriously affected my health adversely.
• Upgrade San Francisquito Creek flood control and especially replace/upgrade Pope-Chaucer bridge.
• Upgrading/Rebuilding the Cubberley Center - it's well overdue for renovation and very much needed by
many community groups.
• West Bayshore street is very neglected. Traffic safety issues, weeds, dirt, no wall separation from the 101.
No attention to smell, noise, and air pollution from the 101. Utility facility very close to resident housing.
Please im nove the [?] situation on this treet.
Public transportation and parking concerns
• . Move the RUS off El Camino and other streets to a parking lot or other situation . Clean up trash in
common areas/on sidewalks / parks . Improve California Avenue as a shared street / business district.
• 1) Make parking free to Palo Alto resident not limit to one car per household. 2) Make free shuttle stop
sign & schedule more visible.
• A REGULATION TO PROHIBIT STREET PARKING ON STREET SWEEPING DAYS MY GUTTER SWEPT ONLY
TWICE THIS YEAR.
• Better public transport system
• Better public transportation
• Caltrain grade separation at Churchill Ave
• Cheap bus services throughout the city, including to neighboring cities and to Stanford campus
• Free or minimal fee shuttle service to my home in the hills of P. A. In an emergency. I live alone. I'm stuck
here. I use a care at age 91.
• Get rid of residential parking permits in College Terrace, or at least our block - Amherst St. There is
absolutely no need for it here.
• Improve public transport (e.g. connecting to BART)
• Improve the experience of "Palo Alto" "link".
• Improve the transit systems, improve the outdoor pedestrian spaces, close university ave to traffic and
make it pedestrian friendly, improve traffic along popular bicycle routes, ensure vacant lots get built and
vacant buildings get used, improve code enforcement
• More convenient public transportation
• More convenient transit options.
• More public transportation routes throughout the area
• No parking on narrow streets so they are wide for biking!
• Remove parking permits from neighborhoods
• SHUTTLE BUS SERVING ENTIRE CITY WITH 10 TO 10 MINUTE PICK UP.
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Improvements for walking and biking; accessibility
• Accessibility for the disabled
• Better bike path. Have some great ones but need more and need to end better
• Better disabled persons access. I'm on crutches/wheelchair and it's VERY difficult to park anywhere near
where I'm trying to go.
• Bike lanes on Alma or safer sidewalks on Alma more library services - hotspots for wi-fi.
• Bike lanes on El Camino Real. It's a point of social equity. It will improve access to businesses on El
Camino Real.
• I love how much California Avenue has improved in the last year. I would love to see more of that in all
Palo Alto, meaning a more walkable and convenient city with 3rd spaces.
• Improve bike route safety and cover potholes on El Camino near Maybell
• Improve bike safety on public roads.
• Make it even more bike friendly. Overall, fab spot for bike commuting but there are spots that need
improvement to make more appealing to people thinking about commuting via bike more. I bike 5 days
week work from downtown north to the VA on Miranda ie. crossing El Camino at Margarita/Mariposa
sucks, light long and often the weight sensor does not pick me up and I have to miss a few light cycles as
I wait for a heavier car to come behind that the sensor picks up crossing L hon at Bryant scary somehow
cars don't see [?] red light going west.
• Make pedestrians safer from bicycles on sidewalks
• More, safer bicycle paths
• promote biking/walking even more
• Remove ban of ebike access to baylands
• Sidewalks needed in some parts of Palo Alto. More cultural arts and events better restaurant options -
better quality food.
Parks and recreation amenities/services; community activities, library
• A dog run/play area at Eleanor Pardee Park.
• Dog park in Bol Park entertainment
• I wish Mitchell park library can be open everyday of the week.
• Later (non-camp) open swim hours (6 pm) and late evening lap swim hours.
• Make libraries good place to work, like Mountain View did. Update facilities and extend hours.
• More Asian neighborhood community activities
• More community events.
• More connection between residents.
• More dog parks. We have thousands of dogs and not enough places for them to go [?] leash!
• More open space for dogs to run around.
• More sport activities for those >65 yrs that are organized by the city.
• More Tennis courts. More adult class. City hosted garage sell. More preserved area. More recycling
knowledge/resources share.
• Palo Alto should use all the open spaces (foothill) land to build a massive expansion to the city's housing!
Show Silicon Valley cares about the people (not greedy NIMBYs) and we don't need Flannery Associates
to do what CA needs. Right now Palo Alto doesn't meet the states new housing guidelines and developers
can go around the werly restrictive Palo Alto regulations. Do the right thing for the people stop NIMBYs
and S.y YIMBY!
• Return to the pandemic practice of allowing reservations of swim lanes for lap swimming.
• Would love to see more community hosted events not just in South Palo Alto, but North Palo Alto too.
Seems very divided. Tree maintenance!! Some areas look disorganized and unkempt! 1 ethnic food and
activities.
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Schools, programs for children, students
• Allow school kids to take AP Math from middle school
• Enhance k12 education for kids to learn more instead of dumbing down. Kids need to prepared to
compete when they grow up.
• Focus on better education and schools. As mush as Palo Alto being known on having good schools, but
in the last few years the quality of teachers and education in Palo Alto public schools have been dropped
significantly.
• Full scholarships for low income families interested in taking classes provided by the city catalog
• Mental health of students
• more flexibility from the school district
• Redistrict middle + high schools so my kid doesn't have to travel >5 miles each way every day for the next
7 years.
Affordability
• Affordability
• Affordable and safer
• Cheaper.
• Higher wages for employees to be more in line with cost of living.
• It is currently too expensive to do items in # 17, our house service doesn't have enough space to allow all
the proposed electric items + it costs too much to upgrade our panel unless the city cars [?] we [?].
• Less expensive to live here. Our children's generation can't afford to live here, or anywhere in Bay area;
and retiree friends have had to leave. Can't afford to retire here.
• Lower costs
• More concern for the economically stressed. Palo Alto residents rely on services and work by people who
cannot remotely aspire to live here. Lowering that barrier even a little should be a major goal.
• Reduce cost of living, especially food, restaurants,
Other
• BRING BACK ELLEN FLETCHER.
• Do a serious regular study of the health and future of the economy, job creation, public spending versus
sources of revenue, and the unfounded pension liability
• list of priorities and much clearer list of aspirational but limited priiorities
• I'd like the City to work to ensure fairness and livability for residents of ALL areas and neighborhoods of
Palo Alto.
• Keep single home zoning, be less woke, calm down on climate change. We are losing our liberties. Focus
on crime & keeping taxes low.
• KICK CASTELLJA SCHOOL OUT FOR REPEATED VIOLATIONS OF THEIR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT.
• Make sure the trees on my property will not fall over next winter (I had 2 fall over last winter).
• Meeting neighbors.
• more culturally diverse residents
• MORE RESOURCES.
• Move East Palo Alto far away.
• START CCW PROGRAM, HIRE MORE POLICE, PATROL MORE 24X7 AND ON BIKES IN ALL PARKS. BE
MORE VISABLE WITH WALKING PATROLS.
Nothing/Don't know
• [?] at some main boundaries of neighborhoods.
• I'm 85 years old.
• None.
• nothing
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• Nothing for me because I am handicapped, use a power chair, drive it in my van to come with me when I
have medical appointments, otherwise I am not out and about.
• Nothing.
• yes
Question 19: As a resident of Palo Alto, what one thing do you believe
the City does well and would want to maintain?
Parks, open space, and natural environment
• Beautiful parks, good schools, good quality of life.
• Canopy of trees.
• City Park
• commitment to trees
• Commitments to "greenery" in terms of street scape, parks, etc.
• Ease, beauty, and safety of walking throughout downtown.
• Easy access to nature
• Environment preservation
• Excellent parks
• Foot [?] park.
• Foothill park
• great parks and schools.
• Great parks, libraries and public resources
• Green spaces
• Greenaries are great
• I enjoy our natural outdoor parks, baylands, etc.
• I like the CPA's promotion of tree plantings throughout the city.
• I love and am proud of our library services.
• I love having a library within walking distance of my home, and I would like this to be a priority for the city
in all neighborhoods across the city.
• I love Parks and Recreation!
• Keep or add to open space at Foothills and Baylands
• Keep taking good care of our big trees.
• keep the neighborhood green
• Keeping parks neat.
• KEEPING THE CITY PEACEFUL.
• Landscaping.
• Lots of parks, bike paths, art, multiple library spots.
• Maintain Baylands and Foothills park, keep golf course.
• Maintain greenery and parks.
• Maintain parks and greenery around the city.
• Maintain parks and open space
• Maintaining green spaces
• maintenance of parks
• Mixture of nature, residential and commercial balance. Keep those parks well maintained and keep
attracting good shops and businesses!
• Natural environment, children venues such as libraries, parks, and children events.
• Natural preserves/parks/recreation
• Open space
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• Open space
• Open space preservation.
• Open space preserves and the palo alto owned utilities
• Open space reserve
• Our parks are great
• Park and outdoors recreation spaces
• Park services.
• Park, Libraries and the Arts
• Parks
• Parks
• parks
• Parks
• Parks
• Parks
• Parks
• Parks & art programs. C.P.A. killed the scouts years ago! :(
• Parks & public spaces upkeep.
• Parks & rec.
• Parks & Recreation
• Parks & recreation.
• Parks + recreation.
• Parks and green space
• Parks and green spaces
• Parks and libraries
• Parks and outdoor spaces
• Parks and public areas
• Parks and Rec
• Parks and rec opportunities.
• Parks and recreation
• Parks and recreation
• Parks and trees
• parks and trees
• Parks are very nice and the children enjoy them.
• Parks are well maintained. Well planted. Playgrounds are great.
• Parks, cleaning, safety
• Parks.
• Parks.
• Parks.
• PARKS.
• Parks.
• Providing parks and urban canopy.
• The parks are great! We love the Baylands and Mitchell Park
• The quality ofthe parks, including Foothills Park, is excellent.
• The respect and maintenance of trees and the green spaces.
• TREE CANOPY, PARKS, ADULT EDUCATION.
• TREES!
• We love the outdoor nature trails here. One of the best parts of living here. I also just signed up for an
adult art class and am looking forward to taking it. However, most of the art classes are in the middle of
the day and I work so I can't make those times.
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Utilities and city services
• ? Tree trimming, street cleaning.
• A great job taking care of our trees.
• City owned and managed utilities.
• city services in general are excellent
• City services in terms of speed and friendly customer service (e.g. great experience with street light
repair)
• City services, especially library, utilities and recreation
• City utility service
• City-owned and managed utilities. No PG&E!
• Community services
• Excellent utility services.
• Keeping our own Utilities company!
• Maintain city-owned utility
• Maintain trees by regular trimming.
• MAINTAIN TREES.
• Manage utilities & refuse.
• Owning it's own utilities.
• PA owned utilities!
• Palo Alto utilities are excellent, especially compared to neighboring cities.
• Palo Alto utilities services - excellent!
• Palo Alto utilities, emergency medical services.
• Palo Alto utilities.
• Please maintain our own utility department. This department is much better than Pg&e.
• Providing / Managing utility services; Manage green space and libraries
• Public services seem to be very good (excluding the police) I especially like the fire department and from
what I can tell they are ready for a wide range of disasters including forest fires. Also, during the
pandemic I noticed how the city provided free COVID testing at city hall and I liked that
• Public services, such as libraries & parks.
• public utilities
• Public Utilities
• Public works & utilities.
• RELIABLE, CLEAN WATER SUPPLY.
• Respond to citizen re gas water electric emergency.
• run its own utilities well
• Still utilities seems to be much better run than PG&E.
• Street and tree maintenance.
• Street cleaning and garbage pick up.
• STREET MAINTENANCE.
• Street sweeping and tree trimming
• Streetcleaning
• SUPPLY OF ELECTRICITY & WATER SO FAR GOOD, GAS AS WELL.
• Sweeping the streets
• The Utilities
• the utilities are reliable and affordable relative to neighboring cities, city street maintenance is good (state
streets not so much)
• The waste management team do an amazing job.
• Trash & recycling collector.
• trash collection
• Tree maintenance - preserving urban canopy.
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• Upgrade public works. Maintain educational standards.
• Utilities
• Utilities
• Utilities and forward thinking of the environment.
• Utilities and water quality
• Utilities are reasonably priced.
• Utilities do seem to be done well.
• Utilities services
• Utilities services have been excellent.
• UTILITIES.
• Utilities.
• Utility independence.
• utility service
• Utility services.
• WATER QUALITY.
• We wish that Public utilities would I include high speed internet services for all residents
Safety services
• A strong sense of safety
• An effective, well-trained and professional police dept...
• Clean sheet , safe places for our kids , safe school !!
• Emergencies responses and preparedness.
• Emergency services - police, fire, EMTs.
• Emergency services (fire; police; EMT).
• Emergency services.
• Fire dept ambulances and the city library system. Parks are also very good and well maintained.
• Fire's medical response.
• Free from crime.
• I feel pretty safe in Palo Alto.
• I love how safe the city is to bike around, and really appreciate the wonderful parks that are available to
residents
• Improve flood safety for Chaucer Creek bridge.
• Keep a safe environment.
• Keeping city safe
• Law enforcement
• Law enforcement
• Law enforcement/crime prevention
• living environment safety
• Overall feeling of safety in the community.
• PAPD & utilities.
• Police
• Police & fire.
• Police dept. is very good.
• Police force.
• Police presence
• Public safety
• PUBLIC SAFETY / EMERGENCY SERVICES.
• safe and well-maintained streets and bikeways and walkways -- in town and in open space
• Safety
• Safety
• safety
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• Safety - Police & Fire
• Safety - police, fire, + EMS/paramedics.
• safety and cleanliness
• Safety and cleanness of public spaces. Making permit process rational and reasonable. Their process
need to be reviewed.
• Safety and police services
• Safety and well-being.
• Safety in Palo Alto.
• Safety, cleanliness, and health/wellness-oriented
• Safety.
• Safety.
• SAFETY.
• Safety.
• Security; parks; bike lanes.
• Sense of safety
• THE POLICE, FIRE AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE TIMES.
• Well-trained, competent, professional police services.
Activities and Recreation (arts, libraries, museums, theaters, etc.)
• Activities
• Amazing libraries, parks and schools
• Art activity and kids activity
• Art Center classes
• Art center, Junior museum, children's theater, community centers, bike paths
• ART PROGRAMS, POLICE PROTECTION.
• arts
• california avenue farmer's market
• City sponsored events, such as movies & concerts.
• Community activities - library hours, concerts, music thursdays etc
• Cultural amenities & offerings.
• Entertainment
• Farmers markets and fairs
• Great city-sponsored community events. Bravo!!!
• Great community theater and art
• Great libraries. I love the modern design and utility. Please don't stop putting care into them!
• Having a Children's Theater
• Libraries
• Libraries
• Libraries and ant center. Cultural events. Vibrant commerce.
• libraries and foothills park
• Libraries and Police services
• Libraries.
• Library
• Library and Park maintenance and easy access
• Library services and facilities.
• Library systems
• Library, parks, + recreation services.
• Library.
• maintain libraries
• Our great libraries (AND run our own utility company!)
• Recreation.
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• Rinconada pool hours is good, if they can have some lanes open for lap swim after 4pm, that would be
better.
• SUMMER CONCERTS AT THE PARK. CLEAN, SAFE ENVIRONMENT.
• The libraries are excellent. More budget for new books, movies etc, librarians. Libraries and staff are
wonderful!!!
• The libraries are great.
• The libraries, especially the one in the Mitchell Park area.
• The library, parks, utilities, street maintenance, and amenities are amazing. I was blown away when we
moved here and the utility sent someone within two hours to turn on the gas at our house. PGE would
have taken at least a day. The parks, community gardens and free compost are also amazing, we love
visiting the parks with our son and meeting new and old friends. My husband plays soccer in an adult
league and that has been great for him.
Government/leadership; government communication
• Alerts/Communication
• City strives hard to make it a great place to live and it should continue doing it
• Communicate well with Thursday e mail.
• COMMUNICATING A SENSE OF INTEGRITY AND TRUSTWORTHINESS.
• Community connectiin
• Community creating.
• Community engagement- in library, cultural center, events.
• Community engagement, parks.
• Continue to resist unreasonably large housing projects that will irrevocably change the nature of our
community/town.
• Control limit the city expansion and manage the increasing resident.
• ease of direct interaction with City government
• Good marketing and promotion of the city.
• Governance
• Help to homeowners having problems with infrastructure (sewer, water, gas, electricity).
• I hope/believe that the city continues to reemphasize building relationships and connections with others
and with the place, instead of investing in aspects of the city that are focused on making the city more
attractive for high income residentsholding human needs at the center above attracting wealth is a core
value I hope can be reinvigorated. The community has changed dramatically in the last 40 years, and the
infusion of extreme wealth has led to a feeling of transience and transactionality. I hope the city can stay
grounded in what is important.
• I love the intelligence, professionalism, and courtesy of our city employees. The people who replaced our
storm drain pipe a few months ago were phenomenal in that regard. It really makes living here a pleasure,
and I'm sure the city takes pains to ensure all our residents get the same courtesy that elderly, white me
gets.
• I'd like for Palo Alto to continue to be innovative, creative, and forward thinking, making life better for
people and the environment.
• Impressive active engagement with the community (listening, working to address needs, inclusive)
• Informing residents of important matters/changes/etc.
• Invites public inputs and reasonable debate
• Keep PA as a vibrant modern city with "old" charm.
• Keep trying to do your best for everyone.
• Leading
• Long-term planning to reduce utilities cost through stewardship of our owned utilities.
• Maintain dialogue with the City's residents
• Maintains elite persona well, and allows many boutique industries to thrive.
• Managing to the center of the population - nothing radical.
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• Not allowing homeless encampments
• People are free to enjoy themselves without too many issues or regulations like being yelled at for letting
your dog pee off leash etc - people self police these behaviors and the city is not pushy, intrusive or
annoying about the laws and bylaws. The officers are polite and easy going and the city seems to always
work really well behind the scenes.
• Response times.
• Running the city in general. Being helpful to residents in building ADUs and improving their lives and
houses.
• seeks excellent outcomes (but way too slowly)
• Sharing plans & reports on dept's + committees online.
• Social news update & weekly newspaper.
• The city is good at being reachable when the need arises; it has a good "small town" feel in this way.
• they care about the community
• Think they try to do a good job.
• Try to improve itself
• Well organized online city resources and customer service.
Schools and education, programs for youth
• Education and natural environment
• Education K-12
• Education.
• Education.
• Excellent schools and parks
• Excellent schools and support for youths.
• Good educational environment
• Good schools.
• Good schools? Hmmthat's not the city
• Great education institutions
• Great public schools.
• Maintain high standards of k-12 schools.
• Offering all the children/youth recreational classes.
• PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM.
• Public school system.
• Public schools and libraries are excellent
• School quality.
• Schools
• Supporting the Palo Alto Unified School District. I know the PAUSD is a separate agency but the City
should support PAUSD in every way possible.
• The excellent education and transportation.
• The excellent K-12 schools.
• The schools are amazing I am so happy with the school education my children are receiving.
Cleanliness of community; upkeep
• CITY IS WELL MAINTAINED
• Clean, safe parks
• Clean, well-lit, safe, and walkable downtown areas with lots of trees and greenery.
• Cleaner than other cities
• Cleaning playgrounds every day + advancing kid spaces (and family) * get the Jr. Museum to open before
10am please - at least on wkends.
• cleanliness
• Cleanliness, safety, internet services.
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• CLEANLINESS.
• Downtown is kept clean of garbage.
• I love the clean up days. I also think the parks are great.
• Keep city clean, well maintained
• keep environment clean
• The twon is very clean and sleep.
Quality of life, reputation
• BRAGGING HOW GREAT CITY IS.
• Building reputation as an innovative and livable town
• high quality life and environment
• MAINTAINS A FAVORABLE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ALL RESIDENTS.
• P.A. continues to be a pleasant place to live and it would be an awful shame if the continuing
overcrowding and over-building ruin the quality of life that has been a hallmark of this city for decades.
The schools, work opportunities, medical services, entertainment, cultural activities, etc. if maintained,
will help P.A. continue to be a wonderful place to live. Please, Do Not Destroy It! The many residents
across P.A. that we have come to know over 3 decades feel the same way.
• quality of living
• Sense of community with outstanding public resources
• Set the standard for life on the peninsula
• The feeling that PA is a desirable, high-class neighborhood in which to live
Infrastructure, streets, transportation
• Basic infrastructure, such as roads.
• California Avenue, I love how you are creating a space for the community and an example of what a
walkable city looks like.
• Easy access to public transportation
• Good road quality
• Infrastructure
• Maintaining smooth streets and greenery
• Public parking, libraries, cleaning and walking paths
• Traffic is not an issue in the city, despite what the Council might hear from the vocal few. It would be
great if the city could work with the County to align the lights on Embarcadero Road/El Camino near Town
and Country/Paly and alleviate the backups there but otherwise, traffic works well in the city. The
libraries and parks are awesome.
• Traffic so far is acceptable, please prevent it getting worse
Ease of bicycle travel/walking
• Bicycle friendly town, lots of nice parks and libraries,tree canopy and clean streets. Keep the City Utility
Company, but have Utility rates only pay for the Utility Company, not the General Fund. I know this was
defeated in the last election, but it is a sore point because many of the General Fund items are not that
well supported. Co-mingling funds is NOT the way to go.
• Bike lanes.
• Bike paths
• Bike paths
• Bike paths.
• Keeping bikes off of El Camino real.
• The city is incredibly accessible by foot, bike and car.
• Very bike-able! Love it!
• Walkability; open spaces.
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Sustainability
• Access to clean energy incentives
• Continue excellent focus on climate crisis activities & programs.
• Eco-friendly utilities, waste management.
• Going green
• Try to be green and save more energy.
• Trying to progress e.g. solar/electric/climate issues; green spaces (but canopy decisions like Calif Ave
have been horrible) microneighborhoods (midtown, calif ave, etc) are keys to reducing
isolation/improving health outcomes.
Culture, diversity
• Culture
• Diversity of race and culture
• DIVERSITY OF THE CITY IS EXCELLENT.
• Inclusiveness
• Sensitivity to needs of a diverse community.
Other
• Attract popular businesses to come and stay in Palo Alto.
• Housing for Palo Alto teachers and emergency responders
• I'm trying to think. Create revenue with parking tickets?
• local news
• Maintain high quality employment options and companies in area
• Medical facilities
• MEDICAL SERVICES.
• Not allowing any more apartment buildings. I appreciate the city does not allow any more housing and
does not allow any building higher than 2 floors. I hope the city maintain what it is now for the people who
live here.
• Openness
• Quality/variety of businesses
• Rent control, renter assistance, landlord oversight
• RESTAURANTS.
• Vibrant downtown
Nothing/don’t know/something negative
• Can't think of any.
• Developing questionnaires where comment sections are impossibly small. You simply do not want
feedback. Okay. So, act not postpone.
• discuss everything forever, be highly political (especially dragging your feet around housing
development), this should become more efficient and cut by 50% (I think discussions are necessary, but
at this time it just takes too much time and money, and time is money. Get employees to have more skin
in the game, and not just avoid litigation)
• Do not build an apartment of any kind next to Moldaw Residents for the elderly blocking the vision of
people living in the building that face Fabian Avenue at E. Charleston Road (we face west and want to be
able to see the mountains and the sunset, etc. we do not want a neighbor next door to us. Plus it would
put too much traffic there at E. Charleston and Fabian Avenue. There already is enough traffic noise
there.
• don't know
• Don't know.
• Downtown areas small town ecosystem is endangered! No big box stores downtown!
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• I don't know. That's a good question.
• I don't understand why they are selections to pick things but you don't say what to do with them.
• Increase in tree, shrub & other plantings so important for the compensation of GHGs.
• Many.
• None
• PA does have a history of affordable housing achievements...this is not appreciated. Looking forward PA
is not honest abouy its limitiations to achieve affordable housing.. It would be more practical and more
productive to list what can be done for the 3-4 types of affordable housing needs. Then PA volunteer
leaders could initiate a practical, limited, acheiveable afundraising campaign like the old fashion barn
building. The scale would be limited but uplifting in so many respects.
• Provide more affordable housing for all the service workers who have to commute here because they
can't afford a home. in the area.
• Stop developing so many residential and commercial buildings.
• Support the super wealthy & pushes out all others including seniors who built the city + teachers &
workers they need.
• Take unearned monies from Utilities and spend budgets on non-core City services.
• Unsure
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Report of Results
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Question 16: If you plan to purchase a car within the next two years,
what is the likelihood of it being one of the following: (Other)
• - GAS.
• 1 car household, want gas option.
• Can't afford it!
• Can't afford/disabled.
• CONVENTIONAL GAS.
• Electric
• fully gas powered car
• Gas
• gas
• Gas
• Gas
• Gas
• Gas Car
• Gas car
• Gas car.
• Gas power at low.
• Gas.
• Gas.
• GAS.
• Gas.
• Gas.
• GAS.
• gasoline
• Gasoline
• Gasoline
• Gasoline
• Gasoline car
• gasoline powered car since there isn't enough electricity
• Gasoline.
• GASOLINE.
• Horse Drawn Carriage ;-)
• Hybrid
• Hybrid
• hybrid
• HYBRID
• Hybrid
• Hybrid not plug-in.
• Hybrid.
• Hybrid.
• Hybrid.
• Hybrid.
• I have a hybrid plug-in and the parking situation is outrageous people get parking citations in their own
driveways in Palo Alto.
• I want a hybrid car, not electric
• ICE.
• I'm keeping my car. It's paid for.
• INTERNAL COMBUSTION - GASOLIAN.
• internal combustion engine
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• Internal combustion engine
• internal combustion engine
• IVE car
• Like a gas/electric Prius. No charging station in our senior apartment.
• Need to consider the price to charge the electric car.
• No place to plug in or recharge.
• non plug-in hybrid
• non-plug in hybrid
• Not going to buy a car.
• Not planning to purchase.
• Old school has car, used
• OWN ALL ELECTRIC NOW.
• Personal assistant driver.
• PRIUS E 46 MPC.
• Regular car with gas.
• Regular engined car
• regular gas car
• standard hybrid
• Standard Hybrid
• There aren't other options
• traditional gasoline
• Unlikely to buy a petrol fueled vehicle.
• very unlikely gasoline or diesel.
• Very unlikely to purchase gas-only vehicle
• We own 2 electric vehicles.
• We own only one car. I just purchased my leased car, drive it very few miles yearly, and plan to keep it for
many years.
• Will keep my car for at least another 10 years
• Will likely not buy a traditional ice car
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Appendix C: Results to Open-Participation Survey
About the Open-Participation Survey
After the data collection period for the probability, address-based survey was underway, the City
made available a web-based survey to its residents through a link on the City’s website and on
social media. Visitors to the site were able to complete the survey from September 8 –
September 22, 2023 and 95 surveys were received. This section contains the results of this
open participation web-based survey. These data were not collected through a random sample
and it is unknown who in the community was aware of the survey; therefore, a level of
confidence in the representativeness of the sample cannot be estimated. However, to reduce
bias where possible, these data were weighted to match the demographic characteristics of the
2020 Census and 2021 American Community Survey estimates for adults in the City of Palo
Alto. The results of the weighting scheme for the open participation survey are presented in the
following table.
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Table 111: Palo Alto, CA 2021 Weighting Table
Characteristic Population Norm Unweighted Data Weighted Data
Housing
Rent home 44% 20% 38%
Own home 56% 80% 62%
Detached unit* 59% 82% 65%
Attached unit* 41% 18% 35%
Race and Ethnicity
White 57% 70% 58%
Not white 43% 30% 42%
Not Hispanic 94% 90% 84%
Hispanic 6% 10% 16%
Sex and Age
Female 52% 62% 58%
Male 48% 38% 42%
18-34 years of age 24% 3% 16%
35-54 years of age 35% 37% 35%
55+ years of age 41% 60% 48%
Females 18-34 11% 2% 11%
Females 35-54 18% 28% 19%
Females 55+ 23% 32% 28%
Males 18-34 13% 1% 6%
Males 35-54 17% 8% 16%
Males 55+ 18% 28% 20%
* U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2021 5-year estimates
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Results Tables
Table 112: Question 1 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in
Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Palo Alto as a place to live 34% N=30 48% N=42 13% N=11 5% N=4 0% N=0 100% N=88
Your neighborhood as a place to live 35% N=32 50% N=46 8% N=8 6% N=6 0% N=0 100% N=92
Palo Alto as a place to raise children 29% N=27 41% N=37 21% N=20 3% N=2 7% N=6 100% N=92
Palo Alto as a place to work 19% N=18 34% N=31 20% N=18 8% N=7 20% N=18 100% N=92
Palo Alto as a place to visit 25% N=23 33% N=30 24% N=23 9% N=9 8% N=8 100% N=92
Palo Alto as a place to retire 19% N=17 35% N=32 21% N=19 17% N=15 9% N=8 100% N=91
The overall quality of life in Palo Alto 25% N=23 53% N=50 13% N=12 8% N=8 0% N=0 100% N=93
Table 113: Question 1 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Palo Alto as a place to live 34% N=30 48% N=42 13% N=11 5% N=4 100% N=88
Your neighborhood as a place to live 35% N=32 50% N=46 8% N=8 6% N=6 100% N=92
Palo Alto as a place to raise children 31% N=27 43% N=37 23% N=20 3% N=2 100% N=86
Palo Alto as a place to work 24% N=18 42% N=31 24% N=18 10% N=7 100% N=74
Palo Alto as a place to visit 27% N=23 36% N=30 27% N=23 10% N=9 100% N=85
Palo Alto as a place to retire 21% N=17 38% N=32 23% N=19 18% N=15 100% N=83
The overall quality of life in Palo Alto 25% N=23 53% N=50 13% N=12 8% N=8 100% N=93
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Report of Results
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Table 114: Question 2 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate
to Palo Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor
Don't
know Total
Overall "built environment" of Palo Alto (including overall
design, buildings, parks and transportation systems) 11% N=10 51% N=48 22% N=20 14% N=13 2% N=2 100% N=93
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto 18% N=16 62% N=57 11% N=10 10% N=9 0% N=0 100% N=92
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 28% N=26 56% N=52 16% N=15 0% N=0 0% N=0 100% N=93
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 23% N=22 47% N=43 22% N=21 5% N=4 3% N=3 100% N=93
Residents' connection and engagement with their community 10% N=9 41% N=38 31% N=29 16% N=15 1% N=1 100% N=92
Table 115: Question 2 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Palo Alto
as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Overall "built environment" of Palo Alto (including overall design, buildings,
parks and transportation systems) 11% N=10 52% N=48 22% N=20 14% N=13 100% N=91
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto 18% N=16 62% N=57 11% N=10 10% N=9 100% N=92
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 28% N=26 56% N=52 16% N=15 0% N=0 100% N=93
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 24% N=22 48% N=43 23% N=21 5% N=4 100% N=90
Residents' connection and engagement with their community 10% N=9 42% N=38 32% N=29 17% N=15 100% N=91
Table 116: Question 3 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do
each of the following: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely
Don't
know Total
Recommend living in Palo Alto to someone who asks 36% N=31 35% N=30 17% N=14 12% N=10 0% N=0 100% N=87
Remain in Palo Alto for the next five years 51% N=47 38% N=35 4% N=4 4% N=3 4% N=4 100% N=93
Recommend Palo Alto’s libraries to friends 67% N=62 25% N=23 4% N=3 1% N=1 3% N=2 100% N=92
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Report of Results
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Table 117: Question 3 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the
following: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely Total
Recommend living in Palo Alto to someone who asks 36% N=31 35% N=30 17% N=14 12% N=10 100% N=87
Remain in Palo Alto for the next five years 53% N=47 39% N=35 4% N=4 4% N=3 100% N=89
Recommend Palo Alto’s libraries to friends 69% N=62 26% N=23 4% N=3 1% N=1 100% N=90
Table 118: Question 4 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the job you feel the Palo Alto community does at
each of the following. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Making all residents feel welcome 16% N=14 44% N=40 15% N=14 21% N=19 4% N=4 100% N=91
Attracting people from diverse backgrounds 20% N=19 33% N=30 9% N=8 33% N=30 4% N=4 100% N=91
Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds 25% N=23 42% N=38 14% N=13 19% N=18 0% N=0 100% N=91
Taking care of vulnerable residents (elderly, disabled,
homeless, etc.) 8% N=7 39% N=36 21% N=20 18% N=17 13% N=12 100% N=92
Table 119: Question 4 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the job you feel the Palo Alto community does at each of the
following. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Making all residents feel welcome 17% N=14 46% N=40 16% N=14 21% N=19 100% N=87
Attracting people from diverse backgrounds 21% N=19 35% N=30 10% N=8 34% N=30 100% N=87
Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds 25% N=23 42% N=38 14% N=13 19% N=18 100% N=91
Taking care of vulnerable residents (elderly, disabled, homeless, etc.) 9% N=7 45% N=36 25% N=20 21% N=17 100% N=80
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Report of Results
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Table 120: Question 5 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they
relate to Palo Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Overall quality of business and service establishments in Palo
Alto 15% N=14 52% N=48 23% N=21 8% N=8 2% N=2 100% N=93
Variety of business and service establishments in Palo Alto 7% N=7 39% N=35 28% N=25 25% N=23 1% N=1 100% N=90
Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 7% N=6 44% N=41 25% N=23 21% N=20 2% N=2 100% N=92
Employment opportunities 7% N=7 34% N=31 23% N=21 3% N=3 33% N=30 100% N=92
Shopping opportunities 15% N=14 44% N=40 19% N=18 22% N=20 0% N=0 100% N=92
Cost of living in Palo Alto 1% N=1 5% N=4 30% N=26 63% N=54 0% N=0 100% N=85
Overall image or reputation of Palo Alto 24% N=22 41% N=37 33% N=30 2% N=2 0% N=0 100% N=91
Traffic flow on major streets 3% N=3 40% N=37 36% N=33 20% N=19 0% N=0 100% N=92
Ease of public parking 17% N=15 52% N=48 18% N=16 14% N=13 0% N=0 100% N=92
Ease of travel by car in Palo Alto 22% N=20 54% N=50 20% N=18 4% N=3 0% N=0 100% N=92
Ease of travel by public transportation in Palo Alto 4% N=4 16% N=14 17% N=15 41% N=37 23% N=21 100% N=91
Ease of travel by bicycle in Palo Alto 20% N=19 31% N=28 28% N=26 8% N=7 13% N=12 100% N=92
Ease of walking in Palo Alto 26% N=23 50% N=44 12% N=10 13% N=12 0% N=0 100% N=90
Variety of housing options 7% N=6 22% N=20 24% N=22 41% N=37 6% N=5 100% N=89
Availability of affordable quality housing 3% N=3 2% N=2 17% N=15 59% N=51 19% N=17 100% N=87
Recreational opportunities 21% N=19 32% N=29 35% N=31 7% N=6 4% N=4 100% N=90
Availability of affordable quality mental health care 2% N=2 13% N=12 15% N=14 31% N=29 39% N=36 100% N=92
Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 15% N=13 49% N=45 18% N=17 13% N=12 5% N=5 100% N=91
Table 121: Question 5 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Palo Alto
as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Overall quality of business and service establishments in Palo Alto 15% N=14 53% N=48 23% N=21 8% N=8 100% N=91
Variety of business and service establishments in Palo Alto 7% N=7 39% N=35 28% N=25 25% N=23 100% N=89
Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area 7% N=6 45% N=41 26% N=23 22% N=20 100% N=90
Employment opportunities 11% N=7 50% N=31 34% N=21 5% N=3 100% N=62
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Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Palo Alto
as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Shopping opportunities 15% N=14 44% N=40 19% N=18 22% N=20 100% N=92
Cost of living in Palo Alto 1% N=1 5% N=4 30% N=26 63% N=54 100% N=85
Overall image or reputation of Palo Alto 24% N=22 41% N=37 33% N=30 2% N=2 100% N=91
Traffic flow on major streets 3% N=3 40% N=37 36% N=33 20% N=19 100% N=92
Ease of public parking 17% N=15 52% N=48 18% N=16 14% N=13 100% N=92
Ease of travel by car in Palo Alto 22% N=20 54% N=50 20% N=18 4% N=3 100% N=92
Ease of travel by public transportation in Palo Alto 5% N=4 20% N=14 22% N=15 53% N=37 100% N=70
Ease of travel by bicycle in Palo Alto 23% N=19 35% N=28 32% N=26 9% N=7 100% N=80
Ease of walking in Palo Alto 26% N=23 50% N=44 12% N=10 13% N=12 100% N=90
Variety of housing options 7% N=6 24% N=20 26% N=22 44% N=37 100% N=84
Availability of affordable quality housing 4% N=3 2% N=2 21% N=15 72% N=51 100% N=70
Recreational opportunities 22% N=19 34% N=29 36% N=31 7% N=6 100% N=86
Availability of affordable quality mental health care 3% N=2 21% N=12 24% N=14 51% N=29 100% N=56
Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities 16% N=13 52% N=45 19% N=17 13% N=12 100% N=87
Table 122: Question 6 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they
relate to Palo Alto as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 2% N=2 16% N=14 15% N=14 30% N=27 37% N=33 100% N=91
K-12 education 34% N=31 30% N=27 13% N=12 13% N=12 10% N=9 100% N=91
Adult educational opportunities 17% N=15 35% N=31 21% N=19 8% N=7 20% N=18 100% N=90
Opportunities to participate in social events and activities 11% N=10 57% N=52 14% N=12 12% N=11 6% N=5 100% N=90
Openness and acceptance of the community toward people
of diverse backgrounds 14% N=13 42% N=39 20% N=19 19% N=18 4% N=4 100% N=92
Opportunities to learn about City services through social
media such as Twitter, Facebook, and Nextdoor 9% N=8 53% N=48 21% N=19 4% N=4 12% N=11 100% N=90
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 120
Table 123: Question 6 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Palo Alto
as a whole: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool 4% N=2 25% N=14 24% N=14 48% N=27 100% N=57
K-12 education 38% N=31 33% N=27 15% N=12 14% N=12 100% N=82
Adult educational opportunities 21% N=15 43% N=31 27% N=19 10% N=7 100% N=73
Opportunities to participate in social events and activities 12% N=10 61% N=52 14% N=12 13% N=11 100% N=85
Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse
backgrounds 14% N=13 44% N=39 21% N=19 20% N=18 100% N=88
Opportunities to learn about City services through social media such as
Twitter, Facebook, and Nextdoor 10% N=8 61% N=48 24% N=19 5% N=4 100% N=79
Table 124: Question 7 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. No Yes Total
Used Palo Alto recreation centers or their services 56% N=51 44% N=40 100% N=90
Visited a neighborhood park or City park 3% N=3 97% N=88 100% N=91
Used Palo Alto public libraries or their services 20% N=18 80% N=73 100% N=91
Participated in religious or spiritual activities in Palo Alto 71% N=64 29% N=26 100% N=90
Attended a City-sponsored event 41% N=37 59% N=54 100% N=91
Participated in a club 86% N=79 14% N=12 100% N=91
Talked to or visited with your immediate neighbors 9% N=8 91% N=82 100% N=90
Done a favor for a neighbor 17% N=16 83% N=75 100% N=90
Used the City’s website to conduct business or pay bills 48% N=43 52% N=47 100% N=91
Used the Utilities webpage to conduct business or pay bills 36% N=33 64% N=58 100% N=91
Contacted the City of Palo Alto (in-person, phone, email or web) for help or information 32% N=29 68% N=62 100% N=91
Contacted Palo Alto elected officials (in-person, phone, email or web) to express your opinion 60% N=54 40% N=37 100% N=91
Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City Council or County Commissioners,
advisory boards, town halls, HOA, neighborhood watch, etc.) 60% N=54 40% N=37 100% N=91
Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting 49% N=44 51% N=47 100% N=91
Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Palo Alto 49% N=44 51% N=46 100% N=90
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 121
Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months. No Yes Total
Walked or biked instead of driving 12% N=11 88% N=78 100% N=88
Observed a code violation or other hazard in Palo Alto (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 39% N=36 61% N=55 100% N=91
Household member was a victim of a crime in Palo Alto 84% N=76 16% N=15 100% N=90
Reported a crime to the police in Palo Alto 80% N=72 20% N=18 100% N=90
Stocked 14 days’ worth of supplies in case of a major disaster where you have no electricity, water,
internet, or telephone service 65% N=59 35% N=32 100% N=91
*This question did not have a "don't know" option.
Table 125: Question 8 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Please rate the following categories of Palo Alto government
performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
The value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto 13% N=12 37% N=34 27% N=25 20% N=18 3% N=3 100% N=92
The overall direction that Palo Alto is taking 3% N=3 31% N=28 36% N=33 23% N=21 7% N=7 100% N=91
The job Palo Alto government does at welcoming resident
involvement 4% N=4 31% N=28 32% N=29 19% N=17 14% N=12 100% N=91
Overall confidence in Palo Alto government 4% N=3 24% N=22 45% N=40 23% N=20 4% N=4 100% N=90
Generally acting in the best interest of the community 3% N=3 37% N=34 30% N=27 27% N=24 2% N=2 100% N=91
Being honest 4% N=4 42% N=38 29% N=26 17% N=15 8% N=7 100% N=90
Being open and transparent to the public 4% N=4 35% N=32 32% N=29 21% N=19 7% N=7 100% N=91
Informing residents about issues facing the community 5% N=5 41% N=37 30% N=27 17% N=15 7% N=6 100% N=90
Treating all residents fairly 6% N=6 29% N=26 25% N=23 25% N=22 15% N=14 100% N=91
Treating residents with respect 12% N=11 36% N=33 27% N=24 17% N=15 8% N=7 100% N=91
Table 126: Question 8 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the following categories of Palo Alto government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
The value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto 13% N=12 38% N=34 28% N=25 20% N=18 100% N=89
The overall direction that Palo Alto is taking 3% N=3 33% N=28 39% N=33 25% N=21 100% N=84
The job Palo Alto government does at welcoming resident involvement 5% N=4 36% N=28 37% N=29 22% N=17 100% N=79
Overall confidence in Palo Alto government 4% N=3 26% N=22 47% N=40 24% N=20 100% N=86
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 122
Please rate the following categories of Palo Alto government performance. Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Generally acting in the best interest of the community 3% N=3 38% N=34 31% N=27 28% N=24 100% N=89
Being honest 4% N=4 46% N=38 32% N=26 18% N=15 100% N=83
Being open and transparent to the public 4% N=4 38% N=32 35% N=29 23% N=19 100% N=84
Informing residents about issues facing the community 6% N=5 44% N=37 32% N=27 18% N=15 100% N=84
Treating all residents fairly 7% N=6 34% N=26 30% N=23 29% N=22 100% N=77
Treating residents with respect 13% N=11 39% N=33 29% N=24 18% N=15 100% N=84
Table 127: Question 9 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided
by each of the following? Excellent Good Fair Poor
Don't
know Total
The City of Palo Alto 10% N=9 58% N=52 18% N=16 14% N=13 0% N=0 100% N=91
The State Government 4% N=3 42% N=38 25% N=22 24% N=22 6% N=5 100% N=91
The Federal Government 2% N=2 42% N=38 34% N=30 15% N=14 8% N=7 100% N=90
Table 128: Question 9 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided by each of
the following? Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
The City of Palo Alto 10% N=9 58% N=52 18% N=16 14% N=13 100% N=90
The State Government 4% N=3 44% N=38 26% N=22 26% N=22 100% N=86
The Federal Government 2% N=2 46% N=38 36% N=30 16% N=14 100% N=83
Table 129: Question 10 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the quality of each of the following services in
Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Traffic enforcement 5% N=4 34% N=30 30% N=27 25% N=22 6% N=5 100% N=87
Traffic signal timing 2% N=2 53% N=44 24% N=20 18% N=15 3% N=2 100% N=84
Street repair 5% N=5 33% N=28 39% N=32 23% N=19 0% N=0 100% N=84
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 123
Please rate the quality of each of the following services in
Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Street cleaning 17% N=16 59% N=54 20% N=18 2% N=2 1% N=1 100% N=91
Street tree maintenance 16% N=15 53% N=48 19% N=18 10% N=9 1% N=1 100% N=91
Sidewalk maintenance 14% N=13 41% N=38 26% N=24 14% N=13 4% N=3 100% N=91
Land use, planning, and zoning 2% N=2 25% N=22 27% N=24 32% N=29 15% N=13 100% N=91
Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 4% N=4 36% N=32 26% N=23 20% N=18 15% N=13 100% N=90
Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and
greenbelts) 28% N=24 48% N=42 19% N=17 3% N=3 2% N=2 100% N=87
Building and planning application processing services 3% N=2 18% N=16 26% N=24 21% N=19 33% N=30 100% N=90
Affordable high-speed internet access 12% N=11 28% N=25 15% N=14 26% N=23 19% N=18 100% N=91
Electric utility 14% N=13 48% N=42 19% N=17 8% N=7 11% N=10 100% N=89
Gas utility 14% N=12 43% N=38 19% N=17 8% N=7 16% N=14 100% N=88
Utility payment options 23% N=21 54% N=48 9% N=8 2% N=2 12% N=11 100% N=90
Drinking water 46% N=42 41% N=37 6% N=5 6% N=6 1% N=1 100% N=90
Sewer services 25% N=23 51% N=46 4% N=4 7% N=7 13% N=12 100% N=90
Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees,
etc.) 15% N=13 51% N=45 15% N=14 11% N=10 8% N=7 100% N=89
Refuse collection (garbage, recycling, yard waste, and e-
waste) 27% N=25 52% N=47 18% N=16 3% N=3 0% N=0 100% N=91
Police services 23% N=21 42% N=38 7% N=7 6% N=5 21% N=19 100% N=90
Crime prevention 10% N=9 30% N=27 38% N=35 9% N=8 13% N=12 100% N=91
Animal control 19% N=17 33% N=29 6% N=5 6% N=6 35% N=30 100% N=87
Ambulance or emergency medical services 29% N=26 36% N=32 2% N=2 1% N=0 32% N=29 100% N=90
Fire emergency services 34% N=30 35% N=31 2% N=2 0% N=0 30% N=26 100% N=89
Fire prevention and education 12% N=11 33% N=29 9% N=8 9% N=8 37% N=34 100% N=90
Palo Alto open space 44% N=39 37% N=33 16% N=14 2% N=2 2% N=2 100% N=90
City parks 40% N=36 41% N=37 14% N=13 5% N=4 0% N=0 100% N=90
Recreation programs or classes 13% N=12 44% N=39 14% N=12 7% N=6 21% N=19 100% N=88
Recreation centers or facilities 15% N=13 48% N=40 11% N=9 8% N=6 18% N=15 100% N=84
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 124
Please rate the quality of each of the following services in
Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Public library services (e.g., hold requests, storytimes, teen
events, bookclubs) 40% N=36 38% N=34 6% N=5 6% N=5 10% N=9 100% N=89
Library facilities (buildings, computer equipment,
accessibility) 40% N=36 44% N=40 7% N=6 1% N=1 8% N=7 100% N=90
Variety of library materials (books, e-books, streaming,
databases, audiobooks) 37% N=32 42% N=36 5% N=5 8% N=7 8% N=7 100% N=86
Art programs and theater 19% N=17 43% N=38 11% N=9 2% N=1 26% N=23 100% N=89
City-sponsored special events 12% N=11 42% N=38 19% N=17 9% N=8 18% N=16 100% N=89
City website (cityofpaloalto.org) 10% N=9 50% N=45 24% N=21 9% N=8 7% N=6 100% N=89
Public information (Police/public safety) 10% N=9 52% N=46 20% N=17 7% N=6 10% N=9 100% N=89
Public information (non-Police/public safety) 10% N=9 57% N=51 13% N=11 9% N=8 10% N=9 100% N=89
Overall customer service by Palo Alto employees (police,
receptionists, planners, etc.) 15% N=13 51% N=44 15% N=13 10% N=9 9% N=8 100% N=87
Table 130: Question 10 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Traffic enforcement 5% N=4 36% N=30 32% N=27 27% N=22 100% N=82
Traffic signal timing 2% N=2 54% N=44 25% N=20 19% N=15 100% N=82
Street repair 5% N=5 33% N=28 39% N=32 23% N=19 100% N=84
Street cleaning 18% N=16 60% N=54 20% N=18 2% N=2 100% N=90
Street tree maintenance 17% N=15 54% N=48 20% N=18 10% N=9 100% N=90
Sidewalk maintenance 15% N=13 43% N=38 27% N=24 15% N=13 100% N=88
Land use, planning, and zoning 2% N=2 29% N=22 31% N=24 38% N=29 100% N=78
Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) 5% N=4 42% N=32 30% N=23 23% N=18 100% N=77
Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands, and greenbelts) 28% N=24 49% N=42 19% N=17 4% N=3 100% N=86
Building and planning application processing services 4% N=2 27% N=16 39% N=24 31% N=19 100% N=61
Affordable high-speed internet access 15% N=11 35% N=25 19% N=14 32% N=23 100% N=73
Electric utility 16% N=13 54% N=42 21% N=17 9% N=7 100% N=79
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 125
Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Palo Alto: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Gas utility 17% N=12 52% N=38 23% N=17 9% N=7 100% N=74
Utility payment options 26% N=21 61% N=48 10% N=8 3% N=2 100% N=79
Drinking water 47% N=42 41% N=37 6% N=5 6% N=6 100% N=89
Sewer services 29% N=23 58% N=46 5% N=4 8% N=7 100% N=78
Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 16% N=13 55% N=45 17% N=14 12% N=10 100% N=82
Refuse collection (garbage, recycling, yard waste, and e-waste) 27% N=25 52% N=47 18% N=16 3% N=3 100% N=90
Police services 29% N=21 54% N=38 9% N=7 7% N=5 100% N=71
Crime prevention 11% N=9 34% N=27 44% N=35 10% N=8 100% N=79
Animal control 30% N=17 51% N=29 10% N=5 10% N=6 100% N=57
Ambulance or emergency medical services 43% N=26 53% N=32 3% N=2 1% N=0 100% N=61
Fire emergency services 48% N=30 50% N=31 3% N=2 0% N=0 100% N=63
Fire prevention and education 19% N=11 52% N=29 14% N=8 15% N=8 100% N=56
Palo Alto open space 45% N=39 37% N=33 16% N=14 2% N=2 100% N=88
City parks 40% N=36 41% N=37 14% N=13 5% N=4 100% N=90
Recreation programs or classes 17% N=12 57% N=39 18% N=12 9% N=6 100% N=70
Recreation centers or facilities 19% N=13 59% N=40 13% N=9 9% N=6 100% N=69
Public library services (e.g., hold requests, storytimes, teen events,
bookclubs) 45% N=36 42% N=34 6% N=5 7% N=5 100% N=80
Library facilities (buildings, computer equipment, accessibility) 43% N=36 48% N=40 7% N=6 1% N=1 100% N=82
Variety of library materials (books, e-books, streaming, databases,
audiobooks) 40% N=32 46% N=36 6% N=5 8% N=7 100% N=79
Art programs and theater 26% N=17 58% N=38 14% N=9 2% N=1 100% N=66
City-sponsored special events 15% N=11 51% N=38 23% N=17 11% N=8 100% N=73
City website (cityofpaloalto.org) 11% N=9 54% N=45 25% N=21 10% N=8 100% N=83
Public information (Police/public safety) 12% N=9 58% N=46 22% N=17 8% N=6 100% N=80
Public information (non-Police/public safety) 12% N=9 64% N=51 14% N=11 10% N=8 100% N=80
Overall customer service by Palo Alto employees (police, receptionists,
planners, etc.) 17% N=13 56% N=44 16% N=13 11% N=9 100% N=79
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 126
Table 131: Question 11 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents including "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the following as they relate to Palo Alto Utilities’
services: Excellent Good Fair Poor Don't know Total
Reliability of utility services 23% N=20 59% N=52 13% N=12 3% N=2 3% N=3 100% N=89
Affordability of utility services 8% N=7 37% N=32 34% N=30 16% N=14 6% N=5 100% N=89
Community value received from the City owning and
operating its own municipal utility services 18% N=16 53% N=47 14% N=12 7% N=6 8% N=7 100% N=87
Utilities online customer self-service features 16% N=14 44% N=38 12% N=10 4% N=3 25% N=22 100% N=87
Providing opportunities for energy and water efficiency at
home or business 8% N=7 45% N=38 19% N=16 6% N=5 22% N=18 100% N=85
Working hard to keep utilities prices competitive 10% N=8 37% N=32 24% N=21 13% N=12 16% N=14 100% N=87
Value of all the services Palo Alto Utilities provides for the
price you pay 6% N=6 53% N=47 20% N=18 11% N=10 10% N=9 100% N=89
Ease of obtaining information or performing a transaction
through the City’s website 6% N=5 38% N=34 16% N=14 13% N=12 28% N=25 100% N=90
Value of Palo Alto Utilities’ customer communications 14% N=12 40% N=35 22% N=20 4% N=3 21% N=19 100% N=89
Ease of contacting Utilities department staff 13% N=11 36% N=32 14% N=13 13% N=11 24% N=21 100% N=88
Speed of response after contacting Utilities department staff 15% N=13 35% N=31 15% N=13 5% N=4 30% N=27 100% N=89
Table 132: Question 11 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Please rate the following as they relate to Palo Alto Utilities’ services: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Reliability of utility services 23% N=20 60% N=52 14% N=12 3% N=2 100% N=86
Affordability of utility services 8% N=7 39% N=32 36% N=30 17% N=14 100% N=84
Community value received from the City owning and operating its own
municipal utility services 19% N=16 58% N=47 15% N=12 7% N=6 100% N=80
Utilities online customer self-service features 21% N=14 58% N=38 16% N=10 5% N=3 100% N=65
Providing opportunities for energy and water efficiency at home or business 11% N=7 57% N=38 25% N=16 7% N=5 100% N=67
Working hard to keep utilities prices competitive 11% N=8 44% N=32 29% N=21 16% N=12 100% N=73
Value of all the services Palo Alto Utilities provides for the price you pay 7% N=6 58% N=47 22% N=18 13% N=10 100% N=80
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 127
Please rate the following as they relate to Palo Alto Utilities’ services: Excellent Good Fair Poor Total
Ease of obtaining information or performing a transaction through the City’s
website 8% N=5 52% N=34 22% N=14 18% N=12 100% N=65
Value of Palo Alto Utilities’ customer communications 17% N=12 50% N=35 28% N=20 5% N=3 100% N=71
Ease of contacting Utilities department staff 16% N=11 48% N=32 19% N=13 17% N=11 100% N=67
Speed of response after contacting Utilities department staff 22% N=13 50% N=31 21% N=13 7% N=4 100% N=62
Table 133: Question 12 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Palo Alto
community to focus on each of the following in the coming two
years. Essential
Very
important
Somewhat
important
Not at all
important Total
Overall “built environment” of Palo Alto (including overall design,
buildings, parks and transportation systems) 33% N=29 51% N=45 16% N=15 0% N=0 100% N=88
Overall economic health of Palo Alto 43% N=38 39% N=34 17% N=15 2% N=1 100% N=89
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto 60% N=54 22% N=19 18% N=16 0% N=0 100% N=89
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto 30% N=27 57% N=51 13% N=11 1% N=1 100% N=90
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto 17% N=15 53% N=48 25% N=23 5% N=4 100% N=90
Overall opportunities for education, culture and the arts 32% N=28 40% N=36 27% N=24 2% N=2 100% N=90
Residents' connection and engagement with their community 20% N=18 56% N=50 22% N=20 2% N=2 100% N=90
Reducing community greenhouse gas emissions 14% N=12 48% N=43 26% N=23 12% N=10 100% N=89
Increasing local solar generation capacity within city boundaries 15% N=13 42% N=37 31% N=27 12% N=11 100% N=88
Increasing electric storage capacity within city boundaries 11% N=10 46% N=41 34% N=30 9% N=8 100% N=89
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for Utilities
billing issues, efficiency tips, outage information 18% N=16 30% N=27 46% N=41 6% N=5 100% N=89
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for public
safety issues 18% N=16 56% N=49 22% N=20 4% N=3 100% N=88
*This question did not have a "don't know" option.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 128
Table 134: Question 13 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents Including "Don't Know" Responses
In a typical week, how likely are you to: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely
Don't
know Total
Participate in organized group activities (such as clubs,
sports teams, volunteer your time, attend church/temple) 32% N=28 32% N=28 16% N=14 19% N=16 1% N=1 100% N=88
Spend quality time with local friends, family, and/or
neighbors 64% N=57 26% N=24 6% N=6 4% N=4 0% N=0 100% N=90
Table 135: Question 13 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents Without "Don't Know" Responses
In a typical week, how likely are you to: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely Total
Participate in organized group activities (such as clubs, sports teams,
volunteer your time, attend church/temple) 32% N=28 33% N=28 16% N=14 19% N=16 100% N=87
Spend quality time with local friends, family, and/or neighbors 64% N=57 26% N=24 6% N=6 4% N=4 100% N=90
Table 136: Question 14 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What mode of transportation do you use most for your typical daily needs for getting around town? Percent Number
Driving 70% N=64
Walking 13% N=11
Biking 12% N=11
Bus 0% N=0
Train 0% N=0
Free shuttle 0% N=0
Taxi 0% N=0
Uber/Lyft or similar rideshare service 5% N=4
Carpooling 0% N=0
Total 100% N=91
*This question did not have a "don't know" option.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 129
Table 137: Question 15 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
In a typical week, how likely are you to: Very convenient Somewhat convenient Somewhat inconvenient Very inconvenient Total
Walking 21% N=18 58% N=50 12% N=10 9% N=8 100% N=87
Biking 29% N=25 37% N=32 19% N=17 15% N=13 100% N=86
Bus 2% N=1 22% N=19 25% N=21 51% N=43 100% N=84
Train 7% N=6 26% N=22 24% N=20 44% N=38 100% N=86
Free shuttle 14% N=12 29% N=24 45% N=37 12% N=10 100% N=83
Taxi 7% N=6 27% N=23 46% N=38 20% N=17 100% N=84
Uber/Lyft or similar rideshare service 50% N=43 33% N=29 8% N=7 8% N=7 100% N=86
Carpooling 2% N=1 42% N=34 25% N=21 30% N=25 100% N=81
*This question did not have a "don't know" option.
Table 138: Question 16 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents with "Don't Know" Responses
If you plan to purchase a new car within the next two
years, what is the likelihood of it being: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely Don't know Total
All-electric 28% N=21 37% N=28 7% N=5 21% N=16 8% N=6 100% N=76
Plug-in hybrid 33% N=26 30% N=24 8% N=6 21% N=16 9% N=7 100% N=78
Hydrogen fuel cell 1% N=1 7% N=5 14% N=11 52% N=39 27% N=20 100% N=75
Other 16% N=9 4% N=2 1% N=0 15% N=8 64% N=37 100% N=57
Table 139: Question 16 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
If you plan to purchase a new car within the next two years, what is
the likelihood of it being: Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely Total
All-electric 30% N=21 40% N=28 7% N=5 22% N=16 100% N=70
Plug-in hybrid 36% N=26 33% N=24 8% N=6 22% N=16 100% N=71
Hydrogen fuel cell 1% N=1 9% N=5 19% N=11 70% N=39 100% N=55
Other 46% N=9 10% N=2 2% N=0 42% N=8 100% N=20
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
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Table 140: Question 17 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents with "Don't Know" Responses
Palo Alto is committed to addressing climate change by
engaging in strategies that reduce Greenhouse Gas
Emissions (GHGs). Space heating is the largest source of
GHG in most Palo Alto homes, followed by water heating.
What is the likelihood of you… Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely Don't know Total
Replacing your gas water heater with a heat pump water
heater when you are ready to replace the water heater? 14% N=13 39% N=35 4% N=4 26% N=24 16% N=14 100% N=90
Replacing your gas furnace with a heat pump HVAC system
(that provides heating and cooling) when you are ready to
replace the furnace? 17% N=15 33% N=29 6% N=5 27% N=24 17% N=15 100% N=87
Table 141: Question 17 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents without "Don't Know" Responses
Palo Alto is committed to addressing climate change by engaging in
strategies that reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGs). Space heating
is the largest source of GHG in most Palo Alto homes, followed by water
heating. What is the likelihood of you… Very likely
Somewhat
likely
Somewhat
unlikely
Very
unlikely Total
Replacing your gas water heater with a heat pump water heater when you
are ready to replace the water heater? 17% N=13 46% N=35 5% N=4 31% N=24 100% N=76
Replacing your gas furnace with a heat pump HVAC system (that provides
heating and cooling) when you are ready to replace the furnace? 20% N=15 39% N=29 7% N=5 33% N=24 100% N=73
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
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Demographic Questions
Table 142: Question D1 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will
be: Percent Number
Very positive 3% N=3
Somewhat positive 25% N=22
Neutral 38% N=33
Somewhat negative 31% N=27
Very negative 4% N=3
Total 100% N=88
Table 143: Question D2 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What is your employment status? Percent Number
Working full time for pay 56% N=49
Working part time for pay 4% N=3
Unemployed, looking for paid work 8% N=7
Unemployed, not looking for paid work 5% N=4
Fully retired 28% N=24
College student, unemployed 0% N=0
Total 100% N=87
Table 144: Question D3 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Do you work inside the boundaries of Palo Alto? Percent Number
Yes, outside the home 12% N=11
Yes, from home 44% N=38
No 44% N=38
Total 100% N=86
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
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Table 145: Question D4 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
How many years have you lived in Palo Alto? Percent Number
Less than 2 years 6% N=5
2 to 5 years 21% N=19
6 to 10 years 14% N=13
11 to 20 years 20% N=18
More than 20 years 39% N=35
Total 100% N=89
Table 146: Question D5 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Which best describes the building you live in? Percent Number
One family house detached from any other houses 60% N=53
Building with two or more homes (duplex, townhome, apartment or condominium) 32% N=28
Mobile home 5% N=4
Other 3% N=3
Total 100% N=89
Table 147: Question D6 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Do you rent or own your home? Percent Number
Rent 38% N=33
Own 62% N=53
Total 100% N=86
Table 148: Question D7 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property
insurance and homeowners' association (HOA) fees)? Percent Number
Less than $500 per month 1% N=1
$500 to $999 per month 7% N=6
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October 2023
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About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property
insurance and homeowners' association (HOA) fees)? Percent Number
$1,000 to $1,499 per month 11% N=9
$1,500 to $1,999 per month 6% N=5
$2,000 to $2,499 per month 9% N=8
$2,500 to $2,999 per month 8% N=7
$3,000 to $3,499 per month 9% N=7
$3,500 to $3,999 per month 3% N=2
$4,000 to $4,499 per month 3% N=3
$4,500 to $4,999 per month 0% N=0
$4,500 to $4,999 per month 11% N=9
$5,500 to $5,999 per month 4% N=4
$6,000 to $6,499 per month 3% N=3
$6,500 to $6,999 per month 2% N=1
$7,000 to $7,499 per month 1% N=1
$7,500 to $7,999 per month 2% N=1
$8,000 to $8,499 per month 5% N=4
$8,500 to $8,999 per month 0% N=0
$9,000 to $9,499 per month 0% N=0
$9,500 to $9,999 per month 0% N=0
$10,000 or more per month 12% N=9
Total 100% N=80
Table 149: Question D8 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Do any children 17 or under live in your household? Percent Number
No 59% N=52
Yes 41% N=36
Total 100% N=88
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
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Table 150: Question D9 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Are you or any other members of your household aged 65 or older? Percent Number
No 61% N=54
Yes 39% N=35
Total 100% N=89
Table 151: Question D10 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
How much do you anticipate your household's total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total
income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.) Percent Number
Less than $25,000 8% N=6
$25,000 to $49,999 5% N=3
$50,000 to $74,999 4% N=3
$75,000 to $99,999 12% N=9
$100,000 to $149,999 14% N=10
$150,000 to $199,999 9% N=6
$200,000 to $249,999 8% N=6
$250,000 to $299,999 4% N=3
$300,000 to $349,999 9% N=6
$350,000 to $399,999 9% N=6
$400,000 to $449,999 2% N=2
$450,000 to $499,999 17% N=12
$500,000 or more 0% N=0
Total 100% N=72
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 135
Table 152: Question D11 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
Are you Spanish, Hispanic or Latino? Percent Number
No, not Spanish, Hispanic or Latino 84% N=71
Yes, I consider myself to be Spanish, Hispanic or Latino 16% N=13
Table 153: Question D12 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What is your race? (Mark one or more races to indicate what race(s) you consider yourself to be.) Percent Number
American Indian or Alaskan Native 0% N=0
Asian, Asian Indian or Pacific Islander 25% N=21
Black or African American 0% N=0
White 66% N=54
Other 17% N=14
Total may exceed 100% as respondents could select more than one option.
Table 154: Question D13 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
In which category is your age? Percent Number
18 to 24 years 0% N=0
25 to 34 years 16% N=14
35 to 44 years 19% N=16
45 to 54 years 17% N=15
55 to 64 years 14% N=13
65 to 74 years 21% N=19
75 years or older 12% N=11
Total 100% N=87
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 136
Table 155: Question D14 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What is your gender? Percent Number
Female 58% N=49
Male 42% N=36
Identify in another way 0% N=0
Total 100% N=85
Table 156: Question D14 - Response Percentages and Number of Respondents
What is your sexual orientation? Percent Number
Heterosexual 99% N=80
Lesbian 0% N=0
Gay 1% N=0
Bisexual 1% N=1
Identify another way 0% N=0
Total 100% N=81
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 137
Appendix D: Verbatim Responses to Open-ended
Questions from Open Participation Survey
Following are responses to questions 18 and 19. Responses are presented here in verbatim form,
including any typographical, grammatical or other mistakes. Responses are in alphabetical order.
Question 18: As a resident of Palo Alto, what one change could the
City make that would make you happier?
• Accountability from city attorney and city manager. Residents have lost respect for these
individuals. Also the planning dept. director does not show ethical work. Staff reports are often
thin.
• Additional affordable housing options and more representation of different cultures and lived
experiences in positions of leadership.
• Affordable home prices (a very big ask, I realize)
• Bathrooms at all public parks!
• Better administrators in our schools. Most teachers are great - principals are less great.
• Better inform public
• Better protect small businesses and greatly reduce business development! Reduce parking
structures and focus on making Palo Alto much safer!
• Better public transportation and social and emotional focus in schools. PAUSD is not attractive
anymore.
• Better walkable/bikable/public space NOT dedicated to cars while making it a better place to
live for younger renters (I know, that is more than one item).
• Build affordable housing scattered throughout the community.
• Change the voting rules such that people who are most impacted by school board policies (all
district parents, high school students) are allowed to vote. Right now, a majority of the voters
don't even have children in the district, and many who do can't vote for a variety of reasons even
though they pay heavily into the tax base that funds the district.
• Considering real actual safety more import than "Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto"
• Continue to prioritize bike and pedestrians. The transportation department has done a good job
but we could still do more to help make our city rely less on cars and make our streets safer for
other modes of transportation.
• Crime prevention.
• Don't outlaw gas appliances.
• Enforce traffic laws by ticketing offenders and making the roads more safe.
• Ensure road safety for bicycles!!!
• Face the truth about GHG emissions. CPAU covers up its emissions with RECs, and indeed it is
ludicrous to electrify space heating since CPAU has already made the gas carbon neutral.
• Fast Internet service to my home.
• Fiber WiFi
• Figure out how to maintain neighborhood from being too congested with state mandated
construction/dividing parcels
• Fix the Planning and Development Dept.
• Fix the rotten El Camino. It's a horrible road surface. Pot holes and gravel. Cut weeds along ALL
roads. Looks embarassing.
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Report of Results
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• Fix your stupid website
• Get more young people ie under 40 to be involved with volunteering and in city politics! ESL
speakers too! And get a mental health professional for the emergency services people to have
access to whenever they need it.
• Have a city council that is not paralyzed, i.e., a city council that can make decisions in a
reasonable period of time and without endless consultants.
• hold drivers and bicyclists accountable for safety on the roads
• I would like Foothills Park will be open free for Palo Alto residents, as we had before 2021
• Improve road repair/maintenance
• Improve the maintenance of the streets.
• Improved safety
• Improving jobs/housing imbalance by reducing jobs
• Increased public safety (fire and police) capability
• K-12 education need to be better. I moved here for my kids education and now have them in
private school because class sizes are going up and education quality going down
• Keep living cost down
• less people, less, cars, less busy noisy streets, lower housing prices, more private independent
schools there seems to be a demand for this and not enough private independent schools for
the number of people who want to attend seems like a lot of people are getting waitlisted who
want to attend private independent schools would be nice if there were more for the demand
• Lower taxes
• Make it a place that people who aren't millionaires would be able to live. Diversity isn't just about
ethnicity, and we can't call ourselves dudes just because we have a few kinds of ethnic diversity.
Socioeconomic diversity is impo
• Make it much safer to walk by (1) better enforcement of pedestrian crossings (2) better control
of dogs (too many people get bitten and scared), (3) get homeowners to prune their fences
which come over to the sidewalks
• more affordable housing
• More affordable housing for families with children
• More community engagement opportunities or awareness of them via local govt media channel
via opt-in phone text or email and optionally phone e-calls for elderly that do not use
computers/smart phones
• More down to earth and blue collar experiences
• More frequent cleaning of public bathrooms in parks
• More input from residents
• More programming for children
• More protected bike lanes
• More protected Bike lanes
• more resources for elderly and/or disabled
• More things for families. The Palo Alto Arts and Wine festival is not family friendly nothing for
kids to do there. And the May Fete Parade, which is FOR CHILDREN, is just a parade and then a
bunch of groups giving out flyers. My kids hate going, even though we live very close.
• More truly affordable housing
• Moving more quickly for programs to benefit current residents, especially youth
• Neighborhood community and affordable utility bill
• No dogs in school premises.
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October 2023
Report of Results
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• Open, truthful, timely communications by city manager, city attorney, planning director, planning
department. The years and years long city communications Castilleja project was a shameful
disaster.
• Opportunities for casual fun have vanished over the twenty years we've lived here. Bowling
alley, laser tag, mini golf, all are gone. Soon Great America will be gone too. I know not
everything was always in PA. But now nothing is (other than Winter Lodge ice skating). It's not
that the city government needs to provide these fun social places, but city policies have not
valued such things and so they disappear and are replaced by hotels and such that do not make
living here better for the residents.Young people don't have fun, safe, interesting places to meet
up and do something safe, legal, and happy with friends.
• PAUSD leadership created a hostile environment for many students and families, including
mine. Please address the bias and improve transparency at PAUSD. This can be improved by
allowing all district parents and perhaps also students that are over 16 to vote for the school
board, regardless of immigration status.
• pave the streets in the Ventura neighborhood, better landscape on the streets.
• promote and develop retail within walking distance: restaurants, grocery, etc.
• Provide a one-stop service to help me take advantage of all the city, state, and federal rebates
for energy efficiency/solar PV/EVs, etc.
• Provide efficient cost-effective services and STOP virtue-signalling programs re mental health,
weekly recipes and sustainability that won't change the world. Stop traffic calming and lane
reductions that cause gridlock.
• Put all power lines under ground.
• Real estate market
• Reforming the Planning Department.
• Repairing El camino Real as it has damaged our tires several times. We are like in a 3er world
country.
• Return to low crime rate via increased active police enforcement/arrest of criminals (who
typically come from elsewhere to commit crimes in this city)
• Return to the quality of city management in the 1980's, and make all green energy programs
optional for residents.
• Stop assuming we all own houses. And end all the empty houses
• Stop growing.
• Stop or slow down the shut-off of the City gas service! Our house cannot be converted to
electric. This is a major problem, but the City doesn't care.
• stop regulating what sorts of energy people use in their homes
• Stop spending so much time and money and thinking about DOGS and DOG PARKS!!!!!
• Stop the uneconomic, quixotic effort to promote electrification at any cost. CO2 emission can
be offset at $30/tonne, but City mandates mean spending ten times that per tonne -- and in all
likelihood INCREASING CO2 emissions because of the capital cost (in CO2) of the equipment
and its installation, given the extremely mild climate here. My heating and hot water emissions
run around 1.5 tonnes/year which can be offset for $50. Electrification (for me, anyway) is
worse than crazy given the CO2 involved in new equipment and its installation.
• Streamline Middle School athletics policies
• The City should allow new housing only for households earning under $80,000 a year. Sadly, the
city is actually eliminating such housing and replacing it with high-end condos or hotels.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
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• The public schools are in freefall and that is what attracts most people to this community. We
need a way that parents and students can be heard because elections that control selection for
school board are driven mainly but people who know little about what is happening NOW in the
schools. The result is that the school board focuses on good politics rather than student best
interest. If we enabled nonresident parents and students a voice we would have better schools
and a new school board and a new superintendent that cares more about students than their
own political careers. The Palo Alto Unified School system has been hijacked by people who
talk about equity and devalue all of our children's education. Rather than taking action they
delay until it is too late for students (e.g. they talk about changes and wait until the school year
is almost over or well underway so the student's needs are not addressed)> They don't take
action to do what is right for each student. The schools are why we spent a crazy amount of
money to buy a house here and now that our kid is connected to their friends we can't leave.
We tell everyone to save their money on housing and to move to surrounding communities and
pay for private schools or to go to schools that value ALL students, that use evidence based
practices rather than political dog whistles. And we hear about naked aggression and bullying
by this superintendent painted as "mental health" issues. NO. Bullying staff is unacceptable.
Meanwhile school board members advise us to go to private schools if we don't like their focus
on the incredibly tiny minority of students from disadvantaged backgrounds bussed into our
community. They use our tax dollars on PR and ignore or comments at school board
meetings!!! And it's policy not to respond rather than organizing task forces that actually listen
to parents. This community is also unaffordable for when we retire. I suspect that when our
students graduate from the school system most families will leave to go to communities where
they can truly afford to retire. Sad because I like the parents I met over the 13 years in PAUSD.
We've been united around frustration with the schools. The brilliant STEM minds could have
instead been engaged in enhancing our educational community and facilitating a network to
promote our children's future work in the area. But our children won't be able to afford to live
here so we'll likely move when our kids have children. That's what I see. Older adults move to be
near grandchildren.
• Too much traffic. Takes forever to get anywhere. And fix the potholes. Also help small
businesses instead of driving them away (for example now charging for parklets, helping
businesses stay instead of being priced out)
• Trim the city trees to a size that if they fall, they won't damage house.....a few green leaves don't
help
• Zoning to allow residents of 5 years or longer to build second story on half-size lots so families
could set deep roots in Palo Alto and not have to leave as families grow, causing turn over,
inflation, and in the end more aggressive construction by developers who flip the property than
the family who wanted to live their entire lives there contributing to the richness of the old-
growth social ecosystem of Palo Alto. Current zoning restrictions hurt growing families, favor
developer profits, and destroy Palo Alto's family friendly ecosystem. You need to differentiate
between long-time resident additions and house flipping development creatively.
Question 19: As a resident of Palo Alto, what one thing do you believe
the City does well and would want to maintain?
• Emergency Services, Parks, Utilities, Police, Engaging and supporting communities,
• city council in general seems respectful and responsive.
• City owned utility
• Cleaning residential streets.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
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• commitment to biking infrastructure
• Communication
• Continue to value green spaces, open spaces, trees, etc.
• CPAU has excellent people in the field.
• Educated jobs community/city
• encouraging sports and exercise
• Excellent Fire/EMT ambulance j
• Excellent police service
• Fire department is outstanding.
• Foothills Park
• Good communications
• High level of engagement with the community
• I like the new road on Charleston Street. We have a problem with the quality of El Camino Road
and the speed of repair of this road.
• I really enjoy participating in the ESV program. I like everything about it. I also like using
Cubberley for rehearsing with my chorus. So much more could be done to improve this facility.
It is disappointing to see this facility crumble. It is a resource for so many in the Community.
• I'm not sure I have s good answer you that. Until they can get their act together and get more
housing and more affordable housing built, I can't taste anything highly.
• It's NO Big Box Store Policy is the key to our University and California Ave downtown vibrancy.
Don't screw that up !!!!
• Keeping the parks clean
• Keeping us on the path of lowering GHG emissions.
• Libraries
• Libraries
• Libraries and dog parks
• Libraries and parks
• Libraries and streets.
• Local parks and open spaces are great. There's enough variation and they are well maintained.
• Maintains parks
• Maintenance of parks
• Nice parks
• Open space. Baylands is a gem.
• Park & library services
• Park maintenance.
• Parks
• Parks
• Parks and libraries
• Parks and libraries
• parks and libraries, police services
• Parks and open space
• parks and recreation
• Parks are amazing and the cleanliness is also
• Parks are well maintained and this is a wonderful place to raise children.
• Peaceful, clean, respectful environment
• Police and Firemen do ther job correctly.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
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• Police safety.
• Prioritizing urban forestry, parks and open spaces.
• Protect the livability of the neighborhoods
• Proximity to Stanford. The city flourishes in spite of its government.
• Public parks and library
• Public schools
• Recreation services
• Reduce expenses, lower taxes, use taxes for quality of life improvements for residents, focus on
well being of residents, make more money go to better educational opportunities for kids,
increase challenge level of education in schools or provide opportunities for kids to push
farther.
• Safety
• Services to the elderly or homeowners is excellent, as long as you are in those groups.
• street maintenance
• Subdued affluence.
• The art center, children's library and children's theater
• The city-owned utilities.
• The effort of some City Councilmembers to control Staff to actually work toward improving City.
• The libraries are important to our democracy.
• The parks, especially Foothills and Bay Shore.
• Traffic management
• transparent communication, like open zoom meetings, recordings
• Trash pick-up
• Trees
• Trying to inform and engage the residents
• Utilities
• Utilities
• utilities, city council meetings televised
• Water quality.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 143
Question 16: If you plan to purchase a car within the next two years,
what is the likelihood of it being one of the following: (Other)
• ?
• Gas
• Gas car
• gas only or regular hybrid- updating our electricity for our old house is too expensive so we can't get electric.
also electricity seems not very reliable with blackouts a few times a year
• Gas or hybrid
• Gasoline
• Gasoline car
• Gasoline powered
• hybrid
• Internal combustion car
• May get another ICE car
• not likely to changecars
• TBD I don't really plan on buying a car for at least 5-10 years so it would depend on my needs at that time
and what's available in the market.
City of Palo Alto Community Survey
October 2023
Report of Results
Page 144
Appendix E: Survey Materials
The following pages contain copies of the survey materials sent to randomly selected households
within the City of Palo Alto.
Dear Palo Alto Resident,
Our annual Community Survey is a critical feedback tool that helps the City Council and City staff
understand resident perspectives on current services and programs, as well as unmet needs and
priorities. You can wait for a paper survey in the mail, or you can go online and complete the survey
at:
www.cityofpaloalto.org/communitysurvey2023A
Please do not share your survey link. This survey is for randomly selected households only.
The City will conduct a separate survey that is open to all residents just a few weeks from now.
If you have any questions about the survey, please call (650) 329-2392.
For additional ways to join the conversation and provide input, go to www.cityofpaloalto.org/engage
Thank you for your time and participation!
Sincerely,
Ed Shikada
City Manager
Para contestar la encuesta en línea en su
idioma, seleccione su idioma en el menú
desplegable que aparece en la parte
superior de la página de encuesta.
想要使用您的语言回答在线调查，请在调查
页面顶部的下拉菜单中选择您的语言。 Scan the QR code to take the
survey on a mobile device!
250 Hamilton Avenue, 7th Floor
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Presorted
First Class Mail
US Postage
PAID
Boulder, CO
Permit NO. 94
August 2023
Dear City of Palo Alto Resident:
Please help us shape the future of Palo Alto. Your household has been selected at
random to participate in the 2023 Palo Alto Community Survey. Thank you in advance
for sharing your feedback.
The annual Community Survey is a critical feedback effort that helps the City Council
and City staff understand resident perspectives on current services and programs, as
well as unmet needs and priorities. The survey is one way among many through which
we gain insights from residents throughout our community.
Please take a few minutes to fill out the enclosed survey. Your participation is very
important – especially since your household is one of only a small number of
households being surveyed. The survey results are reviewed by the City Council and
City staff and community input helps inform the City’s decision-making and potential
changes to City services.
A few things to remember:
• Your responses are completely confidential.
• You may return the survey by mail in the enclosed postage-paid
envelope, or you can complete the survey online at:
www.cityofpaloalto.org/communitysurvey2023A
If you have any questions about the survey, please call (650) 329-2392.
For additional ways to engage with the City, go to www.cityofpaloalto.org/engage.
Thank you for your time and participation!
Sincerely,
Ed Shikada
City Manager
Para contestar la encuesta en línea en su
idioma, seleccione su idioma en el menú
desplegable que aparece en la parte
superior de la página de encuesta.
想要使用您的语言回答在线调查，请在调查
页面顶部的下拉菜单中选择您的语言。 Scan the QR code to take
the survey on a mobile
Dear Palo Alto Resident,
Just a reminder—if you have not yet completed Palo Alto’s 2023 Community Survey, please do so.
If you have completed it, thank you! Please do not respond twice.
Your participation in this survey is very important—your answers will help the City of Palo Alto make
decisions that affect our community. Please complete the confidential survey online at:
www.cityofpaloalto.org/communitysurvey2023A
Please do not share your survey link. This survey is for randomly selected households only.
If you have any questions about the survey, please call (650) 329-2392.
For additional ways to join the conversation and provide input, go to www.cityofpaloalto.org/engage
Sincerely,
Ed Shikada
City Manager
Para contestar la encuesta en línea en su
idioma, seleccione su idioma en el menú
desplegable que aparece en la parte
superior de la página de encuesta.
想要使用您的语言回答在线调查，请在调查
页面顶部的下拉菜单中选择您的语言。 Scan the QR code to take the
survey on a mobile device!
250 Hamilton Avenue, 7th Floor
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Presorted
First Class Mail
US Postage
PAID
Boulder, CO
Permit NO. 94
2023 Community Survey
Page 1 of 5
Please complete this survey if you are the adult (age 18 or older) in the household who most recently had a birthday (the year of
birth does not matter). Your responses are anonymous and will be reported in group form only.
1. Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Palo Alto. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know
Palo Alto as a place to live.............................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Your neighborhood as a place to live .............................................................1 2 3 4 5
Palo Alto as a place to raise children..............................................................1 2 3 4 5
Palo Alto as a place to work ..........................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Palo Alto as a place to visit ............................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Palo Alto as a place to retire ..........................................................................1 2 3 4 5
The overall quality of life in Palo Alto .............................................................1 2 3 4 5
2. Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Palo Alto as a whole.
Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know
Overall “built environment” of Palo Alto (including overall design,
buildings, parks and transportation systems) ..............................................1 2 3 4 5
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto ..............................................................1 2 3 4 5
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto .........................................1 2 3 4 5
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto ....................................1 2 3 4 5
Residents’ connection and engagement with their community .......................1 2 3 4 5
3. Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following.
Very Somewhat Somewhat Very Don’t likely likely unlikely unlikely know
Recommend living in Palo Alto to someone who asks .................... 1 2 3 4 5
Remain in Palo Alto for the next five years .................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Recommend Palo Alto’s libraries to friends .................................... 1 2 3 4 5
4. Please rate the job you feel the Palo Alto community does at each of the following. Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know
Making all residents feel welcome .................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Attracting people from diverse backgrounds ..................................................1 2 3 4 5
Valuing/respecting residents from diverse backgrounds .................................1 2 3 4 5
Taking care of vulnerable residents (elderly, disabled, homeless, etc.) ...........1 2 3 4 5
5. Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Palo Alto as a whole.
Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know
Overall quality of business and service establishments in Palo Alto .................1 2 3 4 5
Variety of business and service establishments in Palo Alto ............................1 2 3 4 5
Vibrancy of downtown/commercial area ........................................................1 2 3 4 5
Employment opportunities ............................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Shopping opportunities .................................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Cost of living in Palo Alto...............................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Overall image or reputation of Palo Alto ........................................................1 2 3 4 5
Traffic flow on major streets .........................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Ease of public parking ...................................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Ease of travel by car in Palo Alto ...................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Ease of travel by public transportation in Palo Alto .........................................1 2 3 4 5
Ease of travel by bicycle in Palo Alto ..............................................................1 2 3 4 5
Ease of walking in Palo Alto ..........................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Variety of housing options.............................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Availability of affordable quality housing ........................................................1 2 3 4 5
Overall quality of new development in Palo Alto.............................................1 2 3 4 5
Availability of paths and walking trails ...........................................................1 2 3 4 5
Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.) .......1 2 3 4 5
Recreational opportunities.............................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Availability of affordable quality mental health care ........................................1 2 3 4 5
Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities ......................................1 2 3 4 5
Page 2 of 5
6. Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Palo Alto as a whole.
Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know
Availability of affordable quality childcare/preschool .......................................1 2 3 4 5
K-12 education .............................................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Adult educational opportunities .....................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Opportunities to participate in social events and activities ..............................1 2 3 4 5
Opportunities to participate in community matters .........................................1 2 3 4 5
Openness and acceptance of the community toward people
of diverse backgrounds..............................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Opportunities to learn about City services through social media
such as Twitter, Facebook, and Nextdoor ...................................................1 2 3 4 5
7. Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months.
No Yes
Used Palo Alto recreation centers or their services ................................................................................... 1 2
Visited a neighborhood park or City park ................................................................................................. 1 2
Used Palo Alto public libraries or their services ......................................................................................... 1 2
Participated in religious or spiritual activities in Palo Alto .......................................................................... 1 2
Attended a City-sponsored event ............................................................................................................ 1 2
Participated in a club .............................................................................................................................. 1 2
Talked to or visited with your immediate neighbors ................................................................................. 1 2
Done a favor for a neighbor .................................................................................................................... 1 2
Used the City’s website to conduct business or pay bills ........................................................................... 1 2
Used the Utilities webpage to conduct business or pay bills ...................................................................... 1 2
Contacted the City of Palo Alto (in-person, phone, email or web) for help or information .......................... 1 2
Contacted Palo Alto elected officials (in-person, phone, email or web) to express your opinion ................. 1 2
Attended a local public meeting (of local elected officials like City Council or County
Commissioners, advisory boards, town halls, HOA, neighborhood watch, etc.) .................................... 1 2
Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting .......................................................................... 1 2
Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Palo Alto ....................................................................... 1 2
Voted in your most recent local election .................................................................................................. 1 2
Used bus, rail, or other public transportation instead of driving ................................................................ 1 2
Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone ............................................................... 1 2
Walked or biked instead of driving .......................................................................................................... 1 2
Observed a code violation or other hazard in Palo Alto (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.)....................... 1 2
Household member was a victim of a crime in Palo Alto .......................................................................... 1 2
Reported a crime to the police in Palo Alto .............................................................................................. 1 2
Stocked 14 days’ worth of supplies in case of a major disaster where you have no
electricity, water, internet, or telephone service .................................................................................. 1 2
8. Please rate the following categories of Palo Alto government performance.
Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know
The value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto ......................................1 2 3 4 5
The overall direction that Palo Alto is taking ..................................................1 2 3 4 5
The job Palo Alto government does at welcoming resident involvement .........1 2 3 4 5
Overall confidence in Palo Alto government ...................................................1 2 3 4 5
Generally acting in the best interest of the community ...................................1 2 3 4 5
Being honest ................................................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Being open and transparent to the public ......................................................1 2 3 4 5
Informing residents about issues facing the community .................................1 2 3 4 5
Treating all residents fairly ............................................................................1 2 3 4 5
Treating residents with respect .....................................................................1 2 3 4 5
9. Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided by each of the following?
Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know
The City of Palo Alto .....................................................................................1 2 3 4 5
The State Government .................................................................................1 2 3 4 5
The Federal Government ..............................................................................1 2 3 4 5
2023 Community Survey
Page 3 of 5
10. Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Palo Alto.
Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know
Traffic enforcement ............................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5
Traffic signal timing ............................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5
Street repair ....................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Street cleaning ................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Street tree maintenance ..................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Sidewalk maintenance ........................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5
Land use, planning, and zoning ........................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.) ....................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Preservation of natural areas (open space, farmlands and greenbelts) ................. 1 2 3 4 5
Building and planning application processing services .......................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Affordable high-speed internet access ................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5
Electric utility ...................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Gas utility ........................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Utility payment options ....................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Drinking water .................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Sewer services ................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Storm water management (storm drainage, dams, levees, etc.) ......................... 1 2 3 4 5
Refuse collection (garbage, recycling, yard waste, and e-waste) .......................... 1 2 3 4 5
Police emergency services .................................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5
Crime prevention ................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5
Animal control .................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Ambulance or emergency medical services .......................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Fire emergency services...................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Fire prevention and education ............................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5
Palo Alto open space (e.g Foothills, Baylands) ..................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
City parks ........................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Recreation programs or classes ........................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Recreation centers or facilities ............................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5
Public library services (e.g., hold requests, storytimes, teen events, bookclubs) .... 1 2 3 4 5
Library facilities (buildings, computer equipment, accessibility) ............................. 1 2 3 4 5
Variety of library materials (books, e-books, streaming, databases, audiobooks) ... 1 2 3 4 5
Art programs and theater ................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
City-sponsored special events ............................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5
City website (cityofpaloalto.org) .......................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Public information (Police/public safety) .............................................................. 1 2 3 4 5
Public information (non-Police/public safety) ....................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Overall customer service by Palo Alto employees
(police, receptionists, planners, etc.) ............................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
11. Please rate the following as they relate to Palo Alto Utilities’ services:
Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know
Reliability of utility services ................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5
Affordability of utility services ............................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5
Community value received from the City owning and operating its
own municipal utility services ......................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Utilities online customer self-service features ..................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Providing opportunities for energy and water efficiency at home or business ...... 1 2 3 4 5
Working hard to keep utilities prices competitive ............................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Value of all the services Palo Alto Utilities provides for the price you pay ............ 1 2 3 4 5
Ease of obtaining information or performing a transaction through the
City’s website ................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4 5
Value of Palo Alto Utilities’ customer communications ........................................ 1 2 3 4 5
Ease of contacting Utilities department staff ...................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Speed of response after contacting Utilities department staff ............................. 1 2 3 4 5
Page 4 of 5
12. Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Palo Alto community to focus on each of the
following in the coming two years. Very Somewhat Not at all
Essential important important important
Overall “built environment” of Palo Alto (including overall design,
buildings, parks and transportation systems) .................................................. 1 2 3 4
Overall economic health of Palo Alto ................................................................. 1 2 3 4
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto .................................................................. 1 2 3 4
Overall quality of natural environment in Palo Alto ............................................. 1 2 3 4
Overall health and wellness opportunities in Palo Alto ........................................ 1 2 3 4
Overall opportunities for education, culture and the arts .................................... 1 2 3 4
Residents’ connection and engagement with their community ........................... 1 2 3 4
Reducing community greenhouse gas emissions ............................................... 1 2 3 4
Increasing local solar generation capacity within city boundaries ........................ 1 2 3 4
Increasing electric storage capacity within city boundaries ................................. 1 2 3 4
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for Utilities
billing issues, efficiency tips, outage information ............................................. 1 2 3 4
Faster notification systems (online, mobile or email) for public safety issues ....... 1 2 3 4
13. In a typical week, how likely are you to: Very Somewhat Somewhat Very Don’t
likely likely unlikely unlikely know
Participate in organized group activities (such as clubs, sports
teams, volunteer your time, attend church/temple) ......................... 1 2 3 4 5
Spend quality time with local friends, family, and/or neighbors ........... 1 2 3 4 5
14. What mode of transportation do you use most for your typical daily needs for getting around town?
Driving Biking Train Taxi Carpooling
Walking Bus Free shuttle Uber/Lyft or similar rideshare service
15. If you did not have access to a car for your usual daily transportation around town, how convenient
(based on time and proximity) would you consider each of the following methods of getting around?
Very Somewhat Somewhat Very
convenient convenient inconvenient inconvenient
Walking ............................................................................................. 1 2 3 4
Biking ................................................................................................ 1 2 3 4
Bus ................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4
Train ................................................................................................. 1 2 3 4
Free shuttle ....................................................................................... 1 2 3 4
Taxi................................................................................................... 1 2 3 4
Uber/Lyft or similar rideshare service ................................................. 1 2 3 4
Carpooling ......................................................................................... 1 2 3 4
16. If you plan to purchase a car within the next two years, what is the likelihood of it being one of the
following: Very Somewhat Somewhat Very Don’t
likely likely unlikely unlikely know
All-electric ......................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Plug-in hybrid .................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
Hydrogen fuel cell .............................................................................. 1 2 3 4 5
Other:_____________________________________________ .......... 1 2 3 4 5
17. Palo Alto is committed to addressing climate change by engaging in strategies that reduce Greenhouse
Gas Emissions (GHGs). Space heating is the largest source of GHG in most Palo Alto homes, followed by
water heating. What is the likelihood of you… Very Somewhat Somewhat Very Don’t
likely likely unlikely unlikely know
Replacing your gas water heater with a heat pump water heater
when you are ready to replace the water heater? ............................ 1 2 3 4 5
Replacing your gas furnace with a heat pump HVAC system
(that provides heating and cooling) when you are ready to replace
the furnace? ................................................................................... 1 2 3 4 5
18. As a resident of Palo Alto, what one change could the City make that would make you happier?
2023 Community Survey
Page 5 of 5
19. As a resident of Palo Alto, what one thing do you believe the City does well and would want to maintain?
Our last questions are about you and your household.
Again, all of your responses to this survey are completely anonymous and will be reported in group form only.
D1. What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do
you think the impact will be:
Very positive Somewhat positive Neutral Somewhat negative Very negative
D2. What is your employment status?
Working full time for pay
Working part time for pay
Unemployed, looking for paid work
Unemployed, not looking for paid work
Fully retired
College student, unemployed
D3. Do you work inside the boundaries of Palo Alto?
Yes, outside the home No
Yes, from home
D4. How many years have you lived in Palo Alto?
Less than 2 years 11-20 years
2-5 years More than 20 years
6-10 years
D5. Which best describes the building you live in?
One family house detached from any other houses
Building with two or more homes (duplex,
townhome, apartment or condominium)
Mobile home
Other
D6. Do you rent or own your home?
Rent Own
D7. About how much is your monthly housing cost
for the place you live (including rent, mortgage
payment, property tax, property insurance and
homeowners’ association (HOA) fees)?
Less than $500 $5,500 to $5,999
$500 to $999 $6,000 to $6,499
$1,000 to $1,499 $6,500 to $6,999
$1,500 to $1,999 $7,000 to $7,499
$2,000 to $2,499 $7,500 to $7,999
$2,499 to $2,999 $8,000 to $8,499
$3,000 to $3,499 $8,500 to $8,999
$3,500 to $3,999 $9,000 to $9,499
$4,000 to $4,499 $9,500 to $9,999
$4,500 to $4,999 $10,000 or more
$5,000 to $5,499
D8. Do any children 17 or under live in your
household?
No Yes
D9. Are you or any other members of your
household aged 65 or older?
No Yes
D10. How much do you anticipate your household’s
total income before taxes will be for the
current year? (Total income from all sources
for all persons living in your household.)
Less than $25,000 $250,000 to $299,999
$25,000 to $49,999 $300,000 to $349,999
$50,000 to $99,999 $350,000 to $399,999
$100,000 to $149,000 $400,000 to $449,999
$150,000 to $199,999 $450,000 to $499,999
$200,000 to $249,999 $500,000 or more
D11. Are you Spanish, Hispanic or Latino?
No, not Spanish, Hispanic or Latino
Yes, I consider myself to be Spanish, Hispanic or
Latino
D12. What is your race? (Mark one or more races to
indicate what you consider yourself to be.)
American Indian or Alaskan Native White
Asian, Asian Indian or Pacific Islander Other
Black or African American
D13. In which category is your age?
18-24 years 45-54 years 65-74 years
25-34 years 55-64 years 75 years or older
35-44 years
D14. What is your gender?
Woman
Man
Identify in another way go to D14a
D14a. If you identify in another way, how would you
describe your gender?
Agender/ I don’t identify Transgender man
with any gender Transgender woman
Genderqueer/gender fluid Two-spirit
Non-binary Not listed, I identify
as:_________________
D15. What is your sexual orientation?
Heterosexual Bisexual
Lesbian Identify in another way
Gay go to D15a
D15a. If you identify in another way, how would you
describe your sexual orientation?
Asexual Questioning
Pansexual Not listed, I identify as:
Queer ____________________________
Thank you! Please return the completed survey in the postage-paid envelope to:
National Research Center, Inc., PO Box 549, Belle Mead, NJ 08502
Page 1
Bay Area Benchmark Comparisons
Table 1: Quality of Life
Quality of Life Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of communities
in comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall image or reputation of
Palo Alto 76% 5 10 Similar
The overall quality of life in
Palo Alto 86% 5 12 Similar
Palo Alto as a place to live 90% 5 12 Similar
Recommend living in Palo Alto
to someone who asks 77% 8 10 Similar
Remain in Palo Alto for the
next five years 77% 8 10 Similar
Table 2: Governance
Governance Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall confidence in Palo Alto
government 52% 7 11 Similar
The overall direction that Palo Alto is
taking 54% 8 13 Similar
The value of services for the taxes
paid to Palo Alto 57% 3 10 Similar
Generally acting in the best interest
of the community 55% 6 10 Similar
Being honest 62% 4 10 Similar
Being open and transparent to the
public 57% 3 9 Similar
Informing residents about issues
facing the community 61% 2 9 Similar
The job Palo Alto government does
at welcoming citizen involvement 55% 6 10 Similar
Treating all residents fairly 62% 8 10 Similar
Treating residents with respect 71% 3 9 Similar
Overall customer service by Palo Alto
employees (police, receptionists,
planners, etc.) 78% 6 10 Similar
Page 2
Governance Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
The City of Palo Alto 74% 5 10 Similar
The Federal Government 45% 2 10 Similar
Table 3: Economy
Economy Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall quality of business and
service establishments in Palo Alto 74% 6 10 Similar
Variety of business and service
establishments in Palo Alto 58% 5 9 Similar
Vibrancy of downtown/commercial
area 65% 5 10 Similar
Shopping opportunities 69% 2 10 Higher
Palo Alto as a place to visit 73% 6 11 Similar
Palo Alto as a place to work 85% 2 10 Higher
Employment opportunities 62% 2 10 Higher
Cost of living in Palo Alto 8% 9 10 Lower
Table 4: Mobility
Mobility Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Traffic flow on major streets 51% 5 11 Similar
Ease of travel by car in Palo Alto 73% 5 10 Similar
Ease of travel by public
transportation in Palo Alto 32% 8 10 Similar
Ease of travel by bicycle in Palo
Alto 77% 2 10 Higher
Ease of walking in Palo Alto 80% 4 10 Higher
Ease of public parking 68% 3 10 Similar
Traffic enforcement 65% 2 11 Similar
Traffic signal timing 63% 1 10 Similar
Street repair 42% 7 11 Similar
Street cleaning 79% 3 11 Higher
Page 3
Mobility Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Sidewalk maintenance 63% 2 10 Similar
Used bus, rail or other public
transportation instead of driving 44% 3 10 Similar
Carpooled with other adults or
children instead of driving alone 59% 3 10 Similar
Walked or biked instead of
driving 84% 1 10 Higher
Table 5: Community Design
Community Design Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall “built environment” of Palo Alto
(including overall design, buildings,
parks and transportation systems) 72% 3 10 Similar
Your neighborhood as a place to live 92% 4 10 Similar
Overall quality of new development in
Palo Alto 40% 7 10 Similar
Variety of housing options 26% 9 10 Similar
Availability of affordable quality housing 11% 10 10 Similar
Land use, planning and zoning 40% 6 11 Similar
Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned
buildings, etc) 53% 3 10 Similar
Page 4
Table 6: Utilities
Utilities Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Affordable high-speed internet
access 45% 7 9 Similar
Drinking water 86% 2 9 Higher
Sewer services 87% 3 9 Similar
Storm water management (storm
drainage, dams, levees, etc.) 73% 5 10 Similar
Utility payment options 85% 1 9 Much higher
Table 7: Safety
Safety Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of communities
in comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall feeling of safety in
Palo Alto 84% 5 12 Higher
Police emergency services 84% 3 13 Similar
Crime prevention 68% 5 10 Similar
Animal control 78% 1 9 Higher
Ambulance or emergency
medical services 90% 2 9 Similar
Fire emergency services 93% 3 10 Similar
Fire prevention and
education 77% 4 9 Similar
Table 8: Natural Environment
Natural Environment Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall quality of natural
environment in Palo Alto 90% 3 10 Higher
Preservation of natural areas
(open space, farmlands and
greenbelts) 83% 4 10 Similar
Palo Alto open space (e.g.
Foothills, Baylands) 93% 1 10 Much higher
Page 5
Table 9: Parks and Recreation
Parks and Recreation Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Availability of paths and walking
trails 73% 5 10 Similar
City parks 93% 1 11 Higher
Recreational opportunities 77% 3 11 Similar
Recreation programs or classes 83% 2 10 Higher
Recreation centers or facilities 85% 2 10 Higher
Fitness opportunities (including
exercise classes and paths or trails,
etc.) 76% 4 10 Similar
Table 10: Health and Wellness
Health and Wellness Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of communities
in comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall health and wellness
opportunities in Palo Alto 84% 3 10 Higher
Availability of affordable
quality mental health care 38% 5 10 Similar
Table 11: Education, Arts, and Culture
Education, Arts, and Culture
Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Opportunities to attend
cultural/arts/music activities 72% 3 11 Higher
Availability of affordable quality
child care/preschool 43% 4 10 Similar
K-12 education 87% 2 10 Much higher
Adult educational opportunities 78% 2 10 Higher
Page 6
Table 12: Inclusivity and Engagement
Inclusivity and Engagement Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Residents’ connection and
engagement with their community 61% 3 9 Similar
Palo Alto as a place to raise children 83% 5 12 Similar
Palo Alto as a place to retire 53% 7 11 Similar
Openness and acceptance of the
community towards people of diverse
backgrounds 64% 3 10 Similar
Making all residents feel welcome 66% 6 9 Similar
Attracting people from diverse
backgrounds 57% 7 9 Similar
Valuing/respecting residents from
diverse backgrounds 68% 5 9 Similar
Taking care of vulnerable residents
(elderly, disabled, homeless, etc.) 50% 5 9 Similar
Opportunities to participate in social
events and activities 65% 5 11 Similar
Opportunities to participate in
community matters 68% 4 10 Similar
Table 13: Participation
Participation Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Contacted the City of Palo Alto (in-
person, phone, email or web) for help or
information 54% 1 11 Higher
Contacted Palo Alto elected officials (in-
person, phone, email or web) to express
your opinion 17% 5 10 Similar
Attended a local public meeting (of local
elected officials like City Council or
County Commissioners, advisory boards, 20% 5 10 Similar
Watched (online or on television) a local
public meeting 18% 8 10 Similar
Volunteered your time to some
group/activity in Palo Alto 39% 1 10 Higher
Page 7
Participation Items
Percent
positive Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Voted in your most recent local election 70% 8 9 Similar
Table 14: Focus Areas
Importance Items
Percent
essential or
very important Rank
Number of
communities in
comparison
Comparison to
benchmark
Overall economic health of Palo
Alto. 87% 8 10 Similar
Overall “built environment” of Palo
Alto (including overall design,
buildings, parks and transportation
systems) 81% 2 10 Higher
Overall feeling of safety in Palo Alto 87% 8 10 Similar
Overall quality of natural
environment in Palo Alto 84% 4 10 Similar
Overall health and wellness
opportunities in Palo Alto 71% 6 10 Similar
Overall opportunities for education,
culture and the arts 72% 5 10 Similar
Residents’ connection and
engagement with their community 61% 7 10 Similar
December 4, 2023 www.cityofpaloalto.org
2023 Community Survey Study Session
Lupita Alamos, Assistant to
the City Manager
Results for
Palo Alto, CA
Community Survey
2023
●19th time conducting the Palo Alto Community Survey
●Previous surveys in 2003-2018; 2020, 2022
●Survey conducted from August 11 to September 22, 2023
●“Hybrid” mailing approach employed:
●Probability-based sample of 3,600 households
●All households received 3 mailings
●Online survey available in English, Spanish, and Simplified Chinese
●603 total responses received; 17% overall response rate
●3 surveys completed in Simplified Chinese
●2022: 398 responses, 12% response rate
●Non-probability, open-participation sample: 93 responses (all English)
●Results statistically weighted to reflect Palo Alto overall
●95% confidence interval with a +/- 4% margin of error
Survey Methodology
Response Rate and Margin of Error Over Time
29%27%25%26%
21%21%22%
12%
17%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
5%
3%4%4%4%3%4%5%4%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Response Rate Margin of Error
Polco’s Benchmarking Database
More than 500
comparison communities
across the nation.
Representing the opinions
of more than 50 million
residents.
Overview of
Survey Results
Comparisons to National Benchmarks
76
received similar
ratings
3
received
lower
ratings
20
received
higher
ratings
Comparisons to Previous Survey Year
126
received similar
ratings
19
received
more
negative
ratings
24
received
more
positive
ratings
Key Findings
Palo Alto residents
continue to rate
their quality of life
highly.
Quality of Life in Palo Alto
Quality of Life Measures
74%
78%
75%
84%
77%
77%
Recommend living in Palo Alto
to someone who asks
Remain in Palo Alto for the next
five years
2023
2022
2021
Excellent,
39%
Good,
47%
Fair, 11%Poor, 3%
Percent excellent or good
Quality of Life
Other Aspects of Quality of Life
46%
69%
87%
79%
88%
88%
53%
73%
83%
85%
90%
92%
Palo Alto as a place to retire
Palo Alto as a place to visit
Palo Alto as a place to raise children
Palo Alto as a place to work
Palo Alto as a place to live
Your neighborhood as a place to live
2023
2022
Percent excellent or good
Higher than national
benchmarks
While residents were
highly satisfied with
many City services,
they indicate there are
areas for
improvement with
utilities.
Top City Services
Higher than national
benchmarks
Percent excellent or good
88%
92%
93%
92%
93%
93%
95%
90%
90%
93%
93%
93%
93%
93%
Ambulance or EMS
Variety of library materials
Fire emergency services
Palo Alto open space
City parks
Public library services
Library facilities
2023 2022
79%
89%
83%
86%
87%
79%
91%
87%
85%
83%
83%
83%
84%
85%
85%
86%
87%
87%
Recreation programs or classes
Art programs and theater
Preservation of natural areas
Police services
Utility payment options
Recreation centers or facilities
Drinking water
Sewer services
Refuse collection
2023 2022
Percent excellent or good
Utilities
Reliability of Utility Services
Excellent, 48%
Good,
44%
Fair, 6%
Poor, 2%
Affordability of Utility Services
64%59%58%60%51%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
2017 2018 2021 2022 2023
Aspects of Utility Services
Percent excellent or good 68%
78%
84%
86%
56%
72%
75%
79%
Working hard to keep utilities
prices competitive
Value of Palo Alto Utilities'
customer communications
Speed of response after
contacting Utilities department
staff
Community value received from
the City owning and operating
its own municipal utilites services
2023
2022
Ratings for Palo
Alto government
performance are
on the rise.
Government Performance
47%
52%
53%
68%
52%
55%
57%
71%
Overall confidence in Palo Alto
government
Generally acting in the best interest
of the community
Being open and transparent to the
public
Treating residents with respect
2023 2022
Treating Residents with Respect
Excellent, 22%
Good,
49%
Fair, 24%
Poor, 6%
Aspects of Government Performance
Percent excellent or good
Government Performance
Aspects of Government Performance
58%
42%
56%
53%
40%
51%
51%
42%
46%
57%
54%
55%
The value of services for the taxes paid to Palo Alto
The overall direction that Palo Alto is taking
The job Palo Alto government does at welcoming resident
involvement
2023 2022 2021 2018 Percent excellent or good
Government Performance
Aspects of Government Performance
56%
51%
55%
55%
57%
53%
51%
50%
62%
61%
62%
Being honest
Informing residents about issues facing the community
Treating all residents fairly
2023 2022 2021 2018 Percent excellent or good
Issues related to
affordable housing and
cost of living remain a
concern for residents,
but other community
characteristics are
highly rated.
Housing and Cost of Living
Cost of Living
Excellent, 1%Good,
7%
Fair,
27%
Poor,
65%
Availability of Affordable Quality
Housing Variety of Housing Options
Excellent, 3%Good,
9%
Fair,
16%
Poor,
73%
Excellent, 5%
Good,
21%
Fair,
32%
Poor,
41%
Top Community Characteristics
Community Characteristics
80%
76%
77%
76%
79%
85%
74%
76%
76%
77%
77%
80%
Overall quality of business
and service establishments
Overall image or reputation
of Palo Alto
Fitness opportunities
Ease of travel by bicycle in
Palo Alto
Recreational opportunities
Ease of walking in Palo Alto
2023 2022
Percent excellent or goodHigher than national
benchmarks
26%
24%
78%
72%
76%
38%
32%
72%
73%
73%
Ease of travel by public
transportation
Availability of affordable
quality mental health care
Opportunities to attend
cultural/arts/music activities
Ease of travel by car in Palo
Alto
Availability of paths and
walking trails
2023 2022
Qualitative
Responses
Summary of Qualitative Responses
Summary of Qualitative Responses
Summary of
Last Year’s
Key Findings
(2022)
1.Residents rate the quality of life in Palo Alto highly.
2.While residents value City services and events, civic
participation has decreased.
3.Residents value Palo Alto’s natural environment.
4.Affordability and cost of living continue to be
community concerns.
5.Residents are supportive of reducing greenhouse gas
emissions.
Summary of
This Year’s
Key Findings
(2023)
1.Palo Alto residents continue to rate their quality of life
highly.
2.While residents were highly satisfied with many City
services, they indicate there are areas for
improvement with utilities.
3.Ratings for Palo Alto government performance are on
the rise.
4.Issues related to affordable housing and cost of living
remain a concern for residents, but other community
characteristics are highly rated.
Questions?
Thank you!Kim Daane
Survey Research Associate
Polco/National Research Center
kim@polco.us