The library is the jewel in Victor Harbor’s crown, receiving 81 per cent approval in the council’s 2022 community satisfaction survey.

The City of Victor Harbor’s Community Satisfaction Survey was carried out throughout March and early April by market research company newfocus.

As part of the research, 300 residents, 100 businesses and 26 non-resident ratepayers were randomly selected and surveyed on a broad range of council services and projects.

The primary objective was to understand City of Victor Harbor residents’ and customers’ preferences and their satisfaction with current services and desire for additional services. 

The library was the only community service where satisfaction exceeded expectation, with dissatisfaction recorded with local business support and resident services for families, youth, and children.

Customer service and opportunities to have a say were rated highly, but overall satisfaction with council services rated only 45 per cent.

The community rated roads, traffic and mobility as the highest priority for council, followed by maintenance of parks, gardens, reserves and sporting facilities.

The perception is that council does better on parks and recreation than it does on the relatively more important roads, traffic and mobility-related service areas.

City of Victor Harbor Mayor Dr Moira Jenkins says the research has been valuable for helping the council understand where the community’s priorities lie and where improvements can be made.

“We know there is always room for improvement in the services we provide to our community, and this research has given us timely information on what our community wants to see prioritised.”

“Our Library and customer service appear to be meeting the needs of our community, but we acknowledge the community desires more in areas such as public infrastructure.

“We’re committed to delivering a broad range of services and programs that help to keep our city vibrant, clean and safe.”

“Services and projects that protect our stunning coastline, improve our roads and footpaths, and support our local economy will continue to be a key focus moving forward.”

“We would like to thank all community members who participated in the survey and shared their honest, insightful feedback on how they feel Council is performing.”

The full survey results are available on the City of Victor Harbor website.