ERBM thankful for strong participation in community survey

Earlier this year, the Eastern Rio Blanco Metropolitan Recreation & Park District (ERBM) conducted a community satisfaction survey to gather insights on the state of the District and help guide future decision-making. The goal was to assess current performance, identify opportunities for improvement, and help guide future growth and development.

The survey was open from late April through early July and garnered 300 responses—representing about 15% of Meeker’s adult population. Most respondents were between 25 and 64, and a large majority (80%) have resided in Meeker for five or more years. This strong response rate reflects the high level of engagement and investment within our community.

Results were presented to ERBM's Board of Directors at the September 16 meeting. Current board members are Kent Walter (President), Lisa Moffitt (Vice President), Andrea Gianinetti (Secretary), Kevin Borchard (Treasurer), and Pete Doan (Director).

Respondents reported active use of programs, facilities, and parks/trails, with particularly high participation in community events and aquatics.

Community Survey Results

Participation & Usage

• Programs

  • 79.3% Yes

  • 20.7% No

• Parks & Trails

  • 91% Yes

  • 9% No

• Facility

  • 91.7% Yes

  • 8.3% No

Overall Satisfaction

• Programs

  • Very Satisfied 38.7%

  • Satisfied 39.6%

  • Neutral 16.5%

  • Dissatisfied 3.8%

  • Very Dissatisfied 1.3%

• Parks & Trails

  • Very Satisfied 36.3%

  • Satisfied 51.7%

  • Neutral 9.9%

  • Dissatisfied 1.5%

  • Very Dissatisfied 0.6%

• Facility & Administration

  • Very Satisfied 40.7%

  • Satisfied 45.5%

  • Neutral 9.5%

  • Dissatisfied 3.6%

  • Very Dissatisfied 0.7%

Primary Focus Areas

• Programs

  • 1. Program Quality

    • Pursue focus groups.

    • Update program objectives.

  • 2. Scheduling

    • Analyze current space limitations.

    • Explore opportunities for additional space.

  • 3. Staffing Challenges

    • Assess staffing limitations and project future needs.

• Parks & Trails

  • 1. Cleanliness

    • Conduct QAQC analysis.

    • Implement regular audits.

  • 2. Rule Enforcement

    • Conduct QAQC analysis.

    • Explore additional signage.

  • 3. Maintenance and Scheduling

    • Adjust ballfield maintenance schedule.

• Facility & Admin

  • 1. Fit Room Improvements

    • Conduct focus survey (completed August 2025).

  • 2. Membership Structure

    • Analyze fees and packages.

    • Develop sales promotions.

  • 3. Digital Experience

    • Refresh website (in progress).

    • Offer individualized patron technical support.

While feedback was overwhelmingly positive, the survey also provided useful insight to target improvements in program offerings, scheduling, facility space, and park amenities. Planned improvements include fitness room upgrades, increased monitoring of parks, enhanced activity offerings, and a refreshed mobile-friendly website.

ERBM thanks all survey participants and looks forward to continuing this important community conversation!