Listening Is Part of the Job: Why SDD Surveys Matter
Listening Is Part of the Job: Why SDD Surveys Matter
At the Sanitary District of Decatur (SDD), protecting public health and the environment isn’t just about pipes, pumps, and treatment processes—it’s also about maintaining a clear, two-way conversation with the people we serve. Surveys are one of the most effective tools we use to keep that conversation going and make sure our work reflects community priorities. In our recent community awareness surveys, we asked residents how we can communicate more clearly, share useful information, and be easier to engage with.
As a public utility, we have a responsibility to be transparent, accessible, and accountable. That means explaining what we do, why it matters, and how decisions get made. Surveys help us confirm whether our messages are landing, identify where more clarity is needed, and ensure that our outreach meets people where they are—whether that’s online, at community events, or through direct conversations.
Open communication builds trust. By inviting input, we’re not just gathering numbers—we’re strengthening relationships. Surveys give residents a simple way to tell us what topics are most helpful (from construction updates to pollution-prevention tips), how they prefer to receive information, and what questions they want answered. That feedback helps us focus our efforts on what matters most to the community.
Surveys are one step in an ongoing cycle of listening, sharing, and improving. We use what we learn to:
- Make information easier to find and understand
- Offer timely updates about projects and services
- Highlight opportunities for education, tours, and careers in clean water
- Provide practical tips that help protect our sewer system and local waterways
Going forward, you’ll continue to see us expand communication across familiar channels: clearer website resources, straightforward social posts, community presentations, and more hands-on opportunities to see our work up close. We’ll keep refining how we communicate so residents can easily stay informed—and be confident that their voices make a difference.
Join the Conversation
Your perspective matters. When you see a survey from SDD, think of it as an open invitation to help guide how we communicate with you and your neighbors. Together, we can keep the lines of communication strong—and keep Decatur’s water infrastructure working for everyone.