69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL
A Personal Research Project
Conducted by
Britta W. McKenna
2019
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL
Table of Contents
3. Introduction
6. Copy of interview survey tool
7. Stats Page
8. Q2: What were the key deciding factors in your moving to Batavia?
9. Q3: What do you believe to be Batavia’s strengths?
11. Q4: Batavia’s Weaknesses?
14. Q5: Batavia’s Opportunities?
17. Q6: Batavia’s Threats?
20. Q7: Where do you go to be in community (in Batavia) now?
21. Q8: What’s missing from Batavia that could strengthen our community (Or is there something in another community you wish was in Batavia?)
21. Q9: In what ways does the Batavia community care for our senior citizens?
22. Q10: What can you imagine doing in and creating for your retirement years in Batavia?
23. Anything else?
24. Community Questions
25. Did you know? (Things I learned or was reminded of by the 69)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL
INTRODUCTION
This personal project was initiated as part of a design thinking homework assignment while reading the book, “Designing Your Life” by Bill Burnett and Dale Evans with one of my former IMSA students in January 2019. The intent of this project was personal in nature – to reconnect with Batavia’s problems and possibilities as an entrepreneur and long-time volunteer. Participants in the “69 Cups of Coffee” encouraged me to share the results, so a share back event was held at the Batavia Public Library on May 7, 2019, attended by 48 people. All may share data and information from this report openly for the purpose of studying and improving life in Batavia. Please cite the project as “69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL 2019” if you are to officially share any of the information.
This report is a summary and compilation of data from 69 conversations held between the dates of January 15, 2019, and April 26, 2019, about Batavia, Illinois. The interviewer, Britta W. McKenna, is not a professional researcher, but a community activist and resident who cares deeply about Batavia’s future. The method of research conducted was hosting individual conversations via in-person interviews (1:1, except for 5 interviews where two related family members were jointly interviewed and results kept separately). Though this was not a random sample, attention was given to try and get a representative sample of age decades, gender, and diversity. Many of the interviewees were known to me, though many more were not or just acquaintances, coming via recommendation, meeting accidentally at the coffee shop. No elected officials (at the time) were interviewed, although staff leadership of the City of Batavia, Batavia Park District, Batavia Public Library, Batavia Chamber of Commerce, Batavia MainStreet and Water Street Studios all had a voice as well as many active volunteer members of our community, business and property owners and residents. A copy of the blank questionnaire is included on page 4; all questions were asked verbally in person and with free responses recorded by hand. Conversation-style coffees were held at the following Batavia locations: Limestone Coffee & Tea, Panera Bread, Chapters Coffeehouse, Tusk Thai, Graham’s 318 (Geneva), a home in Trinity, FL, and in interviewees homes and offices.
Takeaways: Though there are many, for convenience and focus, key takeaways have been clustered into five key areas in no particular order: 1) Identity, 2) Affordability, 3) Status Quo, 4) Communications and 5) Batavia As A Great Place To Raise A Family.
Identity: Batavians are proud of being authentic, caring people, part of a knit community. In fact, a more appropriate name would be the Community of Batavia instead of the City of Batavia. No longer longing to be like another community, but owning who we are and (except for a rare few interviewed, mostly in the 70+ age group) Batavians interviewed are past longing to be like other communities. We pride ourselves in being a volunteer community that responds to needs through activism. Coffee # 37 sums it up well, “We are down to earth and up for anything.” And some of Batavia’s older/veteran volunteers are tired and don’t see younger volunteers stepping up to take their places at the rate they are stepping off. This can be due to fewer younger adults coming to Batavia as part of our demographic, civic group models, dual-income households, and less time available for volunteering. The voices “We make good quilt patches (each individual organization), but Batavia sews great quilt squares; we need a master seamstress to sew our community quilt together” #61 and “Batavia hasn’t quite decided what it wants to be when it grows up” #37 are indicative of the desire to unify our vision and make concrete our community identity and share. The input that we should, “Rebrand Batavia to attract a new population we are seeking and retain population we want to keep” #28 is worth noting.
Interviewees (’20s-’60s) especially voiced we should, “Be more than middle class and white” #49 and need more ethnic/other diversity in our community with municipal leadership that reflects values and possibilities for our future. Strong support of the arts in Batavia and recognition that Batavia should go “deeper into the arts” #62 was more than a whisper. Additionally, the potential for more recreation and for Batavia to leverage the strength of a quaint, historic river town and “Batavia as a place to ‘breath easy,’ a place to pause” #61 and reconnect with people and nature is a strong footnote.
Affordability: Batavia (decades ago when older Batavian’s moved here) was cited as an affordable place to find a home, raise your family and live your life. The current feeling from interviewees is that residents are taxed heavily (locally via schools and from our State of IL) and that high home prices and lack of rental stock are barriers to entry for our younger adults and families and also to our active seniors. Recognizing our “seniors” don’t want to be called seniors and the Boomers are taking on a more active identity and don’t necessarily want to retire, housing and services need to reflect this change. Older active adults looking to downsize and especially our elderly who want to remain in Batavia are a growing demographic that needs to be addressed in our community planning.
The threat if Batavia does not address this is complex, however, Batavia is losing our community leaders (our elders) looking to other communities for the types of housing and amenities they desire for what they are taxed (ROI). Some Batavians, especially empty nesters, and retirees are moving out of Illinois to more affordable homes and warmer weather (or are planning to) unless their family is here or connection to the community is strong. It was also noted, especially by younger interviewees that we don’t have the type of rental housing they are looking for and even our older citizens are looking for that similar type of simplistic, central, walkable living style in or near downtown Batavia.
Footnote: As the numbers of school children decline in Batavia Public Schools, it is important to look at the factors contributing to this to better understand the “why” and be proactive in the “how” we are addressing this from both a financial and economic development perspective.
Status quo. Interviewees of all decades pointed out that we have many leaders and older Batavian’s in our community fearful of change and of making big decisions (2nd bridge, dam removal). It is noted that we take too long to make decisions (One Washington, Batavia branding), are reactive and not proactive in Economic Development, and, in fact, feel stagnant or stuck. A few people interviewed (70+) “love Batavia just the way it is” and, in fact, are fearful of changes coming that could impact our quaint, historic river town and unhurried pace of life.
The vast majority of interviewees want Batavia leaders to work together to create thoughtful, visionary plans that both leverage the Fox River and historic building stock as key assets, work more regionally, and develop independent business cluster themes and additional third place opportunities. A strong voice (from those in 30s-60s in particular) was heard for having an indoor “common ground,” articulated as a community center with forward-thinking amenities for seniors, life-long learning, active adults and community space to meet should be noted. A feeling that the “Speed of City Hall decisions and attitude of some building and zoning staff” is a weakness #68 and “We like ‘sameness’ and live in it. Our investment in it will keep away change-makers” #60 are important voices to hear moving forward.
Communications: A feeling of not being communicated with or having a feedback loop to the government was a theme for older and elderly interviewees (70+). As this age group may not use or be infrequent users of the Internet, they prefer in-person and print information. As many municipal and community resources are online, this segment of the Batavia population is feeling left out in both receiving information and in providing it back. Another communications theme was for new residents and those coming into retirement, not knowing how to get involved as a volunteer in our community. With many independent channels and no master location for our non-profits, no community calendar, and no personal or virtual “welcome mat,” new Batavians feel like it is hard to break into volunteering and some near/at retirement age don’t know where to turn.
On both the weakness and threat sides, a notable number of people voiced concern in social media channels residents use and find a voice on: “Divisiveness. Social media drives this ‘us-vs-them’ mentality, an electronic version of ‘Sound off’ that creates a lack of trust in elected officials.” #43
Batavia as a great place to raise a family: Batavia’s sweet spot, in addition to being a community full of caring people, is that we have many services that support our families. Batavia is a wonderful place to raise a family: strong schools; an award-winning park district; unified community spirit through Bulldog pride (one high school); our stellar library and its’ programming; parks; sports teams; festivals; nature and outdoors (Fox River and bike trail and Batavia Riverwalk) and special events. Extra praise was heaped on the Batavia Farmers’ Market and a desire to expand the concept indoors year-round. Our housing stock is geared for families, with strong neighborhoods and parks nearby. Batavia is clearly family-centric and a great place to raise a family.
But what we are not as great at is providing programming and affordable housing types for young adults (and families) and independent business clusters geared for them. The same was said in an amplified voice about not rolling out the red carpet for our older residents and the growing number of Batavians facing retirement decisions. The comments that “we warehouse our seniors” #64 and “Most seniors are priced out of Batavia and are treated like ‘Modern-day lepers’" #14 is something to better understand. Designing new types of housing and services to fit these needs, business clusters, and programs to meet the needs of our wisdom keepers is essential if we want to be a community for all ages. Coffee #31 stated, “We send our wisdom keepers and elders away.” Coffee #60 reflected, “I don't know how we are honoring the wisdom and vitality of our seniors” while coffee # 21 stated, "We need to find ways to re-infuse wisdom and available time of elderly into our community.” With all that Batavia has, including strong education and the blessing of dedicated volunteers, an area to consider is creating more facilities and services around the needs of the 65+ age group – to be more of a “center for the long walk” #1.
“It all boils down to community, caring and being engaged” #34.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
A Conversation About Batavia’s Community
As part of a personal year of inquiry and to better understand issues and items of importance to the Batavia community, I am convening community conversations with a sampling of residents and business owners. Anything you share in confidence with me will remain anonymous; responses will be compiled with others to gain a better understanding of what is important to Batavia citizens in the year 2019 and shared at some point.
Date of Interview: Name of Interviewee:
What is your story of coming to Batavia?
1. How long have you lived/worked in Batavia?
2. What were the key deciding factors in your moving to Batavia?
3. What do you believe to be Batavia’s strengths?
4. Batavia’s Weaknesses?
5. Batavia’s Opportunities?
6. Batavia’s Threats?
Batavia Community
7. Where do you go to be in community (in Batavia) now?
8. What is missing from Batavia that could strengthen our community? (Or is there something in another community you wish was in Batavia?
9. In what ways does the Batavia community care for our senior citizens?
10. What can you imagine doing in and creating for your retirement years in Batavia?
11. Anything else? Who would you recommend I talk to next?
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL
STATS PAGE
69 total cups of coffee
- 35 Females
- 34 Males
- 33 people work in/are Batavia business owners
- 6 people did not live in Batavia
28 years – the average length of person lived in Batavia
- Shortest length = 10 months
- Longest length = 80 years
2 additional people were invited but declined to join me for coffee.
Age stats (by decade) of coffee guests:
20’s = 5 total (2F/3M)
30’s = 10 total (6F/4M)
40’s = 7 total (5F/2M)
50’s = 13 total (7F/6M)
60’s = 22 total (9F/13M)
70’s = 7 total (4F/3M)
80’s = 3 total (2F/1M)
90’s = 2 total (1F/1M)
Shortest Coffee duration = 60 minutes
Longest Coffee duration = 2 ½ hours
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL - Question #2
2. What were the key deciding factors in your moving to Batavia?
(Top 3 responses were recorded)
First Response (13 different responses)
Top 3
1. Job here/nearby (20)
2. Family-related (live here/illness) (14)
3. Affordability (7)
Next 3
4. Quaint, historic river town (6)
4. Schools/Education (6)
6. Get away from another city (3)
Second Response (18 different responses)
Top 3
1. Schools/Education (9)
2. Friendly people/community (8)
3. Affordability (5)
3. Housing type desired “loved the house” (5)
3. Job here/nearby (5)
Notable 3
6. Affordable rental (4)
6. Fox River Trails (4)
Third Response (24 different responses)
Top 3
1. Affordability (6)
1. Friendly people/Community (6)
3. Schools/education (5)
Next 3
4. Quaint, historic river town (4))
4. Family-related (4)
6. Regional location with access to train (3)
Aggregated Responses
Top 3
1. Job here/nearby (27)
2. Affordability (22)
3. Family-related (live here/illness) (21)
Next 3
4. Schools/Education (20)
5. Friendly people/Community (19)
6. Quaint, historic river town (13)
6. Housing type desired “loved the house” (13)
Single Responses – (186 total)
1. Job here/nearby (27)
2. Affordability (22)
3. Family-related (live here/illness) (21)
4. Schools/Education (20)
5. Friendly people/Community (19)
6. Quaint, historic river town (13)
6. Housing type desired “loved the house” (13)
8. Get away from another city (8)
8. Rental property available (8)
8. Regional location/train access (8)
11. Safety (6)
11. Fox River & Trails (6)
13. Walkability/Bikeability (6)
14. Good neighborhoods (2)
14. Church/faith community (2)
16. Community events (1)
16. Wife recommended (1)
16. Randall Road shopping (1)
16. “People like us”(1)
16. Less crowded (1)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL - Question #3
3. What do you believe to be Batavia’s strengths?
(Top 3 responses were recorded)
First Response (20 different responses)
Top 3
1. Community (involvement, tight-knit) (27)
2. Authentic people (advocates, friendly, down to earth) (19)
3. Quaint, historic river town (7)
Next 3
4. Schools/education (4)
5. Volunteer spirit/neighborliness (3)
6. City services (2)
6. Fox Valley region (2)
Second Response (27 different responses)
Top 3
1. Schools/Education (10)
2. Fox River/Trails (8)
3. People (authentic, friendly, caring, supportive) (7)
Next 3
4. Community (a deep sense of/caring) (5)
5. Batavia Public Library/programs (4)
5. History/historical connection to area (4)
Third Response (32 different responses)
Top 3
1. Fox River/Trails (11)
2. Intergovernmental and Non-profit support (6)
3. Batavia Public Library/programs (5)
3. Community (a deep sense of/caring) (5)
3. People (authentic, friendly, caring) (5)
Next 3
6. Schools/education (3)
Notable Responses (54 different responses mentioned after top 3)
Top 3
1. Authentic people (friendly, caring) (8)
1. Municipal programs (Library, Park District MainStreet) (8)
3. Arts offerings (Water Street Studios, BFAC, Albright, Arts) (7)
3. Outdoor/environment (Fox River, trails, Riverwalk, Parks) (7)
Next 3
5. Community events (a deep sense of/caring) (6)
6. Hometown feel (safe, quiet) (4)
Aggregated Responses (taking only from top 3, not notables responses)
Top 3
1. Community (a deep sense of, caring) (37)
2. People (authentic, caring, friendly) (31)
3. Fox River/trail (19)
Next 3
4. Schools/Education (17)
5. Batavia Public Library/programs (9)
6. Quaint, historic river town (7)
STRENGTHS – Quotes and paraphrasing actual responses; # corresponds to control the number of people
“Batavia has a hometown, small-town feel – safe, quiet escape from the high pressures of work and business.” #54
Our community spirit and willingness to accomplish things together. #69
Batavians are “down to earth, up for anything.” #37
Batavia is located well regionally for transportation (I88 and Metra access) and is full of regional amenities. #66
“Arts and outdoor experiences are ripe for expansion.” #6
“A knit community.” #58
Public schools provide quality education and singular identity strengthens Batavia pride. #53
Batavia Riverwalk – our outdoor community gathering place - #60
“Great faith community.” #55
“Authentic people.” #19
Older population settling in and volunteering. “These are the people who keep me here.” #69
“Continual opportunities – almost anyone can come here and do what they want.” #44
“Fox River – an artery that runs through the body of Batavia” – we need to plan programs and recreational opportunities as part of our identity. #28
“Our city government and all municipal levels seem to be efficient and responsive.” #54
People. We are a community of advocates – a sense of belonging and need to make the world (and Batavia) a better place. #34
“Volunteer spirit. Neighborliness.” #64
(Fox River) “Though it divides our community, it unites us.” #61
“Batavia is more fun (than neighboring communities).” #66
The beauty of the area – river and way people enjoy it and care for it. #34
The strong sense of community and the way we pull together when someone needs help. #60
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL - Question #4
4. What do you believe to be Batavia’s weaknesses?
(Top 3 responses recorded)
First Response (55 different responses)
Top 3 (grouped into categories due to high single answer volume)
1. Downtown issues (business diversity, ugly strip malls, layout, Biz & clusters (14)
2. Lack of city vision, leadership & action (Mayor, council, Comm. Dev.) (13)
3. City funding models (Schools, sales tax, IL tax, TIF, city debt) (5)
Next 3
4. Lack of ethnic diversity (3)
4. “Less than” mentality (East vs west and Batavia as stepsister of Tri-cities) (3)
4. No indoor community recreation space (rec center, pool, health club) (3)
Second Response (40 different responses)
Top 3
1. Lack of affordable housing (6)
2. High property taxes (5)
3. Fear of change (4)
3. Lack of ethnic diversity (4)
3. No indoor pool/rec center (4)
Next 3
6. Fox River is underutilized (3)
6. Lack of centralized communication/feedback loop (3)
6. Ugly strip malls need to go (3)
Third Response (45 different responses)
Top 3 (clustered)
1. City Hall/government issues (code enforcement, navigating development, the process takes too long, community development staff is hard to work with, too many aldermen) (5)
2. City leadership needs to change (Mayor, key leaders) (4)
2. Lack of diversity (all kinds) (4)
Next 3
4. Lack of centralized communications/feedback loop (3)
4. Prairie State deal (3)
4. Tax burden (3)
Notable Responses (36 different responses mentioned after top 3)
Top 3
1. City Community Development is not progressive (3)
1. City Community Development staff is reactive/roadblocks to development (3)
1. High taxes (Batavia & IL) (3)
1. Diversity and availability of affordable housing (3)
Next 3
5. Lack of Batavia Park District classes to meet needs (working adults, males) (2)
5. Lack of communication channels/feedback loop (2)
5. Lack of community identity and vision (2)
Aggregated Responses (taking only from top 3, not notables responses)
Top 3
1. Downtown issues (14)
2. Lack of city vision, leadership & action (13)
3. City funding model/taxes (10)
Next 3
4. Lack of diversity (ethnic in particular) (7)
4. No recreation/community center (7)
6. Lack of affordable housing (6)
WEAKNESSES – Quotes and paraphrasing actual responses; # corresponds to control the number of people
Not enough independent businesses in one culture group (cluster) to be viable. #29
“Unattractive strip malls disrupt charm of historic buildings.” #20
Disconnection between entities trying to get things done. #49
Public transportation is spotty and not dependable. We have transportation deserts. #39
Some Batavians have a chip on their shoulder that we are ‘lesser than’ (Geneva, St. Charles). #38
“Nothing quaint about an empty downtown.” #24
“Batavia needs more progressive leadership with vision.” #35
Batavia Park District doesn’t offer much for us” (working women and men). #13
“Perception of lack of parking downtown, especially for elderly and disabled.” #57
“Inclusiveness in the circle that can be exclusive to newcomers.” #56
Lack of creativity, courage, vision, and leadership in downtown development. #4
“Proactive citizens and reactive staff.” #49
Lack of diversity of downtown property owners. #51
People ‘settle’ academically in our schools with what is and don’t think big about new opportunities for learning that better prepare our students for the future. #43
Desire to change, but slow to actually change. #19
Lack of diversity (types of business, race, and gender of our leaders). #50
“East is least, west is best” mentality for older Batavians, natives still exists. #61
Accessibility. Bike and pedestrianism – vs- car traffic. #64
Fear of change (to get to a perfect solution). The real world doesn’t work that way. - #51
Speed of City Hall decisions and attitude of some building and zoning staff. #68
Lack of an indoor pool. Everyone should know how to swim. #64
Difficulty in embracing change – a pushback – we like and want some of the things that come with change. But we have a fear of losing our sense of community with growth (push/pull). #10
Lack of affordable housing for millennials and seniors. #48
Need to take advantage of Fox River for development instead of turn our back on it (Baskin Robbins strip mall). #17
“Lack of (racial) diversity.” #5
Not a lot to do in the evenings for 20 somethings – need more coffee shops (open late) and more ethnic restaurants. #61
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL - Question #5
5. What do you believe to be Batavia’s opportunities?
(Top 3 responses recorded)
First Response (46 different responses)
Top 3 (grouped into categories due to high single answer volume)
1. Centralize information channels and volunteer opportunities (11)
2. Be proactive and visionary (development, branding, planning) (8)
3. Create a comprehensive plan to leverage Fox River and trails (7)
Next 3
4. Build a community center as a “common indoor recreation ground” (6)
4. Expand our arts focus (BAC, festival, outdoor art) (6)
6. Build affordable housing (rental and purchase) for millennials and seniors (5)
Second Response (39 different responses)
Top 3 (clustered)
1. Centralize information channels and volunteer opportunities (7)
1. Develop a strategic plan for focused economic development opportunities (7)
3. Better transportation (walkability, safer crossings, trail connections) (6)
3. Build more affordable housing types (6)
Next 3
5. Build a community center as a “common indoor recreation ground” (4)
5. Leverage human capital (people assets, volunteerism, wisdom tribe) (4)
5. Think and act more regionally (4)
Third Response (54 different responses)
Top 3
1. Be bold, proactive with economic development plans (Riverfront, empty space, planning, Sieman’s property, sidewalks, projects like One Washington, second bridge and circulation, downtown mix) (12)
2. Build more affordable housing (connect with transportation needs) (6)
3. Create a cohesive brand for Batavia (as a destination, diversity) (5)
Next 3
4. Collaborate more with Fox Valley and assets (Fermilab, Tri-cities, Mooseheart) (3)
4. Create multicultural diversity and inclusion strategies (3)
4. Create more life-long learning opportunities (seniors, Library, BPD) (3)
Notable Responses (46 different responses mentioned after top 3)
Top 3
1. Build more affordable housing (one-story, seniors) (7)
2. Centralize information channels and volunteer opportunities (3)
2. Develop Fox River plan and develop more programming around it (3)
2. Fill empty storefronts (3)
2. More redevelopment projects like One Washington (3)
Next 3
6. Connect more to Fermilab (2)
6. Build/make available more open, accessible public meeting spaces (2)
6. City of Batavia should be more proactive and less reactive (2)
Aggregated Responses (taking only from top 3, not notables responses)
Top 3
1. Bold, focused economic development planning (19)
2. Centralize information channels and volunteer opportunities (18)
2. Build more affordable housing (18)
Next 3
4. Be more proactive and visionary (15)
5. Build a Community Center as a “common indoor recreation ground” (10)
6. Develop Fox River plan and develop programming around it (7)
6. Think and act more regionally, collaborate with neighbors (7)
OPPORTUNITIES – Quotes and paraphrasing actual responses; # corresponds to control the number of people
Need more people living downtown – all ages – a place for everybody. #56
“Be proactive and visionary.” #16
“A real community center.” 39
Create more opportunities to be neighborly. Shoot hoops, block parties, embrace neighborhoods. #69
A proactive plan to better leverage the Fox River. #41
Extricate us from the Prairie State “clean coal” deal. #2
“I like things just the way they are.” #45
We have a highly educated community and need to create more ways to leverage Batavia’s human capital in innovative ways. #9
“Be innovative and agile enough to stay ahead of trends.” #41
Study Batavia infrastructure needs and opportunities (master plan) to revisit traffic flow, street widening, etc. #59
More co-operation of Tri-Cities entities instead of competition. #46
“Be more than middle class and white.” #49
Expand Farmer’s Market to a year-round indoor market that can also be an incubator for new businesses. #69
Open the Depot Museum caboose and turn it into a historical “Caboose Cafe.” #60
Be more inventive with community events for families with children – use social media and be less predictable with annual festivals and use local talent. #27
Stay authentic. Don’t try to be like Geneva or other gentrified towns. #20
Use available demographics to target Batavia programs by age. #40
City convocation/task force to assemble information on seniors – healthy living, housing, state of RSVP, daycare, etc. #1
Position Batavia deeper in the arts – Batavia Arts Council could be helpful with that. #69
Rebrand Batavia to attract a new population we are seeking and retain the population we want to keep. #28
Round out the arts community – add more music, chorus, and opportunities to hear local musicians. #39
Recruit businesses with a “soul.” #15
Batavia sews great quilt squares; we need a master seamstress to sew our community quilt together. #61
A physical center (Recreation/Community) that also pulls together the needs of the community and volunteers. #33
Fermilab. Retired teachers. Daycare with older adults and younger children. #16
More active older adult entertainment – think Evenflow meets upstairs of Villa Verone. #66
Better communication of volunteer opportunities and more community meeting space. #68
Get people together again (like Bert Stitt, Ignite) for Batavia Task Force II. #31
Better representation of Batavia of people with color and diversity in Batavia’s branding. #49
More people walking around – add more pedestrian-friendly experiences downtown. #29
I listen a lot and go with the flow. #45
“Welcome to Batavia” packet designed for new residents, businesses, and guests (like Fermilab). #61
Need more viral destination businesses and experiences that can adapt to changing markets and trends. #29
Leverage Batavia Ministerial to study community problems and help to create solutions – can be more responsive and agile. #50
There is an unconscious bias against blacks that need to be tackled head-on. #32
Be a good connection to the Fox Valley regional amenities – mass transit, Divvy bikes on Fox, etc. #50
Expand Batavia’s woonerf north to the Baptist Church. #52
The number of individuals interested in change. People want to engage in our town, to revitalize, and to “dig in.” #34
“Artsy fartsy” as our brand. #66
We need to rethink blue-collar jobs and present them differently to our children to gain their attention. #37
Not enough “color” in Batavia in many ways. We need to take the risk of creating color. #6
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL - Question #6
6. What do you believe to be Batavia’s threats?
(Top 3 responses recorded)
First Response (47 different responses)
Top 3 (grouped into categories due to high single answer volume)
1. Financial (high property taxes, cost of living in Batavia/IL, liabilities) (16)
2. Stagnation, sameness, stuck (6)
3. Prairie State “clean coal” decision (5)
Next 3
4. Barriers to development (community development, econ dev plans) (4)
4. Teen issues (suicide, drugs, depression, stress) (4)
6. Lack of diversity (3)
Second Response (48 different responses)
Top 3 (clustered)
1. Financial (high property taxes, cost of living in Batavia/IL, liabilities) (16)
2. Attitudes and perceptions (lack of parking, why? Culture, be like Geneva, fast-food mentality, finger-pointing/judging, Batavia Apartments) (10)
2. Leadership issues (reactive, “yes” council, slow progress, branding project, no term limits) (10)
Next 3
4. People-related (too insular, outmigration, lack of diversity, volunteers not being replaced) (8)
5. Communication (channels, social media, tech distractions) (3)
5. Lack of affordable housing (3)
Third Response (36 different responses)
Top 3
1. Outmigration (individuals, businesses) (5)
2. Future of retail (4)
2. Financial (taxes, cost of college, cost of living here) (4)
Next 3
4. Vision and resolution for big-city economic dev projects (dam, 2nd bridge, Fox River) (3)
4. “Sound off mentality” social media threatens the way we communicate (3)
6. Elderly isolation (2)
6. Lack of diversity (2)
Notable Responses (40 different responses mentioned after top 3)
Top 3
1. Outmigration (4)
1. Financial (4)
3. Community Development staff (2)
3. Lack of affordable housing (2)
3. More reactive than proactive (2)
3. Social media (2)
Aggregated Responses (taking only from top 3, not notables responses)
Top 3
1. Financial (high property taxes, cost of living in Batavia/IL, liabilities) (24)
2. Leadership and vision (reactive, “yes” council, slow progress, branding project, no term limits, resolution on big issues of the dam and 2nd bridge) (13)
3. Attitudes and perceptions (lack of parking, why? Culture, be like Geneva, fast-food mentality, finger-pointing/judging, Batavia Apartments) (10)
Next 3
4. Outmigration (9)
5. People-related (too insular, outmigration, lack of diversity, volunteers not being replaced) (8)
5. Communication/Social Media (8)
7. Affordable housing types (6)
THREATS – Quotes and paraphrasing actual responses; # corresponds to control the number of people
Stagnation. Lack of vision. One step forward, two steps backward. #5
The state of the State of Illinois. Seniors are moving away. We need to keep the seniors engaged if we want them to stay. #33
We have a lack of diversity (all sorts) and a fear of people who are different. #5
We say “why” too much instead of “why not.” #44
Divisiveness. Social media drives this “us-vs-them” mentality, an electronic version of “Sound off” that creates a lack of trust in elected officials. #4
Long-time and older volunteers are getting tired and dying and not being replaced by younger volunteers at the same rate. #61
The tax base is in flux. #4
We like “sameness” and live in it. Our investment in it will keep away change makers. #60
14% of students in Batavia are low-income – we need affordable housing, better transportation, and daycare for these families. #3
“Fitting in and not being memorable.” #49
No term limits for local government – change is good. #68
Our fear of change will push us in the direction of being stuck and opportunities stop developing. We need to develop the willingness to take some risks. #10
Lack of sustainable solutions for low-income, elderly, needy members of our community. #23
Not moving forward with bigger ideas; the time it takes to move big ideas. #18
“Batavia hasn’t quite decided what it wants to be when it grows up.” #37
We continue to be known as a town that is hard to do business in. #24
People are taxed to death. We need to demonstrate value and return on investment, especially for seniors. #63
Kids don’t know how to entertain themselves and are becoming less creative because of technology. #65
Local politics of “that’s the way we’ve always done that.” #68
“Comfort leads to complacency.” #49
“We are warehousing our seniors.” #57
Aging infrastructure. 80’s growth is coming to failure soon and will be expensive. #52
Outmigration of State of Illinois citizens and businesses. #66
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL - Question #7
7. Where do you go to be in community now?
(Aggregated responses only)
Aggregated Responses
Top 3
1. Community Events (Water Street Studios opening, Riverwalk Rhapsody, festivals, PechaKucha, BFAC, Batavia Brotherhood Banquet, sporting events/football games, Interfaith services, Fish fry, Loyalty Day parade) (43)
2. Limestone Coffee & Tea (20)
3. Church (15)
Next 3
4. Batavia Riverwalk/Fox River trails (13)
5. Batavia Public Library/programs (11)
6. Batavia Farmers’ Market (10)
6. My neighborhood (block parties, homes) (10)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL - Question #7
7a. Where do you go to be in community (outside Batavia mentions)?
(Aggregated responses only)
Aggregated Responses
Top 3
1. Turf Room (North Aurora) (3)
2. Graham’s 318 (Geneva) (2)
3. Penrose (Geneva) (2)
Others (all 1)
Church
Cocoa Bean (Geneva)
Barrel & Rye (Geneva)
Drum & Bugle Corps
Florida home
Friend’s home
Pioneer Courthouse Square (Portland)
Flagstone (Geneva)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL – Question #8
8. What’s missing from Batavia that could strengthen our community (or is there something in another community you wish were in Batavia)?
(Aggregated responses only)
Top 3 (115 single answers)
1. Indoor Community/Rec Center (like Vaughn Center, of the future, with a pool) (25)
2. Expanded Farmers’ Market/Indoor Market (15)
3. More affordable housing choices (5)
Next 3
4. Third Street energy (4)
4. More places to chill like Limestone (4)
4. More ethnic restaurant variety (too much Italian and Mexican) (4)
CLUSTERED ANSWERS
Top 3
1. Economic development ideas (46)
2. Food and entertainment ideas (35)
3. Indoor Community/Rec Center (like Vaughn Center, of the future, with a pool, senior center, community meeting rooms) (32)
Next 3
4. Arts-related ideas (16)
4. Communications ideas (4)
4. Ideas for recreational programming (10)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL - Question #9
9. In what ways does the Batavia community care for our senior citizens?
(Aggregated responses only)
Top 3 (74 single answers)
1. RSVP (26)
2. Batavia Park District programming (20)
3. Don’t know (15)
3. Holmstad (15)
Next 3
5. Elderday (11)
6. Batavia Public Library/programs (10)
CLUSTERED ANSWERS
Top 3
1. Non-profit/volunteer assistance (45)
2. Municipality programming (Library, Park District)(43)
3. Retirement housing (31)
Next 3
4. Don’t know, haven’t given much thought (17)
4. We isolate/warehouse them (12)
6. Guilt answers (6)
6. Solutions (6)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL - Question #10
10. What can you imagine doing in and creating for your retirement years in Batavia?
(Aggregated responses only)
Top 3 (114 single answers)
1. Enjoy a community/rec center (13)
2. Live in affordable, right-sized housing (9)
2. Life-long learning/knowledge-seeking (9)
Next 3
4. Will not be living here (7)
4. Participating in more Batavia Park District programming (4)
4. Move to a warmer climate (4)
CLUSTERED ANSWERS
Top 3
1. Continue learning (30)
2. Stay active (28)
3. Enjoying community/rec/senior center (23)
Next 3
4. Volunteer (start, more) (21)
5. Find right housing (20)
6. Financial concerns (can’t afford to retire, will not retire here due to taxes, fixed income, high taxes are barriers to retiring here, costs exceeds value) (14)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL
Anything Else?
The last question (other than recommending who else I talk with) was “Is there anything else you’d like to add.” Here are the open responses to that question.
Places we should visit:
Carmel, IN
Des Moines, IA
Pioneer Courthouse Square – Portland, OR
Grand Junction, CO
Deadwood, CO (Welcome Center)
Senior living models – S. Elgin
Wheaton Inn
Woodstock – Second Sunday Concerts
Aurora – Ink Singers
Branson, MO Musical Fountains
Naperville, IL senior center
Wheaton Sports Center
Vaughn Center
Ashville, NC
Grace Place (care center in FL)
Year-round Farmers’ Markets (outdoors and indoors at the following places: Newborn City Market – Cedar Rapids, IA; Pikes Market, Seattle; Indoor Market, Boston; Door County; Eastern Market (Detroit); Hawaii, Washington, DC, Davenport)
Culinary Gaps/Places Mentioned:
Microbrewery
Meat market (like Elburn Meat Market)
Quality general bakery
Yorkville Crusade
Gastropub
D & G Brewery
Fullerhouse – Hinsdale
The Grill – Yorkville
Barrel & Rye – Geneva
Turf Room – N. Aurora
Penrose Brewery – Geneva
Flagstone – Geneva
Other:
A comprehensive riverfront plan for Batavia is needed.
I don’t like duplication of services. Think regionally.
We should create mentoring opportunities for elders to mentor others and youth.
We underappreciate our own town.
It all boils down to communicating, caring, and being engaged.
We need better wayfinding.
Don’t want to be Geneva, etc.
We need a hotel/conference center.
I would be open to serving on a senior advisory council.
I love living in Batavia. Things are missing in Batavia, but we can get most nearby.
Start a community center now in existing empty property to raise awareness and test the concept.
Our generation is hyper-focused on everything being a convenience, fast, instant gratification. (a 20-something)
I want a place where I can design my own experience (a 20 something).
Batavia has transportation deserts and we need to figure out how to help the isolated of our community.
I judge businesses by their branding and who live their brand.
I am a jeans and sweatshirt type of person and that’s the type of community Batavia is.
Seniors don’t want to be useless, isolated, or dependent. They want to live a life that matters and have something to look forward to.
Too much of my tax bill goes to TIF. Something needs to be done about how we budget for and spend TIF funds in Batavia.
Big decisions need to be made today to guide us to tomorrow (dam, 2nd bridge).
Our youth is changing – lots of up-and-comers getting involved who are smart, well-spoken, and talented.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL
Community Questions
How do Facebook and social media/other technology affect our community spirit?
How can we better communicate with each other and the government?
What new communication could Batavia create and use together?
What are we doing to inform AND engage people?
Should we rethink the role of the library?
Do we have the right entrepreneurial business mix and support?
How do we retain our smart BHS graduates and encourage them to live here?
We have low voter turnout – how do we hear from more people?
Where did the Batavia volunteer fair go?
Are we living in Earth’s last days? (global warming, society norm changes)
How can Batavia create affordable housing for early adulthood, downsizing and seniors in/walkable to downtown?
Do Holmstad residents pay their fair share of property taxes?
Why does the Farmers’ Market allow pets? (Unsafe for seniors)
Can we get out of the Prairie State “clean coal” deal?
How can we treat our seniors more like our wisdom-keepers rather than lepers of our community?
How can Batavia become more diverse?
Do we want to keep working on this?
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
69 Cups of Coffee: Caffeinated Insights About Batavia, IL
Things I learned or was reminded of from the 69…
1. Batavia Public Library delivers books to the home-bound.
2. Tri-City Health Partnership provides free medical/dental to “gap” men and women (only 8% of their clients are from Batavia, so help spread the word).
3. CAN – The Community Assistance Network provides free home repair for the elderly/disabled.
4. RSVP (serves 65+)
A) Has an office and hours in City Hall
B) Provides seniors with ride and prescription assistance
C) Replaces smoke detectors for seniors
D) Installs outside key lock boxes for senior residences for the fire dept. entry
5. 211 can be called for free to access Fox Valley services.
6. Seniors read to H. C. Storm Elementary Kindergarten and First graders.
7. PACE has affordable door-to-door service for seniors and the disabled.
8. Operation Flashlight (Amy Pedone) spreads cheer to seniors in nursing homes with “joy bombs”:
A) Support and encouragement
B) Provides personal care items
C) Encourages volunteers to visit elderly
9. Batavia Apartments are subsidized (income/social security) by the ability to pay.
10. Seniors get discounts at some Batavia businesses.
11. Seniors can apply for a “senior exemption” and tax freeze after age 65 with Kane County (restrictions apply).
12. Calvary Episcopal has shared worship space with the Islamic community for years.
13. United Way (Batavia) needs someone to organize volunteers for their fall leaf raking (See Melinda or Britta to volunteer…)
14. Bethany Lutheran and Congregational Church provide daycare on BPS 101 ½ days.
15. Fermilab is breaking ground on two large International projects that will bring more guests and scientists from all over the world to Batavia.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thank you to the 69 people who joined me for coffee and conversation. Thank you also to anyone who reads this report and cares about Batavia.
For more information or to follow-up, volunteer to keep working or anything else, please contact Britta McKenna at brittawmckenna@gmail.com
##
