Case Study: City of Bloomington saves $390,000 with Polco resident engagement platform

Resident feedback guides Bloomington to address COVID-19 budget impacts, saving $390,000

The City of Bloomington faced the dual challenge of managing COVID-19 public health concerns while also responding to major budget pressure, including a projected $17 million shortfall. To stay connected with residents despite limited in-person engagement, Bloomington turned to Polco, using its online civic engagement platform and survey tools to gather timely feedback on resident needs, concerns, and priorities.

Polco helped Bloomington run polls, verify resident responses, and share results through dashboards and reports, enabling leaders to make informed decisions. Based on resident input, the City adjusted its COVID-19 communications, implemented face-covering measures, and ultimately closed a community center through the end of the year, saving an estimated $390,000. Polco’s platform also helped increase transparency, improve engagement, and guide response and recovery planning.

City of Bloomington

Diann Kirby

Community Services Director