KEY PERSON INTERVIEWS

This section describes the confidential interviews that were conducted with 22 individuals to discuss existing conditions, concerns, and opportunities within the City of Oakwood. Persons interviewed included residents, public officials, and representatives from local businesses and organizations. A list of interviewees can be found at the end of this report.

Interviews were conducted on July 30 and 31, 2003. Each interview lasted approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Each interviewee was asked a series of questions regarding the Oakwood community.

The responses to each question are summarized below.

1. What kind of community is Oakwood? Why do you believe a person would choose Oakwood as a place to live or do business?

The interviewees generally described Oakwood as a traditional, family-oriented, friendly community made up of quality, educated residents that “care” about each other and their City. Oakwood is an active and spirited community, and a pleasant place to live. There is also a strong “sense of community.”

Among the other reasons people choose Oakwood as a place to live are good schools, good City services and facilities, and a responsive local government. People are also attracted to Oakwood’s residential neighborhoods, its beautiful homes, its mature landscapes and natural features, its attractive appearance, and the fact that people take care of their properties.

Businesses choose Oakwood because the City supports the business community, and stores and shops are frequented by local residents. Oakwood also has good accessibility and visibility, and is close to downtown Dayton.

2. What do you believe are the primary assets and advantages of Oakwood?

Most of the assets and advantages mentioned in Question 1 were also reiterated in Question 2.

According to the interviewees, other advantages include the diversity of housing, interesting architecture, the City’s good reputation, and the fact that Oakwood is a safe and secure community. Most interviewees also mentioned the fact that Oakwood is a very “walkable” community.

The City has an active, attractive and vital commercial district that serves the community’s basic shopping needs. It has a good mix of stores and shops. The City’s convenient location was also seen as an advantage, as well as the fact that the City cares about historic preservation.

3. What do you believe are the primary weaknesses or disadvantages of Oakwood?

The most frequently mentioned weakness of Oakwood was the lack of ethnic and racial diversity, although several interviewees mentioned that this aspect of the City is beginning to change.

Other perceived weaknesses included:

The fact that Oakwood is a land-locked community with no room to grow;
The lack of recreational facilities;
The need for more park land;
The lack of a place for teens;
Taxes are too high;
The eastern edge of the community needs improvement;