2023 Dubuque Community Equity ProfileCopyrighted
June 5, 2023
City of Dubuque Consent Items # 06.
City Council Meeting
ITEM TITLE: 2023 Dubuque Community Equity Profile
SUMMARY: The Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque's 2023 Dubuque
Community Equity Profile has been provided.
SUGGESTED Suggested Disposition: Receive and File
DISPOSITION:
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Description Type
Dubuque Community Equity Profile - 2023 Supporting Documentation
EVERYONE
RESOURCE
AND OPPORTUNITIES
...requires a baseline understanding of its
strengths and opportunities for improvement.
How are diverse communities succeeding in our
community? What challenges do they face? The
Community Equity Profile is a way to measure
what is and is not working for the people of
Dubuque.
In August 2022, we set out to update Dubuque's
Equity Profile, which we first published in 2015.
The reason for doing this was simple: Dubuque
had changed dramatically.
The region's population grew in number as well
as in its racial, ethnic and cultural diversity. The
most significant public emergency in
generations — the COVID-19 pandemic — and
national attention on issues of racial equity led
leaders to seek greater understanding of how
the lives of people from diverse backgrounds
are shaped by systems like education, housing
and health care.
The time had come for an Equity Profile that
reflected life in Dubuque in 2022-23.
The first iteration of the Equity Profile led to
numerous community initiatives aimed at
dismantling barriers to resources, improving key
health and well-being indicators, and generally
helping build a Dubuque where all people can
thrive.
Our goal today is for local leaders to draw
insights from this updated profile and use this
knowledge to approach Dubuque's challenges
with the same thoughtfulness and eye toward
equity as in past years.
We welcome you to take a journey through our
Community Equity Profile.
MORE THAN JUST
THIS SUMMARY.
It is a process that uncovers how diverse groups
are affected by various systems.
The process to update to the 2015 Equity Profile
began in August 2022 with the training of
volunteers to facilitate community conversations
over seven months. These conversations, each
of which focused on a different topic, helped
glean insight from community members as they
shared their perspectives, stories and
experiences. In addition, we distributed online
surveys on each month's topic.
Through a partnership with TH Media, publisher
of the Telegraph Herald newspaper, we kicked
off each month with a panel discussion featuring
a data presentation and Q&A with community
leaders. These discussions were held at Steeple
Square and streamed online.
Finally, we collected publicly available data to
provide context for the community's input. This
summary provides an overview of the data and
community feedback, shedding light on what
disparities exist among Dubuque's diverse
communities and also highlighting what is
working. We invite local leaders to use it as an
evolving tool that guides decision -making.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Demographics 4
Housing 6
Workforce & Economic Well-being 10
Education 14
Health & Wellness 18
Arts & Culture 22
Safe Neighborhoods 26
Transportation 30
DU UQUE
DEMOGRAPHICS
To understand the experiences of diverse populations in Dubuque, we need to know just who calls
Dubuque home. We have collected current demographic data that provides context for the
information contained in the Equity Profile and provides an overview of how Dubuque has changed
over time. After you explore these statistics, read on to view snapshots on each topic.
Population Growth
Dubuque County/State of Iowa
20%
11
Dubuque County State of Iowa
102,818
3,357,879
:4 5% Source: Total population data 2000-2020
2,929,067 from the U.S. Dept. of Commerce. All
Q) data 2025-2040 are projected by Woods
0% & Poole; residential population as of
2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 July 1
........................................................................................................................................
Age Composition
City of Dubuque, Previous Equity Profile vs. Current Data
19 & under 20-29 30-39 40-49 50-59 60-69 70+
Source: American Community Survey, 5-Year Estimates: 2013 and 2020
4
CHANGING DEMOGRAPHICS
Demographic Composition - Race & Ethnicity
City of Dubuque
Asian Black Latino Native American Pacific Islander Some other race Two or more races White
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Population by Race/Ethnicity, 2010 - 2020
City of Dubuque
Race/Ethnicity
2010
2020
Asian
659
690
Black
2,302
3,745
Latino
1,383
2,220
Native American
155
223
Pacific Islander
268
798
Some other race
366
769
Two or more races
1,018
2,648
White
52,869
50,794
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Percent Change in Population by
Race/Ethnicity, 2010 - 2020
City of Dubuque
Asian
Black
Latino 160.1 °i°
Native American
Pacific Islander
Some other race
Two or more races
White 110.1
62.7%
43.946
4.7%
-3.9%
5
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AFFORDABILITY
Housing is considered affordable when costs do not exceed 30% of the household's income.
THE DATA
No- Nearly 50% of Black households in Dubuque spend over 50% of their annual income on housing.
No -Since the previous Equity Profile, the number of households at 0-30% of the area median income
increased by 22%, but the number of affordable units for this population decreased by 25%.
FROM THE SURVEY
►45% of renters said they either agreed or strongly agreed with the statement, "In my current living
situation, I have concerns about insufficient funds."
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►A theme that emerged was that people feel Dubuque is missing affordable housing, especially starter
homes.
►Participants said that when IBM came to town, rents increased. However, rents have stayed high even though
IBM has left.
Housing Affordability by Income Group
City of Dubuque
15,000 Households 0 Affordable Units
10,000
5,000
0
0-30%AMI 30-50%AMI 50-80%AMI >80%AMI
AM/ stands for Area Median Income
Source: CHAS Data Set, 2014-2018
Housing Cost Burden
City of Dubuque
■ Less than 30% of income on ■ 30-50% of income on
housing housing
More than 50% of income on housing
Asian Black Hispanic Native Other Pacific White
American Race Islander
Source: CHAS Data Set, 2014-2018
Housing 7
FAIR ACCESS
Fair access means all people have equal opportunity to be considered for and find resources related to rental
units, purchase of property, housing loans and property insurance.
THE DATA
►Only 9% of Black households own their home,
compared to 63% for the entire population.
Po -While home ownership for Asian households grew
by 17% since the previous profile, ownership for
Hispanic households fell by 16%.
FROM THE SURVEY
►80% of respondents who identify as Latino, Black or
Middle Eastern and North African strongly agreed
that they had experienced bias, discrimination or
exclusion in Dubuque related to housing. At the
same time, 54.5% of respondents who are renters
either agreed or strongly agreed.
►When asked whether it would be easy for them to
access services to assist with the process of looking
for a home, 60% of renters disagreed or strongly
disagreed, compared to just 23% among all
respondents.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
► Participants indicated that there is not enough
housing for people with mobility and accessibility
concerns.
► Landlords and tenants both say they experience a
language disconnect; this is particularly prevalent
among international students.
►Some participants shared that it's easier for renters
to find affordable, quality housing if they have a
personal relationship with a landlord.
Owner Occupied vs. Renter Occupied
City of Dubuque
Owner Occupied Renter Occupied
Asian
Black it
Hispanic
Native American
Other Race •'�
Pacific Islander 11'
White
0% 25% 50% 75%
Source: CHAS Data Set, 2014-2018
HOMELESSNESS & SECTION 8
THE DATA WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
OP -There were over twice as many homeless ► Dubuque needs more
students in the Dubuque Community School transitional housing to support
District during 2021 than there were in 2018 (IA its unhoused population.
Dept. of Ed).
►During the first half of 2022 there was an
average of 54 housing vouchers "on the street"
per month, compared to an average of 5.5
from the first half of 2015 (HUD).
100%
Housing
QUALITY
THE DATA
►78% of people making less than 50% of the area
median income are experiencing at least one of
the four housing problems identified by the
Department of Housing and Urban Development
(graph to the right).
FROM THE SURVEY
►The physical condition of their home was the most
identified concern for respondents of the survey,
including 36% of all respondents and 67% of
renters.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
Op- "It is important that the community works together
to raise the floor of what is considered acceptable
for affordable housing."
►From a resident living at a mobile home park: "It is
embarrassing to live in this type of housing."
Access to Quality Housing
City of Dubuque
HUD's 4 identified housing problems:
1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities
2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities
3. More than one person per room
4. Cost burden greater than 30% (affordability)
Affordability comprises 89.7% of the problems in
Dubuque.
■ None of the 4 housing problems ■ 1 or more of the 4 housing problems
3,000
2,000
1,000
80-100% AMI 50-80% AMI 30-50% AMI 0-30% AMI
AMI stands for Area Median Income
Source: CHAS Data Set, 2014-2018
Themes and comments from conversation attendees
Olt- In 2015 and today, people noted a lack of accessibility
to housing resources, which creates a barrier to
obtaining a house.
►In 2015 and today, people said there is an absence of
affordable rent in Dubuque.
►Tensions exist between landlords and tenants around
issues of property maintenance and also due to
discrimination and cultural differences.
Suggestion: Establish a way to encourage education,
collaboration and communication among landlords,
tenants and community members seeking housing.
Landlords and renters agreed that this could help break
down barriers.
Housing
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DIVERSITY IN THE WORKFORCE
THE DATA WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►Both the percentage of Dubuque's workforce ►Many people commented that while Dubuque is
that is Black and the percentage that is Pacific making strides to be more inclusive in its
Islander have more than doubled since the workforce, there is still a lot of work to do.
previous Equity Profile. ►Respondents felt that opportunities for
international students were limited.
FROM THE SURVEY
►While only 14.2% of all respondents felt their
workplace was not equitable or inclusive, that
number was 50% for Black respondents, 26%
for women (compared to 7% for men), and 43%
for people with a disability (compared to 12%
without).
►Nearly 40% of respondents agreed that they had
experienced bias, discrimination or
exclusion in Dubuque related to employment.
75% of individuals with disabilities agreed, as did
the two respondents who are veterans.
Workforce Composition by Race/Ethnicity and Gender
City of Dubuque
Pacific
Islander
.5%
Asian Latino
1.8%
2%
Two or
_more
races
/
2.3%
Black Native
3.8%
American
.3%
Some
other race
.5%
Source: American Community Survey, 5-year estimates: 2020. Latino is considered
by the Census to be an ethnicity, not a race, so numbers will add up to over 100%.
Women
Men
Workforce & Economic Well -Being 11
UNEMPLOYMENT & POVERTY
Poverty Rate by Gender and Age
City of Dubuque
Under 18 years
20.5%
18-64 Years
15.5%
65 Years and
Older
14.9%
4.9%
10.3%
5113; 4 5
7%
16%
■ Less than 50% of ■ Less than 100% of ■ Less than 125% of
the poverty level the poverty level the poverty level
Source: American Community Survey, 5-year Estimates:
2020
THE DATA
►Since the previous Equity Profile, every racial and
ethnic group's unemployment rate declined or
remained the same except the Black community's,
which increased 12.6%.
FROM THE SURVEY
►When asked what was the most important issue
they faced in Dubuque related to their economic
situation, respondents selected "unemployment"
the least (2%) of any available option.
►Respondents with lower incomes were more
confident in their ability to find organizations
that offer employment services, with 92% of
those making less than $50,000 a year agreeing,
compared to 58% of those making more than
$100,000 a year.
Poverty Rate by Race & Ethnicity
City of Dubuque
Asian®'
33.1 %
Black
' 1.6%
Latino
0%
Native
American
Pacific
Islander
Some other
race
' 2.6%
Two or more
races
04.7%
White
. Less than 50/o of ■ Less than 100% of ■ Less than 125% of
the poverty level the poverty level the poverty level
Source: American Community Survey, 5-year Estimates:
2020
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►Respondents identified transportation, child care,
poor internet access and a lack of financial
knowledge as key barriers to employment and
moving out of poverty.
Workforce & Economic Well -Being 12
INCOME & CAREER
ADVANCEMENT
THE DATA
►While Dubuque's median household income has
increased over 23% to $54,938 since the previous
Equity Profile, the median household income for
Black households is just $12,068.
FROM THE SURVEY
►"Equitable pay" was identified by 29% of
respondents as the most important issue they face
in Dubuque as it relates to their economic
situation, making it the most frequently chosen
option. Insufficient health and retirement benefits
and career advancement (both 21 %) were the next
most common choices.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►"I don't earn enough on a single income to live in
decent housing. The messages of equity and
inclusion that my employer sends do not always
ring true in actuality."
►In a Spanish -language community conversation,
individuals felt that it was more difficult for them
to advance in their career compared to their white
colleagues.
Median Household Median Earnings by
Income by Race/Ethnicity Gender
City of Dubuque City of Dubuque
All races & $54,938 Male $49,499
ethnicities
Asian $59,659 Female $37,817
Black 1 $12,068*
Latino $60,250
Native $17,452
American
Pacific $34,338
Islander
Some $82.958
other race
Two or $49,423
more races
White $57,063
Source: American Community
Survey, 5-year Estimates, 2020
*2019 data substituted for
missing 2020 data
Source: American
Community Survey, 5-year
Estimates, 2020
Earnings are for full-time,
year-round workers with
earnings.
Themes and comments from conversation attendees
►Gender discrimination —such as different expectations
of how women should act in the workplace — and
ageism are still prevalent.
OP -There are little to no resources and education
opportunities for employers about hiring immigrants.
Suggestion: Focus on earn -and -learn pathways to allow
for development and advancement.
Workforce & Economic Well -Being 13
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STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
THE DATA Students Proficient in Reading
►64% of all Dubuque Community School District Dubuque Community School District
students are reading at grade -level. That number
drops to 46% for students of low socio-economic
status, 32% for Black students, and 11 % for Pacific All students
Islanders.
►Between the 2019 and 2021 school years, the
graduation rate at Dubuque public high schools
dropped from 88.45% to 81.91 %.
►In 2021, the graduation rate was 69.1%for Hispanic
students, 65.9% for students of low socio-economic
status, and 56.1 % for Black students.
FROM THE SURVEY
►95% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that
"Student success in the classroom" was a concern,
making it the No. 1 issue in the survey.
►60% of respondents disagreed or strongly
disagreed with the statement "I am confident our
schools are meeting the needs of students;'
including 69% of parents and 73% of educators who
responded.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►From an educator: "I really worry about the kids I
send on to high school. Most of my students fail a
lot of classes, yet still move on without the skills they
need to succeed"
►"Our school system is doing the best it can with the
limited resources our state legislature gives them"
Asian
Black
Hispanic '
Pacific
Islander
White
Two or more •�
races • •''
Low socio-
economic status
Students with
disabilities
Third -graders
only
2018-2019 2021-2022
Reading proficiency by the end of third grade is a key
indicator of high school graduation and future academic
achievement.
Source: Iowa Dept. of Public Education
Education 15
DIVERSITY
THE DATA
►Nearly one quarter of Dubuque Community School
District students are from minority populations.
►The percentage of students who are Pacific Islanders has
nearly doubled since the previous Equity Profile.
FROM THE SURVEY
►Two-thirds of respondents agreed or strongly agreed
that they had concerns about discrimination in
Dubuque's schools.
00-39% of respondents said they had experienced bias,
discrimination or exclusion in Dubuque related to
preschool and K-12 education or education -related
services. This number jumps to 57% for respondents
who identify as "Hispanic, Latinx or Hispanic Origin" and
100% for parents of children with disabilities.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
No. "We need to improve services and opportunities for
students with disabilities."
No. "I don't think schools understand the needs of students
with diverse backgrounds."
Student Demographics by Race & Ethnicity
Dubuque Community School District
Hispanic
4.8%
Native
Black American Pacific
;�„ 9.7% 0.1% Islander
,vo or
nore
aces
i.9%
Includes pre-K students
Source: Iowa Dept. of Public Education, 2021-2022 school
year
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
THE DATA Income by Education and Gender
No -The average annual earnings for women with a City of Dubuque
bachelor's degree ($41,114) is less than the average
annual earnings for men with only a high school Less than high
diploma ($42,528). school graduate
FROM THE SURVEY
►76% of respondents either strongly agreed or
agreed that their community offers quality higher
education/post-secondary opportunities. However,
respondents with advanced degrees were the most
likely to disagree or strongly disagree (18%).
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
No, "I stayed for college/university here because of the
quality education."
No. "Most of the schools are religious -affiliated, and
since I'm not Christian, I experienced discrimination
during undergraduate years."
High school
graduate
(includes
equivalency)
Some college or
associate's
degree �..
Bachelor's
degree
Graduate or
professional
degree
Male 0 Total Female
Source: American Community Survey, 5-Year
Estimates, 2020
Education 16
STUDENT & TEACHER WELL-BEING
THE DATA Chronic Absentee Rate
►Between the 2018-19 and the 2021-22 school Dubuque Community School District
years, the percentage of students chronically
absent more than doubled from 12.5% to 27.4%. All students = 2018-2019
►During August and September 2022, 419 students
2021-2022
visited the new Brain Health Retreat Rooms at Asian
Hempstead and Dubuque Senior high schools.
FROM THE SURVEY
►80% of parents agreed or strongly agreed that their
children feel a sense of belonging at their schools.
►81.1 % of respondents agreed or strongly agreed
that they had concerns about bullying in school.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►"Teachers have multiple roles outside of their job
description. They need to be compensated
financially for their demanding job."
►"The concept of a neighborhood school for pre-K
and later is important! Ours has buddy groups,
student of the month recognition, events, etc."
Black
Hispanic
Native
American
Pacific
Islander
White
Two or more
races
Low socio-
economic status
Students with
disabilities
Chronic Absenteeism is when a
student misses at least 10% of
school days.
Source: Iowa Dept. of Public
Education
L79.6
Themes and comments from conversation attendees
►Pacific Islander high school students said they feel
misunderstood and that there is lack of connection
between their parents and school administrators.
►In 2015 and today, people expressed the need for
representation of diverse populations among school
staff.
►A cultural shift in how educators are perceived has
caused an exodus of teachers.
►Some attendees indicated that they feel racial
discrimination continues in high schools, both in
peer -to -peer interactions and with educators.
►With technology more prevalent in education, are
teachers properly trained?
Suggestion: Build networks that support the personal
and professional well-being teachers.
Education 17
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HEALTH & CONTRIBUTING
FACTORS
THE DATA
►Dubuque County reported higher rates of heart disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in 2021 than in 2014 (see charts below).
►In Dubuque County, the rate of infection for chlamydia increased by 40% between 2014 and 2021,
while the rate of infection for gonorrhea nearly tripled during that time period.
FROM THE SURVEY
00-61 % of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they had concerns about "Hospitals and Clinics;'
which was one of the lowest rated concerns in the survey. However, this number rose to 100% for
individuals with chronic illnesses that require ongoing accommodations.
00-76% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they receive quality health care from their provider.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►"My first surgeon discounted the severity of my pain for months before I left to find another surgeon. I
believe this was because of my race."
►"Dubuque County Health did a GREAT JOB getting information out during the pandemic. I am proud of
the dedication of local health care leaders"
Percent of Population - Chronic Disease
Dubuque County
2014 02021
1111
COPD Cardiovascular
Disease
1111
Diabetes Heart
Disease
Percent of Population - Contributing Factors
Dubuque County
2014
Binge Not
Drinking Exercising
2021
so M
Overweight Smoking
Source: Iowa Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS): 2014 & 2021
"Percent" refers to rate of response from individuals who completed BRFSS survey and are not
weighted. "Overweight" refers to responents who are overweight or obese, meaning having a
Body Mass Index greater than 25. The COPD number includes chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis.
Health & Wellness 19
BRAIN HEALTH & SUBSTANCE ABUSE
THE DATA Percentage of Population - Depression
►According to the Iowa Behavioral Risk Factor Dubuque County
Surveillance System, approximately 38% of Dubuque
respondents had at least one day in the past 30 with
poor brain health.
FROM THE SURVEY
►The three largest areas of concern identified in the
survey were "Brain (Mental) Health Treatment" (89%
agreed or strongly agreed), "Use of Other
Substances [not alcohol or tobacco]" (89% agreed or
strongly agreed), and "Access to Substance Abuse
Treatment" (81 % agreed or strongly agreed).
►Over 59% of respondents disagreed or strongly
disagreed that it is easy to access brain health
services.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►"My copayments for mental health counseling are so
high that I don't go as often as I'd like because it's
not affordable."
FOOD INSECURITY
■2014 2021
For how many days during the past 30
days was your mental health not good?
Dubuque County
Source: BRFSS: 2014 and 2021. "Percent" refers to rate of
response from individuals who completed BRFSS survey and
are not weighted.
FROM THE SURVEY
►Approximately one -quarter of respondents (24%) disagreed that fresh and healthy food is accessible.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►"Downtown is a food desert, plus the cost of food is increasing."
Food Insecurity Rate and Child Food Insecurity Rate
Dubuque County
Child Food Insecurity Rate 0 Food Insecurity Rate
20%
15%
10%
5%
Source: Map the Meal Gap, 0%
Feeding America, 2013-2020
2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
20
Health & Wellness
AFFORDABILITY & ACCESSIBILITY
THE DATA
►Since the previous Equity Profile,
the percentage of Dubuque's
population that is uninsured fell
from 7.2% to 4.1 %. That includes
a drop of over 10% for the Pacific
Islander population. However, the
percentages of Dubuque's Black and
Latino population that are uninsured
rose by 1.1 % and 6.1 %, respectively.
►The percentage of women in
Dubuque who are uninsured fell
from 6.2% to 2.6% since the last
Equity Profile.
Percent of Uninsured Population by Race & Ethnicity
City of Dubuque
Total
Asian
Black
Latino
Pacific
Islander
Two or more
races
White
Source: American Community Survey, 5-year estimates: 2021. Note: Data for
Native Americans and "Some other race" were not included due to low samples
sizes providing unreliable data.
FROM THE SURVEY
►32.5% of respondents either disagreed or strongly disagreed that it is easy to access health care in
Dubuque. This number rose to two-thirds among all respondents making less than $25,000 a year.
111110-12.5% of respondents disagreed that health care would be accessible to them if they were currently looking
to obtain it.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►"Not all providers take all insurance. For example, those with Medicaid must travel more than an hour to see
a physician who is an OB/GYN."
►"I was shocked by how long it takes to get in for maternity care. No one gets in before second trimester,
including people with miscarriage and prior ectopic who need early confirmation of location."
Themes and comments from conversation attendees
►In 2015 and today, community members experienced
long wait times to access health care.
►The pandemic has worsened low health care personnel
numbers.There is a lack of information about having a
healthy diet.
►More support is needed for addiction services,
especially for inpatient care and detox. There is still a
stigma towards people who get help.
►Many attendees said they feel Dubuque has a limited
number of specialists and doctors.
Suggestion: People need more accessible information
about healthy cooking and budgeting for groceries.
Health & Wellness 21
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AVAILABILITY
THE DATA
Oil -The number of arts, entertainment and recreation
establishments in Dubuque decreased by over 15% since
the previous Equity Profile. However, the number of
"nonemployer" arts offerings has increased, with the
number of independent artists, writers and performers
growing by 30%.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►85% of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that
there are opportunities to attend art events in Dubuque.
►28% of survey respondents disagreed or strongly disagreed
that information about cultural events in Dubuque is
available and accessible. This number jumped to 40%for
respondents 61 and older.
►Survey respondent: "Dubuque 365 is great and most of
these organizations also use Facebook to publicize. People
who say there is'nothing to do' really aren't paying
attention."
Arts, Entertainment and Recreation Establishments
Dubuque Metropolitan Statistical Area
Number of Establishments
75
•
50
25
0
2013 2020
2,000
1,500
1,000
500
0
Paid Employees
2013 2020
$40M
$30M
$20M
$10M
Types of Establishments
Nonemployer, Dubuque Metropolitan Statistical Area
Current Data 0 Previous Profile
Independent of
artists, writers
and
performers '
0 50 100 150 200
Museums,
historical sites
and similar
institutions 11irm
0 1 2 3
Performing
a its
companies •
0 10 20 30
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ECNSVY Nonemployer
Statistics, 2012 and 2019
Annual Payroll
2013 2020
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns, 2013 and 2020
Arts & Culture 23
DIVERSITY
THE DATA
Po -The number of women employed in arts and culture occupations has increased significantly since the
previous profile, with women now making up an estimated two-thirds of all positions. However, median
wages have become much more uneven, with men in arts and culture occupations making, on average,
18% more than women.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►Less than 9% of survey respondents disagreed or strongly disagreed that their cultural traditions and
celebrations are accepted in Dubuque.
►25% of survey respondents said they had experienced bias, discrimination or exclusion in Dubuque related
to arts and/or culture, though several respondents clarified that they had witnessed it but not experienced it
personally.
►Survey respondent: "There needs to be easy access and greater attention to traditions of other cultures
who live among us and around the world. We need to learn about them so we can support and benefit
from the many colors and textures of the patterns of our world."
People Over 16 Employed and Median Earnings for Individuals in Arts, Design,
Entertainment and Media Occupations, by Gender
Dubuque County
Previous Equity Profile (2014) Current Data (2021)
Arts, design,
entertainment,
sports and media
occupations
All Occupations
Arts, design,
entertainment,
sports and media
occupations
Male
Number of People Employed
0 100 200 300 400 500
Median Wage
$0 $1OK $20K $30K $40K $50K
Female
Number of People Employed
Arts, design,
entertainment,
sports and media
occupations
0 200 400 600
Median Wage
All Occupations
Arts, design,
entertainment,
sports and media
occupations
$0 $20K $40K
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 5-Year Estimates for 2014 and 2021
Median Earnings are for the full-time, year-round employed population 16-years-old and over
dl
�n
$60K
Arts & Culture 24
ACCESSIBILITY
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►78% of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that Dubuque offers opportunities to learn about
the traditions of other cultures, with only 17% disagreeing or strongly disagreeing. However, respondents
were divided by income: 40% of those earning less than $50,000 a year disagreed, compared to only 5% for
those making over $50,000.
►77% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that their cultural traditions were accessible and easy for
them to practice in their community.
►Only 16% of all respondents disagreed or strongly disagreed that if they were looking for arts and culture
resources, it would be easy for them to access those resources. However, for respondents with a disability or
chronic condition, that number increased to 43% (compared to 7% for individuals without a disability).
►Survey respondent: "I live downtown, north side. Adults and disabled people here have little access to art
events. I don't drive, and the intersections in the winter are close to impassable."
►Survey respondent: "My exclusion has been class -based. I have attended arts events where I am not 'a
member' and have been treated like an unwelcome guest."
Themes and comments from conversation attendees
►In 2015 and today, community members said Dubuque
needs to offer more diverse cultural events and share
information with diverse audiences.
►When sharing information with young people about
potential careers, such as at career fairs, the arts are
underrepresented.
►Some people do not feel comfortable attending certain
art events because:
o Many events are geared toward families.
o The cost can be prohibitive.
o Minority groups do not feel welcome.
►The shift toward offering more online arts and cultural
events has been successful.
Suggestion: Encourage arts and cultural events in
settings that are accessible to a broad segment of the
population, such as the farmers' market and local
businesses.
Arts & Culture 25
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IS DUBUQUE SAFE?
THE DATA
►While violent crime incidences increased by over 67% since the
previous Equity Profile — due to a rise in domestic and neighbor
disputes — the number of strangers committing violent crimes
actually fell during that time.
►With only 9.7% of violent crime offenders being unknown to their
victim, Dubuque has one of the lowest rates of violent crimes
committed by strangers of comparably sized cities in Iowa. For
example, Davenport's rate is the highest at 26.2%, while Des
Moines' is in the middle at 14.5%.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
OP -Only 7% of survey respondents disagreed that Dubuque is a safe
place to live, and only 11 % disagreed that their neighborhood
was a safe place to live.
00-75% of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they
feel safe when traveling to other neighborhoods in Dubuque.
►43% of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they
had concerns about their personal safety in their neighborhood,
including 50% of women respondents.
►"I have lived in New York and Washington, D.C. There are
unsafe places in those cities. Dubuque is a safe city."
►"I don't live in [the] Central Curve area, but it is not safe at night.
I would not choose to live there."
Number of Violent Crime Incidents per 1,000 People
City of Dubuque
4
3.7
3.7
3.4
3
2.8
2.6
2.3
2.2
2.4
2
0
2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Source: FBI National Incident -Based Reporting System (NIBRS), accessed
through the Crime Data Explorer, 2021 and 2014. U.S. Census Bureau,
American Community survey, 5-Year Estimates for 2021 and 2014
Violent Crime Incidences
Compared to Violent Crime
Offenders Unknown to the Victims
City of Dubuque
2014 2021
250
200
50
0
Number of Violent
Crime Incidences
y
�0
y
0 r
Number of Strangers
Committing Violent
Crimes
Offenders of Violent Crimes by
Relationship to the Victim - 2021
City of Dubuque
Known to Victim MIRelationship Unknown Stranger
Source: FBI National Incident -Based Reporting
System (NIBRS), accessed through the Crime
Data Explorer, 2021 and 2014.
Safe Neighborhoods 27
EMERGENCY RESPONSE &
INTERACTION
THE DATA
►At 69%, Dubuque's clearance rate — the rate at which cases are closed — for violent crimes is the highest
of any similar sized Iowa cities reviewed for this profile and is 22% above the national average.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►82% of survey respondents either disagreed or strongly disagreed that they had concerns about contacting
emergency services, such as EMTs or the fire department.
►While only 11 % of survey respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they had concerns about contacting
the police for service, 22% had concerns about interacting with the police. However, 100% of the
respondents who identified as having lived for more than 20 years in Dubuque disagreed or strongly
disagreed about having concerns around interacting with the police.
00,"1 have concern[s] about inequity in police response and ensuring my fellow community members are safe
when police respond."
►Participants in the community conversations reported they were concerned about calling emergency
services because of the cost of ambulance transport.
Clearance Rate of Violent Crimes by Location
■ 2014 ■ 2021
Dubuque Rapids Bluffs Moines City Moines States*
Source: FBI National Incident-Bsed Reporting System, Accessed Through the Crime Data
Explorer, 2014 and 2021.
For U.S. Data: FBI National Incident -Based Reporting System, Accessed through Crime in the
United States Report, 2014 and 2019.
*2019 data used for U.S. Clearance Rate due to lack of 2021 data.
Safe Neighborhoods 28
VIOLENT CRIMES
THE DATA
No- In Dubuque, Black individuals are 16.5 times more
likely to be identified as an offender in a violent
crime than a white individual. This is down from 45
times more likely during the previous equity profile,
but it remains one of the largest disparities in
similarly sized cities in Iowa.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►37% of survey respondents said they agreed or
strongly agreed that they were concerned about
discrimination as it relates to safe neighborhoods,
while 37% disagreed or strongly disagreed (26%
neither agreed nor disagreed).
►24% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that
they had experienced bias, discrimination or
exclusion in their neighborhood.
►"Dubuque is extremely economically stratified.
Money is the dividing factor. Those residents with
money and financial security live in safer
neighborhoods."
Disparity Between Rate of Black Offenders
and Rate of White Offenders by Location
02014 02021
City of
Dubuque
Iowa
Ames
®
Cedar
Rapids
Council
Bluffs
=Davenport
Des
Moines
®
Iowa City
Sioux City
Waterloo
®
West Des
Moines
Source: FBI National Incident -Based Reporting System (NIBRS),
accessed through the Crime Data Explorer, 2021 and 2014. U.S.
Census Bureau, American Community survey, 5-Year Estimates
for 2021 and 2014. Iowa results are multiplied by the Percent of
the Population covered by agencies reporting to NIBRS (2021:
91 %; 2014: 98%.
Themes and comments from conversation attendees
►In both this year's conversations and 2015s, women
expressed concern for their safety.
►Alcohol use is a growing concern. Attendees
mentioned driving under the influence, especially
downtown, as a specific issue.
Suggestion: Attending events outside your own
neighborhood can help with overcoming stereotypes
and perceptions.
Safe Neighborhoods 29
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MODES OF TRANSPORTATION
THE DATA
►79% of workers living in Dubuque commute to work alone by car, truck or van.
►The percentage of workers living in Dubuque that work from home grew from 3% since the previous Equity
Profile to 8% today.
FROM THE SURVEY
►74% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that bicycle safety is a concern, making it the most
frequently identified concern in the survey.
►55% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that they were concerned about the condition of sidewalks
in their community. This includes 75% of the respondents who identified as Asian, Black or Latino, and
100% of respondents who identified as having a long-term disability.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►"Challenges to finding parking downtown can be a barrier for both visitors
and workers."
Percent of Workers Living in the City of Dubuque that Use the Listed
Means of Transportation to go to Work
truck or van
so
All other means of
transportation*
2014
2021
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey,
5-Year Estimates for 2021 and 2014.
Workers refers to workers aged 16 years and older.
*All other means of transporation
Carpooled - car,
truck or van ,
Worked from
home .,
Walked
Public
transportation
(excluding taxi
Taxi, motorcycle, 1 0.5%
or other means
. 1%
' Bicycle 0.4%
I0.3%
Transportation 31
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Means of Transportation to Work by Race and Ethnicity
City of Dubuque
24% 20% M�W 15% 21% 5% 50QM M 12%
2%- 1%- --1%
17
8% 8% 79%
9% 17N
d
Asian Black Latino Native Other Pacific White
American Race Islander
Previous Current Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey,
Report Report 5-Year Estimates for 2021 and 2014. Only measures workers
Car, truck, or van - drove alone aged 16 years and older. "Other transportation" may include
Car, truck, or van - carpooled taxi, motorcycle, bicycling, walking, or working from home.
Data may be much less reliable for racial and ethnic groups
Public transporation (excluding taxi) with smaller populations.
Other transporation
THE DATA
►In Dubuque, Asian and Black workers are approximately eight times more likely to take public
transportation to work than the population as a whole.
FROM THE SURVEY
►40% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that their community offers quality public
transportation, while 40% disagreed or strongly disagreed. 20% selected "neither agree nor disagree."
►58% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that public transportation routes were a concern, and 53%
agreed or strongly agreed that public transportation hours of operation were a concern. However, only
12.5% believed the cost of public transportation was a concern.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►"Safety on public transit is [my] #1 concern; [1] do not feel safe. [We] need more access points in the city.
Routes do not cover all parts of our city."
Op -"No city buses go to the Key West area. A Table Mound resident needs to walk about 40 minutes (2 miles)
to reach the closest bus stop on South Grandview."
►"[Quality public transportation] seems to be everywhere."
►Survey respondents said a lack of options for college students makes them miss out on community activities
and some internship/work opportunities.
Transportation 32
ACCESSIBILITY &
AFFORDABILITY
THE DATA
►Workers in Dubuque living below 150% of the
poverty level are four more times as likely to use
public transportation as those living at or above
150% of the poverty level.
►7.8% of households in Dubuque have more workers
living in the household than available vehicles. This
is down from 8.5% during the previous Equity Profile.
FROM THE SURVEY
►62.5% of respondents either agreed or strongly
agreed that equal access and opportunities for
people with disabilities was a concern in Dubuque.
►52% of respondents either disagreed or strongly
disagreed with the statement, "If I were looking for
transportation, it would be EASY for me to ACCESS
services." 75% of respondents who identified as
Asian, Black or Latino strongly disagreed with this
statement.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
►Regarding whether Dubuque offers quality public
transportation: "Quality yes, but accessible, no."
►"Do not know how to access public options."
Means of Transporation to Work by
Poverty Level
City of Dubuque
Car, truck, or van - drove alone Other transporation
Car, truck, or van - carpooled Public transporation
(excluding taxi)
—1%
Below 100% of 100% - 149% of At or above 150% of
the poverty level the poverty level the poverty level
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey,
5-Year Estimates for 2021. Only measures workers aged 16
years and older. "Other transportation" may include taxi,
motorcycle, bicycling, walking, or working from home.
Themes and comments from conversation attendees
►Many people are averse to riding the bus due to fear,
anxiety and discomfort. These feelings arise from myths
about and a bad reputation around bus transportation.
►Public transportation should connect with nearby
towns, grocery stores and other centers of activity.
►Current bus schedules aren't convenient for students,
impacting their achievement.
►In 2015 and today, people said the lack of quality
public transportation limits employment options due to
a lack of employment centers within walking distance of
bus routes. Car ownership, which can be an expensive
barrier, is often necessary to access jobs.
►A lack of parking options downtown creates a barrier
for workers and visitors.
Suggestion: Study and adjust bus routes to allow for
more direct and frequent connections with centers of
activity, such as shopping areas, schools and
workplaces. Address issues and perceptions related to
safety on public transportation.
Transportation 33