The results from a recent survey of local residents may help guide Lawrence city commissioners as they attempt to deal with a shortfall in sales tax revenue and plan for future spending.

The survey report released Friday shows that a large majority of Lawrence residents are satisfied with the overall quality of life in the city. The results of the survey, which was conducted by an Olathe firm that contacted nearly 1,200 residents from all parts of Lawrence, specifically reflect a high degree of satisfaction with emergency services, trash services and the city’s parks and recreation system.

Commissioners should not be surprised, however, that only 29 percent of those who expressed an opinion on the survey were satisfied with the city’s maintenance of streets and infrastructure and identified that area, along with traffic flow and congestion management, as top targets for improvement in the next two years.

Earlier this week, commissioners got the unpleasant news that an unexpected dip in local sales tax revenue will leave the city about $1 million short of funding its budget for the current year. That obviously means some priorities will have to be set.

City Manager David Corliss suggested the commission consider saving money by leaving some vacant positions unfilled and perhaps reducing service by the tax-subsidized T. Economizing on salaries seems reasonable, but cutting back on public transportation seems questionable. Interestingly, 17 percent of those responding to the city survey indicated they used public transportation services – a relatively high number that might climb higher as gasoline prices continue to rise.

Commissioner Mike Amyx also recommended holding off on further discussion of a new library and the PLAY recreational proposal at least for next year – another reasonable step. Given the current degree of satisfaction with recreation facilities, the commission also might consider putting on hold the policy passed last year requiring parks within a quarter mile of every residence in Lawrence. Should selling the city-subsidized Eagle Bend Golf Course to a private operator also be considered?

Mayor Sue Hack has indicated she would like commissioners to discuss the sales tax idea at their June goal-setting session. Information that has come out this week should enlighten that discussion.

First, the decline in sales tax revenue should raise a red flag. Despite the fact that some observers contend retail already is overbuilt in Lawrence, sales tax revenue is going down. Unless the city can find a way to entice shoppers from Lawrence and the surrounding area to spend more money here, that doesn’t bode well for funding new projects with sales tax revenue. The tax would produce new revenue, but perhaps not nearly enough to cover all the bases the mayor is proposing.

The survey also indicates clearly that improving the city’s street infrastructure is a high priority for residents. They are far less satisfied with their streets than they are with recreation facilities and other city services. Lawrence already is an attractive community. Now is not the time to extend city “amenities;” it is the time to tighten its belt and focus on taking care of basics.

The public’s priority is clear; commissioners need to listen.