Leadership Studies Ed.D. Dissertations

Equity Preferences and Service Delivery in Metroparks of the Toledo Area

Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Department

Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Patrick Pauken (Advisor)

Second Advisor

Laura Landry-Meyer (Other)

Third Advisor

Paul Johnson (Committee Member)

Fourth Advisor

Shannon Orr (Committee Member)

Fifth Advisor

Timothy Schetter (Committee Member)

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between equity preferences and trust, select demographic variables, and support for levies. Data were collected from two surveys: Park Visitor Perceptions Survey (PVPS) and the Staff Perceptions Survey (SPS). The PVPS was sent to 5,500 Lucas County registered voters, with a response rate of six percent. The SPS was sent to 32 professionals with a 100% response rate.

Research question one asked: Are there significant differences between Lucas County registered voter’s equity preferences and park and recreation professionals’ equity preferences? Results showed there were significant differences between the equity preferences of the two samples: staff and visitor compensatory preference, taxes paid, direct price, and efficiency. Research question two asked if there is a significant relationship between Lucas County registered voters’ equity preferences and the service delivery strategies of park and recreational professionals. Results indicated a significant relationship between equity preferences and all delivery strategies.

Question three asked if there is a significant relationship between the equity preference of professional judgment and trust in park and recreational professionals. Results indicated a significant relationship between professional judgment and the trust variables of interest, capability, carries out, expertise, well-being, and sincerity. Question four asked whether the equity preferences of voters have a significant relationship to their support for park and recreation levies. The results indicated there was a predictive value for equity preferences in voter support for levies. Research question five asked if the demographic data of demonstrated use, gender, and residence predict support for park and recreation levies. Results indicated that gender and household type have a predictive value on support for an increased levy millage. The variable of gender could predict support for a renewal levy.

This study can be used to help park and recreation professionals understand the service delivery strategies they use and how their constituents perceive those decisions. If the chosen delivery strategy differs significantly from how voters want their services allocated, this could have negative consequences on the organization during election time. This study can help identify potential sources of conflict before they arise at a critical juncture.

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