What is a Needs Assessment used for in local government?

A Needs Assessment in local government serves as a foundational tool to identify and evaluate the community's current and future needs. It is primarily focused on understanding what the public requires from government services and programs, which often includes gauging changing public opinions. This type of assessment allows officials to gather data on the priorities and preferences of residents, ensuring that government actions align with community expectations.

Through a Needs Assessment, local government can better tailor its resources, services, and policy initiatives to meet identified needs. Public engagement during this process can provide insights into emerging issues or shifts in community sentiment, making it essential for responsive governance. By accurately gauging public opinions, local governments can enhance their effectiveness and accountability to the citizens they serve.

While the other choices touch on aspects related to local government functions, they do not capture the primary focus and purpose of a Needs Assessment as effectively as the correct answer. For instance, illustrating levels of service delivery pertains more to measuring performance rather than directly assessing needs. Managing public information involves communication strategies rather than evaluating needs. Creating bond referendums relates to financing and funding measures based on needs identified through other assessments, but it is not the primary purpose of a Needs Assessment itself.