Community Survey Results
The Stevens FORWARD! Stewards have led the effort toward the destiny for Stevens County. As part of that effort we have listened and learned about the county and have thought about the future of Stevens County. A perception survey was offered to all the residents of Stevens County in an attempt to reflect in our destiny the hopes and dreams of our county residents
Over five hundred people took the time to give their input. In all 590 persons were surveyed, the demographics of the survey were:
84% people worked in Morris
52% lived outside of Morris (48% lived in Morris)
58% male and 42% female
Age groups ranges: Boomers 30%, K 12 26%, Gen X 22%)
Income ranges: 30% (50-74 K), 23% (25-39 K)
- There is a sense of hopefulness in the community.
Nearly 60% of survey respondents expressed satisfaction with the quality of life in Stevens County, compared to less than 7% who expressed dissatisfaction. In addition, there is hopefulness for the future as 50% say the quality of life will be better in five years, while only 18% predicted it will be worse.
This is just an example, as far more people consistently predicted better times in five years than those who expected worse times ahead.
- This does not suggest respondents didn’t have concerns about the future.
The survey consistently revealed areas of concern for respondents. Among the areas that people are concerned about are:
- The physical appearance of the community (66% concerned)
- The vitality of the community (57% concerned)
- Drug abuse (49% concerned)
- Obesity (55% concerned)
- Economic opportunities
- Education is clearly seen as a strength by most community members.
Respondents are generally very satisfied with the educational system in the community. Only 15% of respondents are concerned about the education and learning choices in the community. Even less (13%) are dissatisfied with the quality of the education in the community.
- People believe Stevens County is a great place to raise a family and they are proud to live in the community.
Respondents overwhelmingly found Stevens County as a great place to raise a family (less than 7% disagreed). In addition, respondents are proud of their community (less than 15% disagreed).
- There are some concerns about two key areas: leadership and vision.
Less than one in three respondents felt area leaders worked well together. Even worse, only 20% believe the community has a clear vision for its future. This makes a very strong case for the need for Stevens Forward!
The future for Stevens County is bright. The people of the county believe there are good times ahead. Now is the time to harness our potential and create our future. Roll out of the Stevens FORWARD! Destiny is scheduled for October 14, 2008.
For more information about Stevens FORWARD! contact Carolyn Peterson at 320 585 6700 or speak to any of the Stevens FORWARD! Stewards.
Warrenn Anderson
Angela Berlinger
Darron Carr
Laura Lou Delehanty
Ray Farwell
Brad Fehr
Dick Felstul
Greg Fynboh
Marcia Greiner
Darick Huebner
Jacquie Johnson
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Roger McCannon
Paul McDonald
Samantha Lemmerman
Sal Monteagudo
Carolyn Peterson (Coordinator)
Ann Streed
Ray Suess
Jim Thoreen
Paul Watzke (Chair)
Wayne Westerman
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