Economic Development Survey Findings

In partnership with… 2

Survey Overview Chamber’s Economic Alliance Council conducted first survey in respondents representing residents, businesses and government officials/staff Conducted follow up survey in 2014 to: Assess current sentiments about economic development Track how opinions have changed Reach more residents  803 respondents Share findings of survey with local gov’t, partners, clubs & organizations 3

2014 Demographics 4

Survey Findings 5

1. How familiar are you with economic development efforts? 6

2. What are the most important components of economic development? 7 96% 91% 84%

3. What results would you like to see from economic development? 8

Desired Results Remain Consistent 2012 Lower unemployment More career opportunities Lower taxes Improve performance of local businesses 2014 Lower unemployment Recruitment of new businesses More career opportunities Improved education and career training 9

4. What concerns, if any, do you have about economic development? 10

11 5. How satisfied are you with economic development efforts?

6. Where should we invest to drive economic growth? 12

7. I feel that economic development is important to my community % agree that economic development is important

Findings 99% agreed that economic development is important to Flagler County 83% of those surveyed were familiar with economic development efforts Significant progress has been made in satisfaction from 19% in ‘12 to 27% in ‘14 Dissatisfaction has declined from 70% to 21% Most important priorities and desired results have remained consistent Increasing the number of residents surveyed provided greater insight about economic development concerns Respondents support efforts to bring in established businesses and to encourage entrepreneurism 14

Where do we go from here? Continue collaboration with EOAC and other partners Promote successes and raise visibility about economic development efforts Create opportunities to educate and build awareness Conduct follow up survey in 2016 to measure progress and changes in perception 15

16 Thank you!