The results from the Community Connections Survey that was sent out to year-round Vilas County residents in August are posted. Vilas County UW-Extension reports they sent out surveys to nearly 1,100 homes in the county and received about 400 surveys back. The survey was geared towards learning about the changing demographic in the Northwoods, and seeking residents’ input about the county’s economic development. Vilas County Community Resource Development Educator Christopher Starks says a key issue was the importance of broadband internet services in the Northwoods.
“…among employed respondents, 60% said they need reliable internet for their jobs, 24% work from home, and 4% telecommute. Nearly 2/3 of employed respondents are very satisfied or extremely satisfied with their jobs.”
Results show 69% of Vilas County residents use internet on a daily basis, while 40% of those residents are dissatisfied with their internet speeds and reliability. Stark says the survey asked residents to rank programs based on importance, and says broadband internet services was ranked number one of 17 choices.
Business retention and expansion, and youth leadership and development in the Northwoods were also top contenders. To view the full report, visit vilascounty.uwex.edu.
