EDC gains insight through survey

A few months ago the Thermopolis-Hot Springs County Economic Development Company (EDC) set up a survey for people to share their thoughts on the county strengths and challenges, as well as items such as where they do their shopping and receive services such as medical and dental.

Amanda Moeller, CEO for the EDC, said she hasn’t had time to really collate the information, but some of it stands out on its own. There were a total 101 respondents for the survey, though it allowed for people to skip questionss if they chose. Moeller noted about 92 percent of all respondents believe Hot Springs State Park is a strength for the county.

Moeller said, with regard to this particular question, people could put more than one answer. Additional percentage results were: Big Horn River — 85.15, Small town feeling — 79.21, Natural environment — 62.38, Boysen Reservoir — 55.45, Affordable place to live — 39.6, Historical society — 22.77, Lively downtown — 16.83 and Historic homes and buildings — 14.85.

Moeller pointed out there were a lot of responses with regard to the growing arts program, and many were in favor of the hospital and tourism.

As for challenges facing the community, Moeller said the highest percentage was for “Difficult for young people to remain in town, lack of opportunity,” at 84.16 percent. Moeller said it’s important to note that’s the number one thing, for whatever reason, be it lack of daycare, the cost of food and fuel or other causes.

Much like the question about community strengths, respondents could select more than one answer.

Other percentages were: Small population/market share for growing a retail or business base — 54.46, Lack of public transportation — 30.69, Deteriorating roadways and public infrastructure — 29.70, Lack of new houses being built — 26.73, Need for affordable senior housing — 22.77, Cost of solid waste removal — 14.85, Unsafe pedestrian or bicycle conditions — 11.88, and Tax burden disproportionately on residential base — 9.9.

Some of the responses might be surprising, Moeller said, further explaining that many people choose to spend their money in town and use local services. It’s a myth that people want to go out of town to do their shopping, she said. According to the survey, over 60 percent of people shop locally, and about 14 percent do their shopping online, which is a big competitor. In the same vein, over 70 percent of the respondents receive most of their services here in town.

Though many would like to see improvement to current businesses, the survey also asked what other businesses they would like to see come in. Moeller said a dry cleaner is right up there. Other respondents stated they are disappointed due to a lack of a convention center or a full service restaurant. As for businesses people don’t want to see in town, Moeller said adult entertainment and gambling establishments are high on the list. Others brought up the point that some competition would be good, and were very open to new businesses coming in.

As for obstacles that might keep those businesses from coming in, Moeller said it seems many believe local government and the resistance to change putting up the big roadblocks; additionally, she said, there is a small market here and not a lot of people.

Concerning the responses with regard to local government, Moeller said if people are not happy with what their local government is doing they can certainly change things by electing others. She called for people to educate themselves more on the candidates.

Moeller was happy and excited to see that about nine percent of the people who responded are retired, and that most of the respondents are people who work in Thermopolis, with an average age of about 30. Also, nearly 80 percent own their home. These people responding, Moeller said, have been here a long time and want to see some positive movement in the community.

The survey results will be used in the development of a strategic plan for the future. Moeller explained the EDC is interested in working with the Town and County to develop an economic strategy plan within the next year. The results also show there is some room for improvement, she said, and that’s OK.

Of all the questions, Moeller pointed out “What makes Hot Springs County a good place to do business?” The majority of responses show it’s the people who make the difference.

The full survey results are available online at http://www.thermopolisedc.com. Those with any thoughts, ideas or strategic input, or who are interested in being on the EDC, are encouraged to contact Moeller at 864-2348, or via email at thermopolisedc@rtconnect.com.