Stafford County's 2024 Community Survey results revealed significant insights into resident satisfaction and priorities, with a notable increase in positive perceptions of the local economy. During a recent Board of Supervisors meeting, Andrew Spence, the Chief Director of Information Technology, introduced the survey, which aimed to gauge public opinion on various county services and benchmark Stafford against other communities nationwide.

Conducted from March 1 to April 12, the survey received responses from 469 randomly selected households, alongside an additional 617 responses from an open online survey, yielding a total of approximately 1,086 responses. This data provides a comprehensive view of community sentiment, despite concerns raised about the sample size relative to the county's population of over 60,000 residents.

Key findings highlighted that 36% of residents now feel positively about the economic impact on their income over the next six months, a dramatic increase from just 9% in 2022. Additionally, feelings of safety in the community improved, with 80% of respondents expressing confidence in their safety from various threats, including natural disasters and crime.

However, the survey also identified areas of concern, particularly in health services. Ratings for affordable healthcare and preventative services declined, reflecting a nationwide trend regarding affordability in healthcare and living costs. Education and arts and culture were also noted as lower-performing areas compared to national benchmarks.

Board members engaged in a robust discussion following the presentation, questioning the survey's methodology and the implications of the results. Some expressed skepticism about the representativeness of the sample size, while others emphasized the importance of addressing the community's needs for affordable housing and healthcare.

The survey results will play a crucial role in shaping Stafford County's strategic planning and budgeting processes, ensuring that community feedback informs future initiatives. As the county prepares for its next steps, the insights gained from this survey will be pivotal in addressing resident concerns and enhancing overall quality of life in Stafford County.