Salem Lakes committee debates final survey text, outreach and how it will feed upcoming strategic plan

The Salem Lakes Economic Development Committee discussed final edits to a community survey and how to distribute it, with members asking for clearer wording on housing options and agreeing to use web and print channels to reach residents. The committee meeting at Village Hall also considered how the survey should relate to a consultant-led strategic plan scheduled this fall.

The discussion matters because the survey will shape which development and services the village studies, and because the committee wants a broad sample before it uses results to guide workshops, fairs and planning work.

Members debated specific question wording and placement. Several speakers urged including an "other/none" option and free-text boxes so respondents can add detail. Sharon Palmeville suggested adding accessory dwelling units as a distinct option, saying simply, "Accessory dwelling units," to illustrate the specific housing type the committee should list. Committee members also recommended spelling out alternative lower‑cost housing types (for example, manufactured…