Perceptions of regional challenges
2007 Perceptions of Regional Challenges by Strathcona County Residents
Executive Summary
A survey of Strathcona County residents was undertaken in November 2007 to obtain perceptions regarding the proposed Regional Board and other regional issues facing the County. A random sample of 400 residents living in Sherwood Park and rural Strathcona were interviewed by telephone. The following information was extracted from the data:
- Local government: 69 per cent were satisfied with the municipal services they received from the local government. A strong 87 per cent of residents wanted Strathcona County to retain its independence as a separate municipality, and 86 per cent wanted the County to continue to deliver municipal services to its residents.
- Awareness of working agreements with other municipalities: 54 per cent believed Strathcona County had working agreements with other municipalities, while 14 per cent felt that this was not the case. The remaining residents weren't sure.
- Potential establishment of a new Regional Board: Several questions were asked after residents were given some background information on the proposed structure and functions of the Regional Board including information on the potential for the Regional Board to assume responsibility for land use planning, transit, policy and emergency services. Overall, almost 74 per cent were opposed to the creation of a new Regional Board, with 55 per cent opposing the Board being funded through municipal tax dollars and 61 per cent opposing the Board's taking over decisions for the delivery of various municipal services. Close to 67 per cent were opposed to a Regional Board having the authority to direct Strathcona County on how to deliver services to residents.
- Revenue sharing: The majority of residents (76 per cent) were opposed to providing local tax revenue to other municipalities to use as those municipalities saw fit. However, 72 per cent of residents were in favor for directing tax dollars to regional projects that benefited residents in the region, including themselves.
- Awareness of regional debates: Overall, 59 per cent of residents were aware to some extent of the ongoing regional debates; only 16 per cent were totally unaware of any such debates. Of those who had some awareness, the majority (88 per cent) rated the County as average (or better) in its representation of its residents in the debates.
In summary, it was clear Strathcona County residents wanted to preserve their local autonomy, accountability, high quality of life and responsibility for decisions affecting their future. The survey results underscore there is a high degree of concern that the Regional Board could impact the achievement of those objectives.
Last updated: Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Page ID: 2141