JACKSON, Wyo. — The Wyoming Business Council (WBC) released the findings from a statewide poll measuring voter attitudes on economic conditions, community growth and development priorities. The results show that investing in programs to retain and attract young people is an important piece of the economy that most Wyoming voters agree on.
The survey was conducted over four days in September and received responses from 514 registered voters. According to a press release from WBC, the results offer a look into the priorities of Wyoming communities across the state, which include supporting the proactive growth of both the economy and the population.
“While residents acknowledge economic headwinds, they are ready to roll up their sleeves and build a stronger future, expecting their local leaders and private sector partners to lead the charge,” the press release stated.
WBC highlighted three areas of the study that respondents found important: 79% of people favor their town or county taking action to grow jobs and expand the economy; nearly 90% believe it is important for local government to invest in programs that retain or attract young people and recent graduates; and 65% support growing their local population to support new economic opportunities and businesses, despite issues that can arise with a larger population.
The poll results, according to WBC, shine a light on an economic future that depends on the resilience of local networks and communities, and their ability to address problems as they emerge. Survey findings state that 39% of respondents believe local government is responsible for development, and 38% say the private sector is responsible. The most important local needs include job opportunities (31%), housing availability (30%) and infrastructure improvements (25%).
While 53% of people feel they have personally benefitted from new businesses in the community, there is still resistance to tax increases. However, 35% of respondents are willing to pay slightly higher taxes to bring in jobs and economic opportunities.
“The WBC views these results not as simple data points, but as an architectural blueprint for Wyoming’s next chapter,” said WBC CEO Josh Dorrell. “Our job is to act as the optimistic architect providing the expertise, resources and connections to help our communities execute their local vision. The passion for growth starts at the grassroots level, and that’s where we’ll continue to invest.”
