The City of Owen Sound has contracted Forum Research to conduct a citizen satisfaction survey.

In a presentation to council tonight, Forum said “This research will benefit the City of Owen Sound when it comes to future planning, initiatives, etc.” The research will enable a “needs assessment” to be conducted, create a demographic profile of the Owen Sound community and provide a baseline for future research, tracking and monitoring of impacts of different initiatives over time.

The “random digit dial” methodology used means that everyone in Owen Sound has an equal chance of being contacted for the approximately 15 minute survey, whether they use a landline or cellphone.

"In addition to the telephone survey, the survey will be available online via an open-link so that anyone in the community has the opportunity to participate in the study if they wish. There are no quotas for online data collection."  Both surveys begin July 12.

Key insights will include perceptions of: general quality of life, Issues facing Owen Sound, inclusivity and accessibility, value for tax dollars and satisfaction with City services, among others.

In the communications section, respondents will be asked about their satisfaction with interactions with City of Owen Sound staff and methods used for contact, and their preferred way to receive communications from the City.

In addition, the survey will be overlaid with demographic data including age, gender, education, racial background, owner / renter and household income.

Together with this year's Canadian Census, Owen Sound council members and candidates in the 2022 election will be well-armed with valuable data as they set and share their priorities for the following four years.

source: Forum research presentation to council