For over six weeks, from mid-December to the end of January, community members from 100 Mile House and at least eight other local communities responded to the 100 Mile House Economic Development Survey. By the deadline, 414 local residents had responded to the survey.
“We were thrilled with the number of responses” said Joanne Doddridge, Director of Economic Development and Planning, “for the size of our population this number of responses is really good. There were enough responses that we started to see major themes within the comments and this helps us determine what the priorities of the community are.”
District of 100 Mile House Mayor Mitch Campsall noted “This is another example where the community stepped up and showed us how passionate and caring people in 100 Mile House and the South Cariboo really are. 2020 and 2021 have been uncertain times for many people and we appreciate so many residents and businesses taking the time to tell us about their experiences and their opinions on community matters.”
While 20% of the responses came from 100 Mile House, the balance of the responses came from other South Cariboo communities, such as: Lac La Hache, 103/105 Mile House, 108 Mile Ranch, Horse Lake, Canim Lake, Interlakes, Lone Butte, Forest Grove, and down to 70 Mile House.
Despite the sub-regional focus of the survey there was similarity in why people chose to live here, with the top three reasons being (1) quality of life; (2) grew up in the region; and (3) affordable cost of living. Survey responses said 43% have lived in the community for more than 15 years and 21% have been here for less than three years.
The survey also provided a quick snapshot of the business community:
- 21.5% of respondents own a business in 100 Mile House, with 52.5% servicing a local client base;
- 41% of the businesses are home-based;
- 34% of respondents have thought about starting a business but lack start up funds.
The Economic Development Survey was an opportunity for residents to provide their feedback on a range of questions. As 100 Mile House provides services for a population much greater than just the town residents, having specific survey feedback from neighbouring South Cariboo communities helps to provide a broad picture of where the needs are for 100 Mile House.
The District has now completed a number of steps towards updating the Economic Development Strategy. With an expected completion date of May 2021, work continues on building an inclusive and effective economic development program. Additional information and opportunities for the community to participate in development of long-term goals and diversification opportunities will continue until the completion date.
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