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County urged to address growth

A survey finds improved social services, preservation of open space and affordable housing lead priority lists.

By TAMARA EL-KHOURY
Published December 14, 2005

Most residents believe improved social services, preservation of open space and resolving the lack of affordable housing in Pinellas County should be the county's biggest priorities.

A countywide survey released Tuesday found that 74 percent of the respondents are concerned about affordable housing, an issue that wasn't even addressed in the last survey taken in 2003.

The county's building boom, coupled with skyrocketing home values, were a hot topic for the 829 registered voters in Pinellas County surveyed by phone between October 27 and November 30. Ninety-four percent agreed that the County Commission needs to preserve open space and manage its growth.

"We are practically built out, and I think people realize if we don't do something about it now, we will have lost our opportunity," said Laura Berkowitz, senior research manager for economic development.

Respondents were asked questions that focused on issues being considered for the county's strategic plan.

The survey was conducted by the county with the help of Oppenheim Research and Arrington and Marlowe Consulting. The survey cost about $28,000.

Ken Welch, the County Commission's vice chairman, said he expected public safety and preserving green space to top the list of citizen's concerns. He was encouraged that most respondents wanted the county to become more involved in providing affordable housing. About 77 percent of the respondents feel the issue of affordable housing is important enough that the county government should help.

"It's always good to hear from our bosses," Welch said. "We've been given our marching orders."

Respondents rated the county poorly on its ability to spend tax dollars well, with 48 percent giving the county fair or poor ratings. Respondents were also split on raising property taxes to fund the suggestions.

The survey also found public safety services, protecting the environment, more high-paying jobs and access to health care for the uninsured also emerged as high priority issues.

One of the survey's purposes was to provide feedback to the Board of County Commissioners, said county spokeswoman Marcia Crawley. She said the findings have validated the board's priorities.

"The issues they're tackling are right in line with what citizens are concerned about," she said.

72 percent said current traffic flow was either fair or poor.

63 percent want to improve the timing of traffic signals in the county.

80 percent would support a 1-cent restaurant food and beverage sales tax to fund resources for the homeless.

90 percent said the county should encourage redevelopment of deteriorating neighborhoods.

[Last modified December 14, 2005, 00:15:15]