Yesterday, the Better Pensacola Forum has released its first Quality of Life survey that was conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Research of Washington, D.C. The managing trustee of the non-profit, Jerry Maygarden, says, “The numbers are worrisome. Some people may be surprised by the depth and breadth of citizen disappointment in local leadership, the economy and the prospects for a better future. It borders on despair.”
The survey confirms what the Independent News has been writing about for months. People are disappointed with the direction in which the community is moving. I think the August 26 primary further proves that point with so many incumbents losing.
The executive summary of the survey points out:
– Voters are concerned about job security and the county’s general economic health. They don’t see it improving in the near term.
– A number of core quality of life indicators (schools, safety, traffic, etc.) got low marks.
– A substantial number don’t believe this is a good place for young people, recent college grads, entrepreneurs or minorities.
– A disturbing number report young adult family members are likely to leave the area in the next five years.
– A majority support the Community Maritime Park and Consolidation.