Sarasota Earns High Marks in Citizen’s Survey

September 29, 2021 – Sarasota

Residents have again offered high praise for their quality of life in Sarasota County, as shown in the annual Citizen’s Opinion Survey.

The survey, which was conducted through random calls to both landlines and cell phones, measures trust in government, satisfaction with county services and economic growth priorities, among other topics. This year’s survey also included specialty questions including COVID-19 assistance programs, surtax and septic tanks.

This is the 30th opinion survey conducted by the University of South Florida on behalf of Sarasota County. Results are representative of the community’s sentiments of the county’s management of resources, well being, health, and more.

Examples from the survey shows that 95 percent of respondents would recommend Sarasota County as a place to live and raise a family; 96 percent would recommend it as a place to retire; and 90 percent trust county government.

According to County Administrator Jonathan Lewis, the survey is an important tool to gauge the needs of the community and their expectations from the organization.

“The Citizen’s Opinion Survey results are a wealth of information that gives us insights into how we can better serve citizens,” Lewis added. “We appreciate the time of those who have taken the survey to share their thoughts.”

The Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners value the information as it provides the data and historical trends to show a high-level view of the community.

Commission Chairman Alan Maio said the results are also critical to helping the board set their priorities from year to year.

“It gives the board an unbiased and timely look into the needs and concerns of our citizens,” said Maio.

View the survey’s results and the executive summary by visiting these links.

Call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941 861-5000 for additional information or questions.