A phone survey of 115 business owners and managers in the County of Grande Prairie last November shows that 98.2 per cent of local businesses are satisfied with the County as a place to do business.

“I think the high satisfaction is a testament to the hard work we do at the County to be responsive to the needs of our business community,” said Chris King, Economic Development Manager. “We cannot rest on our laurels, though, and will continue to stay on top of needs and opportunities of local businesses to continue to make this region a place where people want to work and live.”

The highest levels of satisfaction were with the availability of appropriate work-related training, zoning, availability of property for purchase or lease, availability of adequate housing, and the development/building permit process. Skilled labour and issues related to internet and cellular phone reception had the lowest satisfaction rates.

In addition to the phone survey, economic development staff conducted in-person interviews with some of the businesses. This was to provide the County with the opportunity to assist with any expansion plans, and provide support to businesses that may be faced with downsizing or closing.

The plan is for economic development staff to continue to follow-up with individual business owners and managers.

Highlights of the survey can be found at the County's website.