Responses roll in for SCU council survey

Southern Cross University researchers have had a good rate of response to the 2005 Lismore resident satisfaction survey and encourage anyone who hasn't returned their survey to do so as soon as possible.

The current study is the second in a series of surveys SCU has done for Lismore City Council to obtain feedback from the community to ensure the council is on track in meeting its objectives for the strategic plan. The first survey conducted in 2003 was instrumental in providing information for the development of the current strategic plan.

University researcher Peter Vitartas said it was a very difficult environment in which to collect information from the public, but the response had been good.

In addition to collecting information on resident's satisfaction with council the study will also assist in furthering an understanding of attitudes toward community involvement. The 2003 study revealed a high level of community involvement among residents through support for charities and community based activities. It is believed higher levels of community involvement leads to stronger and healthier communities.

The Lismore Council is one of a small number of councils in NSW conducting regular satisfaction surveys.

"The project is quite large and collects a great deal of information that will be used by many parts of council," Mr Vitartas said.

An initial report will be provided to council management before the end of the year with additional analysis and reporting continuing into the new year.

Photo caption: Southern Cross University research assistant Ms Debbie Fitzgerald working on data entry of responses to the Lismore City Council resident satisfaction survey