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2025 BFCOG Community Economic Development Strategy SWOT Survey

Every five years, the Economic Development Administration (EDA) requires the development of a regional plan, the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). The CEDS document serves as a framework for creating economic goals from a regional perspective. It is strategy-driven, collaboratively developed, and locally implemented. The information provided within the CEDS assists local decision makers in obtaining Federal funding for projects, setting investment priorities, and aligns public and private investment goals.
1.Which Benton-Franklin community do you live in?(Required.)
2.For how long have you lived in the Benton-Franklin region?(Required.)
3.How optimistic do you feel about the direction our economy is heading?(Required.)
Not optimistic at all
Generally not optimistic
Somewhat optimistic
Very optimistic
4.What do you believe are the Benton-Franklin region’s economic strengths? (select all that apply)
5.What are the Benton-Franklin Region’s Top 5 greatest economic challenges?(Required.)
6.What should our region’s general economic priorities be?
Low
Medium
High
Strengthen existing economic assets
Recruit new businesses to the region
Support/Expand existing businesses
Expand and enhance infrastructure
Address equity and inclusion
Raise income levels (living wages)
Engage municipal governments in economic development
Make education more accessible
Invest in renewable energy technologies
Diversify the economic base
Improve quality of life/community
7.What specific economic opportunities should the Benton-Franklin region prioritize for future economic growth? (select all that apply)(Required.)
8.What would make the Benton-Franklin region more attractive for business and industry? (select all that apply)(Required.)
9.How would you rate the overall quality of life in the region?(Required.)
Low Quality of Life
Neither High nor Low
High Quality of Life
10.What potential threats or risks do you believe could adversely impact the region’s economic future? (select all that apply)(Required.)
11.What would you want to preserve in the community, no matter what?
12.What role should local government and public agencies play in promoting economic development for the region?
13.Anything else you would like to add or expand upon?