Florence, South Carolina – The City of Florence has started a full study of the housing needs in the area. They are working with Bowen National Research to do a citywide Housing Needs Assessment. The goal of the initiative is to have a comprehensive picture of what housing is like in Florence right now and where the problems are. Officials say the study would look at availability, cost, quality, and demand to assist them make decisions about policies and development in the future.
Bowen National Research is getting feedback from a wide range of people in the community to help develop that picture. Residents, people who commute there every day, neighborhood leaders, and local groups are all being invited to express what they see and experience in the housing market. The idea is simple: gather trustworthy data from the community that can help us come up with useful solutions.
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It’s up to you whether or not you want to participate, and your information will be kept private. The poll focuses on people’s thoughts and experiences, and people can answer as best they can. The final analysis will only show the overall results. There will be no release of individual responses.
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Bowen National Research could reach out to Florence residents in the next few weeks. If someone calls, a research person will help them answer the questions and write down their replies. The phone option is meant to make things easier and get in touch with individuals who might not otherwise take part.
A digital form will be available on the City of Florence website at the end of the month for anybody who would rather do the survey online. When the form gets live, the city will send out a notice. The rules for the online survey are the same as for the phone survey: it is optional, easy to fill out, and completely private.
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City officials are asking residents and other interested parties to take a few minutes to take part. High response rates will make sure that the assessment accurately reflects the situation on the ground, which will make sure that any suggestions are based on what the community needs.
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Questions about the assessment can be directed to Desiree Johnson at [email protected] or to Assistant City Manager Clint Moore at [email protected]. City officials say the results will guide next steps and help determine where new investments, programs, or policy changes can make the most difference.
