Buffalo Grove draws high marks in resident survey

Buffalo Grove residents are increasingly satisfied with their village government, according to results from a comprehensive community survey conducted earlier this year.

The village commissioned Polco in 2020 to conduct two surveys at a cost of $25,000. The first study was conducted in 2021, while the latest was held between April and May.

This year, Polco surveyed 3,000 randomly selected households, receiving 349 responses. The survey measured resident opinions across 10 key areas of community life, from safety and utilities to parks and economic development. It compared the results not only to its 2021 survey, but also to national benchmarks from its other surveys.

Results shared at Monday’s village board meeting showed notable improvements in residents' trust in village leadership. Confidence in village government jumped to 70% from 58% in 2021, while 76% of residents now view Buffalo Grove's overall direction positively, up from 60%. The percentage of residents who feel the village welcomes their involvement increased dramatically from 48% to 70%.

Economic optimism also grew significantly. Eighty-one percent of residents now rate the village's economic health as excellent or good, compared to 68% four years ago. Economic development satisfaction rose from 50% to 63%.

However, the survey revealed some challenges. Transportation system quality ratings declined from 64% to 54%, and public transportation ease dropped from 38% to 23%. Housing affordability concerns also increased, with satisfaction falling from 49% to 38%.

Yet, Buffalo Grove continues to outperform national benchmarks in safety, economy, and utilities, the survey showed.

“These results are just incredible,” said Trustee Joanne Johnson. “I think it shows that our residents like the direction that the village is going in.”

She credited staff and noted hard decisions made by the board over the last 10 years have paid off.