Comp Plan survey is out

The Town Board published a 116-page report on a town-wide survey of demographics, attitudes and preferences that will help to shape the town's future.

The findings, after discussion and analysis, will serve as a basis for updating the Comprehensive Plan, a blueprint for matters such as zoning, water supplies, housing, town services and facilities, retail and other business locations.

The committee asked questions about everything from farming to affordable housing to shopping.

A total of 1,153 surveys were completed. The two largest response groups, by residence, were residents of Old Chatham and Chatham Center. The largest age segment was age 66 and over, comprising over half of all surveys completed. Some 40% of respondents identified as “retired.”

The vast majority of respondents live year-round in Chatham. Some 94% own their homes.

Demographics will require analysis. Demographics of survey respondents don’t match actual demographics for Chatham as measured by the US Census. Survey respondents were older (50% over 66 vs. 13% by census count), more settled in higher-income hamlets than the total population, and more likely to own than to rent.

Even though the population of Chatham is 96% white, survey respondents voiced a high value on diversity and balance. They worried that housing is unaffordable for too many, especially for first-time buyers, seniors and renters.

Even though few respondents had much to do directly with farming, almost half said they live in Chatham because of its rural nature. Some 12% were born here. Over 86% said they expect to live here for many years.

Next step for the survey team and outside consultant Michael Allen, of Regrowth Planning, will be to hold a public meeting, probably in February. After that could come focus groups on key issues.

You can access survey results HERE.

Respondents said they wanted to see more housing that includes small starter homes, single-family homes, senior citizen apartments, and nursing homes.

Respondents said they wanted to see more retail shopping and services, as well as light-industrial and manufacturing, but not in the hamlets.

Solar energy enterprises were strongly favored, as long as they remain residential or agricultural for on-site consumption, or small projects for off-site.

Respondents showed a high degree of openness to improvements in town services and facilities,. Two high priorities were improved broadband service and improved cell phone service.