Happy or Not So Much? EDC will Study Business Owners’ Satisfaction with Wilton Business Environment

In recent months, Wilton’s Economic Development Commission (EDC) has been working on a new initiative to better understand the needs and challenges facing Wilton’s businesses. In assessing their priorities earlier this year, commissioners identified the new initiative as their top priority.

“We want to know how well we are meeting the needs of local companies,” EDC Chair Joe Favarolo said.

To do so, the EDC has been planning to survey owners of Wilton-based businesses, including home-based businesses.

The commission is also interested in understanding work-from-home dynamics — and the degree to which the Town could offer programs, services or amenities that might benefit such workers. Commissioners have discussed potentially conducting a separate survey at a later date, specifically tailored to the needs and wants of residents who work from home.

But for now, the focus is on Wilton’s current base of business owners. EDC member Tom Shimko, who joined the commission in January, has been leading a subcommittee’s effort to craft a cover letter to potential respondents and the survey questionnaire.

At the EDC’s meeting Wednesday night (May 15), commissioners voted to approve the cover letter and questionnaire, pending some agreed-upon minor changes.

Shimko noted the deliberate effort in the cover letter to convey the EDC’s mission and the survey’s purpose. As stated in the letter to business owners:

“Your insights and feedback are invaluable as we strive to enhance Wilton’s business environment and support local enterprises….

Formed in 2012, the mission of Wilton’s Economic Development Commission is to enhance Wilton’s reputation as a community where the quality of life for residents, professionals and workers make Wilton the ‘first choice’ to start a new business, to relocate an existing business, or for current businesses to remain and flourish…

Your perspective as a business owner or stakeholder is crucial in shaping the future direction of economic development initiatives in Wilton. By sharing your experiences, challenges, and suggestions, you contribute to the ongoing efforts to foster a thriving business community.”

“That sets up the EDC’s intention with the survey so they [respondents] know who we are and what our mission is,” Shimko said.

Commissioners estimate the survey will take about 10 minutes to complete. Respondents have the opportunity to offer open-ended responses to some questions and may remain anonymous if they choose.

As next steps, commissioners will approach First Selectman Toni Boucher for approval, and begin programming on the Town’s SurveyMonkey account.

The EDC plans to promote participation in the survey in a variety ways, including via the Wilton Chamber of Commerce, social media, the Town website, and direct outreach to local businesses.

The EDC’s next meeting is June 12.