In an effort to better understand the economic landscape of Linden, the fifth council of the municipality will conduct a comprehensive Household Income Index Survey on October 19 and 20, 2024. This initiative comes in response to the critical need for up-to-date socio-economic data, which the council deems essential for informed decision-making and resource allocation.
According to a press statement from Mayor Sharma Solomon yesterday, despite a formal request to the Bureau of Statistics for the latest National Census data, the council is yet to receive a response. The lack of reliable information has hindered effective governance, leaving local leaders, including those from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC 10), the Linden Chamber of Commerce, and the Region 10 Tourism Association, struggling to create targeted policies and social programmes, the release said.
Recognizing the diversity of socio-economic conditions in Linden, which stem from its industrial history and evolving economic models, the council has prioritised gathering detailed insights into household income, living conditions, and economic challenges, it added. The upcoming survey aims to fill this data gap and provide a clearer picture of residents’ financial realities.
The survey will sample households across all eight constituencies of Linden, targeting 12 households per constituency through systematic sampling methods. This approach ensures a broad representation of the town’s economic conditions. Councillors and stakeholders will actively participate in data collection, utilising both in-person and virtual methods over the two-day period, the release said.
Questionnaires will focus on key socio-economic indicators, including income levels and employment status, it added. The findings will not only support better policy-making and resource allocation but also aid in designing social programs to address income disparities and enhance the quality of life for Linden’s residents.
According to the release, Solomon emphasised the significance of the survey, stating, “By establishing a baseline household income index, we can track trends over time and make necessary policy adjustments. This initiative aligns with national efforts to collect economic data and ensures that Linden’s socio-economic profile is accurately represented at broader levels of governance.”
The release said that although the survey is a preliminary step, its outcomes are expected to play a pivotal role in the equitable development of Linden, aligning local governance efforts with national standards and benchmarks. The council encouraged all eligible households to participate, ensuring that their voices contribute to shaping the future of the municipality.
