Tourism Resident Sentiment Survey

To better understand the perceptions, attitudes, and feelings of residents towards tourism, Regional Tourism Organization 4 (RTO4) conducted a Regional Resident Sentiment Survey in partnership with the Township of Centre Wellington. The resulting survey data will be invaluable in informing future community projects and initiatives. The online questionnaire was used to engage residents throughout the Township, from March 3, 2025, through Sunday, April 6, 2025.

Elora Resident Sentiment Survey Results

Fergus Resident Sentiment Survey Results

The work was generously supported by the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario through the Tourism Growth Program. It was conducted by Bannikin, a southern Ontario-based research firm, with support from destination partners, including Destination Stratford, Huron County Economic Development, and Elora & Fergus Tourism. The survey was focused on engaging residents of Stratford, Bayfield, Elora, and Fergus. Residents in other communities in the region may be the focus of future waves of the survey.

What we Heard

“Tourism keeps our retail business and restaurants viable”
“ My observation is that the boom times promise more opportunities for all of us- residents and visitors. I am proud that visitors agree with us that we are blessed to live in this amazing community”

“tourism should be a considerate and sustainable economic generator in our community, allow it to grow but be strategic in growth so doesn’t negatively impact the community”
“tourists should be paying for parking either directly or indirectly or as a tourist tax like in Niagara falls”

“I’m proud of my community and want to show it off”
“People paid to visit our community – ie influencers are not here to engage the community. They are here for their own self-interests and because they are paid. People who truly want to be here are welcome

“Tourism should not be prioritized over the residents
“Tourism should benefit the residents, and those benefits should be known

“infrastructure improvements are key to expanding tourism locally”
“The lack of infrastructure to accommodate tourists is adding to the pressure on residents in my community”

Contact Information
Phone	5198469691
In writing	Township of Centre Wellington 1 MacDonald Square, Elora, Ontario, Canada, N0B 1S0

5198469691

Township of Centre Wellington
1 MacDonald Square, Elora, Ontario, Canada, N0B 1S0

Tourism Resident Sentiment Survey

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