On the positive side, a slow growth rate means that development can be more easily controlled and working toward a sustainable society is a feasible goal. On the downside, the region could lose legislative influence. Programs to strengthen the diversity of the region and make minorities feel welcome can only serve to enhance the area's social fabric. The region's rate of both child and elder abuse exceeds the state's. The narcotics arrest rate has increased.
Data show improvements in prenatal care and infant mortality rates.
Suicide rates are problematic. Pockets of poverty remain.