Chart 1 displays the information for all nine problem areas. The response regarding open space is somewhat at odds with the comments heard at public meetings. High state and local taxes, crime, quality of public schools, the difficulty of getting around without a car are also seen as problems. There are some notable distinctions by respondent characteristics. The cost of housing is seen as a greater problem by those under 30.
Traffic is seen as more of a problem by older people.
Local taxes is deemed very serious by more homeowners than renters. Fully one-third of homeowners think that the difficulty of getting around without a car is a very serious problem, perhaps reflecting their housing locations, where transit or walking to downtown is unavailable or impractical. Older residents also score this as a serious problem. Few people under 30 years of age are concerned about crime. Good jobs are more of a concern among renters and the youngest age group.