Economy

If respondents in this study are unhappy with anything that affects their quality of life, it would have to be economic issues. Taxes have been a magnet for complaint since they were first introduced in this country in 1913. They are no more welcome today. More than half (52%) of state residents are dissatisfied with the amount they pay in property taxes and state income taxes. Moreover, almost half (48%) of these respondents are dissatisfied with the services they receive for the state taxes they pay. State sales taxes are slightly more palatable, with 57% reporting satisfaction with the amount they pay.

The state’s municipalities fare better when it comes to providing value for the tax dollars assessed. More than eight respondents in ten are satisfied with the services they receive for their fire and police protection dollars (85% and 83%, respectively). Almost three out of four respondents are satisfied with the services they get for their garbage pick-up and snow removal dollars. Sixty-one percent are satisfied with their street and sewer maintenance dollars.

Jobs are another economic issue that dramatically affects the quality of life in Wisconsin. Along with taxes, this is a topic that generates concerns, and respondents in this survey share several. Nine out of ten people who rated their jobs reported that they are very or somewhat satisfied in their work and 78% are satisfied with their current income. The vast majority of respondents (87%) express satisfaction that their jobs are secure.

Still, people see the job situation in Wisconsin as problematic. Less than half of respondents (43%) say they are satisfied with the availability of good jobs that pay well in their communities. Half of renters and 18- to 29-year-olds are dissatisfied. Likewise, only 45% of respondents are satisfied with the available career opportunities. People with less than a high school education see the fewest career options (41% satisfied), but college graduates also find careers lacking (52% satisfied).

This problem is likely to persist for the next generation. Just over half (57%) of respondents say they are satisfied that jobs or careers will be available for the next generation.

In this environment of less-than-optimum opportunities, evidence here suggests significant churn in the workplace. Currently, 43% of workers have held the jobs for five years or less. One employee in five reports having plans to change jobs within the next two years. Almost half of employees (46%) work for companies with 50 employees or less.


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