News – Sheridan Media
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Serving as the Cowboy State’s economic development agency, the Wyoming Business Council works to support local leaders, businesses and communities as they build strong, sustainable economies through programs, resources and partnerships.
The long-held belief that Wyoming residents do not want population or economic growth has persisted for decades, leading many to assume it as an unchanging truth. Recently, the WBC set out to test that assumption by gathering direct feedback from residents across the state.
WBC Chief Executive Officer Josh Dorrell said as they traveled from town to town in search of what each community needs to spur economic growth, they kept hearing the same thing, people don’t want Wyoming to grow.
J. Dorrell
To conduct such a survey, the WBC turned to the Tarrance Group, a prominent polling and strategic research firm known for its expertise in public opinion analysis and campaign strategy since it was established in 1977.
J. Dorrell
Dorrell said providing local leaders and residents with accurate data about how most Wyoming residents feel about growth can help build confidence and support for economic development initiatives and infrastructure projects.
Survey results showed nearly three-fourths of respondents (73%) support a future in which people and businesses move into Wyoming, bringing new jobs, services and opportunities, while also acknowledging challenges such as increased traffic, housing development and shifts in community dynamics. According to the WBC, approximately 80% of respondents favor their local community taking strong action to grow its economy and job market.
Several findings stood out to Dorrell and his team at the WBC, including one result that came as a surprise.
J. Dorrell
Among residents surveyed, more than half (53%) said their children, grandchildren or other family members have left Wyoming for job or career opportunities.
Find a link to the results of the survey by clicking here.
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Last modified: December 23, 2025