Roseburg businesses unite for downtown survey to address local challenges

During the recent Roseburg Economic Development Commission meeting on January 23, 2025, community members voiced their concerns about the state of downtown Roseburg and the support local businesses receive from the city. A resident, who has lived in the area for 75 years, shared insights from a grassroots survey conducted among 44 local businesses, highlighting significant challenges faced by the downtown area.

The survey revealed that many business owners feel unsupported by the city. Only 22% of respondents believe the city has adequately addressed their needs, while a staggering 78% feel that city officials have not engaged with them to understand how to foster their success. This sentiment reflects a broader concern about the city’s role in promoting economic growth and addressing local issues.

Key findings from the survey included that 50% of business owners reported their businesses have not grown as much as they would like, and 94% indicated that the local homeless population negatively impacts their operations. Additionally, 83% of respondents do not believe the city is doing enough to promote itself, and 94% feel there is a drug problem in downtown Roseburg.

The survey also highlighted a disconnect between the community's needs and the city council's actions. Only 11% of respondents rated the council's performance positively, with many expressing frustration over the lack of visible police presence and action regarding homelessness and safety in the downtown area.

The resident emphasized the importance of community engagement and urged city officials to prioritize local concerns over national political issues. The results of this survey will be presented at an upcoming economic forum, aiming to spark dialogue and action to revitalize downtown Roseburg and better support its businesses.

As the city grapples with these pressing issues, the meeting underscored the need for a collaborative approach to ensure that Roseburg's downtown can thrive, reflecting the community's commitment to its economic and social well-being.