Regional Economic Survey Shows Business Optimism Down Slightly

Enlarge image

Credit WAMC

The Plattsburgh North Country Chamber of Commerce released the results of its annual Business Confidence Survey this morning.  While the region’s businesses maintained a high confidence level, the index has dropped a point over last year.

The regional chamber surveys its members on a range of federal, state and regional issues.  It also queries businesses on the level of anticipated activity. This year the survey indicates a 90-percent confidence level. Plattsburgh North Country Chamber President and CEO Garry Douglas explains.

The survey included questions about the federal Affordable Health Care Act. Garry Douglas says that was included because many of the provisions begin to roll out this year.

The chamber’s Garry Douglas notes that while the survey reflects serious concerns at the federal level, the business community is far more optimistic about the state and local economy.

Monaghan Medical Operations Manager Ron Graham, Co-Chair of the chamber’s Government Affairs Division,  is not surprised with the survey results.

Primelink President and General Manager Greg MacConnell says his company expects the region to maintain its growth potential.

The chamber’s electronic survey of 42-hundred businesses in Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton and northern Warren counties was conducted in early February. It had a 10-percent response rate.