The Planning Division posted a survey regarding the Agricultural Reserve in June 2014. Links to the survey were provided from the Planning Division/PZB and Palm Beach County websites. In addition, the Planning Division mailed a request to complete the survey to each non-residential property owner of record in the Agricultural Reserve, and to any occupant of these properties where different than the owner. A request was also sent to every homeowners' association in the Agricultural Reserve, identified through Florida Department of State mandatory registry, as well as to numerous individuals and entities who had previously been identified as interested parties for the Agricultural Reserve.

In total, more than 800 requests to complete the survey were mailed. Two-hundred twenty-three survey responses were logged; these were reduced to 215 once some duplicate entries and staff/test entries were removed.

The following statistics summarize the results received:

Using all the information provided in the survey responses (respondent's selected interest, address, etc.), the following participation was determined:

Respondents were asked to provide comments regarding the most important issues or problems to be addressed in the Agricultural Reserve, as well as potential opportunities or solutions. Comments provided could generally be characterized as supporting the continued limitation on development options, or supporting the expansion of development options in the area:

When also considering whether there is a home or business interest in the Agricultural Reserve, the responses were as follows:

The survey asked respondents to identify the most important issues and problems to be addressed in the Agricultural Reserve, and potential opportunities or solutions. Responses addressed a wide range of topics, including many discussed at March 2014 Workshop of the Board of County Commissioners. Topics addressed include:

• Existing and potential agricultural activities in the area, including agri-tourism, marketing of local produce, organic or specialty crops, and education
• Environmental resources including water resources and wildlife habitat
• Potential commercial and non-residential development
• Density and transferrable development rights
• Planned development size requirements
• Preserve area permissible uses
• Purchase of development rights or farmland, use of additional bond issue

Responses received to these questions can be viewed here: PDF of responses.