Community Survey Cites Strong LLNL Support

LIVERMORE, CA - The Department of Energy’s Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is seen as an important economic resource to the immediate community one that is safe, well managed, protects its national secrets, and is largely supported by its surrounding communities, according to a recent survey.

The survey was conducted in January 2000 by Charlton Research Company in Walnut Creek. Approximately 600 residents of Livermore, Pleasanton, Tracy, Manteca and San Jose participated. The survey excluded people who work at LLNL, Sandia, the Department of Energy and University of California, or their close relatives. The margin of error was 4 percent.

LLNL has conducted a community survey on four occasions in the past ten years to gauge public opinion and help guide the communications efforts of the lab. Each time, the survey has been conducted by Charlton Research. The latest survey results show that lab is well regarded by local residents.

"The Lab is seen as a good neighbor and the community holds the Laboratory in high regard," said Natasha Stein from Charlton Research Company. Stein said the Lab’s affiliation with the University of California contributes to that good standing, making the Lab "known best for its scientific research and the revenue its employees put into the community, rather than what headlines portray."

When asked for a general opinion of the Lab, more than 61 percent felt positive, compared to 48 percent in 1998.

"We’re very pleased about the favorable view of the Lab," said Executive Officer Ron Cochran. "But we are always looking for ways we can improve our standing in the community."

The survey results also indicate that the Laboratory is perceived as a safe facility and one that protects the national secrets. The survey also found that 80 percent of those questioned believe the Lab is an important resource for the country, 76 percent believe it is a vital economic resource to the community, and 51 percent believe the Lab is well managed.