In 2000, the population in Benton County was 17,180. In 2005, the estimated population was 18,854. From 2000-2005, the population grew 9.7%, making it the ninth fastest growing county in Missouri.  That growth is due primarily to the large influx of retirees to the natural beauty of the area.

This growth in older residents can also be quantified.  Benton County has the second highest aging population of 65 and older in Missouri (30 percent). The median age for residents is 45.6 compared to 37.4 for Missouri.
Harbor Village was conceived in response to a real community need that clearly called for a better plan for seamless integration of nutrition, social, primary and behavioral health services. The critical need  population is adults, with an emphasis on older adults (65+).

The current senior center leases space in an old supermarket, and is barely 1,000 square feet.  All meals are prepared and brought in from a senior center located 37 miles away (74 miles round trip).  The maximum capacity at the current facility is 50 for congregate meals and activities are very limited due to the severe space restrictions.  Now more than ever, there is demand for meals, with much of this increase being attributed to the poor state of the national economy.

The current community health center shares a 5,000 square foot facility with the regional behavioral health provider. This facility has only two exam rooms and no dental facilities. Benton County has a shortage of physicians, dentists and mental health professionals.  The County has a high incidence of chronic disease including lung disease, diabetes, heart disease.   Both factors indicate a need for expanded health services, especially for the underserved an under insured populations.