Census
2010
Please help our
town and participate in the U.S. Census!
In March 2010, more than 130 million
addresses will receive a 2010 Census form by mail or hand delivery. The 2010
Census will document the changes in our nation since the last decennial census
in 2000, and tell us how we’ve evolved as a country. Because census data affect
how more than $400 billion in federal funding is distributed to tribal, state
and local governments, the census also will frame the future of our country and
our community for the next 10 years.
During Census 2000, the mail
participation rate was 72 percent as of the April 2000 cut-off. About $85
million is saved for every one percent increase in mail participation. For these
and many other reasons, we must work to encourage everyone’s participation in
the census.
Here’s what you should know about
the 2010 Census:
It’s
easy. One of the shortest census forms in
history, the 2010 Census form asks 10 questions and takes about 10 minutes to
complete. The individual in whose name the housing unit is rented or owned
should complete the form on behalf of every person living there, both relatives
and nonrelatives.
It’s
important. Census data are used to reapportion
seats in Congress and ensure proper district representation in state and local
governments. Information from the census helps determine locations for
child-care and senior centers, new roads, hospitals, schools and community
centers.
It’s
safe. By law, the U.S. Census Bureau
cannot share respondents’ answers with anyone, including other federal agencies
and law enforcement entities. All Census Bureau employees take an oath of
nondisclosure and are sworn for life to protect the confidentiality of the data.
The penalty for unlawful disclosure is a fine of up to $250,000 or imprisonment
of up to five years, or both.
Finally, the most efficient way to
respond to the 2010 Census is to complete the form as soon as it arrives and
return it in the postage-paid return envelope. Census workers will visit
households that do not return forms to take the count in
person.
Jim
Hoffman
Town Supervisor