WCJ: Local supes encourage Census participation

From the Winston County Journal in Louisville...

Supes encourage participation in 2010 census

Taken every 10 years, the census affects political representation and directs the allocation of billions of dollars in government funding. For these reasons, the Winston County Board of Supervisors hopes Winston Countians will find ways to support and will fill out the census data when they receive it.

Supervisor Lamar Turnipseed remarked at the June 1 meeting that it is important for Winston Countians to participate in the 2010 Census for the good of the county.

"Our county will miss out on important funding and programs if we are not properly counted," said Turnipseed.

Diann Chapman of the U.S. Census Bureau spoke to the board at the June 1 meeting to review the importance of the census and to encourage the board members to set up Complete Count Committee in each district.

Chapman noted that every year, more than $300 billion in federal funds is awarded to states and communities based on census data. That's more than $3 trillion over a 10-year period.

Census data guide local decision-makers in important community planning efforts, including where to build new roads.

She asked that the board appoint several 2010 Census partners in each district to help educate the community about the importance of participating in this historic event and help ensure no one is left uncounted.

"These persons can help your community receive the fiscal and social benefits to which it is entitled," said Chapman. "We need as many respondents as possible."

Anyone interested in joining the Complete Count Committee may contact their District Supervisor or Chancery Clerk Pam Reel.

The Census data also determines how many seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives. The forms to be mailed out will include only about 10 questions. The Census Bureau has had persons in the area verifying address to help insure all citizens receive a census form.

Chapman explained to the supervisors that no one should be afraid to fillout the form since it does not share the forms with any other government agencies.

"We just want an accurate count," said Chapman.