Census participation leads to stronger city, officials say
Count determines federal funding for roads, local services.
Dayton counts. That’s the message the City of Dayton is stressing as the 2020 Census approaches.
A full count of area residents is crucial to Dayton and the region in many ways, and local leaders are urging all residents to participate when contacted by U.S. Census Bureau this spring.
Every 10 years, the Census Bureau reaches out to count every person living in the country. That count determines how many members Ohio has in the
U.S. House of Representatives, federal funding for local road and infrastructure improvements, as well as services for local needs.
According to a recent George Washington University study, census responses in Dayton alone garner over $2.5 billion in federal funding over 10 years, distributed to Dayton community needs including transportation improvements, public education, family and youth services, workforce development, and many additional areas.
“The census gives Daytonians a chance to stand up and be counted,” said Mayor Nan Whaley. “We’ve shown that this community is stronger together, and I think this is another great opportunity to show that unity.”
The 2020 census kicks off on April 1. This year is the first that census questionnaires may be completed securely on a mobile device or computer. Residents without internet access can request paper forms to be sent to a home address. Some local public libraries will provide help in completing the online version of the census form.
Ensure our community receives the federal funding and representation we deserve to stay prepared for the future. For more information on how the Census process works and its impact, go to www.2020census.gov.