Lake County continues to grow

Concord Twp., Willoughby among 12 communities to increase in population

Lake County is now home to 232,603 residents, according to the 2020 U.S. Census Bureau.

Released last week, the new population figure represents a 1.1 percent increase from 230,041 reported in the 2010 Census.

“It is very rewarding to see the results of the Lake County Complete Counts Committee who worked so diligently to get all county residents counted over the past 16 months,” said Commissioner John R. Hamercheck, who also serves as committee chair.

“Census data determines federal funding for communities to support local programs like hospitals and schools, EMS and fire safety services, public transportation, and even broader items like infrastructure, including roads and bridge construction,” he added.

According to data, 12 of Lake County’s 23 communities increased in population.

Concord Township and Willoughby represent a significant amount of the county’s growth since 2010.

While it’s the smallest, geographically, of Ohio’s 88 counties, Lake County ranks 11th in population. Additionally, a growing population assists in supporting services such as HeadStart, WIC, National School Lunch Program, Meals on Wheels, Medicaid, funding for federal financial aid and congressional representation.

“The Complete Counts Committee, under the leadership of Commissioner Hamercheck, should be applauded for their tireless efforts during the height of the (novel coronavirus) pandemic to ensure that all county residents, regardless of geography, race, ethnicity or income, were included in this important civic duty,” said Commissioner John Plecnik.

“I am proud to be part of Lake County’s continued growth and prosperity. It is clear to me that Lake County continues to be the best place to live, work, play and retire.”

The U.S. Constitution requires only that the decennial census be a population count. However, since the first census in 1790, the need for useful information about the United States’ population and economy became increasingly evident.

By the turn of the century, the decennial census’s demographic, agricultural and economic segments have collected information on hundreds of topics.

For 220 years, the census has provided population data that is “essential” for the functions of the government, including apportioning political representation, directing policy and distributing federal funds to America’s communities.

“Businesses and people have countless options as to where they conduct their operations or live, and the announcement that our great county continues to grow is evident (to me) that we are a location of choice,” added Commissioner Ron Young.

“Our schools, career opportunities, educational options, neighborhoods and natural assets keep us ahead of the pack.”