Every decade the Federal Government is required by the Constitution to take a count of the population of the United States. 2020 will be 24th Census to be taken, with the first Census taking place in 1790and supervised by Thomas Jefferson. Locally, residents of New Ulm have had strong participation in the Census, with 87% of residents responding in 2000 and 89% responding in 2010. New Ulm residents know how important the Census is in providing federal funding for things such as schools, roads, creating maps to speed emergency services to households, drawing federal, state and local legislative districts. The state of Minnesota has as strong case for the need for the Census to be completed by everyone; the state is at risk of losing one of its Congressional seats! If we all don’t participate in completing the Census it could mean that Minnesota is represented by seven (7) Congressional Districts rather than eight (8).

The way the Census will be conducted this time is slightly different that in previous years. Starting between March 12th and 20th residents will start receiving post cards asking you to complete the Census on-line. Between March 26th and April 3rd, if you have not completed the Census on-line you will receive another reminder postcard to complete the Census on-line. IF you have not completed the Census on-line after the 2nd reminder the Census Bureau will send you, in the mail, a paper copy of the Census that you can complete. To be clear, if you do not complete the Census on-line, you will be sent a paper copy of the Census in the mail to complete.

The Census is intended to get an accurate estimate of the population of the United States. This means that they are looking to count EVERYONE that is living in your household – including children, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins or whoever else is residing in your household when you receive the Census.

As the Census approaches please help New Ulm be fully counted by completing the 2020 Census! If you have any questions on the Census please contact the New Ulm Complete Counts Committee at 507-233-2121, extension 131.

——–

Editor’s Note: The City of New Ulm presents a weekly column highlighting activities in different departments in the city government. Once a month the city will answer questions from readers. Questions on New Ulm city issues can be sent to comments@ci.new-ulm.mn.us.