Accurate census data shapes future of communities

Individuals who have not filled out a paper questionnaire received via mail or taken the online 2020 census survey may want to spend 15 minutes filling out one of the forms.

While the census counts the United States population, data from the questionnaire will also be used to make decisions about federal and state funding for programs that aid everyone.

According to the Census Bureau, approximately $8 billion federal tax dollars were pumped into Nebraska’s economy in 2017, based on census data.

Results also are used to determine Congressional and statehouse districts and impacts spending on education, emergency aide, hospitals and transportation.

Across the U.S., 93.4 million households - 63.2% - have responded.

Only 69% of Nebraskans have replied to the census. Both Antelope and Holt counties fall below that threshold.

As of Aug. 9, 58.3% of Antelope County residents have completed census forms, while Holt County residents fared slightly higher, with 61.3% responding.

Only 41.5% of Wheeler County residents have replied.

All five communities in SAM’s coverage area lag behind state response data.

In Orchard, 58.1% of households have responded, compared to 55.8% of Royal residents; 49% of Page households; 46.5% of Ewing houses and 23.1% of Clearwater households.

With households still uncounted, the once-a-decade count enters its final phase, as enumerators - or census takers - knock on doors of those who have not responded.

Starting Aug. 9 and continuing through Sept. 30, census takers will make up to six attempts to speak with someone at home.

This includes weekend hours.

Census takers are not allowed to enter homes, but will be equipped with face masks and follow local public health guidelines.

A census tally is mandated per the U.S. Constitution.

Individuals who have not completed a household survey may access it online at my2020census.gov.