* About Census 2010

The United States began conducting a decennial census of population and housing in 1790. Once again in 2010, the US census will be undertaken nationwide. Residents of Raleigh and surrounding communities will have much to gain by participating and being counted. The US Constitution requires that a census be taken every ten years. The 2010 Census is short, safe, and an investment in every community’s future.

What is the Census?

The US Census is a count of all residents of the country. The count will include people of all ages, races, ethnic groups, citizens and non citizens. Census data results will guide critical decisions on federal, state, and local levels which means that that achieving a complete and accurate count is essential.

When is the Census?

Census Day is April 1, 2010

How will the Census count residents?

Census questionnaires will be mailed to every residence address in March of 2010. Questions should be answered based on persons living at the address as of April 1, 2010. Residents will complete the questions and then mail back responses to the US Census Bureau. Questionnaires and phone assistance will be made available in several languages.

What questions will be asked?

The 2010 Census will ask ten questions and take only a few minutes to complete and mail back. Information will be gathered regarding name, gender, age, race, ethnicity and relationship to householder and whether the householder owns or rents their home.

Will responses be confidential?

By law, the Census Bureau and its employees can not share any collected information with anyone, including welfare, immigration, law enforcement agencies or marketers.

Why is the Census important to Transylvania County?

* In general a complete census count of all residents where they live can help support a community’s improved quality of life.

* Private businesses use census data to help locate sites for new grocery stores, pharmacies, distribution centers, entertainment and recreational venues, etc.

* Census data is used by local Chambers of Commerce to provide statistical profiles to potential business recruits.

* Census data about patterns of growth is used to help decision makers in local planning efforts – including determining where new parks and recreational programs are needed, forecasting future transportation, housing and school needs, making sure adequate public safety staff are allocated

* Census data will determine how many seats each state will have in the US House of Representatives and the shape of new congressional districts. Local City Council and County Commissioner districts may be redrawn based on decennial census data.

* Every year the federal government distributes more than $400 billion (over $1300 per person) to state and local governments based on census data. Accurate data can ensure local communities get their share of federal funds for schools, housing assistance and rehabilitation loans, roads and bridges, public transportation, public safety, hospitals, other community needs.

* Local population data is also used by the State government as a basis for distributing shared revenue streams such as sales taxes and gasoline taxes.

For more Information call 828-884-3100

For Locations of manned site for 2010 Census & sites where information is located click to download the Census 2010 Press Release.

Employment Opportunities with U.S. Census Bureau click to download information on Census Jobs .