More News

In March, every household across the nation will receive a census form. Required once every 10 years by the U.S. Constitution, the 2010 Census will count every man, woman and child living in the United States.

Every year the federal government distributes more than $400 billion to tribal, state and local governments based on census data. But a lack of participation can result in our city and state receiving less federal funding and less access to important services and resources than we might otherwise have received. For example, an undercount of as little as 1.7 percent, or 100,000, of our state's 5.8 million residents translates to a loss of $1 billion in federal revenue over the decade and considerably more in state funds distribution to local governments.

Census data also are used to reapportion seats in Congress and assure proper district representation in state and local governments. An accurate count will help ensure the residents of our community are fairly represented in all levels of government.

During Census 2000, 82 percent of households in Bowie returned their census forms by mail. Nationally, 72 percent did so as of the April 2000 cutoff. I believe we can do even better in 2010. That is why today the city is issuing a challenge to everyone in Bowie to take 10 minutes to participate in the census by answering the 10-question census form and by returning the completed form as soon as possible. Together we can create a better tomorrow for ourselves, our family and our community.

Joseph Meinert is Bowie's director of Planning and Economic Development.