Accurate census count crucial

By this time you have probably heard it, seen it or read about Tell City U. S. Census 2010 coming in March. While we realize this is repetitive, we feel it is so extremely important we should repeat it once again.

Census 2010 data is used for a number of things, but we feel the three most important ones are:

• Our representation in the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington. The 2010 Census count will determine whether we retain the same number of Congressional representatives, gain one seat or even lose one. It did happen after the 2000 Census, Indiana lost a seat.

• The count will be a factor in our Hoosier lawmakers redistricting our legislative districts. So you can see just how important Census 2010 is politically.

• The third area of importance is the funding each community receives as a result of the count. There is $300 billion at stake, and the funds returned to our community amounts to approximately $400 in services per person counted. You do the math. If 500 people are not counted, it amounts to $200,000 the community loses.

The funds returned to our community can be used for school programs, hospitals, clinics, nursing facilities, adult education, public safety, programs for the elderly, Head Start programs, economic development and so much more.

How else would we decide accurately today, just as our founding fathers did with the first census back in 1790, a fair way to distribute government revenues back to the states, cities and counties?

So you can see how critical it is for everyone to be counted. To help that along, the Census 2010 questionnaire has been simplified and takes less than 10 minutes to complete. Take a look at the questionnaire when it is published in The Perry County News. Get familiar with it. Practice on it.

Most Americans think the Census is very important and plan to participate. However, we are striving for more than "most Americans." Our goal is the maximum and includes all citizens and noncitizens. Now is the time to make your decision to complete your questionnaire when you receive it in mid-March.

You can help yourself, your children, grandchildren, your community, your county, your state and your country with the stroke of your pen. And you will feel good about it. Further, your census information is strictly confidential.

Heitkemper and his wife, Marcie are leading Tell City's 2010 Census efforts.