Why the 2020 U.S. Census is Important to Dunn County

The data gathered by the U.S. Census is critical for economic development efforts in Dunn County.

Why? Because the data influences the amount of federal funding the county and our individual communities receive from the federal government. This funding goes to pay for things that directly influence quality of life and economic development. For example, federal funding helps to pay for the local schools that are educating our children and preparing the next generation of workers. They also help to pay for critical infrastructure projects - projects that are key factors in determining business expansion and attraction plans. Public works and other essential programs are also funded, in part, by the federal dollars allocated based on demographic information. 

The only way to ensure that Dunn County receives the full federal funding available to us is to have an accurate census count. This requires everyone in our community to participate. This can be challenging in any census, but especially so during COVID-19. The Census Bureau has halted all in-person activities for their staff but, fortunately, they have increased their call center capacity. Employees are working from home to gather the Census data and are answering calls to 844-330-2020. Residents can call this number to complete the Census or fill out their information online.

To complete the Census online, visit my2020Census.gov

To complete it over the phone, call 844-330-2020

There are options for non-English speakers as well. 

2020 Census Update

The collection process for the 2020 U.S. Census was originally scheduled from March 12, 2020, to July 31, 2020, which included in-person data collection through door to door visits. Due to the Covid-19 crisis door to door visits are being postponed until July. As a result, the U.S. Census Bureau has extended the deadline to October 31, 2020. 

About the Census
The U.S. Census is only conducted every 10 years. The Census aims to count the entire population of the United States. The Census asks American households certain questions such as sex, age, and race of each person in the household. These demographics help determine congressional representation and how much funding each state, county, and community received of the $675 billion per year in federal funding. These funds are spent on schools, hospitals, roads, public works, and other essential programs.

Businesses Use Census Data When Making Location Decisions

We are actively working to recruit new businesses to our city. During conversations with site selectors and business executives, demographic data is regularly brought up as a way to evaluate workforce capacity and the potential for a customer base. This data is gathered from the U.S. Census. Businesses can use Census data to decide the best place for them to locate their business. This data allows business owners and developers to pinpoint the very best area for their business to be as successful as possible. As such, it is critical that everyone in Dunn County participates. Otherwise, the numbers won’t be accurate and the data will not reflect the true opportunities available here.