Local preparations are under way for the 2010 Census.
Beginning April 20, approximately 800 workers from Maine communities began canvassing neighborhoods to make sure the Portland Local Census Office’s address list is accurate. The employees will be using hand-held computers and can be identified by the official Census Bureau badge they carry. The Census Bureau will use this updated list to deliver questionnaires in 2010.
In addition, a committee has been formed to “educate our residents about the importance of being counted in the upcoming census,” said State Planning Office Director Martha Freeman, who urged that local governments form similar panels.
Census data can affect funding in communities throughout Maine. It also helps shape decisions for the rest of the decade about funding for public health, neighborhood improvements, transportation and education.
For further information contact the Census Bureau at 617-223-3760 or PDSP@census.gov, or Amanda Rector at the Maine State Planning Office, 287-6077, or Amanda.K.Rector@maine.gov.
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