IDAHO LEADERS PROCLAIM APRIL 1 AS CENSUS AWARENESS DAY

Mayors across Idaho, as well as the commissioners of Ada and Canyon counties, issued a joint proclamation naming today, April 1, as Census Awareness Day. The joint proclamation comes as Idaho and the rest of the nation prepare for Census 2020.

Although the Census does not occur until next year in April, this joint proclamation highlights the combined efforts of various leaders and agencies in ensuring a complete count for The Gem State. In creating awareness and reminding the public about the once a decade survey, Idaho leaders hope to encourage all Idahoans to participate and be counted. A copy of the proclamation is attached.

“An up-to-date and accurate Census count helps all of Idaho,” said Mayor Dave Bieter, City of Boise. “It ensures that we receive our share of annual federal funds, which in turn allows us to respond to growing needs across the state and in each city through improved infrastructure, social, and other public services. With the growth we’ve seen throughout the Treasure Valley and beyond, it’s crucial that we make sure every Idahoan is counted.”

The Census Awareness Day joint proclamation is the culmination of efforts with the U.S. Census Bureau in Idaho, the Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS), the commissioners of Ada and Canyon counties, and cities across the state including, in alphabetical order: Boise, Caldwell, Cascade, Coeur d’Alene, Eagle, Garden City, Hayden, Kuna, Melba, Meridian, Middleton, Nampa, Parma, Riggins, Twin Falls, and Wilder.

“As Idaho grows, all cities will work to promote awareness of the 2020 Census to ensure that everyone is counted,” said Mayor Tammy de Weerd, City of Meridian. “Working together with leadership in each city and county across our great state, we’ll obtain a complete count.”

“Capturing information from the 2020 Census is critical to the future of our communities,” said Mayor Debbie Kling, City of Nampa. “The updated information from the Census will allow us to know our communities better, which in turn will also allow us to plan for the future as Idaho continues to grow.”

The 2020 Census will differ slightly from previous iterations, as it will be the first version that allows individuals the option to respond online via a secure, digital form. Citizens can also elect to share their information via printed mail form, or by phone where they can also receive assistance in 12 different languages. Citizens can expect to receive a postcard mailer from the U.S. Census Bureau in March of 2020 that will fully explain each option, as well as guide them to in-person assistance if they need it.