Although field operations for the 2020 Census have been suspended due to the COVID-19 outbreak, responses are still being collected.
So far, an estimated 23.1 percent of South Fulton households have responded. The city is currently leading many of its neighboring municipalities in the region, including Atlanta (22.3 percent), College Park (17.2 percent), East Point (19.5 percent), Fairburn (20.5 percent) and Union City (20.1 percent).
South Fulton officials have been urging constituents to respond to the 2020 census in an effort to match or outpace the national and state self-response rates which are currently 26.2 percent and 24.1 percent respectively.
The U.S. Constitution mandates a census of the population every 10 years. Census statistics are used to determine the number of seats each state holds in the U.S. House of Representatives and informs how billions of dollars in federal funds will be allocated by state, local and federal lawmakers annually for the next 10 years.
“Our city stands to gain much through these funding opportunities,” said Mayor Bill Edwards. “To maximize our share, we must have accurate population data. You can help. Make sure you are counted.”
For the first time in history, responses are being collected online in addition to phone and email. The goal of the 2020 Census is to count everyone who lives in the United States as of April 1 known as Census Day. In late May, census takers around the nation will begin visiting households that have not yet responded to help complete the count.
As decision makers continue to monitor the evolving COVID-19 outbreak, census taker and survey operations will be adjusted as necessary in order to follow the guidance of federal, state and local health authorities.
For more information about the 2020 Census and to be counted, visit www.2020census.gov.
Photo: Earlier this year, local officials launched a 2020 Census campaign with a parade and rally. (Credit: City of South Fulton)