To the Editor,
The Fillmore County Economic Development Authority Board of Directors would like to remind our neighbors of the importance of completing the U.S. Census and is asking that everyone in the county participate in this critical, constitutionally required program.
The U.S. Constitution mandates that the country count its population once every 10 years, to adjust or redraw electoral districts based on where the number of people has increased or decreased. State legislatures or independent, bipartisan commissions are then responsible for redrawing electoral districts. The U.S. Census Bureau provides states with population counts to tell our Government how many residents, families, and businesses live in our county.
This information helps make sure Fillmore County has proper representation in government, and the correct amount of money is set aside for our use.
U.S. Census data is essential for making sure that funding is available for our schools, fire departments, clinics, roads, and health services for families, older adults, and children. U.S. Census data also helps decide how hundreds of billions of dollars in federal money is spent. Federal dollars fund more than 100 programs in our communities, including Medicaid, Head Start, block grants for community mental health services, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Information gathered by the U.S. Census is also crucial in making sure our local economy continues to grow. The U.S. Census data helps to allocate billions of dollars in federal and state funding. It provides important information to companies looking to expand and invest in Fillmore County and helps economic development efforts to attract and grow businesses.
U.S. Census work has started and will continue through the Summer of 2020. For more information, including how to work or volunteer for the U.S. Census Bureau, visit mn.gov/2020census.
Please complete your U.S. Census survey, and help Fillmore County receive the funding we need for a strong and successful future!
Thank you,
Christopher Hahn,
EDA Director
Fillmore County, Minn.