The 2010 census will determine where more than $3 trillion in federal funds will be allocated over the next 10 years and pave the way for local communities to gain funds for new roads, hospitals and schools, according to the Census Bureau.
The census, taken every 10 years as outlined in the U.S. Constitution, is a count of everyone residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and American Samoa, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Federal money for services are distributed based on the population count. Census data can impact political representation in Congress as well as redistricting of state and local districts.
"Fort Benning's population is increasing as a result of Base Realignment and Closure and construction for the Maneuver Center of Excellence," said Raul Brown, the post's deputy chief of housing. "We want to ensure we are fully represented in the census. Depending on the population, senators and (congressmen) get 'x' amount of dollars for projects to benefit the tricommunity area. If the numbers are high, the entire area will benefit."
Brown said the post had a low turnout in the last census and hopes more residents will take the time to fill out and return the survey, knowing it could impact local funding and political representation.
The census questionnaire will be mailed to residents in March. Census takers are sent out to collect information from residents who don't return the questionnaire.
The bureau reports that unlike the previous census, next year's census will not involve a long questionnaire, just 10 basic questions.
The census will not ask for bank account information, salary or income, citizenship or immigration status or a Social Security number. People can view the questionnaire online at http://2010.census.gov.
There are several employment opportunities with the 2010 census.
The bureau is hiring census takers, crew leaders, crew leader assistants, recruiting assistants and census clerks.
Most of the jobs are temporary, lasting between five and 10 weeks, and offer flexible work hours, competitive pay, reimbursement for mileage where applicable and weekly pay.
For more information, call 1-866-861-2010.
Social Sharing