The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan

Plattsburgh – If you care about the future of education, healthcare, highway maintenance, and the programs serving your community, you’ll complete the U.S. Census by the end of September 30th, if not sooner. That’s the message Assemblyman Billy Jones and other Clinton, Essex, and Franklin county leaders delivered at a Wednesday news conference. The federal government depends on the U.S. Census numbers to determine its aid, grants, and other assistance to states and local communities.

Town of Lewis Supervisor James Monty said, “I often hear from people that our voices are never heard. This is your chance to be heard.” Assemblyman Billy Jones said, “The census numbers will affect us for the next ten years. This census will touch everyone in their daily lives.”

Every ten years, the U.S. government is required to conduct a census of all United States residents. Census forms were mailed to every known household several months ago. People have been returning the form by mail, over the internet, or by phone. Nationwide the self-response rate as of today is 65.5%. New York State’s is 62%. Locally, Clinton County leads the way at 63.4% (49.6% via the internet), followed by Franklin County at 51% (33.3% via the internet). Essex County is very low at 41% (27.2% via internet).

You have until September 30th to mail the form you received in the mail, complete it online at https://my2020census.gov or by calling 844-330-2020. If a census taker comes to your home, you can also complete the form in just a few minutes. The census takers, most of whom are local people, have a badge with their name, photograph, Department of Commerce watermark, and expiration date.