Every 10 years, as mandated by the U.S. Constitution, our nation conducts a census. The census is an effort to count every person living in the United States. Based on population figures, over $400 billion is distributed to states and communities. Help Peoria gets its fair share of federal and state funds by completing and returning the questionnaire by April 1st to ensure that thousands of tax dollars are returned to our community for critical services.  These services can range from police and fire protection, hospitals, senior centers, roads, neighborhood improvements, schools, park and libraries and local transportation. Census data also determines the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The form is Easy, Important and Safe. The questionnaire has only 10 questions and takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Households are asked to provide key demographic information, including:  whether a housing unit is rented or owned; the address of the residence; and names, genders, ages and races of others living in the household. All information provided on the Census form is completely confidential. There are no exceptions.By law, the Census Bureau cannot share an individual’s responses with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities.   

Getting an accurate count of the people is so important as our community will lose critical services.If you don’t return the questionnaire, a Census representative will contact you by phone or visit your home as many as six times seeking your answers.If you still don’t respond, your neighbors may be asked about the people residing in your home. Peoria Counts and It’s in our Hands! Help Peoria gets its fair share of federal and state funds. It’s Our Money, It’s Our Community and it’s Fast, Easy and Confidential.  For more information, call Peoria Chamber of Commerce at 623-979-3601 or visit www.peoriaaz.gov/census2010.