Census 2010 - It's in our Hands!

The 2010 Census is coming your way soon and a few minutes of your time will make a difference for the Town of Mooresville, Iredell County and North Carolina. This once-in-a-decade snapshot of our community determines congressional representation and federal government allocations of over $300 billion each year. That’s nearly $1,000 per citizen!

What is the Census?
The U.S. Census is a count of all residents of the United States, required by the U.S. Constitution, and held every ten years. The Census is required to determine representation in the U.S. House of Representatives. North Carolina gained a congressional seat after Census 2000 because of the increase in our population as reported by the U.S. Census.

Eventually, more than 140,000 Census workers will count every person in the United States and will gather information about every person living at each address including name, age, gender, race and other relevant data.

When is the Census?
Census Day is April 1, 2010. Census questionnaires are mailed to every residence 1- 3 weeks before Census Day. Residents should complete the questionnaires and mail them back to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Why should I participate?
It’s quick, safe and important to Mooresville. Every household should complete and return their 2010 Census questionnaire. By taking a few minutes to complete your ten-question form, you help ensure that Mooresville is properly represented and funded and local planners and businesses provide the services Mooresville needs. In 2008, North Carolina received $11.8 billion in funding based on census data. Without a complete and accurate census, our community may not receive its fair share of government funds for highways, schools, health facilities and other programs.

What happens if I do not want to participate?
One of the Census slogans is ”We can’t move forward until you mail it back.” Census workers will contact people by telephone, mail or in person at home in an attempt to get your Census form completed. The Census Bureau may send Census employees to your home up to six times to accomplish this task! However, the Census Bureau will NOT make contact by e-mail.

How safe is my Census information?
Title 13 of the U.S. Code protects the confidentiality of all your information. Other federal laws, including the Confidential Statistical Efficiency Act and the Privacy Act reinforce these protections. The penalty for unlawful disclosure is a fine of up to $250,000 or imprisonment of up to five years, or both.

How can I identify a Census worker?
If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, handheld device, Census Bureau canvas bag and confidentiality notice. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises people to be cooperative but cautious if someone requests your Census information:

∙ Ask to see the Census worker’s identification and badge before answering questions.
∙ Do not invite anyone you do not know into your home.
∙ The Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as a salary range.
∙ The Census Bureau will NOT ask for Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers.
∙ The Census Bureau will NOT ask about your financial situation.
∙ Census Bureau employees will NOT solicit for donations.
∙ You only need to tell them how many people live at your address.

Census workers may contact people by telephone, mail or in person at home. However, the Census Bureau will NOT make contact by e-mail. Beware of e-mail scams claiming to be doing Census work. Never click on a link or open any attachments in an e-mail claiming to be from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Where can I get more information?
Visit US Census 2010 for more information or contact the Charlotte Regional Census Office at 1-800-331-7360.

Questionnaires and phone assistance for completing the Census are available in several languages. Locally, Questionnaire Assistance Centers will be located at the Mooresville Public Library and Town Hall.

How can I get involved in my area?
Town Zoning Administrator Tammy Heck is coordinating Mooresville’s Complete Count Committee and serving as a liaison between the Town and the U.S. Census Bureau. The focus of the committee is to educate every resident on the importance of participating in the 2010 Census.

The 2010 Mooresville Complete Count Committee needs assistance from a cross section of Mooresville residents. The Census Bureau is hiring temporary workers to assist with the Census. If you are interested in participating, contact theck@ci.mooresville.nc.us at 704-662-6581 or by e-mail.