Be counted in 2010 census

Dear Fellow Nebraskans:

I am writing this week to encourage Nebraskans to be counted in the 2010 Census by taking a few minutes to complete the Census questionnaires sent to you recently.

Mandated by the U.S. Constitution and conducted once every 10 years, the Census is an important tool that tracks changes in our state and U.S population. In addition to counting households, it provides the basic data that helps cities and states assess current and future needs.

Census information impacts Nebraska communities by helping determine funding for public institutions. It helps guide decisions about economic and community development programs. Census information is also a significant factor in determining federal, state and local electoral districts and how federal funds are distributed to state and local governments.

In between Census counts, the U.S. Census Bureau provides estimates on population changes. Estimates released last year indicated that Nebraska's population has grown. When compared to the national growth rate, Nebraska's rate of growth was our best performance in nearly 50 years, exceeding that of Iowa and Kansas. Nebraska is ranked 24th in the nation in terms of population growth.

One of the most valuable outcomes of the Census is the glimpse it gives us in understanding the makeup of our population. Accurate Census data is used by cities and counties as we work to attract new businesses and development opportunities. Whether it's an investor interested in a Nebraska startup company, or a business considering a new location in our state, Census information helps provide clues about the resources and potential found in our state.

This year's Census is an opportunity to document the changes and the progress made during the last decade across our state.

In the coming weeks, Census workers will be making follow-up visits to households that haven't responded to mailed questionnaires. Taking 10 minutes now to answer 10 questions and returning the form by mail is the most effective way to participate in this year's Census.

While it is still early in the data collection phase, the number of forms returned and processed stands at 40 percent which puts Nebraska in the top five. The national response rate so far is approximately 29 percent.

The 2010 Census is important to Nebraska. I encourage all Nebraskans to take part in providing an accurate and complete account of Nebraska's recent growth.

An accurate Census count will help provide additional opportunities to continue growing our state. Thank you for taking time to complete your Census questionnaire.