HomeMy WebLinkAbout[04i] 2020 Census Partnership
Council Agenda Item 4i
MEETING DATE: April 15, 2019
AGENDA ITEM: 2020 Census Partnership
SUBMITTED BY: Community Development
BOARD/COMMISSION/COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION:
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: A census of the population is completed every 10 years by the
U.S. Census Bureau as required by the U.S. Constitution. April 1, 2020 is census day. In an effort to
communicate the upcoming census, the area cities of St. Joseph, St. Cloud, Sartell, Sauk Rapids, and
Waite Park, counties of Stearns, Benton and Sherburne, area schools, and various organizations have
formed a Complete Count Committee. The purpose is to promote awareness, including why it is
important. For example, census data determines the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of
Representatives, as well as districts for state government. Minnesota is at risk of losing a seat in the U.S.
House of Representatives. Federal and State funding allocation is based on population i.e. transportation
funding, LGA, etc. Many times grant funding is based on census information. Businesses use census
information when looking where to locate their factories, technology companies, offices, and stores, and
recruit employees.
The U.S. Census Bureau has asked the St. Cloud Area Regional Complete Count Committee to bring
forth a resolution of partnership to each of their respective councils or boards and has provided a sample
resolution. Examples of partnership activities include sharing information in the City Newsletter, on the
local information channel, St. Joseph Government message sign, and sharing information with the St.
Joseph Chamber of Commerce, St. Joseph CVB, local businesses, and organizations. The attached
resolution for your consideration is also being brought forward to the City Councils of the area cities, and
the Board of Commissioners of the area counties.
ATTACHMENTS: Resolution 2019-027, 2020 Census Partnership
REQUESTED CITY COUNCIL ACTION: Authorize the Mayor and Administrator to execute
Resolution 2019-027
RESOLUTION 2019-027
CITY OF ST.JOSEPH
2020 CENSUS PARTNERSHIP
WHEREAS, the U.S. Census Bureau is required by the U.S. Constitution to conduct a
count of the population and provides a historic opportunity to help shape the foundation of our
society and play an active role in American democracy;
WHEREAS, the City of St. Joseph is committed to ensuring every resident is counted;
WHEREAS, federal and state funding is allocated to communities, and decisions are
made on matters of national and local importance based, in part, on census data and housing;
WHEREAS, census data helps determine how many seats each state will have in the
U.S. House of Representatives and is necessary for an accurate and fair redistricting of state
legislative seats, county and city councils and voting districts;
WHEREAS, information from the 2020 Census and American Community Survey are
vital tools for economic development and increased employment;
WHEREAS, the information collected by the census is confidential and protected by
law;
WHEREAS, a united voice from business, government, community-based and faith-
based organizations, educators, media and others will enable the 2020 Census message to reach
more of our citizens;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE CITY OF ST. JOSEPH,
MINNESOTA IS COMMITTED TO PARTNERING WITH THE U.S. CENSUS BUREAU
AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA WILL:
1. Support the goals and ideals for the 2020 Census and will disseminate 2020 Census
information.
2. Encourage all County residents to participate in events and initiatives that will raise
the overall awareness of the 2020 Census and increase participation.
3. Support Census advocates to speak to County and Community Organizations.
4. Support census takers as they help our County complete an accurate count.
5. Strive to achieve a complete and accurate count of all persons within our borders
Adopted this day of 2019, by a vote of in favor and opposed.
CITY OF ST. JOSEPH
By ______________________________
Rick Schultz, Mayor
By ______________________________
Judy Weyrens, Administrator