09-24-08 Task force works for complete count in 2010 Census

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The City of South Bend presents a case study for why a complete census count is important. According to Census Bureau estimates, South Bend's population fell from the 1990 Census count of 105,511 to an estimate of 100,163 by July 1998 and 98,941 by July 1999. But the city's actual count in the 2000 Census turned out to be 107,759 - a 2 percent increase, rather than a 6 percent decrease. A similar pattern is repeating in South Bend with recent Census estimates again falling below the 2000 count. Based on existing housing units, new building permits and other local data, in Apri12007 South Bend's population was estimated locally to be 110,130 by Larry Magliozzi of the Area Plan Commission. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, however, estimated South Bend's population at 104,069 in July 2007. St. Joseph County is taking a similar approach for the 2010 Census by expanding its efforts through the Complete Count Committee to include all jurisdictions in the county. "Several of our small towns are growing due to new subdivisions over the past 10 years, and an accurate count of their population is important," said County Commis- sioner Bob Kovach. "Census data is critical as county leaders determine how to allocate resources. It is important for every County resident to be included so that an accurate representation of all of St. Joseph County is estab- lished." The Complete Count Committee will include four working subcommittees: ~ Media subcommittee -will help public outreach by assisting with the development of a marketing cam- paign including radio and television public-service announcements, interviews about the census and ad- vertising. ~ Business subcommittee -will focus on targeted outreach to the business community and civic organiza- tions. ~ Education subcommittee -will work at targeted outreach to K-12 public and private schools as well as higher education institutions. ~ Community/Faith Organizations subcommittee -will conduct targeted outreach to the faith community, homeless and transitory residents, raciaUethnic minorities, non-English speakers, citizens and undocu- mented residents as well as low-income residents. The U. S. Census finishes its 2010 decennial census on Dec. 31, 2010, when its report is delivered to the next U. S. President. -30-