Dear Editor:

As springtime and the warm weather approaches, it is also important that people prepare for the 2010 U.S. Census. Beginning April 1st, this survey will be mailed out to more than 130 million homes nationwide. The Census is only mailed out once every 10 years and it is vital that everyone participates. We strongly encourage all residents to make sure they and their households are counted to help to equally represent your communities.

One crucial aspect of the Census is that the responses help determine how more than $400 billion per year in federal funds are distributed to states and communities for the next 10 years. These funds are made available for projects such as hospitals, improving schools, building new roads, and expanding public transportation options as well as for grant programs including job training and social services.

These benefits to your community are only possible if each of us participate and are counted. New Jersey currently has the highest property taxes in the nation and ranks as one of the lowest in how much we receive in return from Washington. Further, with our economy still in crisis, our towns need all the assistance possible to help alleviate the financial burden placed on taxpayers. If Census responses are low in our area, we may not get their fair share of federal aid, which could result in an increase in state taxes and property taxes to make up the difference.

For convenience, the federal government has made this year’s form one of the shortest Census forms in U.S. Census history. It asks only 10 questions and only takes about 10 minutes to complete. It is quick easy and confidential so please make sure that everyone in your household is counted so that our communities will receive our fair share of federal funds.

Sincerely,
David P. Rible
Assemblyman, 11th District

Mary Pat Angelini
Assemblywoman, 11th District