The 2020 Census is right around the corner, and with it comes an opportunity for Victoria to show the federal government just how much our city has grown. Maybe you already know that the census is used to gather data for representation and other purposes, but did you know it impacts how $675 billion in federal funding gets distributed?
Each year, the federal government allocates billions of dollars to states, counties, cities and communities just like ours, based on the census data collected. In order to ensure Victoria gets its fair share, we to need to make sure everyone living here is counted.
“The city’s Metropolitan Planning Organization and its Community Development Block Grant programs’ allocations partially rely on our city’s population,” said City Development Coordinator Celeste Menchaca. “If our population goes up, our allocations are more likely to rise; if our numbers go down or remain the same, our allocations can potentially be decreased.”
Groups that receive federal funding through city programs are counting on residents to respond to the census; otherwise, they could wind up struggling to serve a larger population than what is reflected by the census data.
“We would like to see our total population numbers go up,” said Menchaca. “A higher population could mean additional funding for additional city projects such as fixing local roadways, improving public facilities and parks and providing more funding to our public service agencies.”
Federal funding affects all of us in one way or another, which is why the City of Victoria and a number of your local community leaders are joining together to get the word out about the 2020 Census. Everyone in your household counts!
"2020 Census in Victoria, TX PSA Community Video" During the upcoming months, the City of Victoria will publish a series of informative blog posts to help you learn more about why the 2020 Census matters and how to make sure you are counted. The 2020 Census will help the federal government to determine funding and representation for the next 10 years. So, join the effort. Shape your future. Start here. Visit 2020census.gov.