The U.S. Census counts every resident in the United States, and is required by the Constitution to take place every 10 years. Beginning mid March of 2010, census forms will be delivered to every residence in the United States and Puerto Rico. These census forms, consisting of 10 short questions, must be completed and then mailed back to the U.S. Census Bureau in the pre-paid postage envelope provided. This information is critical in that it affects the numbers of seats this state occupies in the U.S. House of Representatives. It also affects the amount of money in federal funds that McMinnville will receive each year for services such as schools, hospitals and senior centers.

To ensure greater accuracy of McMinnville’s population count, the City is participating in the Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) Program. Through this program, the Census Bureau utilizes the expertise of local governments to develop an accurate and complete address list to be used for the census count. A complete population count will result in an equitable share of federal funds for McMinnville and ultimately a healthier and stronger community.

For more information about the 2010 Census, or the City’s participation in the LUCA program, contact the Planning Department at (503) 434-7311.