The results of the 2020 Census will help determine how hundreds of billions of dollars of federal funding are allocated to communities across the country. The census impacts funding for first responders, healthcare, infrastructure, emergency and disaster recovery efforts, schools, and much more. 

In FY2015, New Jersey received $17.56 billion dollars in federal grants. An amount about half the size of the entire state budget. Population data collected during the census also impacts how congressional seats and Electoral College votes are apportioned. In 2013, NJ lost another Congressional seat. We now have 12 congressional districts, the lowest number since 1933, which limits our state’s influence in federal decisions.

Currently, there are census workers knocking on doors across the state interviewing households that have not yet responded to the 2020 Census. The Census Bureau is working to complete data collection as quickly and safely as possible, while ensuring a complete and accurate count. All offices are scheduled to complete their work by September 30, 2020.

Over 80% of Mendham households have responded to the census. if you haven’t, please do so immediately. Especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic, It is very important that everyone fills it out. 

Responding to the 2020 Census is secure, easy, and important. Visit 2020census.gov to make sure you’re counted. 

Sarah Neibart

Mayor, Mendham Township