Census 2020 is coming and even though you won’t be asked for your participation until March, the City of Goleta is making a concerted effort NOW to ensure that we do everything we can to let you know how important this census is and that we do our part to Make Goleta Count! Ideally, we want 100% participation in order for Goleta to get proper funding for important programs and services we value and depend on. An undercount could result in a loss of money for the next ten years!
Another important reason to make sure you participate is that the count will also affect City of Goleta’s redistricting maps as we move to district elections in 2022. The City will be divided into four districts based on population and Census results. The Census only happens once every ten years, please take the time to complete it so each and every one of you can be accurately represented, locally and nationally.
It is important you know that your responses to the Census are confidential. Personal information is used for statistical purposes and it is against the law for that information to be shared or used against you in any way.
This is how Census 2020 will work:
In March of 2020 each household will receive one letter in the mail from the U.S. Census Bureau with instructions on how to complete the Census online. While online is the preferred method, the mailed letter will also have instructions on how to fill out a paper copy of the Census. Reminders from the U.S. Census Bureau will be sent in the mail throughout March and April encouraging people to respond online if they have not done so. Those that have not responded by the end of April will have a Census worker follow up in person at their home. Please see the timeline below.
Please see the Make Goleta Count section of our website for more information. The County of Santa Barbara also just launched its new website with a ton of great information including an interactive map where you can plug in your address and see if you are in a hard to count area: https://santabarbaracountycensus.org/ The website also has a place where you can sign up to receive Census updates via e-mail.
Finally, if you are interested in a job helping with the Census 2020, the U.S. Census Bureau is currently looking to hire temporary workers across the country. Click here to learn more.
As you know, Goleta is a special place and we need your help to Make Goleta Count. Let’s work together to get 100% participation.