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As 2020 Census Forges Ahead, Clarke County Self-Response Rate Nears GA Rate, Lags Behind Neighbors

Representatives for the 2020 Census will begin administering door-to-door surveys for uncounted households beginning in August.

The pandemic has forced the Census Bureau to extend the collection timeline of the decennial census. The bureau will now wrap up operations by October 31st, an extension of nearly three months. Census takers will begin visiting households who have yet to respond starting in mid-August.

According to a data tool created by the Census Bureau, so far 56% of households in Clarke County have already responded to the Census, in line with the self-response rate in all of Georgia, at 58%. Surrounding counties such as Oconee, Jackson, and Hall have seen higher response rates which have neared or even surpassed the national self-response rate of 62%. To check the status of your own county, view the self-response rate map on the Census Bureau Website.

Data from the United States Census is used to determine representation in Congress and the distribution of federal funds in areas such has healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The 2020 Census can be filled out by phone, mail, or online. The Athens-Clarke Library has made wifi available in its parking lot, which can be used to fill out the survey on the web.