2020 Census Information

BV Counts Circle

2020 Census Coordinators for the City of Belleville

Jennifer Ferguson, 618-233-6518 x1237, Email

Joel Glasscock, 618-233-6518 x1219, Email

The Importance of An Accurate Count

Every 10 years, the U.S. Census Bureau is responsible for conducting the nationwide census. The next census will be taken in 2020.

An accurate count of every individual is the goal of every census, since the results of the count can have a major impact on communities. The results can determine the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives, and help to plan roads, schools, and hospitals.

Most important to the residents of Belleville, this census count will determine the amount of income tax, use tax, and motor fuel tax our city will receive from the state. These taxes are some of our largest sources of funds to pay for public safety and other important public services. 

Please take the time to complete the census form when you receive it in the mail. If residents are not included in this census count for Belleville, it will mean less money from the state to help pay for Belleville services for the next 10 years!

What Is the 2020 Census?

The 2020 Census counts every person living in the 50 states, District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories. The count is mandated by the Constitution and conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, a nonpartisan government agency. The 2020 Census counts the population in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). Each home will receive an invitation to respond to a short questionnaire—online, by phone, or by mail. This will mark the first time that you will be able to respond to the census online.

How Does the 2020 Census Impact Belleville?

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Why Is the Census Important?

The census provides critical data that lawmakers, business owners, teachers, and many others use to provide daily services, products, and support for you and your community. Every year, billions of dollars in federal funding go to hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads, and other resources based on census data. The results of the census also determine the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives, and they are used to draw congressional and state legislative districts.

Infographic

According to the Illinois Municipal League’s revenue estimates, the forecasted total of state-shared local government tax-revenue is $164.40 per person.

For the city the size of Belleville, that calculates to approximately $7 million.

How Do I Get Counted?

In March 2020, the Census Bureau will send each residence in the City of Belleville an invitation to participate in the census. People may respond by mail, phone, or for the first time in the history of the census, online. Those residents who do not respond by the end of April will be contacted in-person by a Census Bureau enumerator to complete the count. The Census Bureau conducts special counts for those populations living in group home settings or those experiencing homelessness.

Once you receive your request to submit your information, you can respond easily and quickly online. You may also respond via mail or phone. Learn more about how to respond. 

The City of Belleville will host various town hall meetings to address questions regarding the census in addition to hosting open census days at the public libraries and other key locations throughout Belleville to assist people in getting counted. Check back here for dates, times, and details on upcoming events!

Is My Information Safe?

It’s extremely important to know that the data you provide to the Census Bureau is kept completely confidential. The Census Bureau is bound by federal law (Title 13 of US Code) to ensure the safety of the data; they don’t share information with law enforcement or other governmental entities. The main goals are to ensure everyone is counted and everyone’s personal information is kept safe in that process.

The census will not ask you personal information like your income, citizen status or social security number. View the list of questions the census will ask.

Learn more about how you and your data are protected. 

When Does the Census Take Place?

By April 1, 2020, every home will receive a request to participate in the 2020 Census. Once the invitation arrives, you should respond for your home in one of three ways: online, by phone, or by mail.

Census Timeline

Review the Comprehensive Timeline of the 2020 Census.

Frequently Asked Questions

Review a list of Frequently Asked Questions.

Accessibility

You can respond online in English or in 12 other languages, including resources for those who communicate in American Sign Language. To respond by phone in English call 1-844-467-2020 (and 12 other languages), call 1-844-467-2020.

Resources and Materials

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Help the City of Belleville promote the importance of getting counted in the 2020 Census by downloading and using these banners, flyers, logos, and other materials for your organization. Spread the word on your social media accounts, websites, and even email signatures!