OLDS — Town council is urging residents to fill out federal census forms if they haven’t already done so, because that information could have a big impact on the amount of money the Town receives from governments.
During a May 25 council meeting, chief administrative officer Michael Merritt noted the census is conducted every five years to count the population as well as determine any changes in demographics or other stats.
The most important aspect of the census is the population count, because governments tend to provide grants to municipalities based on their population, he said.
“If your population goes up, that can often lead to an increase in the grant monies that you will get,” he said.
Kelly Lloyd, the town’s coordinator of strategic affairs, said while May 11 was the deadline for residents to fill out census forms, officials are aware that likely not everyone did so by that date.
She too said it’s very important that all residents fill out the form in order to improve their “quality of life.”
Coun. Debbie Bennett suggested that residents be reminded to do so via the town's two electronic message boards, located at the east and west ends of the community.
Coun. Wanda Blatz liked that idea.
“The more information we can get out, the better,” Blatz said.
Council passed a motion stating that the Town supports the 2021 census and encourages all residents of Olds to complete their 2021 federal census forms “in order to produce the right programs for our community.”
