DEPARTMENT: Government and Public Affairs
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Jeff Coyle, Director
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: City Wide
SUBJECT:
A brief overview of the 2020 Census and consideration of a proposed resolution opposing the inclusion of a citizenship question in the U.S. Census Bureau's 2020 Census questionnaire.
SUMMARY:
The Intergovernmental Relations Committee will receive a brief overview of the 2020 Census, to include the City's planning efforts in anticipation of the 2020 Census. The Committee will also consider a proposed resolution expressing opposition to the inclusion of a citizenship question in the 2020 Census due to the impact such a question would have on the accuracy of the count as required by the U.S. Constitution.
BACKGROUND:
The U.S. Constitution requires a complete census of the population of the United States every 10 years. Preparations for the 2020 Census have begun, with Census Day to occur on April 1, 2020. Obtaining an accurate count for San Antonio is important for several reasons. First, it helps determine the distribution of more than $675 billion annually in federal funds to state, local and tribal governments; this funding is for housing, highways, hospitals, schools, assistance programs and many other projects and programs. It also informs redistricting, determines apportion of representatives to the US House of Representatives, forecasts future transportation needs, determines eligibility for housing assistance programs and assists government entities in planning and implementing programs and services and others. Following the 2010 Census, Texas gained four congressional seats and due to its rapid growth, is expected to receive more following the 2020 Census.
In 2020, individuals will be able to complete the census questionnaire online, by phone or by mail for the first time, reducing the reliance on household visits. In past years, individuals could only complete the census form via mail or in-person. The first day for residents to...
Click here for full text