Simple Census

Only 10 minutes, 10 questions

State and federal officials say the 2010 Census form is easier and shorter than any other census form used in the past. But some South Side residents are still hesitant to fill out the form.

Census representatives will also be on hand to discuss census job opportunities.

“I don’t usually fill out the census,” said Roddrick Radcliff, a 22-year-old who has lived on the South Side for about 10 years. But he added he might this year, “if one comes my way.”

The census is due to come out in March, and it has 10 questions, said Kristen Kuhles, an official with the U.S. Census Bureau. She said it should take only 10 minutes to fill out.

Kuhles said the amount of federal dollars given to Syracuse depends on the number of people counted through the census form. If fewer people fill out the census, Syracuse will receive less money because it will seem as if the population has decreased.

If you would like to participate in the census, but haven’t received a form, contact the the national call center at 1-800-923-8282.

For more information, visit  www.2010.census.gov/2010census/, call Sen. Valesky’s office at 478-8745 or e-mail valesky@senate.state.ny.us