Hays County is gearing up for the 2010 U.S. Census – a critical undertaking that will help determine its share of some $400 billion per year in federal funding for education, hospitals and social programs, as well as the number of seats Texas will have in the U.S. House of Representatives and how redistricting lines will be redrawn.

The census, required by the U.S. Constitution, counts every person in every household every 10 years to reach a population figure that will be used officially for the next 10 years. Census questionnaires will be delivered in mid March, and should be returned by April 1. Failure to do so will cause an added government expense and inconvenience by requiring a Census worker to call and/or visit to ensure the household is properly counted.

This year’s census form has only 10 questions. To take a look at the form in advance, click here and choose English or Spanish.

“The information that the census collects is not shared with any other government agency or private business,” said Sophia Azoubel, one of the Census Bureau’s representatives for Hays County. “Population Information is needed for programs that ultimately benefit the people of Hays County. An accurate count would help ensure that federal funds are allocated equitably to Hays County.”

The Census Bureau is currently hiring temporary part-time and full-time workers to assist with the Census. Hays County residents can call 1-866-861-2010 for information about available jobs, qualifications and how to apply.