CELINA-Census takers are still needed in Clay County, officials say, with the 2020 decennial population count just around the corner. 

Two recent workshops aimed at helping potential workers sign up were held recently, but several slots are still open.

A local steering committee was formed last year to help make sure every Clay County resident is counted in this year’s census. Chamber of Commerce director Kevin Donaldson is part of that group. 

“The Complete Count Committee (CCC) was formed to motivate our citizens to participate in the 2020 Census,” Donaldson said, “We’re not involved in the actual count, but we’re doing what we can to help recruit workers. 

“Two to three dozen people are needed in Clay County,” Donaldson said, “and Census officials have told us they would be happy to have additional workshops to help people get signed up.”

The process for employment is completely online, but those wanting help in the process can get it through one of those workshops.  “If you are interested in attending a workshop or getting help, please call us at the Chamber at 243-3338,” Donaldson said. 

How to apply

The application process can be completed at 2020census.gov/jobs.  If you need more information, you can also call toll free at 1-855-JOB-2020. 

The positions in Clay County will pay $12.50 per hour during training, and then $14 per hour, plus 58 cents per mile for the actual job, officials say.  Those applying for jobs right now should expect a call around the first of February. 

“We can’t stress how important is is to make sure everyone is counted in Clay County,” Donaldson said. Census figures are used for a variety of things, including representation and redrawing of lines for congressional and legislative districts, and public safety.

The data collected by Census workers is also used to determine how more than $675 billion are spent.

Over $1K lost per

person uncounted

“An independent study by George Washington University shows that for everyone not counted in the Census in the state of Tennessee, over $1,000 is lost annually per person, per year,” said Donaldson. “Over the course of 10 years, that means a loss of over $10,000 in various funding per person. As one of the smallest counties in the state, that’s very significant for us.”

The work on the actual count will be done by Census Bureau workers, and by county residents responding to Census Bureau invitations. Someone will knock on your door only if you haven’t responded to the Census by mail, phone or online.

“The count is now upon us,” Donaldson said. “So, we’ll keep this message in front of the public as much as we can.”