Daytona Beach, FL - It has been a week since census takers have hit the streets of Volusia County for the 2020 Census, but there's still time to avoid a knock at your door.
You can of course take the census online by visitng the 2020 Census website, or you can call 844-330-2020 to take your census over the phone.
Census takers who do show up will follow local health guides and also wear a mask.
But, it doesn't matter how you complete it, as long as it's done. And county officials have already been stressing the importance of the Census, especially since it affects how the area will receive money for the next decade.
"Our numbers will affect how much money our community receives in federal funding for the next 10 years," said Pat Kuehn, spokesperson for Volusia County.
According to Kuehn, 63.7% of Volusia County households have already responded to the census. And, while that might seem small, it's actually just above the national average.
Kuehn also added that there is a competition for whichever city has the highest self-response rate for the census. But, Kuehn says so far the race belongs to DeBary.
"DeBary has it wrapped up, they're going to be number one," said Kuehn. "They have the highest self response rate in the county at 75.3%."
Ormond Beach, Edgewater, Delton and Port Orange follow behind DeBary. Pierson, Daytona Beach and Daytona Beach Shores make up the list for those with the lowest response rates.
Kuehn says Daytona Beach Shores is down as far as it is on the list since most snowbirds have their primary residence in a northern state.
The winning city will receive a census loving cup that will be presented to the city's mayor and council – along with those who helped in the city's campaign – at a future Volusia County Council meeting.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS ABOUT CENSUS TAKERS: Make sure they have an ID badge with their photograph, a U.S. Department of Commerce watermark and an expiration date. Census workers may also carry a bag with the Census Bureau logo. If you still have questions about their identity, call 800-923-8282 to speak with a Census Bureau representative. Census takers will never ask for money, a bank/credit card number or a social security number.
