By Sadie Hunter
After city council approval in June, the U.S. Census Bureau will soon be contacting Westfield residents in mid-October.
The effort comes after the city’s investment to hold the census five years earlier than the next scheduled census in 2020.
Population estimates for 2014 from the U.S. Census Bureau show Westfield’s growth outpaced all other Hamilton County communities since the 2010 census, with the city’s population increasing 17.4 percent to a total of 35,297.
“So much of how we receive funding from state and federal agencies is tied to per capita calculations,” Mayor Andy Cook said. “With so much growth happening so quickly in our city, we want to make sure we have the most accurate information available when it comes time to seek dollars for our community.”
At a May 26 meeting, John Rogers, director of enterprise development for the city, said the investment is worth the initial cost and could gain more than $1 million for Westfield if done semi-annually over five years.
“The estimated total cost of the project is $625,000, with an expected increase in annual revenue of $330,000 every year,” said Zach Burton, city communications specials, in a press release.
City officials said with updated population numbers, Westfield would qualify for more state revenues for street projects and repairs, education and other city programs.
Not only could the special census bring additional money into the city but job opportunity as well.
Employment opportunities will be posted online for residents. Supervisors would make $16.74 per hour, crew leaders $15.24 per hour, enumerators $13.74 per hour and clerical staff $10.74 per hour.
To see requirements and opportunities, visit www.westfield.in.gov/employment.
