By FRED SWIFT
To no one’s surprise, Hamilton County’s new official census shows explosive growth in the past 10 years, increasing by 26 percent to 347,467. In 2010 the total was 274,569. The 2020 census released yesterday shows the county as the fourth most populous in Indiana after Marion, Lake and Allen.
Two of the state’s 10 largest cities are now Carmel, in fifth place at 99,757, followed closely by Fishers at 98,977. Noblesville is at 69,604, and Westfield – which is actually the fastest growing – has a population of 46,410.
Heirbrandt
Mark Heirbrandt, president of the county Board of Commissioners, said he is not surprised by the figures, and feels the county has done a very good job of keeping up with the dynamic growth. “We are always planning five to 10 years ahead, and a good example is the current study we approved for potential water and sewer service” in the area of 236th Street and U.S. 31.
With the greatest population increase of any Hoosier county, the growth requires almost constant improving and addition of roads, schools, health services, criminal justice facilities, planning services, parks and recreation.
The new census also means more representation for the county in the state legislature, likely one more representative and perhaps one additional senator. This depends, however, on how gerrymandering of the districts is accomplished.
The 5th Congressional district, of which the county is a part, will also be redrawn and likely make Hamilton County a greater portion of the district than it is currently.