Westfield has received authorization to conduct a Special Census, which will allow the city to receive additional government funding commensurate with the growth in population. Note that this census includes only Westfield residents, not residents of the unincorporated portions of Washington Township.
The U.S. Census Bureau will send the first mailer on Aug. 8, which will go to homeowners and renters.
What you need to do
On the mailer, you will find a link and a code. Go to the link and enter the code along with information such as how many people live in your home. Only one person from each household needs to fill out the Special Census.
Why you’ll get multiple mailers
The U.S. Census Bureau will send mailers on Aug. 8, 14, and 21, and Sept. 2. The bureau sends multiple mailers to remind people to fill out the Special Census. The bureau cannot track who has already completed it, so everyone will continue to receive mailers. Once you’ve filled out the Special Census, you don’t need to do it again; simply disregard any extra mailers.
Why some might not get a mailer
The city’s GIS team works closely with the U.S. Post Office to keep addresses accurate. Sometimes, the U.S. Census Bureau doesn’t have brand new neighborhoods or multi-family housing units on its lists. In these cases, you may not receive a mailer. Starting in September, field representatives will go door-to-door to get information from people who didn’t fill out the Special Census online. This will include the newer neighborhoods which didn’t get mailers.
What if you don’t fill out the Special Census?
If you don’t fill out the Special Census online, a field representative will come to your door and ask you for information such as how many people live in your home. They will have an ID badge. If you aren’t home, they will leave a note on your door with a phone number to call to provide the information.
Why this is important
The Special Census will determine the number of people living in Westfield. The last census was conducted in 2020, and the city has grown significantly since then. This will help the city qualify for additional funding from the state. Because this funding is based on population count, an accurate count will give Westfield its fair share of funding for essential services. That additional funding will help with tasks such as infrastructure improvements, public safety, and road maintenance.
Want to work for the Special Census?
Multiple positions are open for the Special Census. Because these are federal jobs, hiring is managed by the U.S. Census Bureau. Click the links below to apply.
- Field Supervisor: $28.50 per hour
- Field Representative: $24.50 per hour
- Clerk: $24.50 per hour
Still have questions? Visit westfieldin.gov/census for answers.