Letter to the Editor 8-28-20

Dear editor,
An Accurate 2020 Census Is Important for Farmers and Our Communities
Every 10 years, the census becomes an important topic in Cloud County, but the COVID-19 pandemic reminds us more than ever how important it is to participate in this once-a-decade population count.
The census is a true reflection of our population, where we live and how we work. It influences funding for programs that help support our communities and affect our livelihood.
So far, 66% of the households in Cloud County have responded to the 2020 Census, but we need to count everyone. Census statistics help determine the allocation of funding for public services. An accurate count in the 2020 Census will help ensure our community gets the funding it needs for services and programs for the next 10 years, such as emergency response, hospitals, schools, nutrition assistance, housing, agricultural extension programs and experiment stations and rural infrastructure. This does not even include all the programs that help low-income people pay for healthcare, put food on the table or keep a roof over their heads.
So, when you see your 2020 Census notice or see an ad on TV, do yourself and our community a favor by responding. By responding and sharing the importance of the census with friends and neighbors, you will help shape your future and the future of Cloud County.
Mark Paul, general manager, Cloud County Coop Elevator Assn. Inc., CEO Concordia Terminal
Casey Richard, regional operations manager, Region 7 Central Valley Ag