State Rep. Natalie Blais (Photo submitted)
CHESTER – State Representatives Paul W. Mark, Natalie Blais and Smitty Pignatelli, along with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission Complete Count Committee, the Berkshire Regional Complete Count Committee, and the US Census Bureau will host a Census 2020 Kickoff Dec. 13.
The event aims to raise awareness for US Census Outreach efforts in the Pioneer Valley. The event is from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Chester Town Hall, 15 Middlefield Road.
The US Census, which is conducted every 10 years, provides a snapshot of the nation that helps determine where to build new schools and business and how federal funding is distributed. With the 2020 Census less than a year away, outreach efforts are being conducted by state and local governments, businesses, and community organizations to raise awareness and educate the Commonwealth on the importance of the Census.
Blais, who represents Chester and Huntington in the First Franklin district, said it is of the greatest importance for everyone to be counted, because it will have an impact on funding for the towns. Blais said she will be promoting full participation in the census throughout the year.
