Howard County yesterday launched the HoCoCounts 2020 Census dashboard, an innovative online tool providing real-time statistics on census completion within Howard County. The dashboard provides the current response rate for Howard County, other Maryland Counties, and total state effort.

The deadline for completing the census has been extended to October 31, 2020.

“As of May 10, we’ve seen 72.4% of Howard County residents complete their census since its launch in March, and we’re optimistic about ensuring our residents are counted,” said County Executive Calvin Ball. “Information from the census impacts the federal funding that supports critical services and personnel in healthcare, education, emergency management, workforce development, and more.

As of May 12, 62.4% of Marylanders have completed the census online, by mail or by phone in less than two months, compared to 72.6% of Howard County residents. Howard County currently has the second-highest response rate in the state. In 2010, Howard County had a Census response rate of 81%, ranking second in the State of Maryland.

According to a press release:

The Howard County Department of Community Resources and Services (DCRS) leads efforts to promote awareness of census resources and access. For every resident not counted in the census, Howard County loses an estimated $18,000 over a ten-year period in federal funds allocated for programs like medical assistance, student financial aid, and nutrition programs for children and older adults.

“While these are troubling and complex times, we are working with neighbors county-wide to let them know that they can be advocates for increased support and programs that will help us to realize a stronger future together,” said Jacqueline Scott, DCRS Director. “We hope that this dashboard provides a high-level view of how much we’ve accomplished over a short period, and how we can encourage others to support the goal of a complete count.”

Visit the HoCoCounts 2020 Census dashboard for more information.

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