Monticello resident helps with U.S. Census

By: 
Kim Brooks
Express Editor

Every 10 years, as outlined in the U.S. Constitution, Congress must carry out a census, counting every person living within the United States. That count is used to determine Congressional representation throughout the country. 

The 2020 Census is underway, with individuals making an effort to verify residents’ mailing addresses. From there, those residents will receive information in the mail pertaining to filling out the Census forms. 

Those going door-to-door are termed “listers.” One of those listers surveying Jones County is Tony Amsler of Monticello. 

Last week, Amsler was canvasing in Marion, but primarily works in Jones County. He explained that listers are assigned “blocks,” which are bigger than a typical neighborhood block. They carry identification with them, identifying them as a U.S. Census worker. Basically Amsler is verifying whether residents have been living at their current address the past 10 years, since the last Census was taken. 

“We have to record new properties on the Census as well,” he said. “New construction gets entered into the system.” 

While making his way around Jones County, Amsler said new farms have popped up, new apartment complexes, new subdivisions, etc. 

“The only way to do it is to get out on the ground and take a look,” he said of surveying properties. 

Amsler is able to do his Census job remotely, carrying a laptop to record his findings. 

He wants to make people aware of what is going on so homeowners know to provide the needed information. Census workers, like Amsler, are identifiable with a badge and carrying a bag that says “U.S. Census.” 

“I always introduce myself and state my purpose,” warned Amsler. “We’re very visible.” 

Amsler said there’s a misconception that all Census workers are out and about to collect personal information. He’s simply verifying addresses. 

After almost a month of working for the U.S. Census (since August), his job ends in October. 

After retiring from ITS (Infrastructure Technology Solutions) in April, Amsler was looking for something else to occupy his time. 

“It’s a nice little filler,” he said of the paid gig. Amsler puts in about 40 hours a week, more if needed. 

While it’s a temporary job, Amsler said it’s something important that’s needed to accurately carry out the U.S. Census. 

“I enjoy meeting new people,” he said of the door-to-door job. “It’s a lot of fun.” 

Working in Jones County, Amsler typically covers 3 to 4 miles a day, depending on whether he’s in the country or in-town. 

After the Census questionnaire is sent out to residents, Census workers will return going door-to-door should people not follow through by mailing it back in. 

“It takes a huge effort to count everyone every 10 years,” Amsler said. 

He’s not sure if he’ll stay on at that point or not. 

To find out more about the 2020 Census, visit www. census.gov/partners/2020. html. 

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