From the Savannah (Ga.) Morning News, April 6

Georgians should be diligent in their responses to the 2010 Census.

Field operations have begun for the 2010 U.S. Census in the Savannah area and elsewhere.

As early efforts in the national head count get under way, Georgians should prepare to flood the feds with questionnaire responses.

It’s in our best interest: The results of the census will determine congressional representation and district lines, as well as the yearly allocation of federal funds.

Local participation in the census is imperative. Accurate funding and representation cannot be achieved if residents fail to take part.

The average number of returns for mailed census forms across the nation in 2000 was only 65 percent. That’s appalling.

Georgians should work to beat that average in the 2010 census. There’s much at stake. More than $300 billion a year is allocated in federal and state funding to communities across the U.S.

Census data directly affects how much Savannah and surrounding communities will obtain of this valuable funding.

For example, the data guides officials as they determine which neighborhoods need new schools, services for the elderly, additional fire departments and new or expanded roads.

Completing census forms is necessary so that Savannah and other communities receive the funding they need.

The census data will also be used to determine the apportionment of seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Georgians’ participation in the census is vital in order for residents to receive accurate representation in the state legislature and in Congress. An undercount in Georgia means less political clout in Atlanta and Washington. Census figures also help define school districts.

If area residents want to be truly represented so local issues can be voiced and proper funding for local needs are received, then they must fill out their census forms and return them.

Besides government funds, the census data can also impact private investment.

Demographic information is often used by companies when deciding where to locate new facilities and by non-profit organizations in targeting areas where there are specific needs.

No one likes filling out paperwork. But when the 2010 Census forms arrive in the mail, make sure to stand up to be counted.