Preliminary numbers for completed 2020 Census forms are down in Northern Missouri according to U.S. Representative Sam Graves.

*The 2020 Census results plays a big role in how and where tax dollars get spent*

“We’re losing to St. Louis County,” Graves said in his August 14th E-Newsletter. “Only about 66 percent of North Missourians have completed the decennial Census, but more than 80 percent of folks in Missouri’s 2nd Congressional district have already filled it out. However, we’ve still got an opportunity to make up some ground.”

The results of the 2020 Census is how the federal government determines each state’s population, and it plays a big role in how and where tax dollars get spent. Accurate Census data helps states and communities receive funding from the federal government to build infrastructure by accessing funding to help pay for those projects.

“That’s why it’s so critical that we do our level best to make sure we all complete the 2020 Census,” said Graves. “It’s only a few questions and it usually takes folks less than 10 minutes to fill it out.”

If you lost the questionnaire, or just find it easier to do on your computer, you can fill out the 2020 Census online here.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story