TR vs. Greer 2020 Census Challenge
Travelers Rest and Greer go head-to-head in 2020 Census Response Rate Challenge
An accurate count in the 2020 U.S. Census can help cities benefit from new schools, hospitals and businesses, increased federal funding, and apportionment of congressional seats over the next 10 years. Bragging rights are just another benefit!
Residents of the cities of Greer and Travelers Rest will vie for the latter in the 2020 Census Response Rate Challenge. With both cities well ahead of South Carolina’s current response rate of 54.5%, Travelers Rest officials threw down the gauntlet this week to Greer in an effort to keep residents of both cities responding to the Census by phone, mail and for the first time, online.
“2020 isn’t just the year of COVID-19, it’s also the year of the Census. It’s a mandate so important it’s included in the US Constitution for us to count our population every 10 years,” Travelers Rest Mayor Brandy Amidon said. “The City of Travelers Rest and the City of Greer both recognize our roles to encourage our constituents to take the census.”
Percentage comparisons will be updated monthly leading to the final results in August. Amidon and Greer Mayor Rick Danner have made a friendly wager in which the losing mayor must treat the winning city’s mayor and council members to lunch.
“This is a fun way to generate more awareness and participation in the 2020 U.S. Census,” Danner said. “Completing the 2020 Census is quick and convenient. It is also a crucial way for residents to help shape the future of both communities. Regardless of the competition’s outcome, residents of both cities will benefit from a high response rate.”
Most households began receiving invitations in March to respond the 2020 Census. Census Bureau employees are currently visiting homes to encourage participation.