Federal government conducts census
The U.S. Census Bureau is responsible for conducting the census and delivering population counts to the President of the United States by Dec. 31, 2010. The bureau hires staff throughout the country to conduct and manage the count. In addition, the bureau partners with state and local governments, as well as community organizations and businesses, to promote census participation.

State government receives census data for apportionment/other purposes
The bureau will deliver census data to the states to begin the process of apportioning districts for the U.S. House of Representatives and members of the state legislature. The Legislature is responsible for reapportionment and will submit its plan to the governor for signature or veto. In 2002, the Minnesota Supreme Court ordered that a special redistricting panel of three judges be appointed for the purposes of apportioning congressional and legislative districts. The legislature is also responsible for establishing Metropolitan Council districts based on population.

Once the state apportionment process is complete, local governments will use these districts and population numbers to establish election wards and precincts within their boundaries.

State and local governments verify local addresses
State and local governments provide a key role in verifying local addresses through the Local Update of Census Addresses (LUCA) program. This provides the initial list for the Census Bureau to use in identifying every household in the country to send a census questionnaire.

Metropolitan Council uses information for population forecasting and regional planning
Under state law, the Metropolitan Council is responsible for providing population forecasts and planning for growth in the seven-county, Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Since its inception, the Council has used census data for analysis and planning. Equally important to the Council has been providing other researchers with data and analysis, and the census is one of our most important sources of data. The Council believes that sharing a common, accurate base of information leads to better decision-making and planning among the region's many businesses, nonprofit organizations, communities and other government agencies.

In the past, the Council provided census data by developing printed data tabulations and analytic reports. These resources are available on the Council’s website, as is full access to census data.

All government agencies promote participation in the census
Government agencies throughout the state of Minnesota are working to promote participation in the census. Federal and state aids are largely based on population, and Minnesota’s representation in Congress also relies on a complete count.