Got any ideas about how to get people in Union County to fill out and return their census questionnaire? The U.S. Census Bureau wants them.

William Whitney, regional director for the U.S. Census Bureau, spoke to Union County Council Tuesday on the importance of everyone participating in the census. Whitney explained that the census determines how federal and state funding is allocated. He said that every year the federal government returns $300 billion to the states which is then divided among counties and municipalities. The census determines how much of this and other government funds a community will receive and so it is important that all local residents be counted.

To ensure that they are, Whitney asked council to appoint a committee of 10-15 volunteers who will meet five to six times between now and February when the census forms will be mailed out. Whitney said the committee will be tasked with coming up with ideas on how to get more people involved in the census process and return their questionnaires. He urged council to make the appointments as soon as possible.

In other business, council voted unanimously Monday to approve second reading of the proposed budget ordinance. Council will hold a day-long budget work session Thursday to hear requests for the proposed 2009-2010 budget.

Appointments

Council made the following appointments Wednesday afternoon:

• Doug Johnson to the Catawba Regional Council of Governments.

• Jay Ford to the Stadium Commission.

• Michelle Young to another term on the Tourism Commission and to advertise for applicants for the other three open seats on the commission.

• To advertise for applicants to fill vacancies on the Library Board.