Every 10 years, the nation is involved in a census count to determine how many people reside within its borders and where.

But it is more than just the counting of population and the dissemination of those findings. Those numbers can be critical to the future of towns, cities and counties across the country.

The census count determines the amount of federal funds for which a community is eligible. It is the basis for representation in Congress. And it is a figure prospective retailers and businesses often use to decide where to locate.

Much is riding on the outcome of those figures and as the region readies for the census count in 2010, we encourage residents to answer the questions of census workers, fill out the surveys and submit them.

Their responses do make a difference in the future of a community, and it is hoped they do see just how important it is to participate.

In addition, the census project is providing hundreds of thousands of jobs in a time of great need. In Talladega County, census workers will earn $12 per hour while in St. Clair, their counterparts will earn $11.75 for the five to 10-week run.

It is important to have local census workers who are familiar with the geography of the community, helping get the most accurate count possible by knowing exactly where residences are located.

The census is vital to the region’s future path, and we urge one and all to get involved.