The decennial census was instituted at the beginning of the Republic, so politicians could redraw boundary lines for congressional districts. Since then, it has perhaps become more important for determining how to parcel out government money. But the detailed numbers are used by countless other businesses, scholars, nonprofit groups and individuals. The data underlie much of the research done in the country and allow community groups to understand who needs help. The group will look closely, for instance, at immigrants' home countries.
People coming from agricultural societies have different issues they are dealing with.
It was one of the first four counties in the American Community Survey, a sort of mini-census begun in 1996. Eventually, the survey will provide new data for each county every year, replacing the census long form. Gregory Holtz, the director of research at the Michaelian Institute for Public Policy and Management at Pace University, said the institute has postponed several studies, particularly on housing issues. Death rates have been flat for about 15 years, he said. But projections show demand will go up in 2010 when the baby boom makes its final move through the marketplace.