The Senate Committee on the Census convened on September 22, 2025, to discuss critical preparations for the upcoming 2030 Census. The meeting highlighted the importance of accurate data collection and the challenges faced by municipal offices in Massachusetts.

The session began with a focus on the American Community Survey, where town clerks expressed concerns about address verification issues. They noted that many clerks are frequently contacted to confirm the existence and accuracy of addresses, emphasizing the value of the street list data for various stakeholders, including schools and emergency responders.

A significant point raised was the turnover in municipal offices, which has resulted in a lack of experienced personnel. This situation poses challenges as many clerks and assessors may not have prior experience with the census process. The committee stressed the need for proactive training and resources to support these officials, particularly in smaller towns where access to in-person training may be limited.

The UMass Donahue Institute was commended for its accessible data presentation, which aids town clerks in responding to public records requests. However, there remains a need for improved tools to facilitate data comparison and information exchange among local departments. An example was shared of inefficient communication methods, such as using post-it notes for new address updates, highlighting the need for a more integrated system.

Local input on canvassing methodologies was also emphasized, particularly in light of new housing laws that may affect data collection. The committee acknowledged past challenges, such as the reliance on online canvassing in areas with limited internet access, which could lead to undercounts.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the necessity for enhanced training, better data management systems, and local engagement in the census process to ensure accurate representation in the upcoming 2030 Census. The committee plans to continue discussions on these topics as they move forward.