In a recent meeting of the Massachusetts Senate Committee on the Census, Watertown City Manager George Proakis emphasized the importance of local support for the upcoming Census efforts. Proakis, who has extensive experience in community planning across multiple cities, urged legislative leaders to bolster resources for the Secretary of the Commonwealth and the Donahue Institute. His call to action highlights the critical need for accurate data collection to ensure that the Census Bureau has the most reliable address list possible.

Proakis shared insights from his two-decade career, noting that he has navigated the Census LUCA (Local Update of Census Addresses) process in various communities, including Lowell and Somerville. He stressed that local governments play a vital role in ensuring that all residents, including those in unique housing situations, are counted accurately. This is particularly important for communities like Watertown, where diverse housing types can complicate data collection.

The discussion underscored the collaborative effort required between state and local officials to enhance the accuracy of the Census, which directly impacts federal funding and representation for communities. Proakis's testimony serves as a reminder of the ongoing work needed to prepare for the Census and the importance of community involvement in this process.

As the committee continues its discussions, the focus remains on ensuring that every resident is counted, which is essential for the equitable distribution of resources and services in Massachusetts. The next steps will involve further collaboration and planning to address the challenges identified by local leaders like Proakis.