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Commission debates ACS vs. 2020 census numbers as plan updates demographic data
Summary
RPC updated demographic figures using more recent ACS and 2020 census data; commissioners questioned some figures (median age and small-number changes) and agreed to add a disclaimer explaining data limitations.
RPC explained it had updated demographic tables using the most recent American Community Survey (ACS) and 2020 census figures and recommended spelling out ACS for readers unfamiliar with the source. Sean read an updated line: "According to the 2020 census, the median age of Timoth residence was 47.6 year old." Commissioners flagged potential transcription or number errors and debated whether to retain ACS estimates, with several members arguing for a clear disclaimer because ACS margins of error can be large for small populations.
The commission agreed to include a plain-language explanation of ACS and to note any figures with high margins of error. RPC said it typically carries ACS figures forward where needed but will add a front-of-plan disclaimer clarifying data sources and confidence. The commission asked RPC to verify specific figures called out in the draft (for example, the alleged jump in the 65-and-older cohort) and correct any typographical errors.
