North Liberty is looking for a few good census takers

North Liberty's special census will officially begin August 1 and area residents are being sought to help carry out the citywide population count.

North Liberty officials announced in May that the special census, which was approved by the council, would take place this year, however a push for employees to carry out the effort held off until the city received an official date from the U.S. Census Bureau.

'Having a concrete date really helps us put our full weight into it,” North Liberty Communications Director Nick Bergus said.

The city is seeking roughly 170 applicants through July 13 to work roughly 3 to 5 weeks as enumerators, according to a news release.

Enumerators will be paid $13.55 an hour, plus mileage and paid training and will be tasked with visiting residences to collect information about each household member, their age, name and relationship status.

Of the roughly 170 applications being sought, Bergus said about 90 will be hired.

While the 2010 count by the U.S. Census Bureau found North Liberty's population to be 13,374, officials estimate the city now has more than 17,000 residents.

The cost of a special census estimated to be about $310,000, but could generate an additional $280,000 annually in road use tax revenue, which is based on population.

Bergus said that figure would likely be higher, as early estimates in road use tax funds took place before the tax increased in February.

North Liberty has hosted a special census in 2004, 1994, 1976 and 1967.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau website, the Iowa cities of Bondurant, Grimes, West Des Moines, Johnston, Clive and Waukee also are pursuing a special census.