Annual Town Census

STATE MANDATED ANNUAL TOWN CENSUS

The Town Clerk’s Office sends out the Annual Census by mail during the first part of each calendar year.  This census package includes information about upcoming elections, voter registration, and links to dog license applications.

 Why do a census annually and what exactly is the street list?

Massachusetts General Laws (chapter 51, section 4 and section 6) requires the registrars of cities and towns to conduct an annual census of all residents each year, including the name, date of birth, occupation, veteran status, nationality, if not a citizen of the United States, for each person three years of age or older.  Based on the information collected, the registrars are also required to produce an annual street list, which includes all residents age 17 and over.  This annual street list is used to maintain active voter and jury lists, help determine school enrollment needs, and provide proof of residency for various services, include retirees, seniors, and veterans.  Failure to respond to the census can lead to removal from the active voter list.

Can I register to vote or change my party affiliation through the census?

No.  If you indicate that you would like to register to vote or change your party affiliation, the Town Clerk's office will send you the appropriate form to fill out and return to our  office.  Voter registration forms may be returned by mail, hand delivered to the Town Clerk’s Office at 1471 Highland Avenue, or dropped off in the Town's drop box on Garrity's Way.  The census form does not register you to vote.  In fact, if you are a registered voter, failure to answer the Annual Town Census for two consecutive years results in your name being removed from the voter registration rolls.

If the street list does not include children under 17, then why ask for the information?

The Board of Registrars is required under chapter 51, section 4, annually to provide to the School Department a list of everyone between the ages of 3 and 21 years.  The list is generated from the census data.

Why does the census ask about dogs and cats?

The Board of Registrars is also required under State Statute to prepare a listing of dogs owned by each resident (chapter 140, section 150).     

Who uses the annual census data?

While the Street List is primarily used to update the voter and resident lists, statistics on children are taken for the School Committee, providing data on current enrollment as well as present and future school population. (Note: The School Committee uses the annual census information to help project future enrollment and space needs.  The Committee requests that parents review the form carefully to ensure each child is reported and all dates of birth are accurate.) The Police and Fire also use the Street list as an aid in the daily performance of their duties as well as other municipal departments. 

Compliance with this State Statute provides proof of residence to protect voting rights, veterans’ bonus, housing for the elderly and related benefits as well as providing information for the selection of jurors.

A full and accurate count of all residents is very important for many reasons including the basis for allocation of State and Federal Funds.  It can also change regulatory requirements based on number of residents or registered voters. 

Questions?

Census forms include instructions.  If any resident has questions pertaining to the census form or would like a mail-in voter registration application, please visit the Town Clerk's office or call us at (781) 455-7500 x 503.