The RMWB is continuing to see a low turnout in properties taking part in the census.

So far, just under 31 per cent of dwellings in Fort McMurray and the rural areas have taken part with over 22,000 still needing to be counted.

Timberlea, by far, has seen the biggest turnout as 4,370 properties have been counted with Thickwood coming second at 1,874 dwellings.

Over 25,000 residents have been counted through the roughly 31 per cent already completed.

During the last census which took place in 2018, just over 75,000 residents were counted living in either Fort McMurray or the rural areas, while the shadow population, which highlights those who work here but don’t live here, added another 36,000 individuals.

The municipality is reminding the public the census plays an important part in helping them understand where resources should be allocated, road and park maintenance, as well as in planning emergency response services.

In a past interview, Mayor Don Scott also noted knowing the population helps them get funding from the federal and provincial governments – specifically if there’s an increase.

Dwellings have until June 30 to take part in the census.

Residents should have received their PIN Letters in the mail in late March/early April.

In rural communities, except Saprae Creek Estate and Anzac, an RMWB employee will hand-deliver you PIN letter and offer the option of in-person socially-distanced enumeration.

You can either complete it online, by calling Pulse at 780-743-7000 or toll-free at 1-800-973-9663 or in-person with a socially distanced enumerator.

The RMWB is still hoping to go door-to-door, however, that will depend on COVID-19 numbers.

More information can be found on the RMWB’s website.