The RMWB is still seeing a low turnout in its census.

So far, over 32 per cent of dwellings in Fort McMurray and the rural areas have taken part with over 21,800 still needing to be counted.

Timberlea continues to have the biggest turnout as 4,804 properties have been counted with Thickwood coming second at 1,928 dwellings.

The worst turnout in the community has been from the Lower Townsite as only 22 per cent of dwellings have taken part, while only three per cent of those in Fort Chipewyan have been counted.

So far, nearly 27,000 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.

Importance Of Census

The municipality is reminding the public just how important the census is.

It helps 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.

How To Take Part

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 your 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.