Census forms were mailed out in January, and now Town Clerk Lynn Medeiros is urging residents to complete and turn in the forms as soon as possible.

Residents are asked to complete the census forms and hand them in ten days after receiving them by mail. Forms can be mailed back using the included envelope. A first-class stamp must be placed on the envelope if it is mailed back.

There are several locations the forms can be dropped off as well. They can be placed in the silver box located outside town hall, or handed in at the Southworth Library or the North Dartmouth Library or inside Town Hall in either the Town Clerk’s office, or drop boxes located outside the Town Clerk’s office and near the collector’s office.

The town census, which is conducted annually, is an important tool for town finances and residents, Medeiros said. An accurate count of the town’s population is a factor in determining federal and state funding, as well as grant eligibility.

Completing the census also serves as a proof of residency for purposes such as schooling and military-related needs.

If residents have not received a census form, they are asked to contact the Town Clerk’s office at (508) 910-1800. A blank census form can also be downloaded from the town website.

Dog licenses are also due soon. Dogs must be licensed by March 1, 2018. Proof of current rabies certificate must be present at the time of licensing.

A copy of the dog license form is included on the census form, and must be detached and sent separately per the instructions on the document.