Census data is in for one of our neighbouring communities.

Growing 4.5% since the 2016 census, Cochrane's population now sits at 26,320, according to the 2017 census results.

While municipalities do not have the authority to make census participation mandatory, Cochrane continues to have good response with over 95% of the population completing the census, providing a fairly accurate count.

Laurie Drukier, Senior Communications Advisor with Town of Cochrane, says it is important to make sure all community members are counted in.

"It is really important we get an accurate census count because many of our provincial grants are awarded on a per capita basis, so if we have an accurate census count then we will get the money that we are entitled to from the province that will fund certain municipal programs and services."

Drukier adds each person counted equals $329 per person in provincial grants and this will aid the town in continuing with its long term planning goals and initiatives.

This year's quick two question census revealed 18,718 residents are over the age of 18 and 51.3% responded to the census online.

The census results won't be made official until probably late September when the provincial government accepts the report.

 

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