CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Chicago is lagging well behind in the efforts to mount a full U.S. Census count. So she's marshaling all the help she can.
Across Illinois, more than 60 percent of residents have already filled out U.S. Census forms. Mayor Lightfoot isn’t happy with Chicago’s performance.
"A few days ago, my team came to me with an update on where our Census response numbers are, and we are at about 55 percent," Lightfoot said. "Now, that is about a 'C' grade in my book."
Mayor Lightfoot’s goal is 75 percent or more. She’s pleading with residents to do better.
"I know this has been a challenging time for everyone; but I am issuing a challenge to every community where your responses are low, please step up," she said.
The Census is how much federal aid is calculated, so participation is vital.
"How do we get more resources?" Lightfoot asked. "One simple way: fill out the Census."
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The Mayor likened the situation when Gotham City would send a signal to summon the comic book hero Batman. Then she donned a green cowboy hat, and Adam Hoillingsworth, better known as "The Dreadhead Cowboy", appeared on his horse. He will visit undercounted neighborhoods to encourage census participation.
"So, if you see the Census Cowboy come into your neighborhood that is not a good thing. That means you need to step up and do your part," Lightfoot said.
Residents have until the end of October to fill out the Census form or answer the questions.