A local census office has opened in Inglewood, paving the way for field operations and hundreds of new jobs. 

 The grand opening was held Tuesday at the new office, located at 9800 S. La Cienega Blvd, Suite 415 (in the old Herbal Life Building).
The regional office covers the cities of Inglewood, Hawthorne, Lawndale, Gardena, West Carson and the Westmont section of Los Angeles. The

massive operation aims to count every living person in the region regardless of where they live. 
Some residents are skeptical about providing information to census workers.  However, Councilman Ralph Franklin is urging everyone in Inglewood and surrounding areas to cooperate.
We're not looking for income, we are not linked to the INS.  We're looking for a headcount.  We're just trying to identify that

you are here.  We need to make sure we have enough resources.” Federal law requires that the U.S. Census Bureau keep all data collected

confidential and prohibits its release for 72 years.
The census count is done every ten years to determine the U.S. population.  A poor count can reduce the Congressional boundaries and

impact representation.  Local cities can lose substantial subsidy funding from the federal government.  Even the homeless play a key role

in being counted because federal funds are needed to provide services to them. 
“For every person who is not counted, that equates $1,000 the city does not receive.  Multiply that by ten years (when the next census

is done) and the city ends up losing $10,000 for every person not counted.  It puts an extra strain on public service, health and dental

care, shelter, after-school and summer programs, Franklin said.
According to Brent Hart, Inglewood Local Census Office Manager, about 65 office positions will be filled.
“Additionally, we expect to hire a minimum of 1,000 in March and April for field operations.  Field workers can earn from $17.50 an hour

to upwards of $18 or $19.  These positions are expected to last about 2 months, but we hire for different operations. If they do well,

they will be rehired for other jobs, Hart said.
To be considered for a census job, applicants need to take a test.  Eligibility is based on test scores.  Veterans are given hiring

preference.  To find out more about U.S. Census jobs in Inglewood, call (310) 491-5070 or visit the website at www.2010Census.gov.