CLEVELAND — Clevelanders are working to build our neighborhoods by making sure the people are counted. With just days left before the census ends, there's a push to make sure that every person fills out a form.
"This neighborhood had the highest foreclosure rate in 2007, in the entire United States,” said Ward 12 Councilman Tony Brancatelli.
Brancatelli said the Broadway and Slavic Village areas are still on the mend, and more money is needed to fast track recovery.
"I think it’s all hands on deck," said Brancatelli.
Brancatelli said money will come once people fill out the census.
"The population means dollars to the city. For every resident, it equates to about $1,800 a year," said Brancatelli.
And that equates to better streets, tearing down broken properties, and building affordable housing.
Brancatelli. said they are "looking at being able to attract small businesses and retain small businesses."
However, some people are wary of politicians, so Brancatelli believed his ward may open up to another voice.
"Do it for the abandoned house, and not the White House,” said Myesha Crowe. “Politics aside, who are we doing it for?"
Crowe runs the Cleveland Peacemakers Alliance. Passion drives her message.
"With door-knocking, and relationship building and community paving and putting our Nikes on the ground, the most important thing right now is being counted," Crowe said. "In order to make effective change, you have to be counted, you have to be there, so that we can address your concerns."
Census counting will end on September 30.
