Click here to sign up for our free daily newsletter
(Image Credit: ID 230447082 © Dzmitry Skazau | Dreamstime.com)
federal form

Melfort residents encouraged to fill out 2026 Census

Apr 28, 2026 | 5:50 PM

The CIty of Melfort is urging residents to fill out the federal census forms. 

The census will be released next week, and Director of Corporate Services Lydia Steffen says completing the document is quick, confidential, and important to the community. 

“The information collected shows who lives in Melfort and helps ensure services and funding are properly allocated,” Steffen explained. “Every household should complete its form as soon as they receive it.” 

Steffen said census data directly affects the City’s planning, funding and service delivery, with population counts used to determine provincial and federal funding allocations. She added that they guide decisions around infrastructure, community programs, and more. 

“An accurate count ensures the City of Melfort receives its fair share of resources,” Steffen said. “An example would be that census data plays a key role in the market research businesses use when deciding where to expand or open new locations.” 

Residents failing to fill out census forms have affected municipalities before, with Steffen saying the population may be undercounted. That could result in reduced funding and fewer community resources due to many grants being based on population figures. 

“An incomplete census can also affect long-term planning and service levels,” Steffen added. 

According to Steffen, census data helps support several decisions at various levels of government and other organizations. That includes infrastructure development, emergency and protective services planning, schools and healthcare services, housing and community program development, and economic development and business attraction. 

The most recent census date from 2021 reported a population of 5718 residents in Melfort. 

Participation in the census is essential, Steffen said, with even a small change in population potentially impacting funding and services significantly. 

“By completing the census, residents are directly supporting the future of our community.” 

Steffen said anyone who doesn’t receive a census package must contact Statistics Canada directly. 

– 

cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com