by Robin Mathiesen, Town Clerk
By now each household in Becket should have received by mail the 2024 Town Census – officially referred to as the Annual Street Listing. The Town Census is required by state law and serves many important purposes for Becket. Each town/city in Massachusetts is required to maintain up-to-date residential street addresses and an accurate count of all residents. This state-required census is mailed to all residents on an annual basis. If your household has not received a 2024 Town Census, please notify the Becket Town Clerk at Town Hall at (413) 623-8934 ext. 111.
Why should residents fill out and return a census to Becket Town Hall each year? The information provided in the census assists in building a factual picture for current town voting lists, jury lists, future funding aid for Becket Washington School enrollment projects, funding for public safety, funding for senior citizens’ needs (such as potential future housing projects), veterans’ benefits, and proof of residency for state colleges and universities. The census can also be the basis for the allocation of federal funds and emergency personnel during a local emergency.
The Town Census does NOT register anyone to vote, change parties, or change your address. However, failure to respond to the census can result in your being removed from the State Voters List (because your name is no longer listed as a resident). If you need any voter registration information please go to www.sec.state.ma.us.
Please remember the Town Census information is important both for Becket and for the residents of Becket. Fill out the entire form with all requested information, making any necessary changes, and sign your form on completion. Everyone in the household should be listed on your census, including all dependent children (most important for Becket Washington School enrollment purposes). You may need to write-in family members if they are not listed on the form you have received. Most important, return your census to the Town Clerk’s office by mail (an envelope is provided) or leave it in the drop box in front of Town Hall.
If you have further questions, call the office of the Becket Town Clerk at the number noted above or stop by the Clerk’s office at Becket Town Hall on Tuesday and Thursday from 10am to 6pm; Wednesday 12pm to 8pm; or Friday from 10am to 2pm. Thank you to all Becket residents for filling out your 2024 Town Census!
