Census results reflect well on Jackson

The initial results of the U.S. Census have been released. Jackson's population grew 12.5% to 15,451 since 2010. Cape Girardeau County and Cape Girardeau grew as well. I am very pleased with the population growth Jackson has experienced. These results show Jackson is a vibrant community where people desire to live, work and play.

The population growth also recognizes the efforts to make our town a safe place and one where the infrastructure supports the community. These results show the energies of individuals, parents, teachers, business owners, church leaders, city workers, elected officials and many others to make Jackson a friendly and welcoming community. All have worked together to support the growth of Jackson. As our city motto says, "Jackson is the city of beautiful homes, parks, schools and churches."

This population growth is also great news for our local businesses who rely on an increasing customer base to expand their businesses and add employees. The increased population is good news for the manufacturing and service business who require a growing population to enable them to hire their essential workforce.

Some additional information the Census Bureau provides is as follows:

• The city is 53% female, 47% male.
• 6% are younger than 5 years of age, 25% are younger than 18, 16% are older than 65.
• 94% are white, and 6% are other ethnicities.
• 69% live in owner-occupied housing. 31% live in rental.
• Average household income is $60,000-plus.
• There are 5,500-plus households.
• Average home value is $165,000.

Jackson should not be complacent that this growth will continue. We must continuously improve the infrastructure, the business base and the workforce to encourage future growth. The offering of great schools is a must to support families moving into our area. All these positive growth factors are then reflected in the value of real estate and businesses.

The City of Jackson will continue to look forward to assure the next census is as positive as this one.

Dwain Hahs is the mayor of Jackson.