Starting this week, U.S. Census Bureau workers are on local streets verifying addresses using handheld computers with GPS for the 2010 count.

If necessary, Census workers may knock on doors to verify addresses, according to Bonney Lake Executive Assistant Brian Hartsell.

Hartsell said the workers will be wearing plastic red, white, and blue badges and will identify themselves as employees of the Census Bureau.

“They are bound by confidentiality laws and will not ask you personal questions such as your Social Security number, nor will they ask to enter your home,” said Hartsell.

Anyone who wishes to check on the identity of a Census worker in their neighborhood, should contact the Tacoma Census office at 253-267-7201.

Last month, Mayor Neil Johnson signed a proclamation committing the City of Bonney Lake to partner with the Census Bureau to help ensure a full and accurate count.