Aurora launches special census and announces community events for late summer
Aurora has begun its 2026 Special Census, targeting areas of new construction across the city in an effort to restore lost funding following a reported population decline in the 2020 Census. The city reported a loss of approximately 17,000 residents in 2020, which resulted in an annual revenue decrease of over $4.3 million. This reduction has affected city services such as road maintenance, transportation projects, street salt purchases, public safety, public works, community services, and special events.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the Special Census, which is described as safe, secure, and confidential. The city said, "Your response to the Census is safe, secure, and can help Aurora restore key funding for public safety staff, infrastructure improvements, trademark community events, and more! Your response is completely confidential. It cannot be used for law enforcement purposes or to determine your eligibility for government benefits. Additionally, no questions will be asked regarding your citizenship status." Unique 12-digit Census ID numbers are being mailed to residents, who can use them to complete the census online.
Several community events are scheduled for the coming weeks. National Night Out will take place on August 4, with family-friendly gatherings across all 10 wards. The city is also launching a Summer Civics Series, beginning July 25 at the Aurora Public Works Facility. The series will cover topics such as the 2027 city budget, public safety, infrastructure, and sustainability. Additional sessions are planned for August 8, August 22, and September 26, providing residents opportunities to offer feedback and learn about city operations.
Other upcoming events include the 54th Annual Aurora Puerto Rican Heritage Festival on July 26 at Wilder Park, the 16th Alley Art Fest on August 29 in downtown Aurora, and the National Beep Baseball Association World Series for athletes who are blind or visually impaired from August 3 to August 8. The city is also continuing its fire hydrant flushing program through August 31 and offering free mulch pickup at the Aurora Public Works building due to recent storm debris.
In addition to these initiatives, the city is promoting the Switch Together solar program, which is supported by the Midwest Renewable Energy Association and the Citizens Utility Board. The federal government’s 30% solar tax credit is set to expire in 2026, with only expenditures made by December 31, 2025, eligible under the new law. Over 13,000 homes have participated in the program, according to the Midwest Renewable Energy Association and the Citizens Utility Board. Residents are encouraged to register by September 3 to qualify for the full tax credit.
The city also highlighted the recent winners of the 94th Annual Aurora City Golf Championship and announced an upcoming business networking event hosted by the Aurora Regional Economic Alliance on August 26. The city continues to encourage residents to stay informed through its text alert service and to participate in community activities throughout the summer.