The population of Freeborn County increased by an estimate of nearly 100 people last year, according to recently released estimated statistics by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The county’s population estimate reportedly increased from 30,446 on July 1, 2016; to 30,535 on July 1, 2017; a .29 percent increase.

“It’s not surprising,” said Freeborn County Administrator Thomas Jensen. “We know we are an aging community. The numbers also put that, that our 65 and older population has gone up by 2 percent and the under 18 population has gone down by 1 1/2 (percent) roughly, so it’s information and data that we already know.”

The updated population is still a 2.3 percent decrease from Freeborn County’s estimated population of 31,255 in 2010.

Jensen said Freeborn County will be actively involved in the local updating of Census addresses, which will give it the chance to verify addresses and housing units to ensure accurate numbers, a step Jensen hopes will increase 2020 Census numbers. 

District 5 Commissioner Mike Lee said the population increase from 2016-17 shows local government entities are “going in the right direction,” and need to bring in quality, well-paying jobs.

“It’s a good thing,” he said.

Lee cited Albert Lea’s recent No. 5 nationwide ranking of small-town livability by realtor.com and the nearly-successful effort to land the Hy-Vee distribution center last year by local groups as evidence the efforts of local government entities are paying off.

District 2 Commissioner Dan Belshan said Freeborn County’s estimated population has slightly declined even as the state’s population grows.

“It is relatively flat in spite of the amount of manufacturing jobs lost in seven years and our large aging population,” he said. “Our county median income is lower than Mower and Steele. Our property tax levy should not exceed inflation and growth in the county.”

Belshan said “it will be interesting to see the actual census in 2020.”

“‘Build it and they will come’ is not working,” he said. “We need good jobs to bring young people back to our county.”

Jensen said Freeborn County must have a population of at least 30,000 people to ensure its Public Health Department would not be required to join a neighboring department or the county’s Human Services Department.

“That’s the $1 million question,” he said. “Are we in danger? No. Is it on my radar? Yes.”

District 4 Commissioner Chris Shoff said the county is moving in the right direction after consistently discussing the issue, citing the help the county and city gave to develop Wedgewood Cove Townhomes. He said mid-size counties across the state have seen larger population gains than Freeborn County. 

The city of Albert Lea’s census estimates are expected to be released in June.