Published: July 02, 2009 09:17 am      

Population continues decline

Clinton loses 139 people in 2008; DeWitt, Camanche gain population

CLINTON — Fewer people lived in Clinton in 2008 than 2007, according to population estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau on Wednesday.

For the eighth straight year since 2000, Clinton’s population has declined. From July 1, 2007 to July 1, 2008. Clinton’s population fell 139 people, which was six less than the year before.

Since the 2000 census, Clinton’s population dropped 4.9 percent or a loss of 1,365 people. It now ranks 17th among Iowa cities.

“Hopefully, we’re stemming that because of the university in town that is expanding and a community college that is highly reputable and has opportunities to bring young people into the community,” Clinton Chamber of Commerce President Julie Allesee said.

Second Ward Councilman Mike Kearney said he was not shocked the population fell because the city has removed numerous homes along Liberty Square.

“I don’t think anyone should be surprised because there have been a lot of houses in south Clinton in the Liberty Square area that have been demolished,” Kearney said. “Some of those people moved somewhere else.”

The figures were calculated by the census bureau through examining the number of housing units, occupancy rates and estimated population per household.

Camanche and DeWitt, though, showed growth. Camanche’s population increased by 10 people since July, 1 2007, to July 1, 2008. De Witt’s population rose nine people in that amount of time.

Clinton County lost 1,207 people in population to 48,942 for the July 2008 estimate from the 2000 official count. Fulton, Ill., added one person since 2000.