Kansas Labor Report shows job growth; slight unemployment rise
SOUTHEAST KANSAS — The Kansas Department of Labor releases a preliminary report for the end of 2024—showing an increase in the unemployment rate, but also an increase in jobs.
'When we see reports like this that come out and we're like slight growth, we get a little excited. But you've really got to put it in perspective,' said Jim Zaleski, Parsons economic development director.
Parsons economic development director Jim Zaleski is referring to the 2024 year-end Kansas labor report.
'We've seen the growth across the state and we applaud the Department of Commerce. They've done a great job. Unfortunately, some parts of Kansas, specifically rural, are lagging behind. We're in that flat mode,' said Zaleski.
Last December, statewide estimates show non-farm jobs increased by 1,200. The largest increases were in leisure and hospitality, as well as trade, transportation, and utilities.
But the state did see a decrease in professional and business services. Parsons city leaders continue to focus on keeping their numbers from dropping.
'We still are focusing on our highest priorities, which are workforce development, of course. But workforce development is made up of two things, and that's housing and child care.'
Zaleski says making these priorities can help and bring those jobs to the area.
'We are going to focus on the building blocks so that when we do get that company to come here, we're ready for them to move in.'
The unemployment rate was slightly up in December to three point six percent—a full percent increase from December of twenty-three.
'Three point six is still a very healthy unemployment rate, but it's not so low that it dissuades businesses from growing further. And we've really seen that here in our community,' said Blake Benson, Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce president.
Benson says following the COVID pandemic, unemployment in Kansas was historically low.
He feels the 2024 numbers represent a return to normal.
'Balanced growth from our manufacturing sector, from our retail sector, from our service sector to really provide a good, comprehensive, balanced approach to our growth,' said Benson.
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