Union still fourth in state, but rate now under 20 percent

A decline in Union County's unemployment rate is being hailed by local officials as a sign of a growing improvement in the economy that holds the promise of better times to come.

The South Carolina Employment Security Commission reported Friday that South Carolina’s unemployment rate declined from 12.4 percent in February to 12.2 percent in March. In Union County the unemployment rate fell from 20.7 percent to 19.2 percent.

Union County Development Board Executive Director Andrena Powell-Baker welcomed the news, pointing out it’s not only a sign of an improving economy but of the vital role existing industry plays in job creation.

“It's definitely a positive shot in the arm for the county,” Powell-Baker said. “According to reports from the state, most of the jobs created in South Carolina in 2009 were as a result of existing industry expansions. I see this trend continuing in 2010 and I'm confident we'll see more expansion opportunities here in Union County in 2010. That's why it is so critical that we support our existing industries by helping them build a case for expanding their operations in Union County.”

Union County Supervisor Tommy Sinclair also welcomed the news, describing it as another sign the economy is beginning to recover.

“I'm delighted with it and I think it portrays more to come,” Sinclair said. “Research shows that from a national point of view and a state point of view we've turned the corner. I've read two articles in recent days that have convinced me that the economy is turning around and brighter days are ahead.”

The Employment Security Commission report states the non-farm job count in South Carolina increased by 15,900 in March with increases in every major industry division except manufacturing which showed a small loss of 200 jobs. The industries that added jobs were:

• Retail Trade — 3,700

• Leisure and Hospitality — 4,600

• Professional and Business Services — 3,200

• Education and Health Services — 800

• Government — 1,100

• Construction — 900

March was the second consecutive month South Carolina has seen gains in most industry divisions.

THE NUMBERS:

These are the top five counties in South Carolina for unemployment in March:

1. Marion 20.7%

2. Allendale 20.6%

3. Chester 19.5%

4. Union 19.2%

5. Marlboro 18.2%

The state’s unemployment rate fell for the second consecutive month. South Carolina’s unemployment rate now is at 12.2 percent. The national rate sits at 9.7 percent.