May local unemployment numbers hit nine-year lows

Several counties in Washington including Benton, Franklin and Walla Walla hit the lowest unemployment rates the area has seen in the past nine years.

Regional Labor Economist Ajsa Suljic says it is also the first time in the past three years that Franklin County was below 6% in May.  Benton County hit 5.1% in May, Franklin County hit 5.6%, Walla Walla hit 4.5%, which is the same as in April. In Adams County data shows the area hit 5% and Grant County hit 5.6%.

"You have a robust labor force this year, similar to previous years as well, a lot of agriculture activities come on board during month of May and early June, so a lot of labor force out and about on the field, also we have a growing economy," says Suljic.

Suljic says she expects the Tri-Cities numbers to hold steady in the coming months with more agriculture jobs opening up. She says several new business opening and more people moving to the area has contributed to the low numbers.

However in Walla Walla the rate may spike with the Walla Walla General Hospital announcing it will close the doors July 24th.