Springs unemployment creeps up to 9.2

Unemployment in Colorado Springs increased slightly in October, from 9 percent to 9.2 percent the month before, and it increased a full percentage point from October 2009.

The unadjusted rate in the Springs was 8.8 percent, up from 8.7 percent in September of this year, and a sharp rise from the 7.6 percent a year ago.

The bad jobs news is reflected in the state overall. The Colorado Division of Labor and Employment reported the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased two-tenths of one percent to 8.4 percent from September’s level, which is still lower than the national rate of 9.6 percent.

However, Donald Mares, executive director of the labor department remains optimistic.

“Despite mixed results in the employment numbers, there are encouraging signs of improvement, including recent increases n online job postings,” hes aid. “Through our innovative partnerships and programs, the workforce system is focused on ensuring job seekers regain employment as quickly as possible.”

Last October, the unemployment rate was 7.5 percent.

The number of working Coloradans fell 5,400 during the month to just over 2.4 million. The number of residents unsuccessfully looking for work increased by 3,200 people last month.

The unemployment rate increased in 38 of Colorado’s 64 counties, decreased in 4 counties. The lowest rate was 3.5 percent in Cheyenne County, and the highest was 15.7 percent in Dolores County.

Wage and salaries

The monthly survey of Colorado business establishments indicates the number of nonfarm wage and salary jobs increased 7,100 in October.

Employment increased in six industry sectors: education, health care, construction, government, mining and logging and other services.

Nationally, payroll employment has increased by 874,000 and private-sector employment has increased by 1.1 million.

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