Community Corner

East Bay Unemployment Rate Dips, Stays the Same in Berkeley

Fewer people filed for unemployment in the East Bay, but there were also fewer jobs in October.

There is mixed economic news for the East Bay today.

The unemployment rate is down but so are the number of jobs in the region.

The state Economic Development Department reported today the unemployment rate in the East Bay dropped from 10.6 percent in August to 10.1 percent in September. 

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In Alameda County, the unemployment rate fell to 10.2 percent, down from 10.7 percent in August. Berkeley's unemployment rate was 9.7 percent.

The jobless rate for Contra Costa County dipped to 10.1 percent, down from 10.6.

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However, state labor officials also reported the East Bay had a total work force of 947,800 people in September. That was 600 fewer jobs than the month before.

The biggest gains were made in public and private schools, which had a seasonal increase of 4,800 jobs. In addition, trade, transportation and utilities increased by 2,400 jobs and financial activities added 1,000 jobs.

The biggest declines were seen in leisure and hospitality as well as manufacturing. Both industries lost 1,200 jobs. Education and health services lost 1,100 jobs and construction jobs dropped by 600.

The unemployment rate reflects the employment status of people who live in a certain region. The jobs are based on the number of positions at businesses within that area.

In Alameda County, the communities with the highest unemployment rate are Oakland at 15.3 percent, Cherryland with 14.7 percent, Ashland at 11.7 percent and Hayward with 11.3 percent.

The towns with the lowest unemployment are Albany at 4.3 percent, Pleasanton at 5.2 percent and Piedmont at 5.3 percent.

Scott Peterson, deputy director of the East Bay Economic Development Alliance, said while the numbers don't indicate an immediate recovery, he thinks the East Bay economy is pointed in the right direction.

"The area is poised for a return to prosperity," he said.

The agency released a report last week that named 12 industries that will drive that rebound.

Peterson said areas such as research and development, specialized manufacturing, clean technology and clean energy are industries job seekers should point toward.

He noted the construction industry is still challenged.

Science and technology skills are the best items to either have or to learn if you are looking for work or thinking about changing careers.

"The real challenge for anyone caught in transition is to figure out which of their skills will be adaptable," Peterson said.


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