TOPEKA — The unemployment rate in Franklin County and east-central Kansas jumped in January, in some cases sharply. However, the overall statewide unemployment rate fell in January. The Franklin County rate went from 8.5 percent in December to 9.3 percent in January. Other counties’ jobless rate also increased in January: Anderson County from 7.2 percent in December to 7.9 percent in January; Miami County, 8.1 percent to 8.2 percent; Osage County, 7.4 percent to 8.5 percent; Linn County, 12.3 percent to 12.6 percent; Coffey County, 6.3 percent to 7 percent; Douglas County, 5.1 percent to 5.6 percent; and Johnson County, 5.1 percent to 5.6 percent. The seasonally-adjusted state unemployment rate dropped to 6.1 percent in January from 6.4 percent in December. However, without the adjustments, the unemployment rate increased in January. The state said all economic sectors except one shed jobs in January although most sectors showed job growth over the past year. Kansas Department of Labor economist Tyler Tenbrink said when you look at the past year’s numbers, which show more private-sector jobs and less unemployment, it shows the state is on track and there are indications that Kansas will recover. For his part, Gov. Sam Brownback said the figures show his policies of funding and tax cuts are working. “The creation of more than 22,000 private sector jobs last year shows that our pro-growth policies are working,” Brownback said. “Even more, creating new jobs is the best way to fund the state’s core responsibilities.”
Tuesday, March 13, 3 p.m.
