State Unemployment Grows

How will the City of Elk Grove address economic crisis?


California saw a big jump in unemployment as numbers for December reflect a worsening situation.

According to information from the state's Employment Development Department December's rate was 9.3%, up from 8.4% in November. Employers cut 78,000 jobs in December.

Although national figures will not be released by the U.S. Department of Labor until next week, California is expected have the third worst unemployment rate behind Michigan and Rhode Island.

In the coming months, unemployment is expected to continue it's ugly rise. In Elk Grove the State of California's planned worker furlough will exasperate our current situation.

Of no small coincidence, over the next two weeks the City of Elk Grove will be conducting workshops regarding next years budget in each of the five city council districts. The city hopes to gather input from the public on the city's budget.

With the steady rise in unemployment, falling sales tax revenues and all the social problems associated with economic meltdowns, the city and citizens of Elk Grove will certainly face a tough year.

We applaud the city for seeking input on what will be the biggest challenge since incorporation. Tough decisions will need to be made and now, not later, is the time to voice your concerns and offer suggestions.