Unemployment numbers are good sign for county

Franklin County’s unemployment rate rose slightly in April, but the area is still well below the state average and that is a good sign for the economic outlook of the county.

While those numbers do no include the people who filed claims after losing their jobs because of the April 27 tornado, they should still be viewed with optimism.

Job growth is happening in Franklin County, and while the storms were tragic, they will create more jobs. Phil Campbell and the other communities in the eastern portion of Franklin County will be rebuilding in the coming months, offering employment opportunities.

The unemployment rate might increase a little in the next month or two, but expect to see the number drop during the summer as Franklin County remains below the state average.