Unemployment report shows initial jobs impact of Mall at University Town Center

MANATEE -- Unemployment rates continue to drop in Manatee and Sarasota counties according to the latest numbers released Friday, giving the first numbers of job growth from The Mall at University Town Center.

Manatee County's unemployment rate dropped to 5.9 percent in October, down from 6.1 percent in September and a year-over-year improvement from the 6.7 percent figure in 2013. The numbers released by the region's job agency CareerSource Suncoast are not seasonally adjusted.

Sarasota County's rate also dropped to 5.6 percent from 5.8 percent in September, bettering the 6.6 percent rate in October 2013.

The region was buoyed by The Mall at University Town Center opening on Oct. 16, with 1,600 retail jobs added to the region during October, which is a 4.1 percent increase from October last year. That's higher than the state's 3.7 percent retail workforce growth during the same period. Those 1,600 jobs fall in line with the 2,000 estimated jobs mall of

ficials touted would be created in the mall as more stores and restaurants are expected to open in the mall through next year.

While retail was strong, other industries added more jobs. Professional and business services continues their strength with 3,200 added jobs over the year, a 9.1 percent increase, and 1,800 mining, lodging and construction jobs added, which could partly be attributed to mall construction.

Statewide unadjusted unemployment stood at 5.8 percent in October, down from 6.1 percent in September and 6.7 percent a year ago.

In a release, Gov. Rick Scott said the announcement is "great news as we continue our work to ensure that every Floridian who wants a job can get one."

Scott said the state has added 679,000 jobs since December 2010.

Charles Schelle, Herald business reporter, can be reached at 941-745-7095. Follow him on Twitter @ImYourChuck.

Herald wire services contributed to this report.