Solano County Unemployment Highest in Bay Area

Unemployment in California took another jump in July, the state's
Employment Development Department reported on Friday.

The unemployment rate in California rose from 11.8 percent in June to 12 percent in July despite a rise in total jobs since the beginning of 2011, the EDD said.

However, the national unemployment rate decreased in July, falling
to 9.1 percent.  The unemployment rate in Benicia climbed from 7.5 percent in June to 7.7 percent in July mirroring the overall state increase. 

"While we are pleased that Benicia's unemployment numbers continue to be lower than the county and national average, that is of little solace to those residents who want a job and are without one," said Mario Giuliani, Benicia's acting Economic Development Director. "The recent unemployment figures  underscores the vital importance of economic development and this City's emphasis on business recruitment and retention."

Benicia had the lowest unemployment rate in July in Solano County while Vallejo, right next door had the highest rate of unemployment in the county at 14.9 percent, up .2 percent compared to June.

Sandy Person, the interim president of the Solano Economic Development Corporation said her group is looking for ways to help all the areas of Solano County out of the current economic slump.  "We're working collaboratively with the city of Bencia on economic issues," said Person.

Marin County had the lowest rate in the Bay Area at 8.1 percent
while Solano County had the highest at 12.2 percent.        

Those receiving unemployment benefits began receiving an EDD Debit
Card instead of a check in July to make the process more convenient and secure the payment process, the department said.        

The transition, which began on July 8, will occur over the next
few months and customers will be notified by mail the week they are switched from check to card, according to the department.