alstry (35.68)

It Is Not Just Detroit Anymore.....

January 15, 2010 – Comments (3)

Some of the top employers in Missoula have picked up and moved out so what does that mean for the future of Missoula?

 First Smurfit-Stone, just outside Missoula, closed and 417 jobs are gone. Last week, Macys, and 55 jobs.Then Community Hospital lost hours and layoffs.Now Montana Rail link is set to lose 46 jobs.

 According to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. Over 12,000 people are unemployed in Western Montana."It's a shame that people can't find productive jobs. You know, it's a reflection of the worlds economy, I think,"said Missoula County Commissioner, Bill Carey.

 But some don't have time. Anaysts know lost jobs mean more poverty, crime and mental health issues."Losing ones jobs is a stressful situation. It stresses the individual and the family and so on and eventually to some extent the community. So, sure there are going to be some troubles generated by people losing their jobs," said carey.

 Make no mistake,Montana's weathered tough times before. Stimson, Plumb Creek and Columbia Falls Aluminum add to the list of recent closures.
 
 Missoula's county commissioniers know the economy changes and heals over time."Short term its going to be very rough, but over the long term I think Missoula county still will be positioned to provide many people with good paying jobs,"said Carey tells us.

 So, for the thousands searching to find a job,the commissioner recommends more education and to not give up.

 Community leaders in Missoula will be meeting again next week for more discussions.

http://www.keci.com/Whats-Next-For-Missoula/6120103

There will likely be many more meetings with little effect until we stop the zombulator and restructure.