The Christian County Economic Development Corporation is pointing to local employment numbers to drive businesses to the area.  The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows unemployment in Christian County is at 3.6%.  That’s down by nearly 1% from that point last year and the same amount lower than Illinois as a whole.  These numbers affect – and in turn are affected by – local economic growth. 

Matt Hart, Executive Director of the CCEDC, has a keen eye on these numbers.  He says comparing the county’s numbers to those of other states speaks to the value of living and doing business here.

As for other businesses potentially opening in Christian County, Hart says they look closely at the unemployment rate and its trends before deciding if they will move or expand. 

As such, Sloan Implement likely would have been among those paying attention to employment numbers.  They recently opened a new location in Edinburg, a move which has helped widen their reach for customers. 

As for the roads to get to these businesses, construction projects are well underway.  They are mostly taking place along Illinois Route 29 between Taylorville and Pana. 

More information on the CCEDC is available at www.christiancountyedc.com. 

Matt Hart appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.