McElroy Says Employment Will Improve

The Minnesota Commissioner of the Department of Employment and Economic Development says the jobs picture will improve in the Brainerd Lakes Area, but it will take time. Dan McElroy says the area took a hit in construction and natural resources jobs.

McElroy tells KLKS News, there is room for optimism. He says job search firms are posting more jobs. He says the average number of hours worked has increased from 31 to 33 per week and that has made a big difference.

McElroy says the investment Wausau Paper is making in the Brainerd plant is another reason for hope. The expansion should be complete early next year.