In a recent meeting of the Economic Development Commission in St. Mary's County, Maryland, officials gathered to discuss the critical state of employment and unemployment rates in the region. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as members recognized the importance of these metrics in shaping the local economy.

The discussion began with a clear emphasis on why employment figures matter. "Employment is the main source of income," one official stated, highlighting that a robust job market is essential for a healthy economy. The more people employed, the more disposable income flows into the community, driving consumption and supporting local businesses.

As the meeting progressed, the commission reviewed the latest employment statistics for St. Mary's County. The average annual growth rate of employment from 2009 to 2014 was reported at a modest 1%. While this growth is steady, it raises questions about the county's economic vitality as it emerges from the recession. The unemployment rate, hovering around 6%, has shown slight fluctuations but remains comparable to the state average, typically tracking about half a percentage point lower than Maryland as a whole.

A breakdown of employment by sector revealed that the private sector dominates, accounting for 67.3% of jobs, followed by federal employment at 21%. This reliance on federal jobs, particularly in defense, underscores the county's economic dependency on government contracts. The commission discussed the need for a more detailed analysis of private sector employment to better understand the local economy's structure.

The conversation also touched on the rise of self-employment, which has seen a significant increase since 2010. This trend reflects a national shift towards a gig economy, where individuals often work as independent contractors or consultants. The implications of this shift are profound, as it alters traditional employment landscapes and income stability.

Income levels were another focal point of the meeting. The average income in St. Mary's County has grown at a rate of 3.4% since 2009, a figure that, while positive, still leaves room for improvement. The disparity between federal employees, who average close to $100,000 annually, and those in other sectors, averaging around $50,000, highlights the economic divide within the community.

As the meeting concluded, members were encouraged to delve deeper into the data presented, with an invitation to share insights and questions. The discussions underscored the importance of understanding employment dynamics not just as numbers, but as vital indicators of community health and economic resilience. The commission's ongoing efforts to analyze and respond to these trends will be crucial as St. Mary's County navigates its economic future.