Commissioner Sun discusses labor force recovery strategies for Buncombe County

Concerns about Buncombe County's labor force recovery took center stage during the June 3 briefing of the Buncombe County Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Dan highlighted the pressing question of whether the local labor market will bounce back, emphasizing the importance of demand for businesses to thrive.

As the summer season approaches, the county is focusing on generating demand to support local restaurants, hotels, and artists. According to a recent Asheville Chamber survey, while many businesses have reopened, they are not operating at full capacity, leaving employees uncertain about job stability and hours. Commissioner Dan stressed that the county can play a crucial role in boosting demand, which is essential for economic recovery.

The discussion also touched on the contrasting views regarding the labor shortage. While some believe the issue stems from a lack of available workers, Commissioner Dan argued that the real challenge lies in ensuring that potential employees are aware of job opportunities. He suggested that the county should enhance its workforce development efforts, including job matching initiatives, to connect job seekers with available positions.

As the meeting concluded, there was a sense of optimism about Buncombe County's progress and the potential for recovery. The commissioners expressed gratitude for the information shared and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the local economy in these challenging times.