County hears workforce program update; board approves three‑year lease for workforce office

A county workforce consultant updated the board on youth and adult workforce programs during the Sept. 9 meeting, and the county board approved a three‑year lease for workforce development office space discussed in committee.

The update matters because local workforce programs provide training, paid work experiences (WEX), and education assistance for low‑income young people and adults seeking credential and employment pathways.

During public comment a workforce consultant (no full name given in the transcript) said the office is accepting applications for youth participants and described eligibility categories, including low‑income youth, participants who are homeless or aging out of foster care, pregnant or parenting youth, and those with disabilities. The consultant reported six out‑of‑school youth clients and 10 active adult clients enrolled in training tracks such as auto mechanics, phlebotomy, electrical technology, diesel mechanics, IT and respiratory therapy. The consultant described WEX placements and said some participants move from WEX into employment.

Separately, management committee minutes record a three‑year lease for workforce development space proposed at $14.06 per square foot. Committee materials contain a dollar figure of $8,464.12 in connection with the agreement; the record of monthly installment calculations in the transcript is unclear. Committee discussion noted the leased space is smaller than previously discussed. The lease language was reviewed by the state's attorney and described as consistent with the prior paperwork; the management committee recorded a motion and subsequent roll call vote approving the lease.

The consultant requested additional outreach sites in county towns for one‑on‑one job‑search help and resume assistance; staff said they will coordinate locations and connectivity needs for outreach events. The consultant also described adult open enrollment and availability of funds to support training for unemployed residents within a year of the start of unemployment benefits.

The board approved the leasing action and staff will finalize lease paperwork and implement outreach planning for workforce services. The transcript does not include a detailed monthly rent‑payment schedule; staff are responsible for finalizing payment terms consistent with the approved lease.