Workforce board reports funding increase prospects; staff mobilizes to place 17 laid-off college employees

A workforce program update at the Greene County annual meeting said preliminary allocations show a possible funding increase for the coming program year and that local workforce staff are actively helping recently separated college employees find new work.

Staff reported the program year starts June 1 and that allocations are not final but that officials are seeing an increase for the first time in five years. “We are currently looking at an increase for the first one in 5 years,” a workforce staff member said, adding that funding formulas take account of performance and local unemployment statistics.

Separately, staff asked local employers to share current job postings because a college recently separated 17 employees. “Amanda's been very active on the providing resources and, any sort of outlet for any of them to go back into the job search,” a board member said, and staff asked for updated job listings so the career center can match candidates with openings.

Meeting participants also noted a multi-grant check presentation scheduled for the 11th at Black Bear Lodge in Prattsville; staff said invitations were issued and encouraged board members to attend.

No formal board action was taken on workforce funding or hiring assistance at the meeting; staff said they will update the workforce board once federal allocations are finalized.