Lawrence / Douglas County Economic Indicators Report First Quarter 2000

Abstract

The Lawrence /Douglas County economy is still growing compared to a year ago, but a few signs of weakness are emerging in the 1st quarter of 2000. On the positive side, local sales tax collections in both the City of Lawrence and in Douglas County, as well as Lawrence guest tax collections increased compared to a year ago. Sales of single-family homes increased compared with the 1st quarter of 1999. Also, construction increased from a year ago in both the number and the value of permits. Both loans and deposits increased compared with last year’s numbers. On the negative side, 1st quarter employment growth, while still positive, was smaller than a year ago. Furthermore, the civilian labor force grew faster than employment, leading to a rise in the unemployment rate.