DEPARTMENT: Employment and Economic Assistance
FILE TYPE: Consent Action
TITLE
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Proclamation Of September 2026 As Workforce Development Month In Dakota County
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RESOLUTION
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WHEREAS, the month of September is a time to honor workforce development leaders and staff across Minnesota, as well as draw attention to the resources available to those looking for work and to employers who need workers now; and
WHEREAS, workforce development professionals throughout the state are working hard to connect all Minnesotans who need work with employment and to help employers reach often-overlooked labor pools.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Dakota County Board of Commissioners hereby proclaims September 2026 as Workforce Development Month in Dakota County to honor and recognize the workforce development professionals who work hard to connect Minnesotans who need work with employment and to help employers reach often-overlooked labor pools.
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BACKGROUND
Data point examples illustrating the employment landscape and program impacts include:
• 4.4% - June 2026 Unemployment Rate for Dakota County; 3.9% in May and 3.6% in April
• $36.33 - Average Wage at Placement - State Dislocated Worker Program
• $21.04 - Average Wage at Placement - Minnesota Family Investment Program
• 4,559 - number of residents in 2025 who accessed in-person services at CareerForce West St. Paul
• 1,400+ - number of residents that attended the 2026 Teen Job Fair at the Dakota County Western Service Center/Galaxie Library
• 146 - partnerships with employers, schools, non-profits and others
• 130 - number of youth served in the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Youth Program in Program Year 2024
• 22 - number of Hiring Events held at West St. Paul CareerForce site in 2025. 996 people attended.
RECOMMENDATION
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Staff recommends the Board of Commissioners proclaim September 2026 as Workforce Development Month in Dakota County.
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FINANCIAL AND STAFFING IMPACTS
None.
PREVIOUS BOARD ACTION
None.
ATTACHMENTS
None.
CONTACT
Department Director: Dana DeMaster
Author: Mark Jacobs