An overwhelming amount of area businesses have “help wanted” signs in their windows, according to Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce President, Lyle Butler. According to Butler, almost all of these businesses are retail or restaurants.
During his economic development update to Riley County Commissioners on Thursday, Butler expressed a large need for part time employees within the Manhattan area. He stated it’s unusual that the jobs previously occupied by many young college kids are no longer being filled, particularly life-guarding jobs.
While there are pros to this, such as the ongoing low unemployment rates, Butler said there are many more cons. He stated he has spoken to business owners in recent weeks who believe they could be producing a better product and more sales if they were able to find more help.
Besides lost revenue with low staff numbers, Butler also spoke about the ongoing issue of getting the internet sales tax bill passed. Butler said he’s confident it would aid in state and local government in bridging the financial gaps in the various budgets.
