Payrolls In Teton County Still Suffer

Jobs were up but payroll down in Teton County during the fourth quarter of 2011.  The Research and Planning Division of the Wyoming Department of Workforce Services reported that statewide, total unemployment insurance covered payroll increased by $78.2-million and employment statewide rose by 5367 jobs.  However, Teton County did not fare as well as the state as a whole.  The report points out that while Teton County gained 307 jobs during the period, its total payroll fell by $1.6-million.  The largest of the decreases in total payroll were in the areas of wholesale trade and corporate management.  The study says they were most likely the result of bonuses paid in the fourth quarter of 2010 but not repeated in 2011.  Those hunting and finding new jobs found them primarily in the areas of construction; arts, entertainment and recreation; and local government.  The state agency says job growth throughout Wyoming continued during the first quarter of 2012, but details were not yet available.