A new report from Wichita State University projects slow but steady economic growth in Kansas next year. The annual economic outlook forecast projects nearly 2 percent growth in the number of jobs. Jeremy Hill is director of Wichita State’s Center for Economic Development and Business Research. He says many businesses are holding off on expanding or hiring until after the election.
“I think businesses are going to move forward no matter what the reality is. It doesn’t matter who gets into office, they’re going to be moving forward. It might change their behavior, but they’re going to start going out there creating some jobs and creating opportunities.”
The study says 24,000 new jobs will be created in Kansas, with the most growth in the services, manufacturing and natural resources sectors. The report also projects a loss of around 1,500 government jobs next year.