Compared to a year ago, they were down in Gainesville by 30 percent and down statewide by 16.5 percent. In fact, every metropolitan area in Georgia reported a decrease in such claims.
Among others in the area, Athens saw a reduction of 15.8 percent and Atlanta, 13.3 percent, according to state Labor Commissioner Mark Butler.
The department also has issued a February report on jobs losses/creation. It shows Atlanta leading the way with a 2.5 percent increase in jobs last month compared to February 2011. Athens reported a 1.5 percent increase and Gainesville, 1.1 percent. Statewide, there was an overall increase of two percent.
Of Georgia's metropolitan areas, only Columbus, Dalton and Warner Robins showed job losses instead of gains.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2013/3/259691