EMPLOYMENT rate falls in July

<br>OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ Oklahoma lost 9,000 jobs in July, most of those in the service producing industry, according to statistics released Thursday by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission. <br><br>Total

Friday, August 24th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ Oklahoma lost 9,000 jobs in July, most of those in the service producing industry, according to statistics released Thursday by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission.

Total non-farm employment in Oklahoma fell to 1.497 million during the month, a decrease of 0.6 percent.

The state's economy had 8,500 fewer service producing jobs in July, a 0.7 percent drop from the month before. The goods producing industry lost 500 jobs, or 0.2 percent.

The mining industry continued to grow during the month, adding 100 jobs or 0.3 percent. Over the year, mining is up 5.5 percent or 1,600 jobs.

Construction jobs also increased. The industry created 400 jobs in July, adding to the yearly increase of 2,500 construction jobs.

Manufacturing jobs declined over the month, however.

Durable goods lost 1,200 jobs or 1.1 percent, while nondurable goods gained 200 jobs. The manufacturing of electronic equipment declined significantly. The industry reported a loss of 5,300 jobs this year, a 2.9 percent decrease.

Transportation and public utilities gained 200 jobs or 0.2 percent in July.

Trade declined in July, losing 500 jobs. Wholesale trade shed 900 jobs, while retail trade had a 400-job increase. The retail trade industry reported gains in automotive dealers and restaurants. The industry has increased 0.6 percent over the year with 1,900 more jobs.

Finance, insurance and real estate continued to grow during the month, adding 200 jobs or 0.3 percent. The industry gained 1,200 jobs over the year.

The service industry added 1,700 jobs in July as employment increased at hotels, health services and engineering and management services. But personnel, educational and social services declined in July. Over the year, the service industry has gained 11,600 jobs or 2.7 percent.

Government employment dropped by 10,100 jobs or 3.6 percent in July. State government lost 2,700 jobs or 3.6 percent and local government lost 7,200 jobs or 4.4. percent. The commission said the drop is due to the seasonal education industry.

Federal government reported a loss of 200 jobs or 0.4 percent.

Since July 2000, government has gained 300 jobs.

About 14,800 jobs have been created in Oklahoma in the last year, the commission said.