Concerns For Workforce Rises In Baldwin County

Rapid growth in Baldwin County—specifically, its southern cities of Foley, Orange Beach and Gulf Shores—will strain the area’s beleaguered service and hospitality industries, AL.com reports. “There’s been substantial growth in the county; it puts a stress on the industry beyond what would be caused by tourism,” Ed Bushaw, executive director of the South Baldwin Regional Workforce Development Authority, said. “It’s kind of a perfect storm.” Bushaw estimates that the region is 10,000-12,000 employees short of what would be needed to meet demand. He expects an additional 6,000 employees will be needed. While many places are struggling to hire across the country, Baldwin County’ labor shortage is being spurred by the rapid growth in the area.