Developments
Regional news
Nez Perce County
- Clearwater Paper is laying off 23 Lewiston employees and eliminating approximately 50 additional vacant positions. The layoffs are potentially the result of high operating costs combined with soft paperboard prices. The company experienced significant unplanned operating losses in 2024 that include the January deep freeze event (resulting in operational losses exceeding $15 million, of which $10.5 million was covered by insurance proceeds) and a $322,000 civil penalty imposed by the Environmental Protection Agency for unreported chlorine releases throughout 2019-2021. Source: Lewiston Tribune, Clearwater Paper
Idaho County
- The Idaho County Probations Office Annual Juvenile Justice Report listed 44 juvenile felonies in 2024 compared to 12 in 2023. Idaho County does not currently have any facilities to hold juveniles and pays Nez Perce County for the use of its jail. Source: Idaho County Free Press
- Elite Heating and Cooling in Grangeville will be expanding its offerings to include plumbing services and installations in spring 2025. Source: Elite Heating and Cooling
- Elk City experienced a three-day power outage as a result of a fallen tree. Source: Idaho County Free Press
- The City of Kooskia had a record of 375 ambulance responses in 2024. By comparison, there were 252 responses in 2020, 309 responses in 2021 and 354 in 2022. Source: Idaho County Free Press
- Free online American Sign Language classes are being offered to the Riggins community through Oklahoma School for the Deaf from February-June 2025. Source: Idaho County Free Press
Latah County
- The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a civil lawsuit that claims investment firm KKR did not comply with antitrust laws in its 2021 acquisition of EMSI. After the acquisition, KKR consolidated EMSI and Burning Glass into the company now known as Lightcast. The suit highlights that KKR failed to file 28 premerger documents, allowing the company to close transactions without appropriate government review. Source: Lewiston Tribune, U.S. Justice Department
- The University of Idaho is launching an energy institute with a program focus on cybersecurity, sustainability and global energy systems. The institute will operate within the College of Engineering and will offer certificates, minors and full degree programs. The institute will work to expand partnerships with local electricity providers. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- Gritman Medical Center has two construction projects in process – a new central sterile room for its surgical instruments and a fifth operating room within the surgery department. The total project cost is estimated at $5 million and will be paid through tax-exempt revenue bonds. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- Viola Water and Sewer District was awarded a $35,000 planning grant by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. The remaining $35,000 will be funded by the city. Source: Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
- The City of Juliaetta is accepting bids for the new wastewater treatment plant. Source: City of Juliaetta
- The City of Moscow Fire Department responded to a record high 3,002 incidents throughout 2024. This includes 2,208 emergency medical services and 794 fire incidents. There was also a 10% rise from 2023 and a 6% increase from the previous record of 2,828 calls in 2021. Source: City of Moscow
- One Palouse (also known as Palouse Knowledge Corridor) has dissolved operations after serving as a resource hub for local entrepreneurs over the last three years. The nonprofit was a combination of economic development entities representing both Latah County in Idaho and Whitman County in Washington. A nonprofit located in Spokane, Washington will continue to operate the Inland Northwest Connect website. Source: Latah County Commissioners
Clearwater County
- Orofino’s Clearwater Community Complex will soon be under construction with an estimated completion date of 2026. The $4.9 million complex will replace the existing pool with an eight-lane competition pool and a recreation and lesson pool. The project is being funded through donations, grants and sponsorships. Source: Clearwater Progress
- Orofino School District #171 was awarded a $24,000 grant to be directed toward child nutrition and technology updates. The funding will be used for an upgraded warehouse security system, monitor and audio system for the Timberline cafeteria and renewal of software licenses related to the menu planning program. Source: Clearwater Tribune
- U.S. Bank will be closing its Orofino location by April 30. U.S. Bank currently operates 49 locations throughout Idaho, including nearby Lewiston, Moscow and Grangeville. Source: U.S. Bank
Lewis County
- American Freedom Defense of Greencreek acquired Prairie Imperial Bowl in Craigmont. Prairie Imperial Bowl will operate under the new name of AFD Alley. Source: American Freedom Defense
- Going forward, the level of Winchester Lake will be three feet lower than usual due to removal of breakaway walls on the Winchester Lake Dam spillway. The dam and spillway are scheduled to be updated over the next five years and return the lake to normal levels at that time. Source: Idaho Fish and Game
- Upriver Youth Leadership Council was granted a $10,000 Mini-Grant from the Idaho State Liquor Division to implement a Virtual Reality Alcohol Awareness Program. The program will educate youth about the risks of underage and excessive drinking through engaging virtual reality experiences. Source: Upriver Youth Leadership Council
Openings
- The Mango Tree restaurant, Lewiston
- Advantage Advertising is under new ownership, Lewiston
- Shattuck Brewery of Elk River opened Shattuck West taproom, Moscow
- First Bank of Pizza and Pastry opened under new ownership, Juliaetta
- Johnson’s General Store, Potlatch
- Numberz LLC bookkeeping services, Orofino
- Mama Bear Daycare, Lewiston
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor demand in northern Idaho increased slightly in December 2024, with a total of 1,338 unique job postings in the region – an increase from 1,299 jobs in November. Increase is consistent with past seasonal trends, however labor demand is higher than it was at the same time last year, when postings totaled 1,282 jobs in December 2023. The unemployment rate increased slightly from 4.7% to 4.8% and remains higher than in December 2023. Both the total labor force and total employment remain above their 2023 levels.
| Northern Idaho seasonally adjusted data | Dec-24 (P) | Nov-24 (R) | Dec-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 130,789 | 129,172 | 127,946 |
| Total employment | 124,474 | 123,097 | 122,592 |
| Unemployment | 6,315 | 6,075 | 5,354 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 4.8% | 4.7% | 4.2% |
| Source: Idaho Department of Labor | P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked | ||
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Dec-24 | Postings, Dec-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Registered salespersons | 75 | 44 |
| Registered nurses | 61 | 79 |
| Home health and personal care aides | 42 | 38 |
| Fast food and counter workers | 38 | 22 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 36 | 18 |
| Laborers, freight, stock, material movers and hand | 32 | 19 |
| Unclassified occupation | 28 | 51 |
| Janitors and cleaners | 25 | 20 |
| Customer service representatives | 25 | 32 |
| Medical and health services managers | 24 | 16 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 industries by unique job postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Dec-24 | Postings, Dec-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 274 | 196 |
| Retail trade | 174 | 153 |
| Administrative and support services | 113 | 121 |
| Accommodation and food services | 77 | 99 |
| Construction | 55 | 29 |
| Finance and insurance | 51 | 79 |
| Manufacturing | 47 | 59 |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 47 | 50 |
| Wholesale trade | 45 | 39 |
| Public administration | 37 | 59 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in northern Idaho | Median duration, Dec-24 | Median duration, Dec-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Civil engineers | 23 | N/A |
| Maintenance, repair workers and general | 20 | N/A |
| Health care social workers | 18 | N/A |
| Pharmacy technicians | 17 | N/A |
| Nurse practitioners | 17 | N/A |
| Driver and sales workers | 17 | N/A |
| Skincare specialists | 17 | N/A |
| Project management specialists | 16 | N/A |
| Cooks and fast food workers | 16 | N/A |
| School psychologists | 16 | N/A |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
Regional news
- A joint Spokane-Coeur d’Alene aerospace tech hub has received $48 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce. A consortium made up of more than 50 public and private sector organizations in Spokane and northern Idaho, including labor and workforce organizations, local governments, educational institutions and manufacturers applied for a first round of federal funding for the tech hub. The organizations failed to make the initial list of 12 projects to be funded in the first round. However, the Spokane-Coeur d’Alene tech hub was among the six projects selected for funding in the second round. Source: Journal of Business
- Despite a relatively snowless and warm winter at lower elevations, significant precipitation in northern Idaho is expected to end the region’s two-year drought. According to the Idaho Department of Water Resources, the mountain snow water equivalent was 135% of normal in the northern Panhandle. After two years of significant drought, the ongoing wet winter is expected to bring an end to drought conditions. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
Kootenai County
- Heritage Health is consolidating and moving its operations to a larger new facility in Coeur d’Alene. The nonprofit provider offers medical, dental and behavioral health services to almost 26,000 patients across northern Idaho. The provider also currently operates 12 clinic locations across the region. Roughly half of Heritage Health’s 360 employees will work out of the new facility. Some services will move in January, while others – including pediatrics, dental and pharmacy – will move in 2026. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- Construction will begin soon on the new Sherman Tower hotel in downtown Coeur d’Alene. The 15-story hotel will offer 139 rooms and more than 10,000 square feet of restaurant, retail and office space. The Sherman Tower is expected to open in the spring of 2027. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- Work is resuming ahead of schedule to complete a traffic improvement project on Government Way in Coeur d’Alene. Thanks to a relatively snowless winter, work on the corridor improvement (which was scheduled to resume in the spring) is currently underway. The project includes upgrades to signaling and pedestrian ramps at 10 different intersections. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- The Macy’s department store in Coeur d’Alene’s Silver Lake Mall will be closing this year, per an announcement from the company. The planned closure will shutter the last of the mall’s chain department store anchor tenants, after the closure of Sears in 2018 and JCPenny in 2021. Source: Journal of Business
Openings
- Taco Bell (Post Falls)
- Madd Chicken (Coeur d’Alene)
- Athol Dental Implants (Athol)
- Boiada Brazilian Grill (Coeur d’Alene)
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
Southwestern Idaho’s single-family home sales – November 2023 and 2024
| Median price sold | 2024 | 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada | $525,000 | $530,000 | -0.9% |
| Adams | $267,500 | $600,000 | -55.4% |
| Boise | $550,000 | $415,000 | 32.5% |
| Canyon | $414,995 | $398,990 | 4.0% |
| Elmore | $372,500 | $325,000 | 14.6% |
| Gem | $441,780 | $415,000 | 6.5% |
| Owyhee | $389,000 | $610,000 | -36.2% |
| Payette | $360,000 | $372,599 | -3.4% |
| Valley | $792,870 | $732,500 | 8.2% |
| Washington | $318,560 | $285,000 | 11.8% |
| Source: Intermountain Multiple Listing Service | |||
Figure 1b.
| Days on market | 2024 | 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada | 42 | 41 | 2.4% |
| Adams | 60 | 65 | -7.7% |
| Boise | 73 | 55 | 32.7% |
| Canyon | 58 | 42 | 38.1% |
| Elmore | 81 | 31 | 161.3% |
| Gem | 68 | 52 | 30.8% |
| Owyhee | 54 | 62 | -12.9% |
| Payette | 64 | 56 | 14.3% |
| Valley | 84 | 79 | 6.3% |
| Washington | 57 | 19 | 200.0% |
| Regional average days | 64 | 50 | 27.7% |
| Source: Intermountain Multiple Listing Service | |||
Figure 1c.
| Inventory | 2024 | 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada | 1,527 | 1,363 | 12.0% |
| Adams | 30 | 23 | 30.4% |
| Boise | 92 | 50 | 84.0% |
| Canyon | 1,008 | 840 | 20.0% |
| Elmore | 107 | 74 | 44.6% |
| Gem | 97 | 77 | 26.0% |
| Owyhee | 33 | 28 | 17.9% |
| Payette | 109 | 90 | 21.1% |
| Valley | 130 | 102 | 27.5% |
| Washington | 43 | 38 | 13.2% |
| Regional totals | 3,176 | 2,685 | 18.3% |
| Source: Intermountain Multiple Listing Service | |||
Figure 1d.
| Total homes sold | 2024 | 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ada | 660 | 528 | 25.0% |
| Adams | 6 | 3 | 100.0% |
| Boise | 9 | 19 | -52.6% |
| Canyon | 390 | 291 | 34.0% |
| Elmore | 26 | 27 | -3.7% |
| Gem | 24 | 17 | 41.2% |
| Owyhee | 5 | 5 | 0% |
| Payette | 37 | 32 | 15.6% |
| Valley | 20 | 16 | 25.0% |
| Washington | 14 | 7 | 100.0% |
| SW sold and % change | 1,191 | 945 | 26.0% |
| Source: Intermountain Multiple Listing Service | |||
| Nov-23 | Nov-24 | % change | # change | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unique postings | 9,199 | 7,276 | -20.9% | -1,923 |
| Days posted | 11 | 22 | 100.0% | 11 |
| Number of employers | 2,332 | 1,859 | -20.3% | -473 |
| Advertised wage | $21.23 | $28.00 | 31.9% | $6.77 |
| Share wage advertisements | 43% | 51% | 18.6% | 8% |
| Source: Help Wanted Online data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in southwestern Idaho | Postings, Nov-24 | Postings, Nov-23 | Year over year % change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retail salespersons | 204 | 197 | 3.6% |
| Registered nurses | 263 | 364 | -27.7% |
| Customer service representatives | 119 | 187 | -36.4% |
| Computer occupations, all other | 261 | 170 | 53.5% |
| Sales representatives, wholesale, manufacturing, except technical and scientific products | 181 | 147 | 23.1% |
| Software developers | 228 | 102 | 123.5% |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 132 | 132 | 0% |
| Laborers, freight, stock, material movers and hand | 96 | 113 | -15.0% |
| Project management specialists | 65 | 64 | 1.6% |
| Fast food and counter workers | 56 | 93 | -39.8% |
| Source: Help Wanted Online data via Lightcast |
Regional news
Ada County
- The U.S. Treasury’s Social Impact Partnership to Pay for Results Act awarded $6.6 million to the city of Boise, one of six communities that received this grant. It will supplement the city’s initiative to build and sustain 250 new homes for individuals to transition out of homelessness. The initiative and the new funding will be incorporated into the cooperative effort of the Supportive Housing Investment Fund (SHIF) which works with the Idaho Community Foundation. The city has already contributed $7.5 million in seed funding to SHIF, ultimately supporting 143 homes towards the goal of 250 homes. New Path Community Housing has already reported over $8.8 million in cost savings for the program’s first five years. Idaho Policy Institute will receive an additional $1 million for independently monitoring the outcome of the funding and tracking the continued savings. Source: Idaho Business Review
- Alaska Airlines started direct flights to Bozeman, Montana, and Orange County, California. The Bozeman flight will be offered five times weekly through mid-March and is Boise’s only direct flight to Montana. Meanwhile, Avelo Airlines dropped flights between Boise and Hollywood Burbank Airport due to competition from Southwest and Alaska Airlines. Source: Idaho Press and Idaho Statesman
- The Boise Bicycle Project gave away 634 bikes to kids under the age of 11 for Christmas. There is a block party for the distribution of bikes to the children complete with a chance to get helmets, locks, lights and a riding course with mentoring from volunteers. Volunteers also dedicated the previous year to fixing up the donated bikes, so they are safe and shiny for the new rider. Source: Idaho News 6
- City of Good and Create Common Good signed an agreement to combine resources under the City of Good umbrella. There will be no layoffs or staff reductions as the current combined payroll is 15 people with plans to hire more. The City of Good started in 2020 paying the out of work restaurant workforce to make meals for those in need. It then broadened to providing a weekend’s worth of fresh food to elementary school kids who were experiencing food scarcity. Create Common Good was established in 2008 to provide food service training and placement to refugees, women escaping domestic violence and people overcoming addiction. It also works with the Idaho Department of Correction to help those recently released from prison transition back into society. There is sufficient commonality between the two nonprofits to see some efficiencies and reductions in expenses as they share staff, equipment, vehicles, kitchens, infrastructure and development plans. Source: Idaho Statesman
- Boise State University closed its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Center and is transitioning to a new Student Connections and Support Center. The center will have the same staff with just a different name and broader mission. There will be a new program to assist first-generation college students in all areas of growth including academic, career and personal. The center will provide a campus clothing closet with case management available, along with crisis intervention services, assistance in reporting acts of violence and resources for navigating campus life. Source: KTVB News
- West Ada School District employees are now required to report allegations of discrimination or harassment. This occurred after parents pushed for the mandatory requirement. Source: Idaho Education News
Canyon County
- Caldwell School District has hired Eagle Eye Security, a private security contractor, to provide services to its middle schools and high school. The trustees voted to allow the officers to carry pepper spray, tasers and rifles to protect the students. Formerly, the school district had sufficient funding to hire Caldwell Police Department officers as staff school resource officers. Source: KTVB News
Gem County
- Numerous county offices will be relocated to the former Emmett Community Bible Church as it constructs a new place of worship. The chambers for the county commissioners, the county assessor, the Department of Motor Vehicles and the planning and zoning will be co-located in the space after construction of the church is complete and potential renovations are approved. This allows the county to combine services under one roof. Source: Emmett Messenger Index
Openings
- KPot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot opened its all-you-can-eat restaurant in Meridian in the former Sizzler location. Source: Idaho Statesman
- Nara Ramen opened its fifth location in the Treasure Valley, this time in Meridian at the former Homestead Bar and Grill venue. Source: Idaho Statesman
Closures
- Biscuit & Hogs closed its Meridian location with a sign on the door stating it was permanently closed. Source: Idaho Statesman
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor force estimates for November 2024 from the Idaho Department of Labor’s Local Area Unemployment Statistics have both total employment and unemployment increasing in the nine-county eastern region. Seasonally adjusted, November’s preliminary estimates have labor force participants increasing by 324 people, with 116 more employed people and 208 more unemployed people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for the region increased to 3.1% since last month and is 0.6 percentage points higher than November 2023.
| Eastern Idaho, seasonally adjusted data | Nov-24 (P) | Oct-24 (P) | Nov-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 133,100 | 132,776 | 129,487 |
| Total employment | 128,800 | 128,684 | 126,093 |
| Unemployment | 4,300 | 4,092 | 3,394 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 3.2 | 3.1 | 2.6 |
| P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked Source: Idaho Department of Labor |
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- There were an estimated 941 unique, deduplicated job postings in the eastern Idaho labor market for November 2024, according to The Conference Board: Help Wanted Online. (This is regional online job postings data and not necessarily job openings data.) The 941 postings are a 25% decrease from 1,259 the prior month, but a 2% increase from 922 year over year. Registered nurses remained the top occupation of unique job postings in the region for November. New to the top occupations by quantity of job postings this month were merchandise displayers, software developers, maintenance repair workers, computer programmers and mental health counselors. Employer hiring demand based on quantity of job postings did not increase for any occupations since last month. Job postings decreased for all other carryover occupations from the month prior, including 52% for heavy truck drivers, 51% for retail salespersons and 20% for registered nurses.
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in eastern Idaho, November 2024 | Postings |
|---|---|
| Registered nurses | 45 |
| Retail salespersons | 27 |
| Merchandise displayers and window trimmers | 21 |
| Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | 21 |
| Hand laborers, freight, stock and material movers | 21 |
| Software developers | 19 |
| Customer service representatives | 19 |
| General maintenance and repair workers | 16 |
| Computer programmers | 15 |
| Mental health counselors | 12 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | |
- Finance and insurance replaced educational services in the top five of regional industries by quantity of job postings this month. Industry hiring demand by job postings increased over the month by 35% in finance and insurance and by 11% in public administration industries. Job postings decreased over the month by 45% in educational services, 41% in professional, scientific and technical services, 30% in waste management and remediation, 37% in construction, 20% in transportation and warehousing, 19% in wholesale trade and 16% in health care and social assistance industries.
| Top industries by job unique postings in eastern Idaho, November 2024 | Postings |
|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 147 |
| Finance and insurance | 100 |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 98 |
| Administrative, support, waste management and remediation services | 84 |
| Retail trade | 75 |
| Manufacturing | 62 |
| Wholesale trade | 50 |
| Construction | 40 |
| Educational services | 40 |
| Public administration | 36 |
| Transportation and warehousing | 20 |
| Accommodation and food services | 19 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | |
- November data on the hardest-to-fill occupations in eastern Idaho, by highest median job posting duration and multiple unique job postings, include registered nurses, general and operations managers and project management specialists. Hardest-to-fill job posting challenges in November by occupational family were health care practitioners and technical and management. All occupations were new to this month’s hardest-to-fill jobs list, except accountants, general and operations managers and registered nurses.
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in eastern Idaho, November 2024 | Days to fill | Postings |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | 24 | 21 |
| Registered nurses | 23 | 45 |
| General and operations managers | 18 | 10 |
| Accountants and auditors | 18 | 9 |
| Cashiers | 17 | 9 |
| Radiologic technologists and technicians | 17 | 5 |
| Stockers and order fillers | 16 | 5 |
| Driver and sales workers | 13 | 12 |
| Retail salespersons | 9 | 27 |
| Physical therapists | 7 | 9 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | ||
Regional news
- According to Natural Resources Conservation Services mountain data from SNOTEL, the five runoff basins that comprise eastern Idaho have an average year-to-date snow water equivalent measuring 82% of median, but only 68% of median for average year-to-date precipitation. Source: Natural Resources Conservation Services
- The U.S. Small Business Administration issued an Economic Injury Disaster Loan declaration to aid businesses impacted by wildfires, including the Bench Lake and Wapiti Fires that began July 11. This makes assistance available in Butte, Custer and Lemhi counties to offset economic losses. Source: U.S. Small Business Administration
- A new memorandum of understanding between Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and Idaho State University begins collaborative research in critical and strategic minerals and materials, as well as environmental sustainability and security. This research involves the study and development of materials vital to technology and industrial processes that are also at risk of supply disruptions. Some of these critical minerals are mined in eastern Idaho. Environmental sustainability research will include carbon reduction, sequestration and storage technologies, digitization and artificial intelligence, geothermal energy, as well as spent fuel storage and disposition. Sources: INL and Post Register
- Allegiant Airlines is adding a new stop to Denver from Idaho Falls Regional Airport starting May 2025. Source: KIFI
Bonneville County
- Cielito Lindo, a new Mexican restaurant, opened in Idaho Falls. Source: East Idaho News
- The Christmas Caboose, an old train caboose present along a riverbank in Idaho Falls for decades, has been turned into a seasonal drive-thru treat shop. Source: East Idaho News
- Bumble and Bleat, a soap boutique, opened in Idaho Falls. Source: Idaho Falls Magazine
- A speakeasy called Soiled Dove opened in Idaho Falls. Source: East Idaho News
- JB’s Soda Barn in Idaho Falls is permanently closing. Source: East Idaho News
- The city of Idaho Falls completed the entire citywide fiber network for residential use ahead of schedule. Installation teams invented technology and designed ground-boring equipment to minimize above-ground digging. Construction totaled $45 million. There are currently over 8,500 customers using the network and six service providers. On average there are 200-300 new installations per month. Source: City of Idaho Falls
- The four-acre Gem Prep Charter School lot in Ammon’s Bridgewater neighborhood was sold to Caliber Customs for construction of 17 townhomes. The zoning was previously designated as parks, schools and churches but is now zoned as residential. Source: Post Register
- The city of Idaho Falls accepted a $2.6 million bid to construct a new fire station on the north side of the city. Source: Post Register
- The Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce announced ribbon cutting and/or groundbreaking ceremonies at Kid to Kid, Idaho Falls Festival of Trees and Candy Cane Lane. These establishments either opened their doors within the past six months, moved to a new location due to expansion, or have remodeled or expanded their current location. Source: Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce
Custer County
- The Challis City Council went ahead with preliminary plat approval for the Centerra Park subdivision to develop 14 new single-family homes for workers employed at Thompson Creek Mine. The single large lot owned by Thompson Creek will be subdivided into quarter to a half-acre lots and sold. Source: Challis Messenger
- A 10-year federal permit was issued to Electra, a mining company in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, for 91 copper and cobalt locations and hundreds of potential drill targets, strengthening domestic critical mineral production needed for electric vehicle batteries. Source: Challis Messenger
Fremont County
- Fremont County Joint School District 251 has announced upgrades to career technical education classrooms and a new greenhouse to support culinary arts, big game processing, agricultural education, industrial technology and management programs. Source: Rexburg Standard Journal
- The city of Ashton approved a new city code officially allowing for short-term rentals in residential areas with initial and annual registration fees. Source: Rexburg Standard Journal
Jefferson County
- The former business owners of Thrifty Nickel, which shuttered in September, opened a new establishment called Innovative Ink, a printshop in Menan. Source: East Idaho News
- Mountain Top Print Shop, a custom printing business, opened in Rigby. Source: East Idaho News
- Sweet Swirls ice cream shop opened in Rigby. Source: East Idaho News
- Post Holdings, Inc., a St. Louis firm, is acquiring Rigby-based Potato Products of Idaho LLC who employ 163 workers to manufacture, and package refrigerated and frozen potato products. Source: Post Holdings press release
- Kelly Canyon ski resort opened for the season. They now boast three snowmaking guns, new power and a retention pond. They have also installed a new triple-seat chair lift. Their 10-year plan includes new lodging, another ski lift, zip lines and a mountain coaster. Source: Post Register
Madison County
- Links Indoor Golf opened in Rexburg. Source: East Idaho News
- Rexburg city council approved the Adara at Teton Lakes subdivision plat. The development is 62 acres and will contain 157 building lots. Source: Rexburg Standard Journal
Teton County
- The Idaho Supreme Court ruled in favor of Teton Creek Resort, LLC in their case with Teton County, allowing the resort to move forward with plans to record its condominium plat and obtain necessary building permits. Source: Teton Valley News
Eastern Idaho residential real estate statistics – November 2023 and 2024
Figure 5.| Median price sold | Nov-24 | Nov-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | $445,000 | $417,450 | 6.6% |
| Butte | $192,500 | $258,000 | -25.4% |
| Clark | $245,000 | $212,500 | 15.3% |
| Custer | $499,950 | $625,000 | -20.0% |
| Fremont | $750,000 | $687,000 | 9.2% |
| Jefferson | $525,000 | $516,250 | 1.7% |
| Lemhi | $555,000 | $665,500 | -16.6% |
| Madison | $399,000 | $399,000 | 0% |
| Teton | $995,000 | $818,500 | 21.6% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | |||
| Active listings (inventory) | Nov-24 | Nov-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | 397 | 340 | 16.8% |
| Butte | 16 | 23 | -30.4% |
| Clark | 1 | 2 | -50.0% |
| Custer | 46 | 31 | 48.4% |
| Fremont | 114 | 101 | 12.9% |
| Jefferson | 106 | 85 | 24.7% |
| Lemhi | 53 | 44 | 20.5% |
| Madison | 95 | 95 | 0% |
| Teton | 137 | 102 | 32.4% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | #Colspan# | #Colspan# | #Colspan# |
| Median days on market | Nov-24 | Nov-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | 57 | 47 | 21.3% |
| Butte | 108 | 84 | 28.6% |
| Clark | 16 | 75 | -78.7% |
| Custer | 97 | 101 | -4.0% |
| Fremont | 116 | 92 | 26.1% |
| Jefferson | 73 | 68 | 7.4% |
| Lemhi | 99 | 108 | -8.3% |
| Madison | 80 | 80 | 0% |
| Teton | 117 | 94 | 24.5% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | #Colspan# | #Colspan# | #Colspan# |
| Total homes pending sale | Nov-24 | Nov-23 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bonneville | 167 | 145 | 15.2% |
| Butte | 3 | 3 | 0% |
| Clark | 1 | 2 | -50.0% |
| Custer | 6 | 4 | 50.0% |
| Fremont | 30 | 20 | 50.0% |
| Jefferson | 39 | 38 | 2.6% |
| Lemhi | 12 | 4 | 200.0% |
| Madison | 31 | 31 | 0% |
| Teton | 54 | 40 | 35.0% |
| Source: RDC Inventory Core Metrics | |||
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor force estimates for November 2024 from the Idaho Department of Labor’s Local Area Unemployment Statistics saw both the civilian labor force and total employment number decreasing and total unemployment rate increasing in the seven-county southeastern region. Seasonally adjusted, November’s preliminary estimates have labor force participants decreasing by 21 people, with 148 less employed people and 127 more unemployed people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate is 3.7%, a 0.1% increase from October 2024 and 0.5% higher than November 2023.
| Southeastern Idaho, seasonally adjusted data | Nov-24 (P) | Oct-24 (R) | Nov-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 91,292 | 91,313 | 88,629 |
| Total employment | 87,911 | 88,059 | 85,809 |
| Unemployment | 3,381 | 3,254 | 2,820 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 3.7% | 3.6% | 3.2% |
| Source: Idaho Department of Labor | P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked | ||
- In November 2024, there were 1,316 unique online job postings in the southeastern Idaho labor market area, which decreased 15% from the prior month at 1,557 and 8% over the year at 1,433. The median job posting duration was 31 days, an increase of two days from October and an increase of seven days from November 2023.
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in southeastern Idaho | Postings, Nov-24 | Postings, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Registered nurses | 19 | 28 |
| Retail salespersons | 19 | 18 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 13 | 9 |
| Merchandise displayers and window trimmers | 12 | 7 |
| Laborers, freight, stock, material movers and hand | 11 | 9 |
| Maintenance and repair workers, general | 10 | 10 |
| Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | 8 | 16 |
| Food service managers | 8 | 0 |
| Cashiers | 7 | 3 |
| Home health and personal care aides | 7 | 8 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
- The top occupational families by unique online job postings in southeastern Idaho for November were sales and related, health care and management occupations. Among specific occupations, registered nurses were at the top of the list with 19 unique online postings, followed by retail salespersons (19), first line retail supervisors (13), merchandise displayers (12) and hand material movers (11).
| Top industries by job unique postings in southeastern Idaho | Postings, Nov-24 | Postings, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| General medical and surgical hospitals | 43 | 49 |
| District health and medical insurance carriers | 14 | 18 |
| Commercial and institutional building construction | 13 | 10 |
| Clothing and clothing accessories retailers | 12 | 4 |
| Other general government support | 11 | 8 |
| Colleges, universities and professional schools | 10 | 15 |
| Supermarkets and other grocery retailers (except convenience retailers) | 9 | 14 |
| Stationary and office supplies merchant wholesalers | 8 | 0 |
| Commercial banking | 7 | 5 |
| Full-service restaurants | 7 | 0 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
- Health care and social assistance, retail, manufacturing, finance and professional services are at the top of broadly defined industries by unique online job postings in November. These top unique job postings were similar to November 2023 but broadly decreased since last year: hospitals decreased by 12%, insurance by 22%, colleges by 33% and supermarkets by 36%. Large increases were still observed in clothing retailers by 200% and construction by 30%.
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in southeastern Idaho | Median duration, Nov-24 | Unique postings, Nov-24 |
|---|---|---|
| Home health and personal care aides | 28 | 19 |
| Purchasing managers | 28 | 0 |
| Parts salespersons | 26 | 0 |
| Court, municipal and license clerks | 25 | 0 |
| Merchandise displayers and window trimmers | 23 | 4 |
| Financial risk specialists | 23 | 0 |
| Janitors and cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners | 22 | 0 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 22 | 5 |
| Dishwashers | 22 | 13 |
| Inspectors, testers, sorters, samplers and weighers | 17 | 0 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
- Based on the hiring challenges by median number of days an occupational job posting is listed, management and business and finance occupations stood out in November, including purchasing managers (28 days) and financial risk specialists (23 days). Registered nurses had a median posting duration of zero days with 19 postings in November —indicating the positions are being filled rapidly.
| County housing data, November 2024 | Median listing price | Month over month price change | Median days on the market | Active listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bannock | $394,900 | -1.25% | 74 | 323 |
| Bear Lake | $579,000 | 0.13% | 100 | 62 |
| Bingham | $416,250 | 1.57% | 52 | 123 |
| Caribou | $355,000 | 1.43% | 112 | 30 |
| Franklin | $569,500 | 0.24% | 93 | 42 |
| Oneida | $444,450 | 1.24% | 110 | 22 |
| Power | $389,000 | 0% | 71 | 20 |
| Source: Realtor.com Economic Research | ||||
- There was some negative price movement in November in Bannock County while there were increases in Bear Lake, Bingham, Caribou, Franklin and Oneida. Power County median home prices remained the same. The county with the longest median time on the market was Caribou County at 112 days. Power County had the lowest median listing price in the region while Bingham was the hottest with the lowest median of 52 days on the market.
Regional news
Bannock County
- Puerto Vallarta Mexican restaurant held its ninth annual free Thanksgiving community dinner. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The Chubbuck Lions, a civic organization, held its “Graysgiving” event in Sacajawea Park to raise money for the Special Needs Christmas Dinner in December. Source: KPVI News
- The Oral Surgery Specialists of Idaho performed a $50,000 operation to repair a local Pocatello man’s teeth as a part of their annual promotion. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The Portneuf Cancer Center held a ribbon cutting for their new Varian True Beam Linear Accelerator. This machine is the main tool for radiation oncologists to fight various types of cancer. Before this change, patients from Pocatello would have to travel a distance for this treatment, usually to the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City, Utah. Source: KPVI News
- Portneuf Health announced Nate Carter, previously serving as the interim CEO, will now be the official CEO for the hospital. Source: East Idaho News
- The Pocatello-Chubbuck School District 25, as a part of their new committee to address enrollment, is discussing the closure of Washington Elementary School as enrollment decreases and maintenance fees increase. Total enrollment in the district decreased by 1,000 students compared to seven years ago, 740 students of which have been in elementary schools. In response, there was a march in protest for the suggested change comprised of students, teachers and families from Caldwell Park to the school. Source: Idaho State Journal, KIFI News
- Barrie’s Ski and Sports received $1,600 from two local children to contribute to their annual food drive. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The metal and punk concert in downtown Pocatello, Mosh for Santa, was held for the benefit of the Southeast Idaho Toys for Tots program. The concert has raised $20,000 in its six-year history. Source: Idaho State Journal
- Portneuf Valley Brewing held a craft fair event to showcase local handmade products including pottery, blankets and hand-blown glass. Source: Idaho State Journal
- Bicycles for Recovery, in conjunction with the Friendship Club and Center of Hope South, is seeking funding from grants and private donation to provide bicycles for those struggling with mental health and addiction. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The annual Christmas Night Lights Parade was held in Pocatello. Source: KIFI News
- The Ladies Holiday Tea event was held for a third year in Pocatello’s Juniper Hills Country Club to benefit local charities. Events included an auction, raffle, lunch and fashion show while attendees raised $8,000 for the Boys and Girls Club of southeast Idaho and the Gate City Singers. Source: KPVI News
- Idaho State University intends to sell the Magnuson Alumni House due to the high cost of maintenance. The school intends to work with Colliers Real Estate to find a potential buyer. The property is expected to be maintained as a historic residence. Source: Idaho State University News
- Macy’s Apples and Hives, Swore Farms, Evans Farmstead Cheese and CreeAnna’s were among the vendors present in the first Christmas Market at the Westwood Mall. Source: Idaho State Journal
Bear Lake County
- The Paris Elementary School library received a $3,000 grant from the Idaho Lottery. Source: The News-Examiner
Bingham County
- The Christmas Tree Fantasy was held at the Eastern Idaho Fairground. The fundraiser collects donated trees and other Christmas decorations to auction off for local charities. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The Kiwanis Club, a service club, has returned to Blackfoot after getting the prerequisite 15 members to form a board and hold internal elections. The club seeks to serve youth and family in the region by encouraging service projects, leadership skills and fostering youth engagement in the community. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The Christmas tree tradition in Blackfoot was revived thanks to a $6,000 investment from the city after being suspended during the pandemic. Source: Idaho State Journal
- The Community Dinner Table, a Christian church coalition formed to serve a weekly free meal, served its 100,000th meal. Source: Idaho State Journal
Caribou County
- Shane and Camille Petersen, owners of Idan-Ha theaters and The Centre theater, revamped a pizzeria in Soda Springs, renaming it Grumpy Guy’s Pizza. Source: The News-Examiner
Franklin County
- Five-hundred people participated and volunteered at the Bear River Massacre site restoration — reintroducing 23 native plant species back to the 350-acre plot of land. Source Idaho State Journal
Oneida County
- The Malad Dragon wrestlers held a fundraiser raffle to raise money to compete in northern Idaho. The IronDoor Smokehouse was present for catering and Ward’s Ace and Country Store was present as a Federal Firearms License holder to support the transfer of several raffled firearms. Source: The Idaho Enterprise
Power County
- The American Falls Airport was renamed to Savage Field to honor Dave Savage for his years of service to the local aviation community. The completion of the revamped runway is set to be open in June 2025. Source: Power County Press
- Hillcrest Elementary in American Falls raised $13,000 during their read-a-thon with nearly 163,000 minutes read. Donations were matched by a fraternal financial services organization, Modern Woodmen of America, with up to $2,500. Source: Power County Press
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor demand in south central Idaho remained stable in November 2024, with a total of 2,525 unique job postings in the region, a 13% increase from 2,901 unique postings in October 2024. The unemployment rate increased to 0.2% from October 2024 and has increased 0.6% from November 2023. Total employment has grown 0.7% over the past year.
| South central Idaho seasonally adjusted data | Nov-24 (P) | Oct-24 (R) | Nov-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 108,197 | 109,234 | 106,839 |
| Total employment | 104,229 | 105,368 | 103,548 |
| Unemployment | 3,968 | 3,866 | 3,291 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 3.7% | 3.5% | 3.1% |
| Source: Idaho Department of Labor | P – Preliminary | R – Revised | B – Benchmarked |
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in south central Idaho | Postings, Nov-24 | Postings, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Retail salespersons | 120 | 75 |
| Registered nurses | 103 | 79 |
| Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers | 92 | 90 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 58 | 38 |
| Customer service representatives | 48 | 52 |
| Maintenance and repair workers, general | 44 | 27 |
| Laborers, freight, stocker, material movers and hand | 41 | 40 |
| General and operations managers | 36 | 20 |
| Merchandise displayers and window trimmers | 36 | 20 |
| Cashiers | 33 | 44 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | ||
| Top 10 industries by unique job postings in south central Idaho | Postings, Nov-24 | Postings, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Retail trade | 399 | 262 |
| Health care and social assistance | 386 | 260 |
| Manufacturing | 326 | 244 |
| Construction | 114 | 38 |
| Other services (except public administration) | 104 | 27 |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 100 | 121 |
| Wholesale trade | 95 | 78 |
| Public administration | 89 | 34 |
| Accommodation and food services | 87 | 109 |
| Transportation and warehousing | 79 | 86 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | ||
- Construction and other services (except public administration job postings) were up 200% and 285% respectively over the year. Accommodation and food services, and transportation and warehousing job openings have decreased 20% and 8% respectively over the year.
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in south central Idaho | Days to fill, Nov-24 | Days to fill, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks | 59 | N/A |
| Editors | 59 | N/A |
| Business operations specialists and all other | 58 | N/A |
| Interviewers, except eligibility and loan | 58 | N/A |
| Welders, cutters, solderers and brazers | 57 | 4 |
| Personal financial advisors | 56 | N/A |
| Dental assistants | 56 | N/A |
| Insurance claims and policy processing clerks | 56 | N/A |
| Telecommunications equipment installers and repairers, except line installers | 55 | N/A |
| First-line supervisors of mechanics, installers and repairers | 54 | 12 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast | ||
Regional news
Blaine County
- Dollar Mountain opened to snowboarders and skiers for the season, Dec. 13. Source: Idaho Mountain Express
- The Mountain Rides Transportation Authority board voted for a 30% increase in commuter van leases, from 62 cents a mile to 81 cents a mile, along with funding for four new electric vans. Vanpool leases haven’t been updated since 2018. Source: Idaho Mountain Express
- Sun Valley Resort opened seven runs on opening day, Nov. 28. Source: Idaho Mountain Express
- The city of Ketchum is in the process of buying a three-unit residential building and adjacent lot to be converted into workforce housing. The unit and subsequent lot are being sold at $2.4 million. Once finalized, the city will rent to residents living and working full time in Blaine County who make more than 140% of the area median income. Source: Idaho Mountain Express
Cassia County
- The Bank of Commerce opened a new branch in Burley. The Bank of Commerce was planning on opening a branch in the area years ago but was delayed due to COVID-19. The current location is temporary, with a more permanent building planned to break ground spring 2025. Source: KMVT
- Pomerelle Mountain opened to snowboarders and skiers, Nov. 29. Source: KMVT
Twin Falls County
- The Twin Falls City Council has accepted a contract and approved funding to move forward with the planned Canyon Trail Junction and Chobani Wellness Park. The current gravel lot will be turned into a landscaped area with a permanent restroom, a larger parking lot, fitness equipment, shade structures and bouldering features. Construction is planned to take around 12 weeks with groundbreaking planned in February. Source: Magic Valley Times News
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional news
North Central Idaho
- Effective Jan. 1, 2025, St. Mary’s Health (Cottonwood) and Clearwater Valley Health (Orofino) hospitals will terminate their contracts with Regence BlueShield. Regence BlueShield enrollees will be able to receive “in-network” care at both hospitals during the 12-month grace period throughout all of 2025 but will be considered out of network Jan. 1, 2026. Source: Clearwater Valley Health, St. Mary’s Health
- The Nez Perce Tribe finalized adoption of a Tribal Uniform Commercial Code Secured Transaction Act to increase economic opportunities and improve access to capital for tribal businesses. Source: Nez Perce Tribe
Nez Perce County
- All of Lewiston’s CCI/Speer employees have been transferred to new owner Czechoslovak Group, effective with the sale by Vista Outdoor that closed Nov. 27. CCI/Speer is one of the top three employers by employee count in both Nez Perce County and within the north central region. Along with Lewiston, the transaction includes Vista Outdoor’s sporting products manufacturing operations (renamed The Kinetic Group) in Minnesota (Anoka), Arkansas (Lonoke) and Oregon (Sweet Home). No new local job opportunities have been posted since the change of company ownership occurred. Source: Vista Outdoor, Idaho Department of Labor
Comparison of U.S. operations of Czechoslovak Group and The Kinetic Group:
Figure 1.| U.S. operations only | The Kinetic Group | Czechoslovak Group |
|---|---|---|
| Annual sales | $1.5 billion | $250 million (group global sales total is $3.3 billion) |
| U.S. employees | 3,800 (one-third in Lewiston) | 300 |
| Locations | Idaho (Lewiston), Minnesota (Anoka), Arkansas (Lonoke) and Oregon (Sweet Home). | Arkansas (Little Rock) and Missouri (Ozark). Imports/distributes Perazzi shotguns in Azusa, California. |
| Brands | Federal, Remington, CCI, HEVI-Shot and Speer. | Fiocchi (acquired in 2022) |
| Ammo sales breakdown | No. 1 in the U.S. for sales of commercial and law enforcement ammunition. | 80% civilian and 20% defense and law enforcement. |
| Operating profit | $.4 billion | |
| Transaction profit | $2.2 billion |
- Lewis-Clark State College reported 18% growth in fall 2024 of career technical education program enrollments compared to one year ago. Top programs include diesel (38 students), graphic communications (25 students), auto mechanics (25 students), welding, fire service and industrial electronics. Source: Lewis-Clark State College
- The Lapwai School District has announced plans to build a new Career Technical Education Center facility to expand its carpentry and fabrication programs. The new building will be adjacent to the current career technical building and funding for the $1.3 million project will come from grants, private donations and local education program funds. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- EC Motorsports has begun construction of a sprint boat racing track with plans to host two racing events in 2025. Source: Big Country News
- St. Joseph Regional Medical Center was one of three Idaho hospitals recognized as high performing in maternity care by U.S. News and World Report. This is the third consecutive year the medical center has been recognized for this achievement. Source: St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, U.S. News and World Report
- United Airlines will discontinue flights between the Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport and Denver, effective Jan. 31, 2025. This daily service began in October 2021 and is the only flight United Airlines offers from the regional airport. Source: Lewiston-Nez Perce County Airport
- Avista Utilities will be rebuilding eight miles of transmission lines along Stagecoach Road (south of Lewiston). The wood poles will be replaced with new steel poles and the conductor will be upgraded. Due to a combination of poor road conditions and planned utility work, the road will be closed for public access through the end of February 2025. Avista plans to begin work at the beginning of February through the end of May 2025. Source: Big Country News
- Freedom Tires was selected as one of seven Idaho Local Gems by U.S. Senator Jim Risch. The mobile tire service company serves customers from Lewiston to Moscow. Source: Big Country News
- Big Lots announced that all U.S. retail stores are in the process of closing. Current Idaho locations include Lewiston, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho Falls and Meridian. Source: Big Lots
Idaho County
- The City of Grangeville was awarded a $65,000 wastewater planning study grant by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. Total project cost is estimated at $256,000. Source: Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
- The Nez Perce Tribe has been awarded a $1.9 million America the Beautiful Challenge grant to restore 22 acres of an abandoned hydraulic mine in Leggett Creek near Elk City. The project will focus on reducing excess sediment and reducing erosion. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- Sidney Resources has secured $8 million in funding to build a 12,000 square foot milling and processing facility in Warren, Idaho. Construction will begin in Spring 2025 with completion expected by the end of 2025. The company recently announced a 1,900 acre expansion in the Warren District Project that brings total company land holdings to 3,174 acres. Source: Sidney Resources
- The Idaho State Board of Education approved Mountain View School District’s request to have Idaho County voters decide in May 2025 whether to split the school district into two separate districts. The school district covers the largest square area of any district in Idaho. If a simple majority vote occurs in favor, the split is scheduled to happen in the fall of 2026. The last time a school district deconsolidated was in 2006 when the Mountain View School District spun off the Salmon River Joint School District in Riggins. Source: Idaho Board of Education, Idaho Ed News
- Rocky Mountain HVAC installed new propane heaters in the Cottonwood High School shop building and will be updating thermostats in all high school classrooms. The high school will begin accepting bids to replace the windows in January 2025. Source: Cottonwood Chronicle
Latah County
- The City of Moscow will build a new 18,000 square foot city shop building to store its fleet of city vehicles and equipment. Construction will begin in spring 2025 with plans for completion before 2026. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- The University of Idaho was awarded a nearly $600,000 IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence grant towards tendon tissue research among three laboratories on the Moscow campus. Source: Big Country News
- Family Promise of the Palouse is seeking a new location in Moscow by spring 2025 for its daytime homeless shelter as the current building has significant underlying issues. Family Promise opened its shelter in 2013 and helps an average of 15 families per year. Source: Lewiston Tribune
Clearwater County
- Starting in January 2025, the Clearwater Progress and the Idaho County Free Press newspapers will combine under the Idaho County Free Press publication. Klement Enterprises has owned both newspapers since acquiring the Clearwater Progress in 2020. Source: Clearwater Progress
Lewis County
- Highway 64 between Nezperce and Kamiah has been reopened after closing in April 2024 due to washouts and structural issues. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- A propane leak at Hearthstone Bakery resulted in a temporary evacuation and shut down of Main Street in Kamiah. Source: Idaho County Free Press
Openings
- Retro Vibes & Vintage Sounds, Moscow
- Champions Edge Training, Lewiston
- Idaho County Dermatology, Grangeville
- Jackson’s fuel pumps and convenience store, Riggins
- The Establishment has reopened its bar and is hiring staff for its upcoming kitchen opening, Grangeville
Closings
- Marsh’s Trading Post, Lewiston (to close Dec. 31)
- Zip’s Drive-In will be closing one of its two Lewiston locations
- Orofino Flower Shop, Orofino (to close Dec. 31)
- Rove Fitness, Lewiston
- LaRe Boutique, Lewiston
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor demand in northern Idaho declined in November 2024, with a total of 1,331 unique job postings in the region – a decrease from 1,846. This decline (roughly a 28% decrease in postings) is consistent with past seasonal trends. In 2023, postings declined from 1,707 in October to 1,340 in November. The unemployment rate decreased slightly from 4.8% to 4.7% but remains higher than November 2023. Both total labor force and total employment remain above their 2023 levels.
| Northern Idaho seasonally adjusted data | Nov-24 (P) | Oct-24 (R) | Nov-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 129,282 | 129,120 | 127,809 |
| Total employment | 123,202 | 122,879 | 122,705 |
| Unemployment | 6,080 | 6,241 | 5,104 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 4.7% | 4.8% | 4.0% |
| Source: Idaho Department of Labor | P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked | ||
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Nov-24 | Postings, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Registered nurses | 74 | 52 |
| Laborers, freight and material movers | 38 | 25 |
| Merchandise displayers and window trimmers | 35 | 20 |
| Home health and personal care aides | 35 | 40 |
| First line supervisors of retail sales workers | 35 | 29 |
| Fast food and counter workers | 27 | 23 |
| Retail salespersons | 25 | 49 |
| Medical and health services managers | 24 | 30 |
| Food services managers | 23 | 17 |
| Sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing | 23 | 14 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 industries by unique job postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Nov-24 | Postings, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 201 | 221 |
| Retail trade | 155 | 183 |
| Administrative and support services | 152 | 112 |
| Accommodation and food services | 67 | 111 |
| Finance and insurance | 56 | 89 |
| Manufacturing | 50 | 56 |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 50 | 62 |
| Construction | 46 | 34 |
| Wholesale trade | 33 | 34 |
| Educational services | 32 | 33 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in northern Idaho | Median duration, Nov-24 | Median duration, Nov-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Lifeguards, ski patrol and other recreational protective services | 29 | N/A |
| Unclassified occupations | 27 | N/A |
| Nurse practitioners | 27 | N/A |
| Community and social service specialists, all other | 27 | N/A |
| Computer systems analysts | 27 | N/A |
| Home appliance repairers | 27 | N/A |
| Editors | 27 | N/A |
| Coaches and scouts | 26 | N/A |
| Home health and personal care aides | 25 | N/A |
| Telemarketers | 24 | N/A |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
Regional news
Bonnor County
- An application for a large industrial facility in northern Sandpoint is under review by the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission. Although the operator of the proposed facility has not been announced yet, the traffic impact study for the project indicates a 25,500 square foot facility which would employ roughly 150 people. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
Kootenai County
- Construction is underway on a new food truck and restaurant court in Post Falls. Named Eats on Spokane Street, the facility will feature a 1,500 square foot bar and restaurant with outdoor spaces for seven food trucks. Confirmed tenants so far include MelFit Healthy Kitchen, Nachos Cantina and a Charcuteria food truck. Construction on the $1.2 million project has begun and the space is expected to open in the spring of 2025. Source: Journal of Business
- A large new commercial center is being built on Highway 41 in northern Post Falls. The Early Dawn Commercial Center will include three separate buildings that are 12,000 square feet each, with space for five or six commercial suites per structure. The facility is expected to open in April. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- North Idaho College is finalizing plans to cut its athletics budget by about $1.8 million over the next two years. College leadership began examining options for reducing the athletics budget after it increased sharply over the last two school years, from $2.2 million to $6.2 million. The current proposal entails reducing funding for tuition, fees, and housing for student athletes, as well as eliminating the golf program. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
Openings
- Lanai (Coeur d’Alene)
- Rose Restorative (Post Falls)
- Boiada Brazilian Grill (Coeur d’Alene)
- Oval Office Restaurant (Re-opening in Coeur d’Alene)
- Lash & Locks Girl Studio (Coeur d’Alene)
- Albatross Golf Experience (Coeur d’Alene)
- Squad9 (Post Falls)
- REVV Health (Coeur d’Alene)
- Earth Fairy Holistics (Coeur d’Alene)
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional labor market information
- Labor demand in northern Idaho remained largely stable in October 2024, with a total of 1,903 unique job postings in the region — a slight increase from 1,860 in September. The unemployment rate stayed stable from September to October at 4.8% but saw a year-over-year increase from October 2023’s rate of 4.1%. Both the total labor force and total employment remain above their 2023 levels for October.
| Northern Idaho seasonally adjusted data | Oct-24 (P) | Sept-24 (R) | Oct-23 (B) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civilian labor force | 129,095 | 128,770 | 127,182 |
| Total employment | 122,846 | 122,584 | 121,922 |
| Unemployment | 6,249 | 6,186 | 5,260 |
| % of labor force unemployed | 4.8% | 4.8% | 4.1% |
| Source: Idaho Department of Labor | P – Preliminary, R – Revised, B – Benchmarked | ||
| Top 10 occupations by unique job postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Oct-24 | Postings, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Registered nurses | 91 | 79 |
| Retail salespersons | 82 | 52 |
| Home health and personal care aides | 63 | 39 |
| Unclassified occupations | 46 | 48 |
| Laborers, freight, stock, material movers and hand | 42 | 45 |
| First-line supervisors of retail sales workers | 34 | 29 |
| Medical and health services managers | 29 | 38 |
| Fast food and counter workers | 28 | 18 |
| Customer service representatives | 27 | 48 |
| Merchandise displayers and window trimmers | 26 | 19 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 industries by job unique postings in northern Idaho | Postings, Oct-24 | Postings, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 323 | 234 |
| Retail trade | 270 | 207 |
| Administrative and support services | 217 | 175 |
| Manufacturing | 103 | 94 |
| Accommodation and food services | 90 | 102 |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 78 | 89 |
| Finance and insurance | 66 | 89 |
| Wholesale trade | 65 | 53 |
| Other services (except public administration) | 63 | 38 |
| Educational services | 51 | 34 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
| Top 10 hardest-to-fill occupations in northern Idaho | Median duration, Oct-24 | Median duration, Oct-23 |
|---|---|---|
| Title examiners, abstractors and searchers | 29 | N/A |
| Physical therapist aides | 27 | N/A |
| Licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses | 26 | N/A |
| Traffic technicians | 26 | N/A |
| Claims adjusters, examiners and investigators | 25 | N/A |
| Cooks and restaurant workers | 25 | 19 |
| Financial examiners | 25 | N/A |
| Construction and building inspectors | 24 | N/A |
| Lodging managers | 24 | N/A |
| Farm and home management educators | 23 | 10 |
| Source: Conference Board data via Lightcast |
Regional news
Kootenai County
- The North Point Plaza development is under construction on Highway 41 north of Post Falls. Early tenants will include a 7-Eleven opening December and a Grocery Outlet store in early 2025. Four additional parcels are available for tenants. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- A new Indigo Urgent Care is under construction in Hayden. Indigo currently operates a network of urgent cares across the inland northwest, including in Coeur d’Alene. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
- A mixed used building named the “Nonna” is under development in Post Falls, with commercial space on the ground floor and 33 apartments on the upper three floors. Source: Coeur d’Alene Press
Openings
- Chipotle (Post Falls)
- Trader Joe’s (Coeur d’Alene)
- Joyful Journey Childcare (Hayden)
- Premiere Aesthetics (Post Falls)
- Boost Espresso (Coeur d’Alene)
- Paris Vintage (Coeur d’Alene)
- Pete Paws Resort 9 (Coeur d’Alene)
- Farwest Steel (Post Falls)
- SMP Ink CDA (Coeur d’Alene)
- Hair’s The Thing (Coeur d’Alene)
- Treehouse Restaurant (Coeur d’Alene)
- Armory Outpost (Hayden)
- Divine Nails & Spa (Coeur d’Alene)
- Honeysuckle Suites (Hayden)
- La Pinata (Post Falls)
- MAC Physical Therapy (Post Falls)
- Orchid Nails & Spa (Coeur d’Alene)
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.
Regional news
North Central Idaho
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded $6.4 million in Regional Conservation Partnership Program funds to improve fish and wildlife habitat for the lower south fork Clearwater River watershed. Funds will be used for floodplain connection and large wood and boulder placement for habitat diversity. It will also create both water and land-based habitats utilizing native vegetation. Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture
Nez Perce County
- Sofidel America completed its acquisition of Clearwater Paper’s private label tissue production plant in Lewiston along with three other production plants in Nevada, North Carolina and Illinois. Clearwater Paper has retained ownership of its paperboard and pulp divisions. The company will sell pulp to Sofidel for tissue production. The new ownership structure will see almost 500 local Lewiston employees transferred from Clearwater Paper to Sofidel. With the acquisition, Sofidel America now operates 12 plants in 11 states and is the fourth largest tissue paper manufacturer in the U.S. with 7% market share (No. 1 being Georgia Pacific at 27%, No. 2 being Procter and Gamble at 15%, No. 3 being Kimberly-Clark at 14% and No. 5 being Essity at 6%). Clearwater Paper will lease land and facilities to Sofidel as well as provide a services and use agreement. Source: Clearwater Paper, Sofidel America
- Lewis-Clark State College’s Industrial Maintenance and Millwright Technology program was awarded a $17,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for the purchase of two gas tungsten arc welders. The welders were scheduled to arrive in November 2024. Source: Lewis-Clark State College
- The City of Lewiston will be hiring an engineering firm to assess the condition of six of its eight drinking water reservoirs, plans to build a new sidewalk near Orchards Elementary School and will install additional playground equipment at Pioneer Park. Source: Lewiston Tribune
- Following the PACS Group Inc. acquisition of 53 of Prestige Care’s skilled nursing and assisted living facilities in mid-2024, Prestige Care and Rehabilitation – The Orchards has now been renamed Orchard View Post Acute. Source: PAC Group
- The Mango Tree, an Indian kitchen and tap house, has announced plans to open in downtown Lewiston and is currently hiring staff. The restaurant currently has four locations in Spokane, one in Coeur d’Alene and another in Wichita, Kansas. Source: The Mango Tree
- Marsh’s Trading Post has announced plans to close at the end of 2024. Source: Big Country News
- Denny’s has applied for a building permit in the former Shari’s restaurant location in Lewiston. Denny’s recently opened up a location in Moscow in November 2023. Source: Lewiston Tribune
Idaho County
- The Mountain View School District 244 school board voted to deconsolidate in early November. The process would break up Mountain View into two school districts – Clearwater Valley school district 245 and Grangeville school district 246. The next step is to receive approval from both the Idaho State Board of Education and by public vote in May 2025. Source: Idaho Education News
- Mountain View School District considerations:
- Idaho County covers over 8,400 square land miles and is Idaho’s largest county by area (No. 2 is Owyhee County at 7,600 square miles and No. 3 is Custer County at 4,900 square miles). Idaho County ranks as the 18th largest county by square land area in the continental U.S. Idaho County had a 2023 population of just under 18,000, a population density of just over two people per square mile (Idaho’s statewide average density of people per square mile is 23) and just over one housing unit per square mile. The Mountain View School district is the largest in Idaho and covers over 7,400 square miles (No. 2 being Bruneau-Grand View at 5,100 square miles) versus the median Idaho school district area of 386 square miles. Mountain View School district is the 8th largest school district in the continental U.S. by square land area.
- The U.S. Census Bureau five-year 2022 American Community Survey estimates 32% of Idaho County households had related children under the age of 18 residing with them, compared to 44% for Idaho statewide.
- Mountain View School District considerations:
- Syringa Hospital will be launching a new surgical service line for the treatment of acid reflux. Syringa will be the first critical access hospital nationally to offer the procedure. Source: Idaho County Free Press
- The Idaho County assessor reported 98 new homes were added throughout the county the past year, compared to an average addition of 74 per year over the last five years. This is the largest increase in 22 years. The 98 new homes have added $16 million in tax revenue, but the assessor highlighted that county appraisers have a difficult time accessing the properties in order to complete appraisals. Source: Idaho County Free Press
- Elk City was selected as an Innovia Foundation Community Heart and Soul initiative grant recipient for $30,000 towards community-based projects over the next two years. Residents will identify what is most important to them in their community and what they prioritize. Some successful outcomes from other program participants have included increased economic development, additional volunteerism, more active community engagement in decision making and community-supported programs. Source: Idaho County Free Press
- St. John Bosco Academy completed construction on the Angelus Center. The new facility includes a 26,000 square foot gymnasium and theater along with classrooms and a commercial kitchen. Source: Idaho County Free Press
Latah County
- University of Idaho was awarded a $7.8 million grant for its ECLIPSE program to promote employment training resources for college-age students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These students will attend on-campus inclusive education programs within Idaho. Source: University of Idaho
- Through a financial gift from the J.R. Simplot Family Foundation, the University of Idaho has established its first endowed deanship of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences that will receive financial support for pursuing and investing in forward looking agribusiness advancement opportunities. Source: University of Idaho
- The Latah County Library District has purchased a commercial building in Kendrick for a future library site projected to open in Fall 2025. The current Juliaetta location will close once the new site in Kendrick is up and running. The library district currently operates seven branch locations throughout Latah County. Source: Latah County Library District
- The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) has halted further construction on completing the six new miles of Highway 95 south of Moscow for the upcoming winter months. ITD generally forecasts construction season on this project to last between April and October. The project was initially expected to be open in fall of 2024 but has now been moved back to the last part of 2025. Source: Idaho Transportation Department
Clearwater County
- Orofino’s Dining on the Edge restaurant will change ownership by the end of 2024. Source: Clearwater Tribune
Openings
- STB Boutique has moved to a new location, Lewiston
- The Habit Coffee Shop has moved to a new location, Cottonwood
- Edge of Heaven Wedding and Event Barn, Deary
- Stephanie’s Biz Services, Lewiston
- Family Hospice St. Joseph Regional Medical Center is now Heart ‘n Home Hospice, Lewiston
- Deno’s Curbside Kitchen food truck, Lewiston
- Hickory Farms seasonal store in the Lewiston Center Mall
- Backwoods Brew coffee opened a new permanent location in Lewiston along with the existing mobile trailer
- Jackman Tire, Lewiston
- Reclaimed West, Lewiston
- Valentine, Olofson, and Stoffer Law Office, Lewiston
Closings
- Bait Shop Grill and Restaurant closed but is expected to be reopened under new ownership, Lewiston
This Idaho Department of Labor project is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor for SFY25 as part of the Workforce Information grant (40%) and state/nonfederal funds (60%) totaling $885,703.
This workforce product was funded by a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The product was created by the recipient and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of Labor. The U.S. Department of Labor makes no guarantees, warranties, or assurances of any kind, express or implied, with respect to such information, including any information on linked sites and including, but not limited to, accuracy of the information or its completeness, timeliness, usefulness, adequacy, continued availability, or ownership. This product is copyrighted by the institution that created it. Internal use by an organization and/or personal use by an individual for non-commercial purposes is permissible. All other uses require the prior authorization of the copyright owner.