(SPRINGFIELD, IL) — The Illinois Department of Employment Security has released the results of the September unemployment rates. Gradually improving labor market conditions prevailed throughout South Central Illinois during the past year. Unemployment declined in 17 out of 18 counties compared to one year ago.  Unemployment rates are generally at the low point of the year in the fall. The data is not seasonally adjusted. Over the year, employment gains were reported in Transportation and Health Services in South Central Illinois.  Payroll advances also occurred in Professional-Business Services, Retail Trade, and Hospitality.  Mining, Information, and both Local and State Government employment steadily declined during the past year. Numerous employment opportunities were advertised in Transportation, Health Care, Sales, and Office and Administrative Support in the fall of 2016. Job openings were reported in Management, Food Preparation, and Production occupations. Workers were needed in Health Care Support, Computer, Engineering, and Installation, Maintenance, and Repair. The unemployment rate identifies those who are out of work and seeking employment. A person who exhausts benefits, or is ineligible, still will be reflected in the unemployment rate if they actively seek work. In Jefferson County, September unemployment was at 6 percent, down half a percent from August, but down from 7 percent in October 2015. Marion County was at 5.8 percent, down from 6.4 percent in September, and from 7.2 percent a year ago. Hamilton County was at 5 percent, which was down from 5.9 percent last month, and down from a 5.2 percent showing for October 2015. Clinton County was at 4 percent, down .3% from last month, and down .4% percent from last year. Washington County was at 3.6 percent for the month, down .2% from both last month and last year. Wayne County’s unemployment rate is at 7.8 percent, down .7% from last month and up from 6.9% last year at this time.