Region losing folks at an alarming rate

Region losing folks at an alarming rate

YOUNGSTOWN — The population in the Youngstown area is among the fastest declining for metropolitan areas in the country.

According to Census Bureau estimates to be released today, the Youngstown-Warren-Boardman metro area lost 5,898 residents between July 2006 and July 2007.

Youngstown Mayor Jay Williams said tonight it is important to note the population loss was that of the entire region, not just Youngstown or one particular area.

He said the numbers show how important it is for the area to take a regional approach to revitalization.

“There is no doubt that Youngstown contributed to this, but virtually every area in the Valley lost some population,” he said. “This underscores the fact that we need to be working together as a region. We are a region, and we rise and fall as a region; that is why I will continue to push initiatives that promote regional cooperation.”

For the complete story, see Friday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com.