The New Era - All about Sweet Home since 1929

Linn County is accepting applications for the 17th annual Summer Youth Wage Program sponsored by Linn County commissioners Roger Nyquist, Sherrie Sprenger and Will Tucker.

The county uses economic development funds generated by the Video Lottery to subsidize $2 per hour of wages for first-time teen employees. The program has been highly successful, with dozens of teenagers employed each summer. Last year, 73 youth were employed in jobs that included everything from local restaurants to farming.

To qualify, businesses must hire eligible employees between May 1 and Sept. 29. The employee mus...