Local unemployment rates decreased in the month of December, according to the latest update from the Iowa Workforce Development. The unemployment rate in Marion County dropped from 2.3% in November to 1.8% last month. There are 19,110 residents employed and 360 seeking work and receiving benefits. The rate also went down in Warren County, going from 2.7% in November to 2.4% in December. There are 28,500 residents employed and 700 people seeking work and receiving benefits. Statewide, the unemployment rate in Iowa dropped to 2.7% in December, which is down from 2.9% in November and at this time last year.