The unemployment rate in Albert Lea is at the lowest level it has been since October 2008.  The latest numbers from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development show the rate at 7%.  It was 6.3% in October 2008, and 8.6% on year ago.  DEED's statistics show 617 people looking for work in Albert Lea last month, with the labor force at more than 8,800.  December unemployment figures around the area include Austin at 5.3%; Owatonna at 6%; Rochester at 4.5%, and Fairmont with an unemployment rate of 5.4%.