NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF WASAGA BEACH
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The Town of Wasaga Beach will temporarily lay off four staff members and suspend six contract employees, effective May 1.
These layoffs and contract suspensions are required due to the slow-down in municipal business because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“These types of decisions are never easy. We find ourselves in an unprecedented situation,” CAO George Vadeboncoeur said. “Right now we are facing tough choices during the pandemic. I thank all of our staff for their efforts. They are dedicated professionals and I look forward to when we can return to normal operations. The town will re-evaluate its position after May 14 when there may be further direction from the province.”
In addition to the layoffs, the town is redeploying 10 staff to other departments. These employees are moving to core operation roles. Another staff member will work reduced hours and four others are going on an approved leave for the month of May.
The Town of Wasaga Beach relies on two revenue sources. One is user fees and the other property taxes. The town expects revenue to drop significantly.
Since the early days of the pandemic, the town has offered free public transit. The municipality has also suspended a number of fees and charges to help the community. At the same time, since the start of the COVID-19 crisis, we have suspended all our regular recreation programing.
“Wasaga Beach is not the only municipality in Simcoe County to make the tough decision to lay off staff. We have also seen similar choices made by municipalities across the province and elsewhere in the country,” Vadeboncoeur said.
Speaking on behalf of council, Mayor Nina Bifolchi said the staffing adjustments are unfortunate but the decision is responsible at this time.
“My heart goes out to our staff impacted today, just as I feel for everyone in our community who has lost a job during the pandemic,” she said. “We will do our best to get everyone working again as soon as possible.”
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