City of Barrie announces temporary layoffs

(Barrie) The City of Barrie has made the difficult decision to temporarily layoff of a portion of its workforce as a result of COVID-19.

Like many businesses and government bodies, COVID-19 has had a significant impact on City programs and services. With the closure of community centres and theatres, approximately 470 part-time recreation and theatre staff have been informed that their positions will be laid off until operation of these facilities resume. In addition, with providing free transit, the part-time transit clerk positions have also been notified of the layoffs.  

“These are truly unprecedented times, and the city is faced with the tough choices of how we operate during the COVID-19 pandemic. Laying off members of our staff team is not a decision we took lightly," says Michael Prowse, Chief Administration Officer.  “Our main goal is to keep our employees safe and healthy and get them back to work as soon as responsibly possible. In the meantime, the City will continue to follow the mandates set by the Province and provide critical services to the community."

The City of Barrie remains committed to providing the essential services citizens rely on every day as the organization continues responding to this unprecedented situation. The City will continue to evaluate and monitor service levels.

For the latest updates to City services, visitwww.barrie.ca/Services.

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