The Town of Blackfalds had to serve nearly two dozen employees with layoff notices this week.

In a press release, the town said as a result of the new COVID-19 measures put in place by the provincial government, they were forced to temporarily lay off 23 employees.

This was a tough decision, especially with the holiday season before us,” said Chief Administrative Officer Myron Thompson, adding the layoffs were to part-time, short-term and full-time employees.

“The closing of the recreation facilities within the community has necessitated the layoffs, and we are hopeful that our facilities will be re-opened sooner than later, and we can bring our employees back.”

On Dec. 8, the provincial government announced new, strict measures to help curb the spread of COVID-19. Including in the measures was the closure of all indoor recreation facilities until mid-January.

The town announced on Dec. 10 that multiple facilities would need to be closed. It’s also the second-time this year they’ve needed to cut staff.