The Chumash Casino Resort is laying off some workers as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
According to the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, the layoffs affect nearly 10 percent of their workforce across Chumash Enterprises.
"We consider our team members to be part of our extended family, so a decision like this one is not made lightly," said Tribal Chairman Kenneth Kahn. "Our hope is that the economy can recover quickly from this COVID-19-related downturn, and we can once again begin welcoming new team members to our workforce."
The casino was closed for nearly three months because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It reopened on June 10 with various safety measures in place, including reduced seating, increased sanitation measures, and temperature checks for both staff and guests.
Chumash officials confirm that two casino employees have since tested positive for coronavirus. They say contact tracing through the Santa Barbara County Public Health Department determined the cases were not contracted at the casino.
