Wayne YMCA issues layoff notices to 155 workers

Dozens of employees at the Wayne YMCA have been notified of impending layoffs, but Wayne officials say they hope to hire most back after the township takes over the facility and turns it into a community center.

In a filing with the state Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the nonprofit organization reported that 155 positions will be eliminated as of Nov. 1.

Wayne Mayor Christopher Vergano said the administration expects to contact affected workers over the next two months to see if they are interested in employment opportunities with the township.

"The WARN notice was sent because the YMCA will cease operations at this location; however, the township will be taking over the operations and will need many of those who received the notice," Vergano told NJBIZ.

$12.2M transformation

After recently striking an agreement with Wayne YMCA’s current operator, Livingston-based Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, the township reportedly plans to purchase the 14.2-acre site for $12.2 million and transform it into Wayne’s first community center.

The majority of the acquisition would be covered by an $11.78 million bond. Debt would be paid via the township’s open space fund, according to officials.

With amenities including a fitness center, six-lane indoor pool and amphitheater, Wayne officials believe the 145,904-square-foot facility could help expand programming offered by its Department of Parks and Recreation.

Vergano said, "The township's goal is to continue to provide the many excellent programs that currently exist at the YMCA. In order to continue the many programs, we will need to retain many of the current valued employees."

The majority of those workers are part-timers who would not be eligible for health care benefits if they are hired by Wayne. Additionally, they would not be represented by a collective bargaining unit, according to NorthJersey.com.

In an Aug. 9 update, Rick Gorab, president and chief executive officer of Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, said the nonprofit is ready to assist with securing job placements for current staff whether it be at the new community center or somewhere else.

"We anticipate a closing date to be on or before Nov 1. The town plans to operate the building as a community center and the Y is working closely with the Township to ensure a seamless transition. We will communicate more details when we have them," Gorab also wrote.

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges has seven other locations across North Jersey.

Gorab could not be immediately reached for additional comments.

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