Layoffs begin at Sahara Las Vegas

Sahara Las Vegas laid off a number of employees Monday.

Maintenance worker Hector Padilla said he was called into the office early Monday morning and laid off along with a majority of his department.

Documentation from the employee said the layoffs were “due to reduced business levels in the city of Las Vegas as a result of the nationwide COVID-19 outbreak.”

According to a Monday statement from Sahara, the virus’ impact has “forced (the company) to make drastic cuts to its operations.”

Immediate changes include “closing or reducing hours for many outlets, and resort amenities resulting in a temporary reduction of workforce.”

A company spokeswoman said team members will be able to keep their benefits, and the company will absorb the costs. The company will “continue to evaluate the business and make operational adjustments as necessary, with the hope of returning team members to work once these challenges have passed,” according to the statement.

The Sahara is owned by Alex Meruelo.

Contact Bailey Schulz at bschulz@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0233. Follow @bailey_schulz on Twitter.