BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C.–According to Berkeley County Spokesperson Michael Mule, ten temporary employees were ‘administratively separated’ effective Saturday, October 31, 2015.
On Friday, October 30, 2015 – Mule says six full-time employees were ‘administratively separated’ but will receive pay, insurance and benefits through November 30th.
Mule says these sixteen employees have been offered the opportunity to seek a new position within county government as internal applicants with special consideration.
Two employees have reportedly already been relocated to other departments. Mule says a seventh full-time employee, who was already retired within the state system and was working as an at-will employee, was relieved of his duties.
“The severe damage suffered at Cypress Gardens not only affected the buildings, dock and walkways, it also forced the County to close operations at Cypress Gardens. Without the revenue from rentals, special events and general admissions – the County simply could not afford to pay for employees to perform services not needed during the Gardens’ closure,” stated Mule.
While Mule called the layoffs unfortunate and the timing not desired, he says the county made the move on Friday to ensure certain requirements about disaster unemployment assistance from the South Carolina Department of Workforce paid by FEMA were met. According to SCDEW, the deadline to apply for FEMA benefits is November 5, 2015.
Mule says the county has retained eight employees to handle the necessary care of the facilities and animals while Cypress Gardens is closed.”
Meanwhile, Cypress Gardens announced on its official Facebook page they are currently accepting donations for repairs.
If you are interested in helping, send checks payable to: Berkeley County Government, Post Office Box 6122, Moncks Corner, SC 29461 with “Cypress Gardens” in the memo line.
“It is extremely important that you put ‘Cypress Gardens’ in the memo line,” reps for the Berkeley County venue posted. “Again, thank you all for your continued support. Cypress Gardens is coming back and will be better than ever!”
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