Landscape Alberta says many companies in the industry are facing widespread layoffs due to a lack of work caused by stringent outdoor water restrictions.The initial six weeks of outdoor water restrictions after the feeder main break in June had devastating effects on many companies, Landscape Alberta says. Landscape Alberta says many companies in the industry are "drowning" — facing widespread layoffs due to a lack of work caused by stringent outdoor water restrictions in Calgary.
"With more than 500 landscape firms, or related firms, in the industry in Calgary, we employ over 5,000 people," Beatson said. "Many are reporting up to 50 per cent of their staff will be laid off in the next week if we don't get some help from the city in terms of how to handle this.
City officials said in a Thursday update that non-potable water will be available for gardening, landscaping and construction. "The director only has certain authorities around what is allowed and what can be exempted. So we'll be looking to that bylaw to help guide some of our decisions," Newton said.Allow the landscape and construction activities listed in Stage 3 of restrictions to be permitted through exemption during the upcoming repairs.