Union leaders at the California Academy of Sciences criticized a new round of layoffs affecting 53 workers, saying management failed to consider alternatives before cutting nearly 10% of the staff.
In a statement, Academy leadership said the cuts are aimed at addressing a projected deficit exceeding $8 million this fiscal year, following a $7.3 million shortfall the year before. Officials cited rising operational costs, declining tourism to San Francisco, and changes in visitor behavior as key drivers of the financial strain.
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The layoffs affect 37 union-represented workers and nonunion staff. An additional 32 employees will be reassigned or have their hours reduced. Leadership said the cuts were made with a focus on preserving core priorities such as visitor experience, education, and scientific research, even as some programs are scaled back.
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