ELSA plant in Elwood makes first layoff in 25 years

The ELSA plant in Elwood confirmed today that it is in the process of laying off hourly workers for the first time in its 25-year history in Elwood.

The plant, which employed 375 workers before the layoffs, makes gas tanks, exhaust systems and structural parts for automobiles.

Brian Stevens of ELSA employee relations said the company has notified workers of the layoffs but denied a rumor that 50 hourly workers were being laid off. "That number is yet to be determined. It'll be under 50 for sure."

Stevens said the exact number of employees being laid off is not yet known but will be revealed within the next week.

He confirmed that 12 workers, 20 percent of the salaried staff, have already been let go.

Stevens said the company hopes the layoffs will be temporary and will last no longer than six months.

He said the layoffs were triggered by "the economy and the lack of orders from our customers."