5-5-14 foundry layoffs in berlin

BERLIN, Wis. (AP) — Grede  Foundry in Berlin is laying off 77 workers as of July 1st, representing 36 percent of its workforce.  The affected employees were notified Friday. After the layoffs the plant will still have 136 workers.  The company blames the job cuts on a declining market.  The city's community development director is Evan Wendlandt. He says the layoffs came as a surprise, but the city is ready to help the displaced workers. He says there are resources available to help with workforce development, training and job search.  Grede has 14 foundries in the U.S., including four in Wisconsin.