The Makaha Resort and Golf Club has laid off 25 employees at the Leeward Coast resort because of a slowdown in business.

Resort manager Tom Flow acknowledged the cuts have fueled concerns about the future of the property, but he dismissed rumors of a possible shutdown. "We are not closing," he said.

"We did lay off about 25 employees," Flow said last week. "Unfortunately we have had to re-evaluate our staffing needs in these tough economic times."

Before the layoffs, Flow said the resort and golf club employed 122 people. He said the cuts were made across the board at the resort.

"We are optimistic that this is only a temporary situation, and that we are able to bring employees back as the economy strengthens and our business dictates," he added.

Flow said the resort and golf course are operating, as well as the Kaiona Restaurant and Pumana Lounge.

Makaha Resort & Golf Club was purchased by Fairmont Resort Properties Ltd. in 2004. The Canadian company's properties include Lake Okanagan Resort and Fairmont Villas.