In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant salary increases for lifeguards and park managers in response to competitive pay rates at local beaches. The proposed changes would elevate lifeguards from a grade 6 to a grade 8, raising their base salary from $17.48 to $20.12. Senior lifeguards would see an increase from grade 7 to grade 9, with starting pay rising from $18.77 to $21.48. Additionally, park managers' stipends would increase from $10,506 to $14,506.

The adjustments are driven by a need to retain staff amid rising wages at neighboring facilities, where lifeguards earn approximately $3 more per hour. Officials noted that the state had previously increased lifeguard salaries and provided funding for training, prompting the local government to align its pay structure accordingly.

A grant application for $25,000 aimed at supporting these salary increases has been submitted, although officials acknowledged that the funding is not guaranteed. If the grant is not received, the local budget may face challenges in sustaining the increased salaries, which are estimated to total around $25,388 for lifeguards and managers combined.

The discussion highlighted the importance of competitive wages in retaining qualified staff, particularly after a recent managerial vacancy that impacted operations. Officials emphasized the necessity of these changes to ensure the continued effectiveness of park services and the safety of beachgoers.