Commission approves new lifeguard tower and adds two more, sets $350,000 not‑to‑exceed cap

The commission approved a procurement to replace an aging lifeguard tower and amended the agreement to add two additional towers subject to a not‑to‑exceed authorization of $350,000.

Staff presented a recommendation to purchase a new tower to replace the existing structure near 160 Third Street. The single‑tower quote recorded in the meeting materials was $102,850. During the meeting commissioners discussed a proposal to add two additional towers to address coverage gaps along the beach; staff reported a separate proposal for the two additional towers of $185,500. The commission amended the original authorization and set a total not‑to‑exceed authorization of $350,000 to allow procurement of up to three towers and associated site work.

Staff said the towers have an expected useful life of about 25 years and that delivery is approximately six to eight weeks from order. Commissioners discussed staffing and operational implications — additional towers create a need for more lifeguard staffing, vehicles, equipment and recurring costs — and directed staff to evaluate those fiscal impacts through the upcoming budget process. The commission approved the contract award and the amended scope; staff will coordinate final siting with Ocean Rescue and return with budget implications for additional towers and staffing.