Council adopts ADA update, raises pool pay to remain competitive and approves certification reimbursement; wellness center reports 900 members

The Seward City Council adopted an updated Section 504 policy to bring the city—s accessibility transition planning into alignment with federal and state requirements, and approved pay changes and certification-reimbursement policy for pool and wellness-center staff in an effort to address staffing shortages.

Derek (city staff) said staff revised the Section 504 plan to reflect current federal and state requirements and to integrate ADA considerations into sidewalk and building projects; council adopted the policy as presented (vote 7—0). The ordinance updating pay rates and classifications for part-time wellness-center and pool staff was read as Ordinance No. 2025-10 and was passed and adopted unanimously.

Council discussed lifeguard recruitment and pay. Staff said the state minimum wage is $13.50 and noted projections of future increases; to remain competitive the city proposed raising lifeguard pay by about $2 per hour to align with market rates. Jamie Fields (recreation staff) and Joel (wellness center staff) told council the higher pay should improve recruiting so the city can schedule full family-swim times and events. The council also approved a policy to reimburse first-time certification costs (staff cited about $150 for lifeguard certification), with recertification costs continuing to be reimbursed as before. That motion passed 7—0.

Joel provided a wellness-center update: a ribbon cutting was held and the facility has seen steady use; staff reported roughly 900 members in the system (that figure includes family members listed on accounts). Council members and staff said the center has consistent early-morning users, after-school youth participation and family pool time as lifeguard hires allow increased scheduled lifeguard coverage.