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Seal Beach council raises part‑time lifeguard pay and streamlines aquatic classifications
Summary
Council adopted a resolution updating the part‑time pay schedule for marine safety employees, consolidating some pool classifications and citing recruitment and retention needs for ocean lifeguards; the measure passed 5–0.
The Seal Beach City Council unanimously approved a resolution changing the part‑time pay schedule for marine‑safety employees and streamlining some pool classifications.
Chief Bailey and marine‑safety staff described the department’s reliance on roughly 70–80 part‑time employees—about 45–50 beach lifeguards and 25–30 pool lifeguards—many of whom work seasonal hours while attending college. Staff emphasized training requirements, including a 112‑hour lifeguard academy and emergency‑medical certifications.
“Becoming a beach lifeguard is not a casual summer job. It requires years of preparation, intensive training, and a willingness to take personal risks to protect others,” the presentation said. Staff noted the department had received only one part‑time raise since 2018 (a 91‑cent increase in 2023 at entry step) and said competitive pay is essential to recruit and retain trained guards.
The council adopted Resolution 7702 to amend part‑time pay for marine‑safety classifications, approve a revised combined part‑time pay schedule effective Oct. 26, 2025, rescind Resolution 5856 and remove two swim‑instructor classifications from the part‑time payscale. The motion carried 5–0.
Why it matters: lifeguards provide the city’s frontline public‑safety presence at the beach and at municipal pools. Council members said the pay changes aim to maintain staffing levels and preserve public safety.
Ending: staff said they will implement the updated pay schedule and continue evaluating part‑time classifications citywide.
