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Council approves $50 increase to junior lifeguard fees to cover rising costs
Summary
The Seal Beach City Council voted 5–0 to raise Junior Lifeguard Program fees by $50 per child to offset higher uniform, transportation and field-trip costs and approved a $17,500 budget amendment; staff said scholarships are available for families in need.
The council approved a $50 increase to the Seal Beach Junior Lifeguard Program fee after Marine Safety Chief Bailey described higher program costs for uniforms, transportation and field trips.
"We're looking to increase the fees $50 across the board," Chief Bailey said, adding the department will amend the cost-recovery schedule and move $17,500 into the junior lifeguard budget to cover program needs. Bailey said the program runs seven weeks, includes uniforms and field trips, enrolls about 350 children this year, and that staff strives for a 15:1 instructor-to-student goal (currently roughly 17:1).
Council members praised the program as a community benefit that trains children in water safety and noted scholarships are available (the 10K run funds many scholarships and staff will provide additional support as needed). After public comment and council discussion about full cost recovery, Mayor Landau moved and Council member Senico seconded the measure; the council voted 5–0 to approve the fee increase and related budget amendment.
What happens next: the fee schedule will be updated and staff will track scholarship needs to maintain access for families who cannot pay.
