Pool manager warns of lifeguard shortages; council postpones wage decision

Rhonda Hogeland, the Alma pool manager, told the City Council on Aug. 5 that she expects to lose lifeguards next year unless hourly pay is increased, prompting the council to postpone a final decision until the budget is reviewed.

Hogeland said low pay and an increase in the state minimum wage make it difficult to retain staff. She asked the council to set starting pay at $10.00 per hour for new lifeguards, $12.00 per hour for returning guards with a $0.25-per-hour step after two years, and $14.00 per hour for assistant managers. She also recommended reducing pool hours to 1 p.m.–7 p.m. next summer because of “little traffic in the last hour,” and said the pool has received positive feedback for reserving chairs for swimmers 18 and older.

The council chose not to act immediately. Council Member Tom Moulton moved to postpone the item pending work on the municipal budget and family-pass pricing; Council Member Larry Casper seconded the motion. Council Members Casper, Collins and Moulton voted yes; no members voted no. The item will return to the council when budget deliberations permit.

Why it matters: Lifeguard staffing and hours affect the pool’s ability to operate safely and to serve residents, particularly families and youth. The wage request would raise personnel costs in the parks and recreation budget if approved.

Council context and next steps: The council framed the request as part of broader budget planning rather than an immediate pay ordinance. No formal wage change or effective date was adopted at the Aug. 5 meeting. Staff and council members indicated the item will be revisited as part of the 2024–2025 budget process.

Ending: The council postponed action and adjourned at 6:30 p.m.; the pool wage proposal will be considered later in the budget cycle.