Committee postpones pool-opening decision amid lifeguard staffing uncertainty and leak

The Public Works committee postponed a final decision on the municipal pool opening after staff reported uncertainty about lifeguard certification and a water leak that could increase operating costs.

Staff said there were 11 candidate lifeguards scheduled for training but, depending on pass/fail results, the likely staffed number could be around six or seven. Committee members pointed out a recent human-resources limit that caps some positions at 29 hours per week, which could constrain scheduling and the ability to run the pool seven days a week.

Staff also reported a small leak at the pool and an estimate "about a $160 a day" to keep the pool full while addressing the issue. Committee members noted that chemical treatment and other fixed operating costs would continue regardless of reduced hours or fewer open days.

A motion to postpone the opening by one week and hold a committee meeting next week to assess the number of available lifeguards and set a schedule was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote. The item will be added to the next Monday meeting agenda for an updated staffing count and repair status.

Next steps: staff will confirm the number of certified lifeguards after training runs, investigate the leak location with camera inspection, and return to the committee with cost and schedule recommendations for pool operations.