EUSTIS, Fla. – Director Sam Brinson of Parks and Recreation for the City of Eustis said the pool was supposed to open on May 1, but said it was pushed back to June 2 as a result of a lifeguard shortage.
Brinson said hiring lifeguards has been tough and said part of the reason is because most of their applicants are teenagers and finding time to schedule classes for certifications can be a challenge.
“We have to take them through that whole process,” Brinson said. “And you know, teens are teens. You’re not going to get them to come to every individual class when you need them to come. They have other things they need to do.”
While the pool will open on June 2, Brinson said they are still looking for more lifeguards.
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“We’re going to work with what we have,” Brinson said. “We have some staff that work on the summer camp side that have some lifeguard and background and will have them help the aquatics manager out.”
Right now, Eustis does have an opening posted for a part-time lifeguard with pay listed at $15 per hour.
Brinson said that ideally, they need 5 - 6 lifeguards, but added they’ll take as many as they can get.
“I would love to have a couple of full-time people that would help out a little bit, and then that’s something I have to talk with personnel and city manager about, see if that’s something we can do,” Brinson said.
News 6 also asked Brinson about the splash pad, and unfortunately, people will have to wait a little while longer before it opens.
“There was construction on the seawall, and there was some damage done to the splash pad again,” Brinson said. “So now we have to see if it’s safe to use or if any repairs need to be made before we can open it.”
Brinson also said he would eventually like to see the pool open year-round and with longer hours.
If you’re interested in applying to be a lifeguard with the city of Eustis, click here.