In recent months, the WCA Board and Voting Members have had several conversations during their monthly meetings regarding potential changes to the use of lifeguards at the community pools. Those discussions have revolved around the potential financial, operational and safety implications of reducing or eliminating lifeguards. Several residents have attended recent meetings to share their thoughts on the matter. It has been brought to WOW’s attention that fliers are being distributed by residents who have concerns about potential changes to lifeguard staffing. Below is a summary to help get residents up to speed with where the issue stands.
To date, no official vote has been taken.
During the July VM meeting, WCA President Michiel Oostenbrink informed the VMs that Inframark (new property management company) had recommended that the WCA hire an aquatics company to oversee and maintain the pools. This led to a conversation about the pros and cons of making changes to the use of lifeguards. The VMs voted to have Inframark explore options to present during the next meeting. Find complete coverage here.
During the August VM meeting, Inframark presented the financial implications of three options (weighed against current costs): 1) eliminate lifeguards entirely; 2) keep lifeguards only for summer camp; 3) have lifeguards on duty at the WPV and Countryway pools during the summer only. Oostenbrink reminded the VMs that the board has the final vote, but he did take an informal straw poll (not an official vote) to gauge the VMs thoughts. Of the VMs in attendance, only one voted to keep things as they currently are. Four voted to do away with lifeguards entirely; four voted to keep them solely for summer camp; and eight voted for lifeguards at both pools only during the summer months. (Note: only 18 VMs were in attendance when the vote was taken.) Find complete coverage here.
The conversation continued at the September 11 WCA Board meeting. Several residents in attendance spoke to express their concerns for residents’ safety and liability on the part of the WCA should lifeguards be removed. The board agreed that they needed to work with Inframark to hammer out all of the implications of potential changes to lifeguard staffing. Association Manager Jennifer Jordan said she would reach out to her fellow Inframark staff members and compile the relevant information by October 7. Find complete coverage here.
The next board meeting is scheduled for October 9 at 6 p.m. At this time, it is slated to be held at the WCA Office on Parley Drive. As always, the public is invited to attend.