The splashy start of summer has hit a dry patch in Rochester Hills, where would-be swimmers will find the beaches of Spencer Park closed over Memorial Day weekend. A nagging lifeguard shortage means the typically bustling lakeside attraction won't be staffed in time for the holiday, city officials disclosed in a social media blitz earlier this week.
"The swimming area and beach at Spencer Park will not be opening this weekend as previously hoped," the City of Rochester Hills lamented, a statement that was echoed by The Detroit News and Patch. While other park offerings like picnicking and trails are up and running, the absence of lifeguards leaves the key aquatic attractions high and dry.
According to FOX 2 Detroit, Ken Elwert, the city's director of parks and natural resources, said the shortage is quite unusual."We’ve always had a strong crew and a strong tradition of lifeguards here. The labor market has changed quite a bit in the last couple of years." Elwert told FOX 2 Detroit. Current staffing sits at just four lifeguards—a far cry from the 15 to 20 normally employed over the summer season.
In a bid to reel in would-be lifesavers, Rochester Hills is dangling carrots like higher pay and a $500 season-end bonus. Interested applicants need a Red Cross certification, but they're helping streamline the process by connecting potential hires to classes. "We want you to be Red Cross certified, but if not, we’ll usually be able to find a class for you, and then you’ll get all the skills you need," said Rebecca Hartrick, a seasoned lifeguard at Spencer Park, in an interview with FOX 2 Detroit.
Potential guards can take the plunge and apply through the links provided in the local news outlets' coverage.
