The Vancouver Park Board has confirmed to CTV News that it will save an estimated $400,000 to $600,000 by reducing seasonal, auxiliary lifeguards at five outdoor beaches this summer. CTV News asked the park board for this figure repeatedly when we initially reported that lifeguards staffed at waterfront and beach sites would be reduced from 10 to five. The beaches that are impacted with this change are Spanish Banks East and West, Sunset Beach, Third Beach and Trout Lake. The park board previously cited budget pressures for the decision. In a statement, the park board said it costs anywhere from $80,000 to $150,000 to employ lifeguards at each outdoor beach. “The costs range depending on weather, location, and level of usage particularly when there are special events on the beach or in the vicinity,” the statement said. The park board added that the change allows lifeguard staff “to be deployed where they have the greatest impact, enhancing service at our most swimmable beach locations and allowing for increased capacity at our outdoor pools.” Jericho, Locarno, Kits, English Bay, and Second Beach will continue to be lifeguarded this season. The change comes as advocates and CUPE Local 1004, the union that represents lifeguards, have expressed apprehension at the staffing reduction. Analise Hofmann, a lifeguard and CUPE Local 1004 union representative, previously told CTV News, she’s concerned about public safety. “We’ve been working as lifeguards for many years and we train and we know the areas, and so we’re a key part of what makes the parks and beaches a safe location for the public during the summer,” she said.
