Centennial Pool is expected to open by June 13 now that some potential lifeguards have applied for positions.
City Parks Director Steve Faber told city council members Tuesday night that he received nine applications on the heels of news that the pool couldn't open on time due to a lack of lifeguards.
He said he's extended invitations for employment to at least two of those people so far and is still going through paperwork. Some of those applicants are in the midst of completing their professional life-saving certification, which is a lifeguard requirement.
Faber said he had a call from the Salem Country Club offering to share some of their lifeguards. He said the pool person at Firestone Park in Columbiana was also helpful.
Normally the opening and closing dates of Centennial Pool correspond with the city schools schedule, opening after school is out and closing when school returns to session in August, but Salem students celebrated their final day of school last Thursday.
Due to a problem lining up certified lifeguards, Faber announced last week that the pool would not be opening until there were enough lifeguards available to cover the hours of operation. He said they would need at least four to open, but normally have at least seven or eight lifeguards on staff for the summer.
Lifeguards will be paid at least $8 per hour and may work a 6-hour to 7-hour shift, with anywhere from 20 to 30 hours per week. The pool hours are noon to 1 for a free swim for adults and then open hours of 1 to 7 p.m. seven days a week.
Anyone with the proper certification who's interested in a position can contact Faber at 330-332-5512 to get an application and should bring their certification with them when they apply. People can also call the parks office for information about pool passes and the pool opening.
Mary Ann Greier can be reached at mgreier@salemnews.net
