“We knew last year if we wanted anything this year we should have started in January and we haven’t.”
South Haven Council member Mary Hosley says the council’s failure to approve lifeguards on their Lake Michigan beaches extends a debate that’s been underway for years.
“I feel that its more kicking the can down the road.”
A report from Chris Brewster of the U.S. Lifeguard Association concludes lifeguards would dramatically lower the risk of drowning in South Haven.
“Reduce the number of drowning fatalities in South Haven down to one every 50 plus years.”
South Haven eliminated lifeguards in 2001.
“Since then, you have had 12 drowning fatalities.”
Lisa MacDonalds 19-year-old daughter Emily and her 22-year-old boyfriend Kory Ernster drowned in 2022.
“For Emily and Kory and all the Emilys and Korys to come vote yes on reinstating lifeguards to your beaches.”
But councilman George Sleeper says there are still too many unanswered questions about training, equipment and cost.
“I’d rather take this year, this summer to get everything fully in place.”
Council member Mary Hosley still thinks council may approve lifeguards this year after reviewing more data from the city manager.
“I’m hopeful we can still get lifeguards on our beaches sometime this summer.”
