Two weeks ago, Warrenbrook pool in Warren Township was not able to open for the season due to a lifeguard shortage. It’s an issue that’s been impacting pools across New Jersey, with many wonder if they’ll be able to open for the summer.

A flyer recently posted announced the pay was raised to $20 an hour from the original posting of $16.50 an hour.

A member of the park commission says after News 12 New Jersey shared news about the lifeguard shortage situation, 12 candidates applied for the lifeguard positions.

Last week, staff ran a prequalification test to determine whether those 12 applicants were fit to pass the Red Cross certification course. Seven passed. The official course for the seven applicants starts this week. In the meantime, Warrenbrook pool is still looking for additional applicants.

Geoff Soriano says he’s optimistic that the pool will be able to open on July 1.

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Although the pool remains closed at this time, officials say the higher pay and the free certification program spurred activity. They say it’s a topic and conversation that’s become all too familiar as lifeguard shortages are causing pools across New Jersey to not be able to open at all, or open late in the season. Many pools have had to make adjustments.