On Monday, I asked the Dickinson County Board of Commissioners to consider a practical next step for Lake Antoine Park: Authorizing exploration of a limited 2027 lifeguard pilot for the public beach.

This is not a request for full-time lifeguards, whole-beach coverage or an open-ended funding commitment. It is a request to gather real information from a qualified aquatics provider about whether weekend and holiday lifeguard coverage could be offered safely, professionally and feasibly during the 2027 summer season.

Lake Antoine is one of Dickinson County’s most valuable public assets. Families, children, seniors, and visitors deserve a clean, welcoming, well-managed beach. A limited beta-test would let the county evaluate actual costs, staffing needs, signage, insurance requirements, public response and safety benefits before making any long-term decision.

Goose impacts and parasite concerns also need attention, but they are a separate issue. I support a public-facing, non-lethal approach that includes consultation with appropriate wildlife professionals.

This proposal is simple: Study the idea carefully, protect public access, and make Lake Antoine Park safer and more welcoming for everyone.