TO: The Honorable Board of County Commissioners
THROUGH: John A. Titkanich, Jr., County Administrator
THROUGH: Michael C. Zito, Deputy County Administrator
Beth Powell, Parks, Recreation, & Conservation Director
Gustavo Vergara, Assistant Director Parks, Recreation & Conservation
FROM: Johnathan Billings, Beach Operations Supervisor
DATE: September 19, 2025
SUBJECT: Parks, Recreation & Conservation Department - Ocean Rescue Division Policy and Operation Standards
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BACKGROUND
The Ocean Rescue Division is built on a foundation of public safety, professional vigilance, and community trust. For years, we have proudly protected thousands of visitors across the County’s four guarded beaches, delivering consistent, high-quality service marked by swift response times, preventative action, and a strong culture of accountability and care.
The Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department initiated the creation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) throughout its Divisions with the goal to create clear communication to staff, elevate the level of service provided to residents, and ensuring operational effectiveness and efficiency. The Department’s foundational SOP was approved on April 23, 2024, by the Board. The creation of the Ocean Rescue Division’s Policy and Operation Standards Manual (Manual) was driven by the core goal to provide lifeguards with a clear, consistent, and professional framework for excellence in safety and service. With the responsibility of protecting lives at the County’s four guarded beac...
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