Beach sticker fees raised to offer competitive wages

Beachgoers will have to pay slightly more when visiting the town’s shores this summer.

The annual passes will now increase by $5, costing residents $40 for the popular windshield sticker — or $35 for seniors.

Day passes will remain at $10 for Jones and Apponagansett Park.

The increase comes following last year’s Fall Town Meeting approval to raise wages for lifeguards and beach supervisors to make the pay more competitive with other communities.

“Last year, we were really low and couldn’t get the staffing,” Recreation Coordinator Rebecca Amaral said. “Now they’re more comparable to other towns.”

Lifeguards will now earn $18 an hour, up from the previous rate of $15.50. Beach supervisors received a bump in pay from $17.50 to $20 per hour.

Since the pay bumps were approved, Amaral noted that the Parks and Recreation Department has seen an increase in lifeguard applications for the upcoming beach season. Although, staffing levels are still below what the department expects.

“But we still won’t be at the max capacity we’d like to be, but we’ll definitely be in better shape,” Amaral said.

Round Hill Beach will open June 18, while Jones and Apponagansett Parks will be open June 25 through Labor Day. 

Beach passes will go on sale beginning May 9.

Stickers may be purchased Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Parks and Recreation office located on the lower level of the Town Hall, Room 108.

For more information about purchasing a new sticker, contact Dartmouth Parks and Recreation at (508) 910-1812 or visit town.dartmouth.ma.us.