A new analysis of public payroll records has revealed that dozens of Los Angeles County lifeguards are earning eye-popping salaries, with some pulling in over half a million dollars annually—all funded by taxpayers.
According to the report, at least 34 lifeguards earned more than $300,000 in total compensation last year, and 134 lifeguards exceeded the $200,000 mark. One individual topped the list with over $500,000, including base salary, overtime, and benefits.
The bulk of these high earnings stemmed from extensive overtime, especially during peak summer months and emergency response periods like wildfires. These pay structures have sparked concern from local watchdog groups and some officials, who argue that the system may be placing unnecessary strain on public budgets.
Critics are calling for greater oversight, suggesting that excessive overtime could be reduced with better staffing or more efficient scheduling. Meanwhile, residents and lawmakers are questioning how such compensation levels align with broader service shortages in areas like law enforcement, emergency response, and public health.
The findings have triggered renewed calls for reform, with proposals on the table to cap overtime, audit public safety payrolls, or restructure pay models to balance worker compensation with long-term fiscal responsibility. As scrutiny grows, Los Angeles County faces mounting pressure to justify these spending levels and reevaluate how it funds essential services.