Standing on the shores of Lake Erie at Wendt Beach, Erie County Legislator Bob Reynolds (D-12) officially declared Wendt and Bennett Beaches open for the summer season.

Corey Jenkins (Derby), Chris Van Volkenburgh
(Angola), Legislator Reynolds, Brian Murphy (Evans)

"Lake Erie is one of the greatest natural resources in this community, and summer is the perfect time for county residents to enjoy our beautiful lakefront beaches," Reynolds stated. "So I am pleased today to initiate the weekend lifeguard program that will allow Wendt and Bennett Beaches to be open to the public every Saturday and Sunday from July 1st through Labor Day."

Reynolds noted that he obtained funding for the lifeguards through collaborative efforts with the Legislature's Energy and Environment Committee, Erie County Parks Commissioner Andy Sedita and The Town of Evans. "I worked diligently with my fellow legislators and various government officials to ensure that the monies required for the lifeguards would be in place for the prime summer months. I felt it was vital that these great recreational areas in my district be available to the people of Erie County and I made it my personal goal to accomplish that objective."

Following the recent failure of a privatization plan at Wendt Beach, Reynolds has become a strong proponent of public access. "These beaches are invaluable tourist attractions and recreational sites, and as long as I am the legislator responsible for their care and maintenance, I am committed to ensuring that they remain open to the public, for public enjoyment. Hiring lifeguards and opening the beaches is the first step toward achieving those goals."

Beach hours of operation are 11am to 7 pm. For more information on Wendt or Bennett Beach, contact Leg. Reynolds at his District Office 649-2640.

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