The H.D. Buehler Memorial Pool in Tamaqua will open in time for the Memorial Day holiday but will likely close before Labor Day.

During a Tuesday evening meeting, council set the opening and closing date for the pool at Bungalow Park.

The facility will open on the Saturday closest to the last day of school in the Tamaqua district, with the official opener on May 28.

“There may be a soft opening a few days ahead,” said Councilwoman Mary Linkevich, who chairs council’s Recreation and Youth Committee.

The pool’s closing was set for the Sunday closest to the first day of school, likely on Aug. 20.

Resident Kathy Nunemacher asked why the pool would be closed before Labor Day.

“I believe the issue is because everybody goes back to school and we lose all our lifeguards and help,” council President Brian Connely said.

Councilwoman Kathy Kunkel said that the borough would consider keeping the pool open until Labor Day if it could find lifeguards to work.

In recent years, the pool has closed before Labor Day because of the back-to-school staffing issues.

Council also upped the price of season passes by $5 per person. The increase brings the cost to $15, and applies to those living in the Tamaqua Area School District.

Those who do not live in district do not receive the discounted fee.

Council voted to eliminate the use of laminated pool passes for the season. Beginning this season, staff will check patrons’ names using an online or printed roster.

Beth Jones was once again hired to serve as pool manager. She will receive $17.50 per hour. Council voted to advertise for an assistant pool manager, head lifeguard, lifeguards and pool clerks.