Fredericksburg is one of many cities touched by the lifeguard shortage sweeping the nation. Shortages are disrupting regularly scheduled classes, camps and free swim hours, but reports say it is comparatively better than previous years.

“This is actually one of our best recruitment years —when it comes to lifeguards — in the last six or seven years,” Andrea Schmidt,  Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Fredericksburg, said.

During the regular city council meeting Tuesday, Jun...