Lifeguard shortage making waves at favorite summer spots Here's the reason why the pool is closed, even as COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted. Posted: Jul 6, 2021 7:23 PM Posted By: Ariel Iacobazzi JUNCTION CITY, Ore. -- School may be out and COVID-19 restrictions may be lifted, but there's still one activity out of reach in Junction City. The Max Strauss City Pool remains closed despite some community members wanting to take a dip in the hot weather. Why is the pool closed? In part, it’s due to lack of lifeguard staff. Junction City City Administrator Jason Knope said it's nobody's fault. Like retail, restaurants, and other businesses, the demand for recreation workers far outpaces the supply.