Cocoa Beach city officials confirmed Monday that they are replacing life rings removed from the northern end of the beach last month amid an ongoing legal dispute over their ownership and placement. The devices, which were taken down by the city after a local resident claimed they were improperly installed, are now being replaced at the same location. The dispute has raised questions about who is responsible for maintaining safety equipment on public beaches. City Manager Lisa Martinez said the replacement is part of an effort to ensure public safety while the legal matter is resolved. 'We want to make sure visitors have access to lifesaving equipment,' Martinez said. The life rings were originally installed by a nonprofit group last year to aid swimmers in distress. The group, Save Our Shores, alleges the city removed them without notice, violating a prior agreement. The city disputes this, saying the equipment was not properly maintained and posed a hazard. The case is being handled by the county's legal department, with no timeline for resolution. Meanwhile, lifeguards have continued using their own equipment while the dispute unfolds. The incident has sparked debate among local residents about the role of private groups in managing public safety resources. 'It's confusing when different entities try to take control of the same tools,' said longtime beachgoer Mark Thompson. The city has not commented on whether it will seek legal action against Save Our Shores. The replacement of the life rings is expected to be completed within two weeks.