It will soon cost more to go to the American Fork Fitness Center. The City Council on April 8 voted to increase the rates for various services at the center. Those new rates are expected to take effect May 1. Those with existing passes will not be affected until it is time for renewal.

"We wanted to be in line with our sister cities in terms of what they are charging," he said. "We have also added to the quality of our programs. It will allow us to replace some aging equipment and lessen the subsidy." Although the city never expected the center to be completely self sufficient, the council members have said they would like it to be closer to paying for itself through the fees paid by those who use it.

Recreation Director Derric Rykert said it had been several years since the rates had been adjusted. He said the new facilities at the center, such as the leisure pool and additional equipment, justified the additional charges.

"With the expansion and the things we offer, I think these fees are in line," he said. "It will also help us pay to improve our level of service and do a better job of customer service." He also said it would help improve the cleanliness of the facility.

"We can get new faucets when we need them and keep the lights replaced," he said.

Patrons have complained about a lack of parking, at least conveniently located, around the center. LeBaron said the city was working on that, although the additional fees would not help much in that effort.

"The raise in prices obviously won't help the parking problems," he said.

Rykert said the city had been exploring options to create more parking at the center. There is a lower lot at the corner of 400 North and Center, which is often not filled as patrons have been seeking closer spaces.

"I am working with the city engineer, Nestor Gallo and he is developed six options for parking," Rykert said. "We will present them and get staff input, then take a recommendation to the City Council. It is something they are seriously ready to address. They want to look at options and pricing."

"In the meantime, employees are parking at alternate locations," he said.

Rykert said the staff would encourage the swim team members to use the lower parking lot. Last year the center operated an entrance from that side of the facility for people to pay their admission fees, but it was only open during certain hours.

"This year we would have the gate open almost all operating hours," Rykert said. "It is a lighted lot. It would keep it safe."

LeBaron said the employee parking was one of the short-term solutions to the parking problems.

"We are also encouraging patrons who are able to use the lower parking area," he said.

For the long term, the city has looked at available space to the north of the center, perhaps relocating the Pony ball field, or building a parking garage. The group has also considered a shuttle system.

LeBaron was also optimistic the council would reach a decision about parking soon.

"I think in the near future there will be some action taken," he said. "Perhaps that will be within four to eight weeks."

He said the decision would not be an easy one.

"There are problems with every option," he said. "It is a balancing act."