Council approves rec center fees

The city council approved a list of proposed membership fees Tuesday for the city’s new recreation center set to open in March.

The Copper Sky Recreation Complex being constructed at Bowlin Road and John Wayne Parkway includes a 52,000-square-foot multigenerational and aquatic center. The complex also features a regional park with a 5-acre lake, eight multi-use fields, a dog park and baseball fields.

The membership fees approved Tuesday allow access to the multigenerational and aquatic center. This includes use of a fitness center, indoor track, gymnasium, fitness classes and a supervised “child watch” area. 

City staff came up with a list of proposed fees by comparing other city recreation centers in Arizona, aiming for a revenue amount that would help cover estimated expenses and referencing a 2012 report from Brailsford & Dunlavey. The program management firm was contracted by the city to complete an operational assessment of the center, which included estimated operation costs. 

According to a city staff report, the center is expected to generate annual revenue of nearly $1.49 million. The center’s yearly expenses are estimated at $1.98 million. The remaining expenses will be covered by money within the city’s general fund. 

Jennifer Campbell, Maricopa’s community services director, told council members city staff will complete monthly expense and revenue reports to monitor the center’s cash flow. 

Campbell said there’s no way of knowing the center’s actual revenue until the facility opens. 

“It really is dependent upon, you know, the citizens wanting to use the center,” she said. 

The membership rates are broken into several categories: daily, one-month, six-months, annual and a 20-visit fee.

The daily price for residents is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $3 for kids 17 and younger or a person enrolled in school. Residents can purchase a 20-visit punch card for $50 (adults), $40 (seniors) and $38 (youth/students).

A senior is defined as anyone 62 and older. Campbell said city staff came up with age 62 because that’s when people can begin collecting social security benefits. 

All children – no matter what age – will be charged. Campbell said kids as young as 6 months will be able to use the facility. For example, there will be infant swim lessons. 

Adults and seniors living within the same household have the option of purchasing two-person memberships. Family memberships – defined as one or two adults and up to four children – also will be available. An additional family member living within the same household can be added into the family membership for an additional fee. 

Rates will be higher for people who live outside the city limits. Residency will have to be proven with a photo ID and a document with the person’s address, such as a utility bill, mortgage statement or rental agreement. 

Councilwoman Julia Gusse brought up the idea of having a discount for veterans and long-term memberships extending beyond one year. Staff members said such possibilities could be considered in the future. 

For a full list of membership prices, click here.