That district operated the facility until a few years ago, when its board of directors signed an agreement with Sandy that allowed the city to take over operation. Property taxes from the district still fund about a third of the center's $1.2 million budget, with other taxes and admission fees making up the rest.

If the city funds additions, it would likely take over ownership of the facility, Shay said. Property owners who have paid the extra taxes over the years would continue to get a break on admission and membership, she added.

The Sandy City Council toured the recreation facility Tuesday. Shay told the small crowd that the current facility would remain, but that offices and an indoor running track would be built above and around it, turning what is now a sidewalk into a hallway.

Other changes would make space for spinning classes, which now meet in a conference room, and improve space for weights and exercise machines. Bathroom facilities serving the pools would also be upgraded to include family changing rooms.

Under the plans, the west entrance to the recreation center will be moved and a second floor made up of sage and orange-yellow trapezoid blocks would be added. Concrete slabs perpendicular to the structure, above its windows, will be held up by wooden posts in triangles. Red brick matching the current exterior would make up the new first-floor exterior.

Hills surrounding the building now would be leveled so the additions will not impair the view of neighbors to the east, Shay said.

City Council members on Tuesday expressed reservations about the architecture of the planned improvements and asked to talk to the designer about his choices.

Shay, however, is thrilled about the look.

"Our place needs to be a lot more alive and fun," she said.

The City Council has asked city staff to present funding options during its July 29 meeting at 10000 Centennial Parkway.

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E-mail: rpalmer@desnews.com