After months of planning, Maplewood and North St. Paul will begin sharing their recreation programs on Jan. 1.

The cost-saving measure was approved by a unanimous vote of the Maplewood City Council on Monday night. The North St. Paul council approved the proposal in November.

WHAT PROGRAMS ARE INCLUDED?

Recreation services for youth and adults in both cities, fitness and swim memberships at the Maplewood Community Center and a new community wellness program. The programs will be staffed and coordinated by Maplewood.

HOW LONG WILL IT LAST?

Four years.

WHO WILL PAY?

North St. Paul will pay Maplewood $75,000 each year.

HOW WILL IT WORK?

Fitness classes and personal training will be offered at both the Maplewood Community Center and the North St. Paul Community Center. Youth recreation leagues, adult sports leagues and other offerings will be combined and administered by Maplewood.

North St. Paul residents will be able to purchase a membership to the Maplewood Community Center for the same price as Maplewood residents.

Emma L. Carew