In another thread (now closed) someone proposed a way to encourage more volunteers to lead classes to alleviate long wait times, over crowding, and frustrations of not being able to do activities - even after waiting in long lines.
Another way to handle this would be class reservation software. Here's a link to one that at first glance looks like a very good fit:
ACTIVE Network Software Powers....
So rather than showing up an hour early, waiting in line, and then being denied entry because a class/venue is full, people could reserve slots.
Would this be complicated? Yes (to some).
Would it be overkill? Maybe, for some classes/activities.
But it would also eliminate the need to show up an hour+ early and then be annoyed when you STILL can't get in to an activity.
The Rec Center staff could work with the volunteers to set up their classes & use with the system.
Perhaps when TV was smaller, this sort of formality & bureaucracy would be overkill. But with 100,000+ residents and growing, something beyond "show up, maybe you'll get in" seems in order.