The function \( y = 15x + 12 \) can be interpreted in the context of the local gym's pricing structure as follows:
- The variable \( y \) represents the total cost to join the gym after \( x \) months.
- The term \( 12 \) represents the one-time enrollment fee that everyone must pay when they join the gym.
- The term \( 15x \) indicates that there is a monthly charge of $15 for each month \( x \) that a member stays at the gym.
Therefore, the total cost \( y \) consists of a fixed $12 enrollment fee plus an additional $15 for each month of membership.
In summary, after joining the gym, a member will pay a total of $12 plus $15 for every month they remain a member.