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Mahaska Community Recreation Foundation reports $200,981 in hotel‑motel receipts, $108,000 in trail repairs
Summary
MCRF General Manager Mackenzie Burke told the Oskaloosa City Council the foundation received $200,981.60 in hotel‑motel tax revenue through Nov. 30, 2025, and used funds for trail repair, stadium‑drive paving and a security lock system at the Apex.
Mackenzie Burke, general manager of the Mahaska Community Recreation Foundation, presented the foundation’s 2025 annual report to the Oskaloosa City Council on Dec. 15, saying the foundation had received $200,981.60 in hotel‑motel tax revenue through Nov. 30 and that funds have been used primarily for trail repair, maintenance and public‑safety enhancements.
Burke said MCRF spent approximately $108,000 on trail repairs during 2025, focused on addressing erosion, large surface cracks and user‑safety hazards, with remaining back‑fill work to be finished in spring. Other 2025 investments included Stadium Drive paving (a 2024 project reflected in 2025 expenses) and installation of a security‑lock system at the Apex to reduce overnight‑stay issues and improve restroom security.
Burke highlighted partnerships that supported a state little‑league tournament, local lodging and restaurant involvement and volunteer efforts. She also cited participation figures: more than 350 kids in Oskaloosa little league, 110 volleyball teams in the fall and previous annual visitor estimates for highlighted events (48,000 in 2023; 55,000 in 2024). Burke said the foundation secured grant funding for trail signage through Cargill Cares and is pursuing a REAP grant for trail maps and signage.
When asked how residents should report trail problems, Burke said: "Just give us a call, especially in our busy season, we try to get out there weekly, but there will be a couple weeks that we don't get out there if we're really busy." She encouraged residents to report limbs, downed trees or hazards so maintenance staff can respond.
The foundation said it will return to council with announcements for the 2026 events calendar and emphasized that staff view the hotel‑motel funds as stewardship tied to tourism promotion and facility upkeep.
