The Hutchinson City Council on Dec. 23 approved creation of a seasonal campground host position for Masonic West River campground to assist staff with site assignments, light maintenance and visible customer service during peak season.

Parks staff (Lynn) said the host would help reduce staff call-ins and improve operations, noting Site 1 will be converted to the host site and that it is typically rented about half the season. Staff estimated a budget impact of approximately $11,000 for seasonal wages (May'October) and said campsite rates were increased by $5 per site in the fee schedule to help offset revenue impacts.

Council approved the program and the fee changes; staff will finalize a job description and recruitment for the seasonal post ahead of the 2026 camping season.