Staff writer
Marion County Park and Lake revenue was down by $6,600 in 2016 compared to the previous year.
Last year’s total revenue was $108,109 down from $112,721 in 2015.
Lake superintendent Steve Hudson said both Memorial Day weekend and Fourth of July were impacted by rainy weather in 2016. Despite that, revenue exceeded the $100,000 budgeted.
The lake derives revenue from mobile trailer rents, lake hall and shelter house rentals, and county camping and boating permits.
The month of June brought in the most revenue, $21,748, which Hudson attributed to the annual bluegrass festival that attracted campers for a weeklong visit.
Hudson said that is the only time during the year when camping sites with electrical hookups are completely booked.
Lake hall and shelter house rental income rose substantially that month as well, totaling $1,080.
The first of January brought in $13,815 in annual trailer rental payments. Many renters pay yearly, but bi-annual, quarterly, and monthly payments are accepted. Trailer rental income for the year was $67,810, providing a large part of the lake’s revenue.
Last year, the lake received gifts totaling $10,729 by the end of November.
“We like to get at least $3,000 in memorials and donations every year, but we always get a lot more than that,” Hudson said. “It really helps.”
A fisheries assistance program from Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks brings in additional revenue.
A crappie tournament and chili feed were other major events that attracted visitors. Private groups also staged events there. Two more movies were shown at the beach than the previous year.
Hudson said his office is available during wintertime to serve those who use “one of the nicest heated docks in the state.” He and his two assistants spend the winter doing maintenance work and answering the phone.
“We also take our vacations during the winter because we don’t have time for them during the summer,” Hudson said. “We went to Florida this Christmas.”