SE Iowa News

Keokuk City Council members are considering how money generated from the City's hotel/motel tax fund should be distributed among organizations to promote growth and boost economic development.

The council heard from several organizations during its Jan. 19 meeting, including Main Street Keokuk. Each organization made a case to receive some of the funds.

"Main Street Keokuk has been a proud partner of the City for 37 years, continually striving to preserve and revitalize Kirkuk's downtown commercial district," Amy Hobb, Keokuk Main Street Board president, said during the meeting. "We are one of the oldest programs in the state, and we have one of the largest districts stretching from Second to 14th Street and a block and a half on either side. We are nationally accredited by Mainstreet America and contracted with both the City and the Iowa Economic Development Authority to act as an economic development partner for the downtown."

Hobb requested $40,000 from the fund this year, which is an increase from the previous year's request. She told the council it would help fundraising efforts that pay for special events hosted by Keokuk Main Street and other area improvements throughout the year.

Rand Park Pavilion also addressed the council and asked for $7,500 to pay for maintenance on the pavilion including mowing, landscaping, electrical repairs and a new concrete slab. The organization is also looking to install a new driveway and roof in the near future.

The Rolling on the River Committee requested $3,500 for its event, and Keokuk Garden Center asked for $7,140 for the arts and music program.

During a Jan. 5 workshop meeting, Keokuk Area Convention & Tourism requested $154,000, the Keokuk Fine Arts Council asked for $12,500 and the Keokuk Economic Development Corporation sought $60,000; a Daily Gate City report said this week.