by Robin Opsahl, Iowa Capital Dispatch May 13, 2026 Early voting kicks off Wednesday, May 13 for the 2026 primary elections in Iowa. Iowans will have the chance to weigh in on contests determining either the Republican and Democratic nominees in several federal and state races. Voters can participate on Election Day, June 2, or […]
(OSKALOOSA, Iowa)— William Penn University today announced that President John Ottosson will retire in the summer of 2027. His presidency has been marked by courageous leadership, financial discipline, enrollment momentum, and an unwavering commitment to students during an extraordinarily challenging period in higher education. An alumnus of the University, President Ottosson assumed leadership at a […]
Hubbell Realty Company will be constructing 48 townhomes in Oskaloosa, called Westgate Townhomes, beginning in fall 2026. The $9.4 million project, which has received significant public support via Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Workforce Housing Tax Credits, a Thriving Community designation from the State of Iowa and a $1 million redevelopment tax credit award, will be […]
UNIVERSITY PARK — One of Mahaska County’s longtime summer traditions is getting ready to open for another season later this month. Oskaloosa Mini Putt, located at the former Vennard campus in University Park, is scheduled to open May 22 at 4 p.m. for the 2026 season. Mike Gipple, who helps oversee operations at the course, […]
OSKALOOSA — The Ecumenical Food Cupboard in Oskaloosa is preparing for major changes this month as the longtime food assistance program moves to a new location and takes on a new name. The organization will soon become the Mahaska Area Food Cupboard as it separates from Church Women United and becomes its own nonprofit organization. […]
OSKALOOSA — An Oskaloosa Elementary kindergarten teacher is gaining attention in a national “Super Mom” contest after being nominated by her husband. Michelle Erbs, a teacher at Oskaloosa Elementary, is currently competing in the online contest, where supporters can vote once every 24 hours. The contest winner receives $20,000, national recognition and opportunities connected to […]
OSKALOOSA — U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley stopped at Mahaska Health this week as part of a visit focused on rural health care and other issues facing Iowa communities. After meeting with hospital leaders and local officials, Grassley spoke with reporters about rural hospitals, child care shortages, national security and funding tied to the Secret Service. […]
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — Main Street Iowa celebrated its 40th anniversary on May 8 during the 2026 Main Street Iowa Development Awards, recognizing communities, projects, and leaders making an impact across the state. As part of the evening’s celebration, Joe Milledge was honored with Oskaloosa’s Leadership Award for his outstanding contributions to the local […]
Oskaloosa, Iowa — Doctors and hospital leaders at Mahaska Health told U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley on Wednesday that rural hospitals are being pushed harder than ever as more small-town health care services disappear across Iowa. Grassley met with physicians, administrators, and business leaders at Mahaska Health to talk about the problems facing rural hospitals, including […]
OSKALOOSA, Iowa — Standing beside a pool that recently held water for the first time, project leaders looked over the to-do list that’s getting shorter by the day and focused on the accomplishments that are in the completed column. After months of steady progress, Oskaloosa’s pool project has moved into its final phase, with crews […]
