by Richard Uhlhorn

This year’s influx of woody debris has hit the Chelan economy hard. By all accounts, this is the worst woody debris issue to hit Lake Chelan since the early 70s situation from the 1968 Fourth of July Fire and the 70’s fires on the south shore.

This year’s situation is the result of heave drift from wildfire burn scars from both the old Wolverine Fire and the Pioneer Fire that burned significant amounts of forested land along Lake Chelan.

The two Atmospheric Storms in December soaked the wilderness landscape creating massive mud flows and debris runoff. The lake is like a slow-moving river that has floated most of the debris into the Wapato Basin creating an economic headache for all businesses who derive a livelihood from the lake.

The Manson Parks Department held a special meeting recently to discuss the heavy load of woody debris trapped in its marina. Commissioner Kurt Sixel stated that the boat launch (Old Mill Bay and Manson launch) has been a problem. “Chelan has made it a number one priority.”

A number of ideas were floated at the Manson meeting to help eliminate the issue. First was funding. It was suggested that they contact the PUD who owns the property that Manson Parks operates.

Jesse Howard commissioner remarked “The fact that we have piles of debris trapped in the marina and not in a position to fund its removal is a problem.”

The PUD has a woody debris removal fund. Commissioner Kelly Allen addressed this issue on Social Media. “We have funds set aside for the removal of woody debris. Our responsibility is to provide funds. A different agency gets to remove the debris.” It has been reported that the PUD has an estimated $180,000 in the fund.

Manson will be requesting a Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife permit to remove the wood. The other issue is how to dispose of the wood. Chelan has been taking their wood to the Transfer Station.

Chelan Parks Department has also requested funding from FEMA for its public assistance funds. “There are Federal funds available,” said Chelan Parks & Recreation Director Audrey Cooper.

“It’s a tough one and we are doing our best to pick up debris,” said Cooper. “We are focused on the launch area but are limited in our own capacity.” The Chelan Parks Department is also looking for volunteers to help clear the beaches at both Don Morse and Lakeside. She has contacted both the Rotary Club and Lake Chelan Research Institute to help coordinate any effort for a volunteer removal program.

Cooper added that parks staff has already removed about 50 cubic yards of woody debris since May from both Lakeshore Marina and the Don Morse Park beach area.

Mike Kaputa, director of Chelan County’s Department of Natural Resources, said, “It’s a big issue. I’ve got it in my notes to talk to the commissioners. I will also call the regional director of Fish and Wildlife about permitting issues.”

On the business side of this issue is the economic impact it is having on businesses.

Mark Lippincott, fishing guide, “It’s everywhere from clear to atrocious. Ten days ago it was not as bad as I expected. I think the majority of it is already downlake,” said Lippincott. “There are full trees to bark dust and a lot of waterlogged pieces making it dangerous for boating.” He added that he has seen a lot less recreational boat traffic so far this year.

The debris is also making it a lot more difficult to fish. “I see a lot of two to 6 inch pieces that are six foot long.”

Chelan County Commissioner Brad Hawkins said he plans to address the issue with the other commissioners and the County’s Department of Natural Resources. He added that woody debris has been and will continue to be a sustained challenge for the Lake Chelan community especially with the recent wildfires.

In a later communication, Hawkins stated that a structure could be set up involving all agencies (City, County, WDFW, PUD, Port of Chelan County, USFS and others) to enter into a multi-year interlocal cooperative agreement for cost sharing and enter into a contract with a private contractor for debris removal services. “Unfortunately, and realistically , this structure and arrangement would take months to develop” Hawkins said.

EVENT Cancellations
This year’s early June Hydroplane event was cancelled because of woody debris.

Jon Courtright, a hydroplane museum guy said in a text, “Wood in the lake is a hot topic with both Hydrofest and Mahogany and Merlot.

Both Hydrofest and M&M bring economic surplus to the Valley during the later fall months after the summer rush.

The biggest question right now is whether or not the agencies can come up with a plan to alleviate the issue before the summer is over.

by Richard Uhlhorn

On June 16, the Manson Community Council hosted County Planning Director Deanne Walters and Senior Planner Susan Dretke to update the County’s Comprehensive Plan process. Dretke stated that the county is “shooting for the second week in December” to complete a new county website.. The state requires the comp. plan to be updated every 10 years.

Dretke said the state has passed new legislation that must be addressed. One element being addressed county wide is affordable housing for all income levels. The other is a transportation element. “Another big part is Climate Resilency,” said Dretke. Flooding and wildfire are also being addressed. Dretke said, “It’s how we can be better prepared.”

Asked about the Climate Resilency, Dretke remarked that the county’s Department of Natural Resources has hired a consultant to help with that element.

Another aspect of the plan is to address multimodal transportation which has raised many questions and concerns over the plans to construct the Northshore Pathway between Manson and Chelan, particularly with Emergency Services.

If any agency required to update their comp. plan fails to do so, the state will step in and do it for them.

Deanna Walter remarked that the county needs to update its plan every 10 years and said, “We are only going to do what is mandated by the law. We are only going to do the minimal updates.”

She went on to say that Manson and Peshastin, and Malaga if it does become a Urban Growth Area (UGA( are unique because they are unincorporated communities.

Before the plan is finalized there will be an opportunity for the public to comment. “There will be multiple opportunities to comment,” said Dretke. Walter added that there are both House and Senate bills to address. “We have to figure out how to incorporate them into the Comprehensive Plan.”

The draft Comprehensive Plan is on-line at County of Chelan, Washington.

In other council business:

            Northshore Pathway – Rene Commons reported that there is no plan to move forward on the Manson side of the trail. “If Manson wants to movOne forward we need to advocate for them (Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council).”

            PUD – Dom Amor reported that the PUD is looking for more property to situate a new Substation. The PUD tabled it for discussion at their next meeting. Two community members have requested to see any property before voting on it as acceptable. “They are open to other options.. “The testimony (PUD Commission Meeting) was pretty vocal and against it at that property proposed.” Gerry Ustanik asked the public to bring suggestions back to the council. “They just don’t want it, they need to love it somewhere.”

            One Voice Coalition – There was a discussion about having a council member sit on the board of the coalition. Mike Kirk asked Chris Willoughby if he thought they could appoint. Willoughby replied that the original bylaws would allow it if the meetings were public. Amor stated that the council has engaged with other organizations.

            Amor said, “What is it we are trying to do?” Ustanik replied that the council never hears about what they are doing. Amor said remarked that One Voice requires more openness. Commons said, “One Voice is a step forward, but I talk to people who don’t even know about One Voice.” No decision was made until further research is accomplished.

Future speakers – Chelan Fire District No. 5 commissioner Fred Weiss and the district’s Deputy Fire Chief Mike Williams will be on the agenda at the next meeting. Chris Willoughby, a planning commissioner with the county and a Fire District commissioner said he would be happy to join if time permits.

Incorporation – Ustanik said there was still a lot to incorporation. Kirk replied that the council has requested funding for a feasibility study. Incorporation has been a subject of interest over the years and has never been found to be feasible. However, with the population increase in the UGA, it might be possible.

The next meeting is on July 21,at the Manson Grange Hall beginning at 6 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Citizen Comments:
Jared Higgins told the Council that it was becoming harder to live in Chelan because of the STRs like the Lookout. “Residents fall further and further behind,” he stated.” He mentioned the incessant marketing efforts that continue to market tourism interests. “To often the city adopts these efforts and people stop believing in Government.” Then he asked, “What have you done for working families?”

Special Presentations:
Mayor Erin McCardle read the America 250 Proclamation. On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate the Semiquincentennial which is the 250^th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. You can read the proclamation here:
2026 America 250 Proclamation.pdf

The next proclamation was in honor of past Finance Director Jackie Tupling who served the city beginning in 2015. The City’s proclamation stated that Tupling faithfully served the residents, staff and leadership of the City since 2016, holding multiple roles including serving as the City’s Finance Director. During her tenure, Tupling demonstrated professionalism, dedication and a deep commitment to the success of the City organization. You can read the entire proclamation here: 2026 Retirement of Outgoing Finance Director Proclamation (1).pdf

Sheriff’s annual report:
Sgt. Rob Huddleston preceded Sheriff Mike Morrison and told the council that the department was conducting marine training on the lake. He added that with school out, there were added challenges to the department. The department has contacted a whole lot of kids about Manson and to be careful on the lake.

Sheriff Morrison apologized to the council about the county’s difficulties since malware got into the computer system and effectively shut the county down. “Our phone system is up and running.” he said. In added that RiverCom was also up and running. “We are still working cases.” Morrison stated that the annual report was not out yet due to the difficulties.

Morrison reported that the department was fully staffed with 59 employees and that the biggest challenge was funding the Drug Task Force. “The county commissioners have agreed to fund the task force,” said Morrison.

Funding for the SWAT team has been secured. The department now has drones and is partnered with the FBI. “Our SWAT team is well trained and well equipped,” said Morrison. “We have exceeded minimum standards.”

He reported that the department is dedicated to helping the Manson Swim Program and that Marine II boat is back in operation, thanks to the City of Chelan’s financial help. “We have increased our numbers out on the lake,” said Morrison.

He also brought up the city and school concerns about electric bikes and motorcycles which are becoming an increasing safety problem. Morrison said the department will be pushing hard to keep the electric situation under control. “They are certainly fun to ride,” he said, adding that deputies would be in contact with riders.

“I think we are on the right path at the Sheriff’s Office,” Morrison said. He reported partnerships with the Forest Service and other agencies. Morrison reported that deputy response time is down to three minutes in most situations.

Morrison promised to share its annual report as soon as possible. “I want you to see the work we do,” he said.

Boys and Girls Club:
Ricardo Chavez, Athletic Director of the Boys and Girls Club, presented the club’s seasonal update.

Chavez stated that the club membership has grown from 147 last year to 199 kids this year. “We have played 79 games and worked with 402 volunteers.” The club has had access to the Chelan Community Gymnasium for basketball. They played both Bridgeport and Mansfield.

Flag football has 137 kids on 19 teams and they played 58 games. “Next year I’m hoping to have T-Ball in a partnership with the schools,” he reported. Asked if Brewster was involved, Chavez stated that Brewster has its own league. “My goal is to expand our program.”

Mayor McCardle asked about summer programs when school is out. Chavez replied that there are a number of weekly programs scheduled. “During the summer we have different camps and in the fall, we will continue with our golf program”

Councilman Cesar Vargas asked if the club could offer boxing. Chavez replied that the kids participate in sports they like. Councilman Terry Sanders asked about after school program and Chavez replied that the club’s after school numbers are growing. “We are thinking outside the box.” Councilman Agustin Benegas asked about fees, and Chavez replied that there are fees but if a family couldn’t afford it, they have ways to accommodate the child.

Boys & Girls Club Seasonal Update Slides.pdf

Forest Service update:
Holly Krake, Chelan/Entiat District Ranger, gave an update on the district. She started her presentation by talking about the damage the two 2025 atmospheric river storms had done to the district.

She reported that Shady Pass had both sustained considerable damages. “We have submitted for funding,” she said and added that any damage reports should be made to Matt Maher at matthew.maher@usda.gov. She said the funding window closes nine months post event (August/September). Krake asked recreational users and campers on forest land to report any road damage with all the details they can.

Krake announced that all campgrounds are open but that the Lakeshore Trail had been heavily damaged by the storms. The district only has two employees assigned to trail work this season and that there is heavy blowdown throughout the district.

On the recreation front, Krake reported that boaters seeking dock permits need to pay by ePay. The district is not accepting cash.

The district has installed a new dock in May at Domke Falls. New docks for Safety Harbor are currently under construction in Idaho at a cost of $500,000 and Krake said they would be installed this summer pending on favorable lake levels. The District began a 10-year strategic plan assessment for all 11 Forest Service docks in May.

Permits for cutting firewood are also available by ePay.

The District accomplished a 467-acre prescribed burn on Bear Mountain. Krake also reported that the District’s Forest Management program will be conducting prescribed fire and non-commercial thinning on 30 thousand acres on the North Shore of Lake Chelan.

This project is to create a large protection buffer for Wapato, Manson and Chelan. A 15-day comment period will begin this summer. “It will create an incredible buffer zone,” she said.

The Wildfire Outlook will be extreme this season. The low snowpack has pushed fire season a good three to five weeks ahead of normal. Krake also stated that higher temperatures are expected again this summer. “Summer lightning, temperatures and moisture matter most,” she said.

The two districts have 35 rappelers on hand along with: • 4 helicopters; tankers at Moses Lake Air Base • 30 smokejumpers • 5 20-person initial attacks crews • 1 13-person special ops crew • 9 engines • 25 hotshots but Krake also stated that some of these resources could be deployed to other fires.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if Grade Creek Road would be open to get to the South Navarre Trailhead for hikes into the Sawtooth Wilderness. Krake replied that she would check.

Motion Considerations:
After a number of workshops and council meetings Public Works Director Jake Youngren brough the reworked Six Year Transportation Improvement Program to council for approval. This plan outlines $50+ million worth of infrastructure work on the books. These plans are required to be updated every year by the State.

Laura McAloon, city administrator, remarked that the plan has to be consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan.

It includes Phase I and Phase II of the Northshore Pathway, both of which are estimated to cost $8million each. Pam Van Gerpan, an opponent of Phase II of the trail plan is concerned at how Chelan Hills Park would be affected. “I’m asking for a clear map so residents can be provided with it’s end point.”

The council unanimously approved both the Six-Year plan and the Chelan Parks request approval to go after grants being offered by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO).

In other action, the council approved an amendment of its Interlocal Agreement for Inmate Housing. Had a policy discussion on housing grant funding and then launched into a discussion on the Lakeside parking issue which will be covered in a separate article.

Next meeting:
The city has cancelled its council meeting for June 23, but will meet on Thursday, June 18 in a special meeting with the Parks Department Advisory Board to discuss the final report on the Golf Course by the National Golf Foundation consultant beginning at 5:15 in council chambers.

by Richard Uhlhorn

SBA Loans:
Todd Broadman, the regional representative for the Small Business Administration (SBA) was on hand at last week’s City Council meeting to inform the council that the SBA has a number of loan options for individuals and businesses that may have suffered losses during the Atmospheric Storm Event that devastated numerous areas leading to economic hardships.

“Homeowners and businesses in Chelan County are eligible for loans,” said Broadman. “Non-Profits are also eligible.” Loans up to $2 million dollars are available at 3.6% interest.

Mayor Erin McCardle asked if there were any requirements. Broadman replied that any tourism destination that was affected by the storm event was eligible. “I expect some were affected by that storm.” He also stated that there is a 12 month grace period before the first loan payment is due.

Water use & efficiency goals – Public Hearing:
Public Works Director Jake Youngren reported that the city is required to adopt an efficiency goal of 10% or less water leakage. “There are a lot of places in this country that have real issues around water,” said Youngren. “We’ve not been subject to penalties and our leakage is less than a 5% loss.” No one from the public responded. A three person household is allowed 400 gallons per day.

Motion considerations:
The Public Works Department had five amendment motions before the Council including the following:
                Ardurra Group additional services addendum No. 2 for Lift Station No. 1 upgrades project. “They ran into some unanticipated issues of contaminated soils on the site,” said Youngren. Some of the mitigation has been funded by the Department of Ecology. The total cost is $42,000.

                RH2 Engineering, Inc. Amendment No. 1 for the Washington Booster Pump Station Improvements. This project is under design out by Apple Blossom Center and the amendment is for an additional $47,516 that includes an expanded scope. The city’s share is 25%. “The expenses are covered by Economic Development money,” said Youngren.

                Bayley Construction, LP Change Order No. 1 for the contractor agreementij for the City’s Recycling Center Replacement Project. This change order is to bring in trades including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing contractors to support the design and development costs for a total of $387,162. “We have received $1 million and expect a $3 million dollar project,” said Youngren
                Councilman Tim Hollingsworth requested that Public Works update the public in their utility bills about the progress of the recycling project.

                Ardurra Group Additional Services Addendum No. 4 on the SR150 Sewer Replacement Project. Apparently, during the Cultural Resources Survey, the project was shut down for one day because an artifact was found. The survey was funded by Ecology for $73,000 ($134,120 now). The project requires a full-time archaeologist.

                WSDOT agreement for the proposed Apple Blossom Trail to Chelan. Design funding is pegged at $147,875 on a secured grant of $200,000 which is subject to a board decision in June.

Administrative Reports:
                Six-year Transportation Improvement Plan. Public Works Director reported that they are close to finalizing the mandated six-year plan that includes projects to relieve traffic congestion in the city, increase pedestrian safety, sidewalk expansion and the proposed change to a two-way bridge .
                Councilman Tim Hollingsworth mentioned the Northshore Pathway which he said is creating a lot of concern. Youngren replied that they are considering a portion of the trail from the roundabout to the Lake Chelan Community Center as a cost effective extension.

Short Term Rental Cap – Planning department response to Residents Coalition of Chelan County who want STRs totally capped. John Ajax, Community Development Director, refutes their request based on a number of factors, the biggest being that land zoned Tourist Accommodation are in areas where affordable housing would not be built. He also mentioned that most of Chelan’s STRs are in specific locations like the Lookout.

                The County has capped its STR growth at six percent, but Ajax said, “We have different zoning and it is fundamentally different than the county having a lower rural density.”
  Lynette Grandy, a Chelan resident and public advocate, brought a poster outlining different zoning areas in Chelan proper including DMU (downtown mixed use) and TMU (tourist mixed use). Grandy stated that it was time for the city to discuss remedies for humanity, i.e. traffic congestion, parking, wildfire prevention, and STRs and second homes. “Things citizens are deeply concerned about.”
                Brian Patterson, representing the Residents Coalition of Chelan County, said, “I will continue to disagree on the city’s position on STRs.” He stated that the coalition is communicating with residents and encouraging the public to have its voice heard or to say how they would like to see Chelan grow. “Is this really the type of housing that residents want to see dominate the new housing market for the next 20 years,” he asked and added that it was a resounding No. “A broader dialogue is yet to come,” said Patterson.
                Tim Hollingsworth replied that all residents concerned about congestion and affordability has not convinced him that an STR rental cap will solve those problems. “Given the nature of our economy, it’s important that we spend sometime evaluating.”
                Councilman Shane Collins asked what kind of density is available for building. John Ajax replied that 8.7units are allowed per acre and added, “This is incredibly complex stuff.” Councilman Cesar Vargas said people would be directly affected if the city caps it and mentioned service people.
                Mayor McCardle shut the discussion down and said the STR cap issue is on the June 2 City workshop and additional questions could be discussed there.

Administrative reports:
City Administrator Laura McAloon reported that two different property owners are interested in partnering with the city for the development of a hockey rink/ice skating rink. “Do you have an interest in pursuing that,” she asked council. She added that there is not enough detail yet, but suggested pursuing a discussion with the two property owners.

              Councilman Shane Collins said he wants to learn more about it. Hollinsworth was curious about how this would integrate with their other programs. McAloon replied that the city will reach back out to the property owners.
                Parks & Recreation Director Audrey Cooper said the parks were certainly used over the Memorial Day weekend but were not at capacity. “Lakeside is fully open now,” she reported and added that a ribbon cutting would take place on June 15 at 6 p.m. She also reported that the parks department has received a renewed Clear Vessel Grant.

                Jake Youngren reported that the sidewalk program was on-going.
                Sgt. Rob Huddleston said he worked his 27^th Memorial Day weekend that began with a major shooting incident on Friday night, but otherwise was mostly a family weekend. “Twenty seven years ago it was common to see 15 boys carrying cases of beer. It was amazing this year.” He stated he spend a lot of time over the weekend in the parks.

Mayor/Council comments:
                Terry Sanders reported that a number of high school students were in the audience .Other commissioners all thanked the staff for their hard work. Hollingsworth added that he and family really enjoyed using the Lakeside Trail over the weekend.
                Mayor McCardle finished the meeting by remarking that the social media comments from the last council meeting undermine the credibility of the council. “Some of them were pretty outrageous conspiracy theories that has spread on-line.”