by Richard Uhhorn
Brent Morrison, president of Crystal View Estates Homeowners Association took the time to address City Council during the decision to authorize finalization of Legacy Ridge’s Phase 2.
Morrison wasn’t on hand to deny the request by Legacy Ridge, but to remark about the increasing traffic issues within the shared intersection with Crystal View Estates and Legacy Ridge, along with SR150 traffic.
Phase 2 of the Legacy Ridge development consists of 33 single family residential lots and three open space tracks. Final Phase 2 approval was brought to the Council by the city’s Planning Department.
Morrison told the Council that Phase 1 which uses Crystal View Drive for access has become a race track. “We need some mitigation to address traffic, speed limits and parking issues,” said Morrison. “We are nervous abuot traffic issues within our sub-division.”
He stated he was disappointed that a left-hand turn lane hasn’t been constructed on Hwy. 150 for traffic coming east from Manson. Morrison remarked that with all the development in Manson and the potential for further development up hill from both Legacy Ridge and Crystal View will create more traffic problems. “Once you start… where do you stop,” he asked.
He would like to see a flashing light, left turn lights and more reduced speed limits on Hwy. 150.
Legacy Ridge is required to improve the SR150/Crystal View Drive Intersection in Phase 3 which could include a left hand turn lane. Morrison remarked that a roundabout would work better at the intersection. “It’s just a matter of time before someone is killed.”
On a broader issue, Morrison asked how the City/County Planning Departments are enhancing the quality of life. “There are no hiking or walking trails in the development plans. What is your development going to do to enhance the quality of life,” said Morrison.
Councilman Ty Witt remarked that the Parks Department is working on a recreation plan that includes the Northshore Pathway construction.
Councilman Peter Jamtgaard asked if it was possible to put sunset clauses on permits. Craig Gildroy said it was. Morrison added that it was supposed to be a six to seven year development that has extended to 15 or 16 years already. Councilman Tim Hollingsworth remarked that the Hearing Examiner has signed off on the motion.
Councilman Chris Baker said developers have an advantage. “They massively scrap the hillsides off without giving something back like hiking paths.” He added that the Lookout gives $1,000 per sale back to the City on every sale. “No one else does. None of them, and it is a shame.”
Council unanimously approved the final plat approval.
IN OTHER BUSINESS:
Chelan Parks Director Paul Horne reported to Council that the 12 Tribes Colville Casino has made a donation of $5,554.56 to the Chelan Department of Parks and Recreation.
Casino General Manager Scott Ward recommended the donation through their Change for Charities program to help benefit children in the community.
Horne told the Council that he appreciates the donation and would like the funds be allocated to playground equipment at Lakeside Park.
In other Parks news, Horne asked the Council to approve a professional services agreement with Reiss-Landreau Research Inc. (RLR). RLR is a cultural resources management consulting company that will conduct a thorough Archeological Survey at Lakeside Park.
The survey is a requirement that the Park needs accomplished to be eligible to receive a $500,000 grant from the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund for the Lakeside Redevelopment Project which they are close to receiving. The grant would be managed by the National Parks Service.
The Lakeside Parks project failed to be awarded in 2018, falling just short of the 10 applications approved. “We re-applied in 2020,” said Horne. He added that the Federal Government changed the guidelines and it has taken a year for the agencies to get back up to speed.
All Things Lake Chelan 