by Richard Uhlhorn
Chief’s Report:
According to Chief Brandon Asher, Chelan Fire and Rescue’s financial is 95% of where “we should be.” He reported that the district is still expecting $16,500 in State Mobilization funds to come in.
The district responded to 103 calls in November against an average of 59 calls. Seventeen of the month’s calls were for Advanced Life Support transport.
Fire related calls included a car fire on November 9, a vehicle over the side of 97A on November 27 and a Couch Fire on November 28. “We had a decent response for the roll over on the 27th,” said Asher.
Asher reported that the district was still waiting on the City’s fire inspection plans.
The new firefighters graduating from the academy in Wenatchee received high praise from the staff and received two of the three awards handed out.
The district has received new chainsaws for urban/wildfire use to replace their aging old saws.
The district will be releasing its first newsletter in January. It will be sent out to residents residing within the district boundaries.
On the operation front, the district will have better radio reception based on RiverCom’s upgrades. “This will definitely help us in the upper Lake Chelan Valley,” said Asher. “Hopefully, we will have increased radio reception.”
Asher also reported that the Forest Service is no longer interested in renting space at Station 74. “They’ve apparently worked out their situation at their current location.”
Manson District 5 is moving forward with their training facility. Commissioner Phil Moller asked Asher to reach out to District 5’s fire chief Arnold Baker. “Ask him to attend one of our commission meetings to outline what they are doing,” said Moller.
The district is seeking to purchase an International chassis in 2024. “We asked to be ut on the list,” said Asher. The cost is estimated to be $126,000 with an additional $80,000 to convert the unit into a fire truck.
Assistant Chief’s report:
Shaun Sherman reported that two firefighters are coming back to the district ant that Chelan Fire hasn’t lost anybody.
2023 Budget:
Chelan Fire and Rescue will begin the year with $1,241,052.01 cash on hand. Projected tax revenues for 2023 is $3,648,016.85 for a total revenue stream of $4,899,068.86.
The District’s General Reserve Investment fund is at $269,300.00. The Capital Fund is at $874,424.00 and the Capital “Equipment” Investment fund is at $270,077.00. Outstanding Non Voted Bond issues is $95,300.01. Revolving Petty Cash is $3,500.00
The full 2023 budget can be attained from the District by calling Carol Kibler at 509-682- 4476.
All Things Lake Chelan 