by Richard Uhlhorn
Lakeside Park issues:
Barry De Paoli, representing the Lakeside community thanked Mayor McCardle on setting up a meeting with the City and residents on Tuesday, October 15, to discuss Lakeside concerns.
The Lakeside community has been dealing with overcrowding in its neighborhood and the overcrowding at Lakeside Park during the summer months. The community voiced its concerns at a previous City Council meeting, and McCardle promised to take action on the issue.
Public Hearing on Proposed amendments to transportation program:
Jake Youngren, public works director, stated the Pubic Works Department is proposing a few amendments to its six year Transportation Improvement Program based on the recent community survey and open house.
Seventy-two percent of the community taking the survey want to see the old Woodin Avenue Bridge turned back to two-way traffic. Included in the amendment proposals were neighborhood sidewalk improvements, Lakeside Park access and a parking analysis for additional parking, and a regional transportation plan that includes evacuation routes.
McCardle stated that the amendments include “things we would like to accomplish.” Youngren replied that a consultant would be needed to help with the proposed two-way conversion on the bridge. The consultant would look at traffic issues around the bridge. “They would come back and explain methods.”
Councilman Terry Sanders said he was glad the two-way bridge conversion is on the proposed amendments. Bob Goedde stated that everyone who comes in from the North Shore has to fight traffic. Goedde has been a major proponent for the change ever since it was changed to one-way into town.
Councilman Brad Chitty chimed in and asked about two-way sidewalks on the bridge. “Does it have to be that way.?” Youngren replied that the 2015 study looked at alternatives for two-way traffic and sidewalks.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth stated there were two conflicts; 2-way conversion or a reversal of traffic over the bridge to out-of-town and the alternatives for pedestrians. “We are talking about significant improvements on the bridge,” said Hollingsworth. “Before we commit, I want to understand the costs and impacts over other intersections.”
Councilwoman Sheri Dietrich asked Youngren about grants particularly for an evacuation route. Youngren replied that the department continues to look for grants. “The closer you get to construction the better off you are for grant opportunities.”
Councilman Mark Ericks said, “I understand what our citizens want. It is taxpayer dollars. It could drain our ability to do other projects. People should know that. The costs will impact all projects.”
McCardle ended the public hearing saying she respected the dialogue around the issue. “This is a big deal for our community.
Wastewater Treatment Plant performance:
The Department of Ecology has given the City of Chelan’s Wastewater Treatment Plant its 2023 Outstanding Performance Award. The City is 1 of 118 communities so awarded. “They don’t just hand it out,” said Mayor McCardle. “It’s a testament to our staff,” she added. She thanked the treatment plant staff for their hard work to maintain compliance with Ecology’s permitting criteria.
Community Benefit Grant Policy:
Chad Coltman, communications director, told the council that the city is proposing to create a “little more structure around the Community Benefit Program.” This year the City anticipates $111,250 will be available for grants to community organizations, which is down from the $140,000 available last year.
Staff recommended a policy to use revenue from Short Term Rental licenses to fund the program. The City charges current STRs $250 to renew and $500 for new STR licenses. In 2024 the City expects approximately 375 renewals and 35 new licenses to be issued.
McCardle noted that the City has 13 applications in hand.
Administration Reports:
City Administrator Wade Farris told the council that the city has hired Chris Baker as its new Code Enforcement Officer. Baker is an ex-council member and knows the City well. He started on Wednesday, October 9. “I think he will do a great job for us,” said Farris.
Finance Director reminded the council that it is budget season and that the timeline is posted on the City’s website. City Clerk Peri Gallucci gave a shoutout to Jackie and her staff for all the hard work they are doing.
Mayor/Council comments:
Tim Hollingsworth once again brought up the spring Hydroplane event that takes place at Don Morse Park. He mentioned this year’s event taking place on Mother’s Day weekend and that the City should make sure the event is in compliance with the City’s noise ordinance.
Jon Higgins shot back and said, “I actually enjoy the hydro plane races.”
Brad Chitty remarked that the City needs to be careful when it starts picking and choosing what it allows.
Terry Sanders stated that his hope is that the City can find a solution to the Chelan/Manson traffic congestion issues.
McCardle stated that this year’s budget season will be different than those in the past. With less revenues this year from sales taxes (±50% down from 2023) balancing the budget will be an actual balancing act between the various departments.
Airport:
Wade Farris said that there were 812 landings/takeoffs from the airport. “It has been busy.” The airport had larger fuel sales also.
The next City Council meeting will be on October 22 beginning at 6 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
All Things Lake Chelan 