by Richard Uhlhorn
Council granted 501 (c) 3 status:
Mike Kirk, Manson Community Council chairman, told those in attendance at the council meeting on Tuesday, July 15, that they have been granted 501 (c) 3 status from the IRS.
This status is an important juncture for the council who have struggled financially for years with no real ability to secure funding or its continuing operations to serve the Manson community.
With the 501 (c) 3 status the council can now pursue grant opportunities along with other sources of funding for its mission. “We are still in the process of filing with the North Central Washington Foundation,” said Kirk.
Transportation issue:
The entire board attended a Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council meeting early in July with the sole purpose of proposing a roundabout at the intersection of Wapato Lake Road and Hwy. 150.
Kirk stated that WSDOT and the transportation council both agreed that the intersection was a good location for a roundabout, but that it doesn’t prioritize high enough traffic statewide for funding through WSDOT’s funding process. However, both WSDOT and the transportation council are working with the Colville Tribal Federal Corporation (CTFC) on its plans for development of a new casino/hotel adjacent to Hwy. 150.
CTFC continues to work on its design for the development including a traffic analysis. “They are trying to find the best solutions,” said Kirk who added that the council is hopeful that its request for a roundabout will eventually become a reality. “Jeff Wilkins believes we have the right approach.”
Both WSDOT and Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council encouraged the Manson Community Council to stay engaged. The council will also stay connected with the tribe as it continues to work towards its development.
Parking issues:
Parking in Manson was also discussed. “We need to keep the communication open for more parking in Manson,” said Gerry Ustanik. Kirk mentioned the proposed LINK Park and Ride. Manson Parks is trying to purchase the land held jointly by the school district and parks department. “Manson Parks is short of money,” said Kirk. Chelan City Councilmember Bob Goedde stated that LINK has a lot of money.
One Voice:
Three groups make up the One Voice group; Manson Community Council, Manson Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Association.
A Manson resident spoke up and went on a rant regarding the lack of participation by the community in the council’s agendas. “The DOT said they aren’t going to do any work on 150,” she said. “I don’t see any feed back from people who live here.” She added that in the past, the council meetings used to be full of interested community members.
Kirk stated that the lack of participation by the community was partly his fault. She asked how to get the community out. Kirk said, “We have a very, very new council.” He asked for some patience as the council defines itself and moves to a more community oriented
The Council then discussed potential speakers they can invite. Councilwoman Rene Commons suggested that they ask Planning Commissioner Chris Willoughby to speak at a meeting. “What can be done to make this a better process,” she asked.
Other potential speakers include Chelan County Commissioner Brad Hawkins, a PUD representative, Ron Cridlebaugh, Chelan County Economic Services, and Chelan Councilman Bob Goedde suggested inviting Chelan Mayor Erin McCardle. Rene Commons said, “I’m comfortable with having two speakers at a meeting as long as they compliment each other.”
Brian Patterson updated the council on the efforts to conduct an incorporation study. He stated that funding has been turned down and that it will cost an estimated $100,000 to conduct. Now that the Council has 502 (c) 3 status, funding could become available from the State.
Kirk replied that the council was entirely voluntary and no money was available. “The council has come together,” said Kirk. “I’m very proud of it.” It was suggested that representatives be assigned different organizations to attend as liaisons instead of Kirk being the sole member responsible for attending meetings.
Future meeting:
A transportation meeting has been tentatively scheduled for August 20 at the Manson Grange Hall.
All Things Lake Chelan 