by Richard Uhlhorn
Chief’s report:
Chelan Fire and Rescue Chief Brandon Asher reported that there were 60 calls to service in December. “Our goal is to have another safe year.”
Asher also reported on a two-day evacuation class that he said was a good concept, but it will not happen soon. River-Com is setting up evacuation zones.
Assistant Chief’s report:
Assistant Chief Shaun Sherman reported that two candidates dropped out of the ongoing fire academy. He also reported that 27 participated successfully with four trained in hazmat operations.
New Business:
Both Asher and Commissioner Russ Jones gave an update on the current TIF situation. Jones mentioned the ongoing TIF issue between the Port of Chelan/Douglas County and Chelan County. “The county could lose out on $73 million dollars in tax revenue, but I think we are going to be OK.”
Jones added that $20,000 is essentially a new tax from new construction. “We don’t really know where we will be down the road.”
Asher said, “Ajax (community development director) and I talk frequently.”
Safer Grant:
Interviews with applicants to run the Safer Grant program in Chelan, Entiat and Orondo will be interviewed on January 20 and the successful applicant will start on January 30.
State Mobilization:
Asher reported that the department is still owed funds from the 2024 Pioneer Fire and that the total owed currently is $190,000. The department is still compiling more 2025 numbers.
Chelan Fire and Rescue swimmer team was deployed to the Snohomish area with its new boat and were able to rescue 16 individuals from the Snohomish River system during the flood.
Strategic Plan;
It was reported that the plan is still moving forward.
Commissioner Opening:
With Ron Simmons abruptly vacating his commission position at Chelan Fire 7, the commissioners are accepting applications for the seat.
Simmons abruptly quit his position without any explanation to the District or to his constituents who voted for him to continue as a fire commissioner.
Dave Reinhart was present at the meeting. He had challenged Ron Simmons in the last election and lost and it has been suggested that since he was the only challenger to Simmon’s seat, he should be seated.
Commissioner Mark Donnell explained. “We can’t automatically put that person in.” The department was required to post open requests for the position. Apparently, once the election is certified the department can’t just seat someone. Donnell said that there has been interest from outside the county.
Manson – Chelan Pathway:
Apparently, the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council will hold a discussion about the proposed pathway with both Chelan and Manson Fire Departments.
Both departments have major concerns over the potential effects the proposed pathway would put on their ability to respond to emergencies both from Manson to Chelan or Chelan to Manson.
All Things Lake Chelan 