by Richard Uhlhorn
HDCA Annual Report:
Amy Sheridan, executive director of the Historic Downtown Chelan Association, presented her annual report to the city. She said the HDCA has a transformational plan and strategy for 2026.
She talked about the Imagine Downtown project and said, “It has been around for awhile. We’ve had a lot of community input.” There are a number of aspects to the project including major infrastructure projects Sheridan says is a collaboration with Public Works.
She stated that the HDCA is a healthy organization with partnerships throughout the city. Financially the organization had a $354,583 budget in 2025, most of which came from the B&O Tax Credit. Other revenues came from donations, sponsorships, board designated funding, and interest income.
The primary focus is driving foot traffic and visitor spending in the downtown core. The goal is to work on 250 days of activities. Building a year-round economy is the major goal. Asked it the organization works with the Chamber, Sheridan replied, “We don’t have the reach that the chamber does. They will get them to the valley and we’ll get them downtown.”
“We want a clean and safe environment where the public feels safe,” said Sheridan. Hollingsworth asked about Sheriff’s cooperation. Sheridan replied that the HDCA would love to see them out and about a little bit more.
She finished by telling the council and staff that the HDCA appreciates the city’s support.
Home Occupancy Zoning Code Update:
John Ajax reported that the Planning Department is updating its Home Occupations code. “Right now you have to get a permit to operate a home based business,” said Ajax.
Home occupation businesses are to be a secondary use of the dwelling and not over 20% of the actual floor area of one floor is to be used. Currently a home occupation is required to be conducted entirely within the dwelling.
The current regulations and criteria may change with the code update including the possibility of constructing an out-building that could have up to five employees. Hollingsworth was concerned about potential parking issues and other code violations.
Peddlers, Hawkers and Transient Businesses Update:
Ajax gave an update on transient businesses including peddlers and hawkers. “This issue has been on our radar for awhile,” said Ajaz. Currently business licenses cost $10 per day and $120 over a 120 day period.
The Planning Department is drafting a new framework. Hollingsworth said, “Just make sure we are addressing problems that need to be fixed.” He also mentioned the unregulated business that took place at Lakeside Park last summer. “I assume these were not licensed at all,” Hollingsworth said.
Ajax replied that they operating in and around the park and that these are definite code violations. Hollingsworth remarked that hawkers were selling balloons and toys.
Ajax remarked that special events fall under this code and that it is a great way to provide variety to visitors and residents.
Lake Chelan Sewer District Interlocal Repayment and Agreement:
Finance Director Evans reported on the $1.6 million capital upgrades to Lift Station No. 5. Apparently a formal repayment schedule was never agreed to and the city will seeking an agreement with the Southshore Sewer District for their share of the upgrades. “Potentially we will get our money back,” said Evans. ($41,000).
J-U-B Engineers Amendment No. 1 for Runway and Taxiway relocation:
This amendment authorization request for $66,560 is for reasonable delays in the EA process at the federal level.
Tim Ike, J-U-B Engineers, said the agreement is for $60,000 of which will be reimbursed by the FAA. It is included in the 2026 budget. Hollingsworth asked if this extension is due to an increased scope of work or more hand holding. Ike replied that there were five different issues to address that extended the time period to finish the EA and that with the increase in time, costs increase.
Mayor McCardle noted that this request will be an agenda item.
Staff reports:
Laura McAloon, city administrator, said she Is in the process of reviewing city codes. “I want to be able to support (staff) them in advance of the 2026 budget before we get into budget season,” said McAloon. She’s also hoping for a good plan for the Chelan Golf Course for 2026.
Audrey Cooper, interim parks director, reported that she is in the process of updating park codes. She also reported that the playground at Lakeside is coming together and that the new golf carts have arrived. “We are working at getting the old carts out. The new ones look really nice.”
John Ajax reported that his department is reviewing FEMA agreements and updating the city’s STR Code. The department is also working on its operating plan.
Chad Coltman, communications director, reported that a lot of new content is on the city’s website.
Jake Youngren, public works director, reported that his department has two projects out for bid. “The first wave of projects are happening now. We will be productive early.”
All Things Lake Chelan 