by Richard Uhlhorn
Mayor McCardle allowed Chelan’s consultant to visit with Manson Community Council via a ZOOM session to discuss the transportation element of the upcoming Comprehensive Plan update.
One subject discussed was the potential bypass out of Manson and through Chelan. The 20-year plan has a number of elements that are being updated by Chelan County and the City of Chelan.
Rene’ Commons reported that Manson’s road project is complete and mentioned the “One Way Out” issue and said, “We need to talk more about a Manson Bypass.” (2nd Route). Kirk also mentioned a bypass through the City of Chelan. “It’s a funding problem,” said Commons. Gerry Ustanik remarked that there should be updates to Hwy. 150.
Mike Kirk presented an update on the Port of Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority meeting regarding potential projects in Manson including dock that would accommodate a passenger ferry that would run between Manson and Chelan. Also discussed was the old cold storage building in downtown Manson. Thinking it could be converted to affordable housing, Kirk said, “It would be very expensive to convert.”
The Port has money and Link Transit, Chelan County Fire District No. 5, and the parks are looking at use at Leffler Field. Link is looking at a Park and Ride, the Fire department is looking at a new property to build a new fire station and the Parks Department wants to keep ownership if possible.
The discussion continued around Leffler Field. Gerry Ustanik remarked that the Port knows Manson needs funding for the five available acres. “Our parks people can’t have people paying for it.” He added that the Port Authority could clear it all up. “Our job is to go out and talk to people about the five acres and what it would look like.”
Parks Director Robin Pittman was asked about soils and where the Department of Ecology was. Pittman said it is estimated to cost $2.5 million to clean up.
Kim Ustanik reported that the One Voice Coalition would be meeting the following week to discuss Manson possibilities. Gerry Ustanik remarked that opening up more retail space is a good idea. “What would you like to see,” he asked. He added that the code word is increasing business.
“If you want people to come you have to give them a reason. Manson needs to build attractions and new retail businesses.”
The One Voice Coalition, which is a private group, was discussed. Kirk said that the coalition has approved giving its meeting minutes to the council. The council is frustrated with the lack of apparent transparency. “What I object to is the political stuff coming to the council,” said Gerry Ustanik. “My problem is communication getting out to the people.”
501C3:
The council has applied for a $3,500 grant to secure a 501C3 status and has applied to the Washington Secretary of State as a valid, elected community council.
INCORPORATION:
Jeff Conwell stated that a draft report is being worked on.
DARK SKIES:
Gerry Ustanik stated that the planned Dark Skies party had to be cancelled due to the smoke from the fire. “We are rescheduling for September some time,” said Ustanik. He added that T-Shirts are for sale at the Farmer’s Market.
At the end of the meeting, Norm Manley reported on the successful annual Purple Heart Day that included Manson High School students and others. “We are planning on doing it again next year,” said Manley. He also reported that Manson was honored at a Purple Heart celebration in Wenatchee as Chelan County’s newest Purple Heart Community.
The group is installing Purple Heart signs around the community and plans on keeping its Facebook page active.
Kim Ustanik reported on the Main Street program and stated that they are working on obtaining community status.
Parks Director Robin Pittman stated that design of the proposed boardwalk has been completely redone. She also reported that the driftwood issue in the bay is getting better with time.
The Manson Community Council meets every third Tuesday of the Month at the Manson Grange Hall. The community is encouraged to attend.
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