Author: allthingslakechelan

I have been a journalist, photojournalist and reporter in the Lake Chelan Valley since 1988; first with the Wenatchee World, then 15 years at the Lake Chelan Mirror and another 12 years at GoLakeChelan. Currently, I am semi-retired but can't give up the media gig which is why I started All Things Lake Chelan blog. I also have two social media platforms; allthingslakechelan/facebook and lakechelansportsandrecration/facebook. I am also a professional photographer with many credits with major outlets around the world.

School district hears program presentations on district activities

By Richard Uhlhorn

The Lake Chelan School District hosted a special guest at its Monday, January 12 school board meeting to present his interest in collaborating with the district to help with its housing needs.

Brad Wilson, superintendent at the Lake Chelan School District has said in the past that it is losing students in the District because of the lack of affordable housing in the area.

Following is Venugopal’s presentation to the school board.

Raja Venugopal’s presentation:

“Although I was raised in modest circumstances, education proved to be my pathway to opportunity and advancement. I firmly believe that every family deserves access to a safe, affordable home and equal opportunities for health and education.

Couple of years ago, I met with the Chelan School Superintendent to better understand the district’s needs. He noted that the shortage of affordable housing in Chelan is impacting staffs and families, ultimately affecting enrollment. Providing housing, particularly affordable housing, remains a central focus of our efforts, and we hope it will help address these challenges.

I appreciate the opportunity to introduce myself to the Chelan School Board of Directors and look forward to collaborating with the district to support the future of Chelan’s schools.”

In other business:
January is School Board Recognition Month. It’s a great time to recognize our elected community members who selflessly give their time and energy in support of high-quality public schooling for our youth. School board members in the Lake Chelan School District are entrusted by this community with responsibility for an annual budget of $24 million, 1273 students, 230 employees and 8 buildings.

School boards are charged with making decisions that can sometimes be quite difficult or require sifting through a great deal of information. They also bear responsibility for developing a vision that will guide the school district for years to come. Through collaboration as a team, and with school district staff, their governance and advocacy are building the future of education in our Chelan community.

This January, we’re encouraging all members of the community to thank a board member. Please thank them for volunteering their time and playing a critical civic role that helps form the bedrock of our democracy—public education. As a crucial bridge between the local community and the school district, their efforts are instrumental in helping all of us realize the hopes and dreams we have for the children of our community.

The dedicated leaders serving the Lake Chelan School Districtand their years of service are: Board Chair Kim Thorpe (6 years), Vice Chair Stephanie Fuller (4 years), Barb Polley (4 years), Christy Nielsen (2 years), Jennifer Puckett (newly elected)

Student Reps: Joslyn Bobadilla-Chavarria, Eva Whiteman, Imani Goings-Marrero.

The Bond failure stats:
The failure of the recent bond issue to replace MOE was a disappointment to the district. Two hundred seventy four (274) more YES votes were needed to reach the 60 percent super majority to pass the issue. Three hundred eight (308) eligible voters did not vote.

The District will be conducting new FOCUS GROUP LISTENING SESSIONS regarding the bond failure and its ongoing planning to improve its facilities.

Our goal is to hear from our community what they did and did not like about the last bond measure and what direction the District should consider to address its facility needs. The listening sessions will be followed up with a community wide survey based on what the District learns from the listening sessions.

The upcoming listening sessions will be held on Thursday, January 22 at the District offices.

The listening sessions will be held Thursday January 22nd at our school district central office at the following times: 8 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

The District can accommodate up to eight people per session. RSVP to schedule your preferred time to:
Phone (509)682-3515 Website chelanschools.org

Email wilsonb@chelanschools.org

FCCLA:
Officers from the FCCLA club presented its activities to the school board. It currently has 15 active members and 35 inactive members.

It’s mission is to help students build confidence in public speaking, teamwork and decision making skills.

Student members will be performing community service at this spring’s Earth Day event and will be attending Regional Competitions and the State Leadership Conference in March.

Migrant Program:
The District’s Migrant Program is in full swing and a detailed presentation was made to the board on its basic tenants.

**Ms. Galvan gave an update on the District’s Migrant Education Program.**

The board was told that the program has a current grant amount of $111,103 and a carryover from last year of $51,896 for total of $162,999 but that the program is facing a lot of uncertainties in the coming year.

Chelan’s Migrant caseload works with 111 migrant students in the district. This includes 44 students at the high school, five at CSI/CDA, 27 at the middle school, 31 at MOE and one in pre-school.

The funding helps staff connect with parents and guardians, connection with resources outside of the school for food, clothing, school supplies, and family resources, home visits and most important, helping these students feel welcomed in the school system.

Migrant students must meet the following criteria:

Ages between 3 and 21
Have not attained a high school diploma or equivalent
Moved due to financial need from one residence to another and from one school district to another.
Made a qualifying move in the previous 36 months, i.e. as a migrant farm worker; migratory fisherman or with a parent/guardian or spouse who is a migrant farm worker or migratory fisherman.

The administrative staff all gave their customary reports on school activities.

Chelan to investigate options for a new city hall.

By Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan’s monthly workshop on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 opened with Councilman Tim Hollingsworth (entering his third term) and incoming Councilman Shane Collins taking the oath of office from City Clerk Peri Gallucci.

**City Clerk Peri Gallucci swore in Tim Hollingsworth and Shane Collins to City Council. Hollingsworth enters his third term and is the current Mayor Pro-Tem**. **Collins is entering his first term as a councilmember.**

Mayor Erin McCardle introduced Chelan’s new City Administrator Laura McAloon to the staff and council.

Laura McAloon, Chelan’s new City Administrator makes a comment during her first official meeting. She remarked that she was impressed with the work ethic she has experienced in the several days she has been on board.

Motion Considerations:
The Interlocal Agreement for Fire Protection between Chelan 7 and the City was removed from the agenda for further review.

Library Addendum No. 1 – water damage
During the remodel of the Library, significant water infiltration was found coming through the walls and into the floor Joists at the perimeter of the building. According to Chad Coltman, the City is currently working with the architect to scope out the problem. “When we have the full scope, we will put together a package for bid,” stated Coltman. The City estimates a $20,000 fix.

“This agreement (addendum) allows us to get the ball rolling,” said Coltman. City Administrator Laura McAloon recommended that the council move the motion forward. Tim Hollingsworth remarked that the City doesn’t want to hold up the library remodel. The motion was passed unanimously.

Capital Projects:
Mayor McCardle opened up the discussion of upcoming capital projects and their impact on the City. Public Works Director Jake Youngren replied that they would talk about what the have coming down the pike. City Engineer Travis Denham explained the details of various project and a new Public Works website that is supposed to be live on Friday, January 9.

These projects, many of which will begin this spring will affect the community. The waterline project to the airport is being monitored by the DOT and Denham said, “The are asking how they want us to protect their infrastructure. They have all the authority to tell us what to do and how to do it.”

Other projects looming on the horizon include the Reservoir project, pump station upgrades, new waterlines, the redesign of the River Walk Park pump station which is a combined City/PUD project and Lakeside Trail punch lists.

Work continues to proceed on the Apple Blossom Trail and what the final route will look like. Youngren added that it will probably be another 12 foot wide trail like the Lakeside Trail. This trail will access Apple Blossom Center, Walmart and the hospital from its start point at the Les Schwab intersection

Facilites
The discussion once again ramped up the need to do some long term planning towards building a new city hall based on the 2025 report that the current building is an outdated facility with issues.

Planning Director John Ajax told the council that he took the opportunity to lay out all of the city’s capital facilities. “We have $110 million worth of buildings right now.”

Communications Director Chad Coltman remarked that there is more time and energy spent on the older buildings. “A lot of the facilities are old,” said Coltman. He remarked that the new public works building was designed to be added on to. He recommended that the city plan for a long range funding strategy for the next five to 10 years.

The facilities report outlined different options from remodeling to new construction at costs ranging from $7 million to $13 million depending on what option is chosen.

Administration is/was looking for Council’s willingness to pursue city hall replacement over the next five to 10 years. Once Council has provided that commitment, staff could actively being a long-range funding strategy.

Councilman Brad Chitty asked for more input and other ideas to the future building issues. Mayor McCardle stated that she didn’t know what the other options are. Chitty replied that funding and thinking outside the box was important.

Mark Ericks (on ZOOM) said, “I would like to see us brainstorming about the direction we are going in.” He stated that the current generation is working in a digital world instead of a brick and motar world. Definitely an interesting concept because City Hall isn’t a public place with the exception of the front reception and the Planning Department.

McCardle suggested that an Ad-Hoc committee or a sub-committee be set up to explore all options. “People don’t understand what goes on in here,” she said. “This is truly a long-range plan.”

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth said that it would be prudent to take a couple of months. “This is the time to think outside of the box.” He also stated that he feels it important to keep a relationship with the Sheriff’s Department.

Councilman Agustin Benagas remarked that it would be a long process. “My opinion is that it is worth exploring options.”

At the end of the meeting Chelan’s new administrator, Laura McAloon said, “I have been just blown away by the work ethic here. My goal is to help clear people’s plates.”

Manson is now an affiliate Main Street community

by Richard Uhlhorn

Mainstreet Program:
Kim Ustanik, president of the newly formed Historic Manson Main Street Association was the featured speaker at the Manson Community Council meeting held on Tuesday, December 16.

Kim Ustanik, President of Manson’s new Mainstreet Program.

Ustanik remarked that the Mainstreet Program was born out of the Manson Chamber of Commerce. “We are currently an affiliate member,” said Ustanik. “There are several things we need to do yet.”

Washington State Main Street Program has been helping communities revitalize the economy, appearance, and image of their downtown commercial districts using the successful Main Street Four-Point Approach®

Ustanik said the main purpose of Manson’s program is to work towards economic vitality and the historic preservation of the downtown core.

As described, the program is intended to concentrate on the main corridor from Lake Chelan Building Supply all the way through town to the Old Swimming Hole west of the PUD Swimming area.

“We will be the only unincorporated community in the program,”Ustanik said.

Vice President of the Manson’s Main Street Program is Wayne Miller who also is heading up the creative side of the program. “We are working with an artist right now,” said Miller. Metal signage is being designed and created and will hopefully be ready for placement before this January’s WinterFest event.

**Wayne Miller is serving as the Mainstreet Program’s Vice President and is chairing the promotions committee.**

Ustanik also mentioned an upcoming kickoff campaign.

The goal, of course, is to combine publicity outreach to the community visually and with special events, creating business opportunities, telling historic stories and maintaining economic vitality of the community.

Following is the current organization members. If you are interested in becoming involved, contact Kim Ustanik at the

Historic Manson Main Street Association

PO Box 801

Manson, WA 98831

Our 2026 Board & Champions:

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President – Kim Ustanik

Vice President – Wayne Miller, and Chair of Design Committee

Secretary – Mary Lynn Thompson, and Chair of Promotions Committee

Treasurer – Cynthia Dale

Project Manager – Jean Whitehouse

CHAMPIONS

Sarah Hart – VonHart Goods

Mariah Koester – Four Lake Winery

Nancy Grossi – Allisons of Manson

Todd Heric – former owner of KOZI/ZCounty Radio, and Chair of Outreach Committee

Marci Trask – downtown Manson resident

Olivia Libbey & Mary Lou Schoolcraft – both with extensive historical families, and story-telling knowledge.

ADVISORS
Kelley Hegarty-Lammers – Advisor, retired with extensive experience in community/city building , mostly in small towns in Alaska
Shaimoom Newaz – Advisor, owner of the impeccable Shai Creates

**Manson Community Council – Renee’ Commons, Dom Amor, Gerry Ustanik, Jeff Conwell, and chairman Mike Kirk;**

In other Council Business:
It was reported that Robin Pittman, Manson Parks has put the Old Swim Hole project on hold. The Parks Department is apparently seeking more funding for the project through the State Appropriations Committee.

A part of the project includes a boardwalk from the park to the current PUD park.

Dom Amor reported that the Council came up short with the Community Foundation of North Central Washington for funding. “They told me that they have had a lot of applications and that it was not a NO to our requests, but not this time. The Council’s request was for administrative costs. “Asking for money next year is not going to be easy.”

The Manson Community Council now has a long awaited website, and it is nice. Check it out at http://www.mansoncommunitycouncil.org

Jeff Conwell reported that he has met with Entiat regarding incorporation. Cashmere is also interested in the process.

Gerry Ustanik remarked that the Council and community is not starting something new with its desire to create a Dark Skies community. The PUD is also interested in this becoming a reality and Wapato Point has been contacted regarding the Dark Skies initiative.

Chelan adopts $33 million 2026 budget

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan City Council:
It has been a busy several weeks in the Lake Chelan Valley starting with the Chelan City Council meeting on Tuesday, December 9.

Senior Center operations:
LeAnne Weathersby, director of the Chelan Senior Center, informed the Council that 2026 federal budget constraints have effected the Senior Center’s operation and that it will not be able to continue serving lunches five days a week. Weathersby said the center will discontinue its lunch program on Fridays beginning after December 19. “We will continue to serve lunches from Monday through Thursday,” said Weathersby.

Leanne Weathersby at her desk in the Senior Center.

The Senior Center delivers 3,000 lunches each month to home bound seniors throughout the region. Weathersby stated that she wasn’t asking for anything, but keeping the Council informed. She also thanked the City for its continued support.

Shari Dietrich was honored for her tenure on both the Planning Commission (5 years) and City Council (4 years) with a proclamation and many platitudes by council members and staff for her dedicated service. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with you,” said Mayor Erin McCardle. Dietrich replied that she would be staying in involved.

Northshore Pathway (Chelan to Manson):
Jeff Wilkins, executive director of the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council gave a special presentation on the proposed Northshore Pathway which would follow the lake from Manson to Chelan. The draft report can be found here:

CDTC Chelan-Manson Draft ES.pdf

“We do not have the authority to make this happen,” said Wilkins who added, “Our role is to evaluate the possibilities. What we care about is safety.”

**Jeff Wilkins, executive director of the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council**

Background:

The Northshore Pathway was originally described as a priority project from the Lake Chelan Recreation Association’s Lake Chelan Comprehensive Trails Plan published in the 90s. Wilkins stated that the trail would have been much easier to construct before all of the development along Hwy 150.

The transportation council received a little over 2,000 public comments on the trail with 52% against it and48% in support. Key issues are narrow lanes on Hwy. 150, traffic congestion, ease of access, Rocky Point and the Cabana stretch of private property.

“The public opinion was divided,” said Wilkins. “We do have one more public comment period that is due by December 31.”

At an estimated cost of $56 million funding would have to be secured through a variety of grants, donations and local agencies.

My opinion – I was one of the authors of the Lake Chelan Comprehensive Trail Plan and the North Shore Pathway was designated a priority project and during the Chelan Dam Relicensing process, the Recreation Association requested that the PUD provide $11million dollars that would be invested in a foundation for recreational projects which included the Northshore Pathway. The PUD denied the proposal. So, the trail languished over all these years until the Federal Government decided that public trails were a high priority.

I agree with the transportation council that the trail needs to be done in phases. The trail corridor that is probably the easiest to construct would be from Crystal View Estates to the existing trail into Chelan. That segment would take in most of the residents on the Chelan side. The Manson segment that would be the easiest would be from Manson to the Lake Chelan Winery. From Rocky Point to the Crystal View intersection would be an expensive project.

City Budget:
The council approved both the Airport and City 2025 amendments and the two 2026 budgets. The $33 million City Budget passed 6-1. Councilman Brad Chitty recused himself from the vote. Chitty said he appreciated sitting down with staff and re-evaluating his concerns with part-time staffing. “I just want to be transparent about it.”

Councilman Terry Sanders also stated that he appreciated the work staff put into the budget. He mentioned the savings with staffing and its financial realities.

The Council unanimously approved the employment contract with the new administrator.

Communications Director Chad Coltman reported that the City and Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority had reach agreement on an Interlocal Agreement for Chelan Airport’s support and operations.

At the end of the meeting, Mayor McCardle gave a huge thank you to both staff and council for passing the 2026 budget. “I’m giving a sigh of relief for passing the budget,” she said. She also stated that she has received numerous emails regarding the Barge Services.

A CONVERSATION WITH CHELAN COUNTY COMMISSIONER BRAD HAWKINS

by Richard Uhlhorn

When PUD Commissioner Kelly Allen encouraged residents to attend a County Commission meeting because they would be discussing revising their Franchise agreements with various agencies and organizations, I was confused. I didn’t know what a Franchise agreement was. Allen stated in a Facebook post that if the County Commission revised their agreements, it could cost the PUD $2 to $4 million dollars, and therefore, possibly raise PUD customers electricity rates.

So being curious, I called County Commissioner Brad Hawkins for some insight. My telephone conversation with Hawkins covered several topics facing the County.

**Chelan County Commissioner Brad Hawkins recently visited the Manson Community Council meeting.**

FRANCHISE AGREEMENTS:
A Franchise Agreement is an agreement wherein different organizations can use another organizations easements to conduct maintenance work on infrastructure; i.e. PUD using County easements to maintain power lines etc.

Hawkins explained that the County has a 25 year agreement with the PUD for use of their easements. “Both parties signed a 25 year agreement and are in the process of developing a compensation proposal,” said Hawkins.

Staff from both agencies are developing a draft code to implement franchise compensation. Before any decision is made a public hearing will be held. Hawkins doesn’t expect an agreement between utilities to be ready for 2027.

2026 BUDGET:
“We will have to look at new revenue sources,” said Hawkins. When the County began working on its 2026 budget, they were in a $6+ million dollar deficit. “We’ve done a lot of work,” Hawkins stated. The commissioners have been able to reduce that deficit to $1.9 million.

Reductions came from a variety of decisions… 100 smaller decisions including unfilled positions, a hiring freeze, trimming a lot of expenditures and retirements.

LODGING TAX DISBURSEMENTS:
Hawkins said that the County’s Lodging Tax Advisory Committee has allocated $420,000 to the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce based on the County receiving $2.1 million in lodging tax revenue in 2025.

“This formula is included in the current framework funding allocation recommended by the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee,” Hawkins explained. He said he is trying to revise participation in lodging tax allocations to include unincorporated areas of the County like Cashmere and Manson, along with incorporated Entiat. “I want to support Manson, but there are strings attached.”

BARGE TERMINAL:
The process of permitting MBS (barge services) for a terminal at Moonlight Bay is in the hands of the County’s Planning Department. “The Planning Department will render a decision soon,” said Hawkins. “We (the commissioners) are not the decision makers. There is a process.”

Lake Chelan’ barge service has been operating without difficulty on the lake for 50 years. The desire to move to its property on Moonlight Bay on the South Shore has been in the process since MBS received a temporary permit to operate three during the 2024 Pioneer Fire.

Many new comers to the Valley do not have a historic perspective on just how important this service is to the up-lake region.

CITY COUNCIL HEARS CITIZEN CONCERNS WITH BUTTE DEVELOPMENT

by Richard Uhlhorn

**Bob Goedde (center) got a huge send off from staff and council after 30 years of public service to the community as both a councilman and mayor.**

Community concerns:
Tuesday’s November 25 City Council meeting opened up with a number of citizens voicing their concerns over any developments occurring on the Butte. Their primary concern was that any development on the Butte be required to hook up to the City’s wastewater system.

Lynnette Grandy told the Council that the City needs to follow its 2008 policy that says in part that all new developments are required to hook up to the Chelan Sewer system.

She was followed by Mary Ann Patton who called the Butte an iconic landmark and needs to remain as such. She also said that no STRs should be allowed on private land without hooking up to the sewer system. She warned the city that not requiring it is a violation of the City’s code and that the City should uphold its standards.

Paul Elias, parttime resident remarked that the community as a whole does not want this development and that there is a need to protect ground water.

Tammy Hauge brought up a three house development application and stated that all development projects on the Butte should be looked at as whole. She also mentioned the proposed roundabout at the Peterson intersection with Hwy. 97A and its potential impact. Hauge said she would like to see a moratorium on any Butte development until it is completely studied by the City.

Public Hearing in 2026 budget:
The City held a public hearing on its upcoming 2026 final budget. Finance Director Heidi Evans told the council that the budget is online for the public to view.. “I welcome any public feedback,” Evans said.

Councilman Brad Chitty is concerned about saving funds for different projects. He specifically mentioned the Parks budget and asked, “How do we get through those services between departments.” He went on to say that the City seems to have too many moving parts. “We need to slow down. I’m not saying the staff isn’t doing a good job, but I don’t see adding jobs as a solution.”

**Councilman Brad Chitty is concerned about budget issues.**

Councilman Terry Sanders stated that there is a massive effort on this budget. “With the perceived slowing of tourist dollars we need to see how we can be more efficient,” Sanders said.

Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the Council that inspection services cost an estimated seven to eight percent of a project’s construction costs. He stated that the hiring of an inspector is saving the city approximately $200,000 a year.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked how that position was being funded? Youngren replied she was being paid through the Public Works Enterprise Fund.

Councilman Chitty said the City needs to look at employees in the entire City. “Are we being as efficient as we can be,” he asked. Chitty stated that the more educated he becomes about City business, the more he begins to understand all the complexities. “We still haven’t solved the parks (financial) issue,”

With an 11% population growth versus 25% staff growth Sanders asked, “When do we stop adding new positions and look at combining operations?”

MOTION CONSIDERATIONS:

City Council approved a motion to reduce the speed from 45 mph to 35 mph on a 0.17 mile (900 feet) stretch of Hwy 150 west of No See Um Road towards Bighorn way to improve safety concerns.

Administration reports:

Jake Youngren reported that the HDCA has offered to donate 16 Big Belly garbage cans for use in the downtown area. This donation is valued at approximately $100,000. “We will pick up less frequently in the downtown area. These are quite simple to handle.” Public Works picks up garbage on a daily basis but these units have more capacity than the current garbage cans. The city will assume full ownership of the units and will be responsible for their operation and maintenance as a part of the City’s solid waste management program. The Council approved the donation.

It was reported that Public Works staff will assign three tasks to the Transpo Group to help provide decision making data related to its Six-Year Improvement Program and the Woodin Avenue Bridge.

Youngren told Council that a study would be conducted to determine travel times from Safeway to Webster. “How long does it take,” asked Youngren. They will also look at travel on the Woodin Avenue Bridge going one way out of town and other alternatives to what is current.

In addition, the City has received a $317,000 grant for pedestrian safety projects at the high school and Farnham intersection with Hwy. 97A.

Interim City Administrator Chad Coltman reported that the required Airport Environmental Assessment is almost complete and is currently under legal review. Once completed the EA will be released for public comment which will include hard copies for stakeholders and the consultant will host an in-person open house to provide an overview of its findings and answer any questions. This will occur in January and remain open for 30 days. Once the 30 days are up, all comments will be compiled and forwarded to the FAA for review and final determination.

Audrey Cooper reported that a lot of good progress has been made on the lakeside Park improvements.

John Ajax told the Council that there was a packed house at the recent Planning Commission meeting on the proposed Butte corridor road to Hwy. 97A at Peterson Place intersection.

**Public Works Director Jake Youngren.**

MAYOR/COUNCIL COMMENTS:
Tim Hollingsworth remarked that a draft housing report on the Anderson property is forthcoming. “Hopefully that will keep that project affordable.” Hollingsworth also mentioned ice hockey in the Methow and at Toyota Center and mused whether Chelan should look into building an ice rink.

Brad Chitty thanked the staff for their hard work on the 2026 budget. He also mentioned his ability to express his concerns as a councilmember.

Agustin Benegas remarked that it was his first council meeting and that he plans on learning a lot more about the City’s workings.

**Agustin Benegas was sworn in to Bob Goedde’s old council seat and participated in his first council meeting.**

Terry Sanders said he appreciated the citizens coming forward with their comments and concerns.

Mayor McCardle remarked that the 11% growth figure does not include second homes. On the budget, she stated that the City will not be adding more staff. She also warned council that discussions in executive session are private and not to be shared on social media. “There is a $500 penalty for anyone sharing executive session information.”

McCardle also mentioned that she attended the recent Parks Board meeting and said it was very informative.

In addition, McCardle announced that a contract has been signed for the Post Office to move to the Spirals Building on a six month temporary basis. She thanked Representative Schier for her help in moving this along.

COMING UP:
On Tuesday, December 2, the City will hold its workshop at 5:15 in Council Chambers. While it is a public meeting, the public is not allowed to speak unless approved by the Mayor.

CHELAN GOLF COURSE HOSTS 29,000+ ROUNDS IN 2025

by Richard Uhlhorn

**The Chelan Golf Course will have a new consultant study done in 2026 to seek solutions to maintain its financial sustainability**.

Jim Oscarson, Chelan Golf Pro, told the Parks Board at its Thursday, November 20 meeting, that the course had most rounds ever played on the course in one season. “We were able to open on March 21 and we shut down November 9… 235 days later,” Oscarson said. The course brought in $109,000 over its revenue estimates based on its 29,000 rounds played.

**Chelan Golf Pro Jim Oscarson was on hand at the Parks Board meeting to review the year.**

Course revenues were $1,712,267. Expenditures on the course was $779,795 and ground maintenance was $918,163 with a gross gain of $14,309.00.

One of the largest expenditures this season was replacing an irrigation pump that failed at a cost of $238,000. This pump went down in late June forcing hand watering. “The crew did an excellent job and worked overtime.”

Oscarson also informed the board that that the driving range was redone at a cost of $10,000. The golf course had a private bid of $100,000+. “We did the project inhouse for $10,000 and the Lake Chelan Men’s Club donated $2,000 to the effort. It is a super addition to the course,” said Oscarson

Currently the course has four different league’s; men, senior men, ladies and youth. Additionally, the Lake Chelan Boys and Girls Club added another segment of youth learning the game.

Oscarson stated that the Golf Course is also a destination for tourists. “We had very little smoke this year,” stated Oscarson. “Weather is a critical factor. All in all, it was a fabulous year. On our highest day we had 258 golfers.”

Interim Parks Director, Audrey Cooper, said, “The course was well staffed this year.” Oscarson also said he was able to hire experienced staff from other golf courses which helped tremendously in its operation.

“It is such treasure to have the golf course. We are visited by both tourists and second homers. We are really lucky to have it. We hope to stay sustainable and a place for people to recreate.” Oscarson added.

**Finance Director Heidi Evans talked about the cost of doing business.**

Finance Director Heidi Evans stated she recognized the benefits of Chelan’s park system, but said there is a true cost of doing business. “The city has concerns without and with capital expenditures,” said Evans.

While revenues continue to grow, there are expenditures that push the course’s revenue stream into negative numbers. With the pump failure, Evans remarked that the course has a $101,000 loss which is being covered by the City’s two percent lodging tax fund.

“We are trying to make some changes… trying to smooth out viability,” said Evans. In 2026, Evans said the City wants each commercial city enterprise to operate independently with lodging taxes to help balance the financial sheet. “We do budget very conservatively. The parks are operating better with no tax payer dollars.” (NOTE: Chelan’s park system is the only park system in the state that operates without the benefit of local tax payer dollars.)

**Carson Clinton, a Chelan High School senior tees off at the Chelan Golf Course. Clinton is currently visiting colleges in hopes of continuing his golf skills at a high level.**

The City is planning on hiring a consultant to perform a new study on the golf course. “The RFPs go out this month. We want to know how we best serve both of those populations.”

Currently, according to Ocarson, the golf course serves 167 single players, 67 families and 69 juniors. “We are getting pretty close to full,” said Oscarson. Mayor McCardle said, “You still have a lot of wiggle room.” Oscarson replied, “What should our rates be? Other courses are similar… our peak rate is $100 and $77 in the off-season. There’s only so much money people can spend on recreation.”

The other issue facing the course is its proposed irrigation project that is estimated to cost upwards of $4 million. “Where do these funds come from?” Also, insurance rates keep climbing. Currently the golf course is paying $228,000.

The Albatross operation also came up. The Pittsinger’s completed updated the club house and are operating a fine dining restaurant at the location. “They could serve the golfers a little better,” said Oscarson who added, “Julie has been really cooperative.”

Parks board member, Linda Reister said, “From the ladies perspective it was much better this year.”

If the weather continues to cooperate and no wildfire smoke hinders the users, the Chelan Golf Course should continue to provide a quality amenity for the City. The busiest months have been July and August, but according to Oscarson June is also building into a busy period.

In other business.
Reister brought up the youth sports issue which has been turned over the Boys and Girls Club with the exception of K-Beach Volleyball. “We don’t do youth sports anymore,” said Reister. “Why don’t we give back the PUD owned land… they do maintenance for free.” She added it would be a win-win situation for the parks department.

With Shane Collins leaving the parks board for the City Council, there are parks board openings where applications can be found on the City’s website.

Cooper said there will not be a parks board meeting in December.

FIRE DISTRICT PINS THREE NEW FIREFIGHTERS

by Richard Uhlhorn

At its fire commission meeting on Wednesday, November 19, Chief Brandon Asher called three new firefighters to be sworn in and pinned. They were Chris Colbert, Houston Stodghill and Matt Franklin. After the swearing in, each called up a loved on to pin them.

Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman (left) and Fire Chief Brandon Asher posed for a photograph with the district’s new firefighters Matt Franklin, Chris Colbert and Houston Stodghill after they were pinned.

The district commissioners approved the 1% budget cap that is allowed by state regulations.

Administration reported that they were diligently working on finalizing the 2026 budget. “We are very close,” stated Chief Brandon Asher.

Fire Chief’s Report:
Asher reported that the district had 83 calls in October, three residential fires and no fire loss reported. “We did get one more brush fire out by the tunnel,” said Asher. He also reported to responding to three vehicular accidents on Hwy 97.

**A comparison chart of monthly calls through the months.**

The district has responded to 974 incidents to date with 11 mutual aide calls.

Commissioner Russ Jones asked how the district is tracking calls. Asher replied that the only way is be street address. Mark Donnell asked, “How do people know what we are doing?” Ron Simmons asked if the district has found someone who is tech savy to work through communication issues. Asher replied there are people doing different things.

**Fire commissioners Ron Simmons, Russ Jones and Mark Donnell listen to the Fire Chief’s monthly report.**

He also reported that TIFs were the hot topic at the recent Fire Commissioner Conference.

Assistant Fire Chief Shawn Sherman reported that the district is figuring out how to participate in the upcoming Fire Academy. “We have 17 locals,” said Sherman. “We are hosting it and it will cost $6,300. We will use a portion of our grant money.”

Wenatchee, Manson and Orondo are involved. “We need to make sure we have proper instructors, especially for Saturday’s live practice.”

Type 3 Fire Management framework for incident management of smaller fires in Eastern Washington is beginning to take place. One hundred eighty firefighters will be trained in Type 3 management. Type 3 fire management involves the use of the incident command system to manage fire incidents of moderate complexity.

Assistant Fire Chief Report”
Shawn Sherman reported that17 will be attending the Regional Fire Academy in January. The district lost one volunteer this past month.

Unfinished Business:
There was question regarding Marine 2 moored in Manson and how it is refueled after use. Sherman reported that Manson Fire will follow their own protocol for fueling the boat.

Manson’s Deputy Chief Mike Williams is working with the Forest Service.

Commissioner Russ Jones reported that he has more work to do on TIF modeling. There is a proposed five-year review process in place.

Asher remarked that Chelan County is pretty emotional over the Regional Port of Chelan/Douglas County’s plans for a TIF in Malaga that could cost the County millions in tax revenue.

Asher also reported that next year’s 100 year celebration planning is moving forward. “We are getting amazing support from local businesses. A lot is happening and happening fast,” said Asher.

A job description has been sent out to all four agencies involved in the new SAFER Grant. “It is hard to find someone,” said Sherman.

There was a policy discussion about what is covered when on a fire. It was suggested to hire an outside consultant to address policy issues.

SOUTH CHELAN PROPERTY OWNERS REQUEST AMENDMENTS TO THE GMA TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT OF THE CITY’S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

by Richard Uhlhorn

Community Development Director John Ajax brought a proposed transportation amendment of the City’s Comprehensive Plan to the Chelan Planning Commission on Wednesday, November 19.

**A number of Chelan residents attended the Tuesday, November 19 Planning Commission meeting to hear about the proposed amendment that would bring road access from the Lower Chelan Butte area to Chelan.**

The proposed amendment was submitted on October 31 by M2 Consulting, PLLC on behalf of the South Chelan Property Owners Group. The property owners represent 1,000 acres of land on the lower Butte south of US 97A.

**A graphic description of the proposed corridor to bring traffic from the Butte to Chelan.**

They are seeking a new arterial collector roadway (the South Chelan Access Corridor) from the Lower Butte to Hwy 97A at the Peterson Place/Woodin Avenue Intersection. This would open a lot of the property to development.

The proposal would provide multi-modal access to parcels within the City limits. At the 97A intersection of Peterson Place and Woodin Avenue, the proposal calls for a single lane roundabout.

**Community Development Director John Ajax.**

Ajax informed the commission that the proposal came in at the very beginning of the comprehensive plan update process. “It allows for members of the public to apply for an amendment,” Ajax said. The group paid the required $1,250 fee which the city has received.

“We have to evaluate this proposed amendment by December 31. At that time, the proposed amendment, if approved and recommended will be submitted to Chelan City Council by March 31.

Ajax said, “The public will have the opportunity to review and comment on this amendment request.”

The public was present at the meeting expecting some discourse and potential action, but Ajax was just there to inform the commission that they would be reviewing this amendment over the next month and a half. Ajax asked that the review the document as a land use issue.

This proposal will be evaluated within the city’s ongoing periodic comprehensive plan update (due 2026), as part of a broader analysis of the Transportation Element.

The South Chelan Property Owners Group is comprised of the following individuals ororganiations: Joey Dale – NCW Developers,LLC; Todd Davidson – Palisade Capital Holdings, LLC; John K. Morris; Jon D. Wadkins; Barbara J. Wadkins; Jeri K. Fifer; Robert W. Fifer; Mike Shelton – Golden Gate Ventures, LC; and Raja D. Venugopal.

Chelan Planning Commission members

MANSON COMMUNITY COUNCIL HEARS
by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan County Commissioner Brad Hawkins said Chelan County is facing a $5 to $8 million dollar deficit in 2026. “Expenditures have outpaced our revenues,” Hawkins told a group of attendees at Tuesday’s, November 18 Manson Community Council meeting.

**A number of Manson residents came out to listen to County Commissioner Brad Hawkins speak at the Manson Community Council meeting.**

Hawkins was the invited speaker along with Chelan County Natural Resources Director Mike Kaputa who presented an agricultural outlook for the county.

**District 3 County Commissioner Brad Hawkins attended the Manson Community Council meeting and gave a presentation on the current County budget and the proposed TI**F.

The budgeted revenue for 2025 was $55,878,139 and expenditures were $60,000,040 which ends up with the County facing a 7.38% deficit for the year. “It’s my hope we can cut the deficit in half for 2026,” Hawkins said. Additional 2026 increases include labor, insurance premiums and tort claims.

Hawkins remarked that while agriculture is a foundational element of Chelan County’s economy tourism, hydropower and technology development are also huge economic driver.

He explained that the county has separate departments, some of which report directly to the commissioners and others, like the Sheriff’s Department, that don’t except for yearly budget preparation.

Hawkins launched into the on-going battle over the proposed Tax Increment Area (TIF) that includes an expansive area of Malaga. According to Hawkins, if it goes forward, it comes as a detriment to the junior taxing districts like the fire district. Hawkins says it is a misuse and abuse of the statute as intended.

“The Port district believes they are entitled to take that money,” said Hawkins. “They are not being collaborative. It is a money grab.” According to Hawkins, they are authorized under the law to establish this area and are hurrying up to do it before Microsoft begins paying property taxes. “Just because you can doesn’t make it right.”

Hawkins encouraged the community to reach out to the Port Commissioners to come up with a revised plan that doesn’t devastate the County’s financial situation.

Douglas County Commissioner Mark Straub stated in a separate conversation that Douglas County is in lockstep with the County’s opposition to the TIF. “The Port already did it to us once,” said Straub. “They are supposed to be a partner with both of us.”

Ag Lands Workshop
The future of agriculture in Chelan County and around the State is at risk. “We do a lot o management with growers and packing houses,” said Mike Kaputa. “We are seeing a lot of development pressure.”

**Mike Kaputa was introduced by Brad Hawkins.**

The long term prospects for agriculture is dim with commercial agriculture lands being sold for housing development. Local growers, according to Gerry Ustanik, have only one option if their growing operations are not making any money. “The only thing Chelan County allows you to do is sell. It is very limiting unless the County allows more uses for the land,” said Ustanik. “There has to be something better than putting fancy housing on it.”

According to Kaputa there are a number of accessory uses in play now. There are 11,304 tasting rooms, 13,000 wedding venues and 20,000 festivals currently on-going in the State. “It’s difficult to determine how economically viable these uses are,” said Kaputa.

**Council member Gerry Ustanik remarked that the County only allows a grower to sell his land with no other options.**

Pressures on agriculture lands are rising labor costs and land values.. Kathy Miller, a long-time orchardist in the Manson Project remarked that she is stuck with 10 acres of apples that is too expensive to develop forcing her to continue to farm. “We are getting billed from the packing houses,” she said. “We can’t afford to farm, but can’t sell.”

Many farmers are carving off five to 10 acre lots for residential use to help defray the cost of continued farming.

Manson Business:
SEPA comments are due in December for a proposal to construct a breakwater at Manson Bay Marina.

Chairman Mike Kirk encouraged attendees to comment on the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council’s request for comments on the proposed Manson to Chelan Trail.

**District 5 Fire Chief Arnold Baker remarked that the District already has issues with traffic on Hwy 150 when responding to an emergency.**

Fire Chief Arnold Baker remarked that emergency response is at risk and that they’ve been reduced to 15mph around roundabouts and are playing chicken with on-coming traffic while responding to emergencies.

Kirk told the attendees that the proposed Manson to Chelan trail is not an official design. Baker replied that “It looks great but there are all those consequences.”

Jeff Conwell said that incorporation talks continue and that the council is using Ential as a model for what they are exploring.

There will be an election to the Manson Community Council If there is more than one applicant, but a this time there is only one interested according to Kirk. If no the individual steps up, the current applicant will be seated.