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.
Busy fire month: Chelan Fire and Rescue had an extremely busy July, responding to eight brush fires and seven other fires and accidents. The responded to two separate State Mobilization call outs which included the Pioneer Fire in Stehekin and the Black Canyon/Reach fire in Yakima.
July’s biggest fire was the destruction of the Recycle Center on July 24.
Chief Brandon Asher reported to the commissioners that August was proving to be above normal in fire related calls.
Chief Brandon Asher reported to the commissioners that August is also far above normal so far. However, he was surprised that on-water call numbers are way down. There was also wildfire start on Chelan Butte July 4 which the department immediately squashed. “We were super aggressive on that fire and were lucky that there was no wind.”
The department sent a wildland fire truck to Stehekin and the rescue boat was also put into action for many days with Captain Russ Jones working night shifts. As of August 20, Jones was still in Stehekin and attended the commission meeting via Zoom and the department’s Starlink account allowing communications from uplake.
Four firefighters, two from Chelan and two from Manson mobilized to Stehekin.
On August 20, Chelan Fire was called to a brush fire off Stayman Flats road. It quickly became a 3 Alarm fire with wind driving it up-slope into Downey Canyon and up to the ridgeline above Hawk’s Meadow and over.
A retardant plane lays down retardant on the north slope of Little Butte.
Commissioner Mark Donnell said he was overwhelmed by the quick response. At one point the evacuation level went to Level 3. The aerial attack was quick and overwhelming with scooper planes and DC-10s dropping copious amounts of water and retardant to stop the advance into the Lake Chelan Valley.
Two scooper planes dump water on the fire to cool it down.
The Northwest Team took the fire over and managed it until it was contained. Chelan residents and visitors had quite a show to watch. Russ Jones, before heading back to Stehekin with the fire and rescue boat, helped the Sheriff’s Department keep boaters away from the lane the scooper planes were using to pick up water.
When completed the Stayman Flats fire burned 3,450 acres within a space of approximately 7 hours.
Assistant Chief Shaun Sherman stated that District 7 and 5 have had excellent training. “We are working well together.”
Rumor: There is a rumor that the first phase of the Weidner Apartment Complex has begun.
There has been no real new forthcoming regarding the TIF, but I informed them that the $9 million requested from the U.S. Congress for the project has passed out of the House and is now in the Senate’s hands.
Insurance woes:
Mark Donnell said he went to a NW. Insurance Council meeting and that it was “pretty interesting on homeowners insurance” issues. He reported that one homeowner saw his homeowners insurance go from $3,000 per year to$10,000 because their home was over 10 miles from a fire station. This is a huge issue throughout the State. “I don’t think it is going to get any better.”
During commissioner comments, Karyl Oules said, “Your guys are doing a killer job. Thanks for all the firefighters.”
Russ Jones added, “I think the community is feeling pretty good about our fire department right now.” Donnell added that everyone should remember these times.
Karyl Oules brought up the potential purchase of a Side by Side vehicle for the department. Jones replied that with paragliders dropping like flies a side by side would be able to get to them quickly. Donnell added that a side by side could put four people on a situation really quick.
I brought up the issue of communications with local media so we can get the word out to the public about what is happening, especially when the second and third alarm siren goes off. Donnell agreed that the Department needs to consider how to do this.
The good news for the week was the evacuation level reduced to Level 1 in Stehekin which will allow the Valley to accept visitors.
501 (C) ¾ Non-Profit status: Manson Community Council is considering applying for 501(C) 3/4 status with the IRS. This would give the council an opportunity to apply for grants. It would also give them the ability to go after some county money and make the council more sustainable.
Over the years, the council has been made up of elected community individuals with no authority to dictate what happens in the community. They have just been able to recommend actions they would like county officials to consider.
Councilmen Mike Kirk and Chris Willoughby are working together to iron out all the details.
Councilman Mike Kirk looks over his notes on non-profit issue.
Incorporation: Vice Chair Chris Willoughby said, “A lot of people are interested in incorporation and a lot of people are on the fence.”
Vice Chairman Chris Willoughby says there are many community members interested in incorporation.
Over the years, the council has explored the possibility of incorporation. Legally, they can only incorporate within the current Urban Growth Boundary. “You have to have sewer in place,” said Willoughby. Only after incorporation would they be able to expand the boundaries of the UGA.
Willoughby is interested in putting the incorporation idea to the community. Councilman Mike Kirk stated that he would support that if the study was only a study.
Chairwomen Kari Sorenson-Krause said that her fear was the cost for a City Hall, planning department etal.
Bob Goedde said, “Why reinvent the wheel. You just contract out the services.”
Gearing told the council she would check to see if any Economic Development dollars was available.
It was noted that the last incorporation of a community in Washington was around 20 years ago.
Short Term Rentals: Gearing stated that the Planning Commission would entertain a board recommendation that there be no cap on STRs. “It doesn’t mean it will happen,” she said. She added that there would be public hearings, comments and testimonies. “So there is going to be a lot of discussion.”
Kirk asked why the county would recommend that the STR code be amended to a ‘No Cap’ status. Gearing replied that people have not been able to operate. She mentioned that it was an issue in Leavenworth. “Just because the board has made the suggestion doesn’t mean that it will come to pass.”
Complaints are handled by the Sheriff’s Department’s code enforcement officers. “Just send an address if you have to file a complaint,” said Gearing
Chairwoman Kari Sorenson-Krause has been pushing for better STR regulations and code enforcement.
STR clients have created a number of complaints from residents next to them. Noise and late night parties are the usual complaints. Sorenson-Krause asked if complaints should be called into the STR –24 hour hotline? (509-293-4577). Gearing replied that RiverCom could also be called. Gearing said she would bring up the issues at the board level and with the Sheriff.
Krause then asked it Gearing can follow up on STRs that are operating without a license. Gearing replied, “Email me the addresses.”
Pioneer Fire closure: Gearing said she was traveling to Stehekin with the Sheriff. “We are planning a post fire meeting with Senator Murray’s office, Representative Schier’s office, the DNR and Park Service.”
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The fire has cost over $70 million and complaints have been made that no water was deployed for several weeks on the fire. Some angry people are accusing the fire teams of letting the fire burn without any serious effort to control or put it out.
Willoughby asked that Lands Commissioner Hillary Franz (DNR) also be invited to any public meeting.
Chelan County Public Meeting: Chelan County will host its quarterly meeting on Wednesday, September 18, at the Lake Chelan Community Center.
Community Forum: The council will hold its second Community Forum on Tuesday October 15. This forum will also include the Manson School District representatives and the library.
Bears: Gearing brought up the ongoing Grizzly bear re-introduction into the North Cascades. She mentioned a grizzly bear expert from Montana who would come to the County and speak about the some of the problems with grizzly’s and how they live with them.
“She is going to be really helpful for us,” said Gearing. She then mentioned that the reintroduction is a done deal under the current administration.
Casino: “We met with the tribal council and they said it was on hold indefinitely.” Goedde also stated that the board members who toured Chelan last week also said it is on hold indefinitely.
It was a busy City Council meeting Tuesday, August 13 and several issues of interest were presented.
House moves $9 million request to the Senate: After the official agenda was complete, Mayor Erin McCardle announced during Mayor/Council comments that the $9 million dollar bill for the East Chelan Water/Reservoir Project had passed out of the House and onto the Senate for approval.
Mayor McCardle
This funding request, if approved by the Senate, will be a great relief to the Junior Taxing Districts that have had a heart attack over the TIF (Tax Increment Financing) proposal that would help pay for the project.
2024 Sheriff’s update: Sheriff Mike Morrison gave a presentation on the 2023 annual report and told the council that the department conducted 15,799 hours of patrol within the City limits in 2023. So far in 2024, the deputies have conducted 7,523 hours of patrol through June under the City/Sheriff contract and another 188 hours of foot patrol.
Sheriff Mike Morrison
He mentioned bike patrols and said, “I don’t know if you bikes are even in working order.” To instigate a bike patrol, however, the deputies would be required to take ‘bike school certification.’ “We have not been providing bike hours.”
“When I took office, we had one marine patrol officer and we currently have four,” said Morrison.
The department’s Behavioral Health Unit responded to 840 referrals in Chelan alone in 2023.
“Overall the agency has done pretty well,” said Morrison.”We are one of the top producing agencies in the state.”
The department had 200 hours of overtime in July and Morrison lauded the help from the Washington State Patrol. “We have been pretty successful at meeting the needs of our contract cities.”
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Councilwoman Sheri Deitrich asked Morrison where the foot patrols are taking place. Morrison replied that they have mostly been in the downtown corridor. “I know they are trying to make the effort to get out there.”
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth brought up the bridge jumping issue and said it is getting dangerous. “The level of activity is growing,” said Hollingsworth who admitted that putting a deputy there full time was not an option.
Mayor McCardle thanked Morrison and stated that the traffic enforcement was outstanding. “We will work out the situation at Lakeside Park for a longer term,” said McCardle. She promised that the issues would be discussed during the City’s strategic planning.
Morrison added that the Sheriff’s Department is getting pulled in a lot of different directions.
Marine 2 funding request: Sgt. Rob Huddleston started his request with a recent bridge jumping story. One of his Marine Patrol deputies confronted a teenager standing on the old bridge railing and was told to get off. The kid told the deputy to F-Off, then jumped and swam over to the Campbell’s dock. When the deputy tried to find him the kid took off running. “I don’t know where the lack of respect comes from,” said Huddleston.
Sgt. Rob Huddleston
Huddleston once again requested monetary help in refurbishing the department’s Marine 2 boat. The total cost of refurbishing the vessel is approximately $156,000 to make it like new.
“It would cost $400,000 to replace that boat,” said Huddleston. The refurbishment would bring Marine 2 up to new condition including two new 200 hp Yamaha outboards. The end of October is the kill date on the marine companies $156,000 refurbishing offer.
The Sheriff’s Department responded to the City’s request to have more presence on the lake and the department responded by putting four marine patrol deputies to work.
Huddleston said the boat primarily works in the lower basin. “We contact a lot of tourists and historically that is within the city limits.”
Huddleston requested that the City provide $100,000 towards the work and said the County would pick up the rest of the cost.
Councilman Bob Goedde asked if there were some grants that could be applied for. Huddleston replied that there are not many out there for that purpose.
Councilman Mark Ericks asked if the department couldn’t incorporate some of that capital replacement into the contract. Sheriff Morrison replied that that was a reasonable request and the challenge would be the county commission.
City Administrator Wade Farris stated that the City would look into finding the funding. Hollingsworth stated that the vessel was important to unincorporated areas also.
Public Works: The department is working with a robust GIS platform to develop locations within the city where Americans with Disability Act () sidewalk transitions are needed.
City Engineer Travis Denham stated that a public survey was conducted with the community to find out where they felt ADA access needs to be.
City Engineer Travis Denham
Farris remarked that the City has been out of State ADA compliance for a long, long time.
Chelan Valley Housing Trust MOU: Jake Youngren, public works director, said they were working on a Memorandum of Understanding between the Housing Trust and City for the Anderson Road project. Hollingsworth said, “I want to make sure the City is committed to building that sewer line.” Mayor McCardle stated that the City was committed to get that sewer line built, but not necessarily with ARPA funds.
Mayor/Council comments: HR/Communications Director Chad Coltman said the recent community survey came up with 600 suggestions for the city to consider.
HR/Communications Director Chad Coltman
He also reported that the AgTourism campaign would be finished this week.
He stated that the city has received applications for the Assistant Parks Director and the Chelan Airport Manager positions and that interviews will begin next week. “We are continuing to work on finding a Community Development Director.”
Jake Youngren stated that it is a challenge to keep the waste management operation going. “Insurance is working with us and we are soliciting services for (recycle) design. We hope to have a planning contract this fall.”
Public Works Director Jake Youngren
John Ajax stated that planning department is looking at two grant funding opportunities that have a climate change element to them.
Wade Farris stated that the city has had a pretty successful season so far.
Tim Hollingsworth said that the traffic study is complete and that “everyone wants the bridge returned to two-way traffic. The devil is in the details.”
Councilman Brad Chitty
Brad Chitty said he’s please that there is more community outreach on city issues.
Councilman Terry Sanders
Terry Sanders stated that the Johnson Avenue/Bradley Street crossing project is being worked on and it will be good that students will only have to cross one street instead of two between the community gym and MOE. Sanders would also like to see funding for the Sheriff’s Marine 2 boat.
Construction workers are close to finishing the Johnson Avenue/Bradley Street crosswalk that will allow MOE students to only cross the road from the Community Center to the school one time instead of twice, blocking traffic.
Mayor McCardle reported that a number of Colville Tribe board members were visiting Chelan on Wednesday for a tour of several projects including the Community Center where they enjoyed an Apple Cup lunch.
Don’t forget to take the Transportation Survey. It is located on the City’s Website.
Bridge Jumping: Bridge jumping wasn’t on Tuesday’s workshop agenda but was brought up during the final comment period at the City of Chelan Workshop.
Bridge jumping has been a right of passage for many local kids, and now it has become a major concern as bridge jumpers include tourists and parents taking photos of their youngsters jumping. The City is looking for a way to shut it down before someone is seriously injured or even killed.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth who walks across the bridge frequently brought the topic up. “It’s becoming a free for all on the old bridge,” said Hollingsworth. “Somehow we need to come down hard on it.”
Jumping from the Woodin Avenue Bridge has become a ‘Right of Passage’ for many of the kids who defy the law. Signage clearly states that no bridge jumping is allowed, but even parents are encouraging the children to jump while taking photos. There is a $500.00 fine if an individual is ticketed, but the Sheriff’s deputies don’t have the time to monitor this activity.
What began as six to eight local kids jumping has morphed into a dangerous situation where people are spread almost halfway across the bridge.
A j;umper does a flip off the west side of the Woodin Avenue Bridge.
The concern, of course, is that someone is going to jump and land on a boat or other watercraft passing under the structure, seriously injuring or killing someone.
Mayor McCardle asked the Council for some helpful ideas on how to address the issue.
Parking enforcement: Another issue facing Chelan and in particular, Lakeside Park is the lack of any parking enforcement. The city has had no luck in attracting an individual to fill that summertime position since the last parking enforcement officer left early in the year.
People are taking up parking spaces for well over the three hour limit in downtown and all day at Lakeside Park.
Recycle Center: Public Works Director Jake Youngren reported that a lot of discussion has ensued since the Recycle Center burned down. “I don’t have much to report on what is happening,” said Youngren. He added that the department is looking to select a consulting team to help explore options to continue to recycle.
The City is looking into a variety of alternatives for the fire destroyed recycling center, but will continue to pick up recyclable materials.
The recycle truck will continue to pick up recycling material while the city looks for an alternative. Also, the 911 Glass Recycling unit was severely damaged in the fire and the Rotary is looking into that issue.
City Clerk Peri Galluccci stated that an insurance adjuster and an investigator are working with the department.
Water and Sewer Rate Fee Study: Youngren said that the latest rate study for water and sewer has an infinite number of scenarios. He said that Waterville went from a $50 per month charge to $250 per month in one fell swoop. “We are trying to avoid that.”
Public Works Director Jake Youngren
Currently, residents (a family of four) are allowed 7,000 gallons per month which, according to Youngren is pretty generous.
Mark Ericks asked about residents who are just on Social Security. Bob Goedde replied that there is a senior level bracket.
Water and Sewer Rate Study project manager Brooke Tacia of FCS Group updated the Council on the study.
The study, conducted by Project Manager Brooke Tacia of FCS Group, centered around significant changes since the last study in 2018. These changes included increased inflation and delay of large capital projects for both water and sewer treatment plants.
Upcoming revenue requirements include operations and maintenance, debt service and capital costs.
The study is developing a rate plan to balance the city’s financial needs and to minimize customer impacts. The study period covers 2025 to 2029 using the 2024 budget as a baseline.
From 2024 to 2037 the city has $57.4 million in capital projects.
Lakeside Trail update: City engineer Travis Denham updated the council on the Lakeside Trail between downtown and Lakeside Park. “We are in the permitting process with WSDOT right now,” explained Denham.
City engineer Travis Denham
The planning phase will be 60 percent complete by the end of August, and the biggest development on the corridor is a proposed speed limit change from 30 mph to 25 mph from the Boat Company to the high school. The planners need to get approval from the State Traffic Engineer. “We understand that people will drive at what they feel comfortable with,” said DOT’s David Kieninger
Two proposed inline bus stops just south of the Boat Company raised some concerns about blocking traffic and the potential for rear end accidents. “It could cause additional congestion. There is a lot going on there,” said Kieninger.
The third issue discussed was the buffer zone landscaping alternatives. Denham stated that the vertical element was being discussed to give a sense of safety to trail users. Hollingsworth thought that the low density alternative was the best. Similar to what’s in place on the trail down to town from the roundabout.
Bob Goedde said, “Let’s not get to crazy building guard rails.” McCardle felt there should be a little more than the low density plantings.
The Lakeside trail project will hopefully begin construction next spring.
Clear Gov: Finance Director Jackie Tuppling gave an overview of the city’s new website section that is being built with Artificial Intelligence. “This is user friendly way to see the city’s budget expenditures,” she said. “It shows everything and how it is spent.” The system will be available to the public.
Chelan hosted the Washington State Transportation Commission on Wednesday and Thursday, July 24 and 25. The commission is made up of seven members appointed by the Governor for up to two 6-year terms. Each commissioner represents a different part of the state and provides an open public forum for transportation policy development.
Every four years, the commission recommends a comprehensive and balanced statewide transportation plan which also addresses regional and local needs to the legislature.
This visit to Chelan is a part of the commission’s public involvement and outreach which focuses on local and regional transportation issues and challenges.
Prior to Wednesday’s afternoon meeting the commission and staff were given a tour of the Lake Chelan Valley, most notably between Manson and Chelan.
Debbie Young, the commission’s chair, said the group had a great tour of the area that morning.
Commission Chair
Chelan Mayor Erin McCardle welcomed the commission to Chelan and gave an overview of presentation of the valley comprising of Chelan, Manson, the south shore and Stehekin. She explained that summer was the most popular time in the valley. “We have a rural sense of community,” said McCardle. “We are trying to preserve that.”
Mayor Erin McCardle
McCardle went on to explain that Chelan was no longer a secret. “During COVID, Lake Chelan became everyone’s destination. Chelan and Manson had 660,000 visitors.”
She told the commission that Chelan had the confluence of two State highways, both of which go by two schools. She also explained that there was only one way in and one way out of Manson with all that traffic going through Chelan.
Funding crisis: McCardle talked about Chelan’s transportation funding crisis. Seventy five percent of property taxes go the Chelan’s public work department for infrastructure maintenance. “The one percent tax increase we see every year does not keep up with inflation.”
Traffic through Chelan is heavy throughout the day.
Because of that, Chelan is asking its residents to vote in a .03 percent addition to the local sales tax through a Tax Benefit District (TBD). “The TBD will open up opportunities for a new revenue source supported by 75% of the visitors to Chelan.”
Reema Griffith, executive director of the commission, asked McCardle how much money the TBD would raise. McCardle replied that it would raise approximately $900,000 every year which could be used to leverage for grants and bonds.
Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gearing: Gearing explained that Chelan County has many of the same concerns and issues that Chelan has. “We represent a number of small communities like Manson, Entiat, Cashmere and Leavenworth.”
Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gearing
She explained that the County has a public works department that has only 85 employees to serve 80,000 residents and maintains 50 miles of rural roads and 500 miles of paved roads, all of which are in poor condition and need a complete rebuild. “It is a major challenge of doing more with less.”
The biggest challenge is competing with larger cities. Gearing mentioned the County’s Totem Pole Road project in Manson. “We have $2 million for this project and need $5 million. The project is a work in progress.”
Paula Reeves, the senior policy analysist, replied that the current transportation plan is being updated. “There are a lot of changes since the last update in 2018,” said Reeves. In particular she mentioned the state’s unprecedented growth.
“Individual requests that come to the commission are challenging,” she added. The commission is working with both Oregon and California on transportation issues.
Road Usage Charging: The commission is researching a change from the current gas tax to a vehicle mileage charge. Reema Griffith stated that there is a bit of a conflict with the idea. “It is difficult to address with fossil fuels and fuel efficiency.”
The state relies on its gas tax to fund road and highway maintenance and construction. Fuel efficient vehicles have lowered the amount of money the state is receiving and the commission is assessing a Road Usage Charge as a replacement to the gas tax.
Toll system: The commission also adopts tolls for all state toll facilities including ST-5200 Bridge, SR-16 Tacoma Narrows Bridge, SR-167 high occupancy toll, Interstate 405 express toll lanes and the SR 99 tunnel.
They are currently looking at expanding the toll system.
The commission also studies the Ferry System which had 23 million passengers last year which brought in $75 million.
Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council: A representative from the council, told the commission that the council had 10 governing board members representing urban/rural communities and the Colville Confederated Tribes. The council has 125,000 miles of roads in Chelan and Douglas Counties most of which is agricultural based. “It is becoming less and less ag based because of rising costs.” He added that this is causing an ag related conversion to other uses.
Tourism is becoming a driving economic force in the two counties. He also mentioned Microsoft’s server farm projects.
“A lot of developable land is already developed and there are (looming) water issues.”
Public transit and freight mobility add to the transportation issues.
Apple Capital Loop: Wenatchee’s City Administrator Laura Gloria presented Wenatchee’s $157 million Apple Capital Loop project to the Council. “Wenatchee is kind of an island,” said Gloria. She explained that the city is bordered by mountains on the west and the river on the east.
Wenatchee City Administrator Laura Gloria.
“We serve Leavenworth, Chelan and other outlying areas.
The 11 mile loop project will reduce the current traffic congestion problems which is currently serving 100,000 vehicles each day.
“We are so excited to start next year. It is a once in a lifetime project for the City of Wenatchee.”
Chelan transportation issues: Travis Denham, Chelan city engineer, talked about the emerging transportation issues in the community. “Everyone going to Manson uses our roads. It’s a challenger to not accommodate our tourism economy,” he said.
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“We don’t have a robust viable funding source and how we fund capital projects is a funding challenge.”
He reported on new projects on the books like the Lakeside Trail from Chelan to Lakside Park that is being funded by the Washington State DOT which will begin its construction phase next spring. In addition, Chelan is working on opening up pocket parks for better access to the lake for the public. It is a recreational project that everyone is excited about.”
Mayor McCardle answered a question about Chelan partnerships. McCardle stated that four councilmen and her had a conversation with the Colville Confederated Tribes. “It was a great first step,” she said. “We are starting to develop that relationship. With a large (planned) project in Manson, we definitely need a stronger partnership that needs to be built now.”
The Eastside water and reservoir project was also brought up.
Chelan County: Josh Patrick, assistant director at Chelan County Public Works, reported on the county’s transportation issues.
“Our county roads are narrow and not in good condition,” said Patrick. He described the need to turn Manson’s Botzke Avenue into its truck route instead of having trucks driving through downtown Manson.
“We have 100 miles of road to maintain (in Manson). Our responsibilities is more than the downtown area.”
“Manson is unincorporated which makes it tough to compete for funds.” The county lost a $1 million grant from Ecology for stormwater work (on Totem Pole Rd.). “It just went away. We are doing Phase 1 and looking for funds to do the upper half.
Patrick stated that emergency evacuation is on the County’s mind. Manson currently has one way in and one way out.
Debbie Young remarked that widening the lanes on the highway were pretty constraining. “Do you >
Regional overview: Chris Keifenheim, the regional administrator of the North Central Region of DOT, told the commission that the region employs 270 and operates from Canada to south of I-90. “We serve nine counties and 13,000 sq. miles. We have seven mountain passes to maintain.”
“Funding is a huge challenge. Cost of materials have increased. Our dollar is not going as far as used to.” He said the region over spent their budget by $11 million last year. “We need to be back on budget by the end of the end biannual budget.
Link update: Nick Covey, CEO of Link Transit, said the system has added a new 43,000 sq. ft. bus garage and is running 23 electric vehicles. “We will be adding nine more in 2025 and five more in 2026,” said Covey.
The system includes inground wireless battery charging units.
Link is working on a Manson park and ride facility at Leffler Field. In Chelan they are developing bus stops at the Hospital, Walmart and Chelan Airport.
The commission reconvened on Thursday and heard presentations by:
Chelan and Douglas County public works directors on their transportation needs;
The Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority updates;
An Economic Development presentation for the region; and a
Tribal Transportation Overview.
The commission’s next meeting will take place on September 11, 2024.
ARPA (American Recovery Plan Act): City Administrator Wade Farris updated the Council on the looming requirement for the City’s remaining ARPA funds (American Rescue Plan Act) to be allocated by December 31, 2024, with the requirement to spend those allocated funds by December 31, 2026, with a final report due on April, 2027
City Administrator Wade Farris
Farris remarked that the city allocated $200,000 to the Chelan Food Bank and said, “That was money spent wisely.”
The city is looking at its option for allocating the rest of the $233,905 before the end of the year.
The City already has a request for those funds by the Boys and Girls Club that will be taking over a large space at the Lake Chelan Community Center. If awarded to the Boys and Girls Club, the funds would be used to purchase equipment, toys, computers and other needed supplies.
$750,000 has been allocated to the Anderson Road project but Chelan Finance Director Jackie Tupling said those obligated funds might be re-allocated to the East Chelan Water Reservoir project.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if the Anderson Road project had a bid ready to go. Denham replied that public works could look at the cost estimate and rush to get a bid out the door.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth
The ARPA topic will be back in front of Council at its first August meeting. Allocation of those funds will be discussed at the Council/Staff workshop on August 6.
Culton Consulting agreement: City Council unanimously approved a change of contract for its Legislative consultant, John Culton. Culton who had been employed by Desimone Consulting and retained by the City to facilitate contracts and relationships with federal senators and congresswomen along with their staffers, has formed his own consulting firm and asked to continue working on Chelan’s behalf.
Mayor Erin McCardle.
Councilman Brad Chitty remarked that Culton has been doing a pretty good job. Mayor McCardle added that Culton was successful in getting Congress to pass a $9 million funding request for the East Water System and Reservoir out of committee.
Councilman Brad Chitty
This funding request is being worked on by Representative Schrier.
City Administrator Wade Farris stated that his work will lead to significant grant opportunities for the City in the near and long term.
Administrative Reports: Public Works Engineer Travis Denham requested that Council consider retaining Jim Burbery as a consultant to the new Sewer Treatment Plant Operator.
Burbery would assist the new plant operator with the operation and maintenance of the City’s sewer collection and treatment system as needed. He would also help with budget preparation and expenditure control.
The agreement includes a $500 retainer fee and an hourly rate of $75 per hour when he is working. The agreement runs through the end of 2025 or until Burbery’s expertise is no longer needed.
Denham reported that Public Works expects Burbery would consult in the five to 10 hours per month.
The agreement will be brought back for finalization at the next Council meeting.
Assistant Parks Director: The hiring of an Assistant Parks Director was approved on last Tuesday’s consent agenda. Human Resources/Communications Director Chad Coltman stated that a search for an assistant parks director would begin immediately.
HR/Communications Director Chad Coltman
Farris added that the City is still searching for an airport manager.
Farris also asked Parks Director Paul Horne how the department is perform\ing so far this summer. Horne replied that smoke and heat has taken its toll but that the mini-golf is still ahead in rounds played but that July was down.
Mayor/Council comments: Terry Sanders encouraged everyone to take the time to read and educate themselves on the upcoming primary election and to get out and vote.
Mayor McCardle said that a successful meeting was held with farmers about agriculture. “There were 16 folks and it was a sobering conversation.
Ninety two percent of the people taking the Our Valley-Our Future Survey were primary residents.
Liaison reports of interest: Terry Sanders – Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce
Sanders reported that the Chamber’s major concern was the potential impact to the Valley’s economics if Stehekin went to a Level 2 evacuation (Its at Level 3 and shut down to all tourism).
The fear is that with Stehekin shut down because of the Pioneer Fire that it will signify that the greater Lake Chelan Valley is closed to outside visitation.
Sanders reported that the Valley is seeing decreased revenues due to low Short Term Rentals.
It was also reported that the 2024 Winterfest suffered a huge loss because of inclement weather.
Jon Higgins – Chelan Valley Housing Trust
Higgins reported that the Trust is seeking additional subsidy funding to help lower the per unit cost at Emerson Harbor from $335,000 to the $265 to $285,000 range to help with qualifying potential buyers.
There is always a cry from the public about new taxes, but the City of Chelan will be asking Chelan residents within its described Tax Benefit Area (TBD) to add .03% to the local sales tax to help Chelan’s Public Works Department continue working on its six-year transportation program.
Chelan Public Works has approximately $26 million infrastructure projects it needs to work on to keep the city’s roads, streets, water and sewer systems up to date. The good news is the new tax only represents 3 cents added to every dollar a customer spends in the TBD.
If passed, this new tax will bring in approximately $900,000 each year. The good news for the Chelan residents, because it is added to sales tax, is that most of those proceeds will come from visitors to the Valley. City administration estimates that visitors and tourists will contribute 75 percent of that tax.
Funds raised from the TBD can only be spent on infrastructure projects within the TBD defined area which is the City of Chelan.
At the Washington State Transportation Council meeting that took place in Chelan Thursday and Friday, Mayor Erin McCardle’s welcoming presentation included the City’s upcoming TBD. “The TBD opens up opportunity for a revenue source of which 75% will be supported by the visitors,” she said.
Mayor Erin McCardle
Transportation Council’s executive director, Reema Griffith asked McCardle how the funds received would be used. McCardle replied that they would be used to leverage into grants and bond issues.
At the City’s City Council meeting on Tuesday, July 22, the Council approved Resolution No. 2024T-001 to add the TBD to the November Ballot.
Residents will have an opportunity to voice their concerns at a few public meetings and possibly a Community meeting in the near future.
Chief Brandon Asher reported that the department responded to 128 calls In June and that July was on a record pace.
“We had multiple fires which really tasked both Chelan and Douglas Counties,” said Asher. “So it was a busy June and we had a lot of help from everyone.”
Asher reported that Mayor McCardle said the meeting in Washington D.C. seeking funds from the Senate didn’t work out but she was hopeful that Representative Schier would secure some funding for the East Chelan Water Project.
Fire Chief Brandon Asher
Pioneer Fire activity: Asher said, “We are not an official member of the team, but we are cooperating and helping out where we can.”
The Chelan Fire and Rescue’s Boat 71 is still attached to the Pioneer Fire and is 31 days in. “People are getting comfortable. Starting now, the boat will be working 24 hours a day.” Commissioner Russ Jones is captioning the boat on the night shift this week.
Brush Truck 73 is assigned to a Department of Natural Resources Strike Team. “It’s all local people on the team,” said Asher. The team is helping with structural assessments all around Manson. “We basically have a strike team in town.” Manson is providing one firefighter on Brush Truck No. 73.
Assistant Chief Report: Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman reported that the department has gained one new volunteer and that over the month of June there were no retention losses.
Assistant Fire Chief Shawn Sherman.
He also reported that that the department will be holding a training drill next month with Manson at the Chelan location with a dinner afterwards.
Community Forum results: Chris Willoughby, vice-chair of the Manson Community Council, reported to his colleagues at Tuesday’s council meeting, that the Manson Community Forum was extremely successful.
“I’ve been getting feedback and most people want to continue to do this,” said Willoughby. “It worked really well.”
The Community Forum held at the Grange in Manson, had 93 people in attendance to get information from each agency and organization operating in the community. They heard reports of on-going project activity from the council; Manson Chamber of Commerce; Manson Parks Department and Fire District No. 5.
Chris Willoughby, vice chairman of the Council reported the results of the poll taken after the recent Community Forum that was attended by 93 residents and interested individuals.
In addition to the meeting, a poll was available for the public to rank issues based on community importance. Willoughby’s written report to the Council stated the forum was a great way to get information out to a larger group who didn’t have the time to attend each groups meetings.
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Following are the survey results from the Manson Community Forum ranked in order of importance:
Traffic flow into and out of Manson on Highway 150. (This is also a major transportation issue in Chelan.).
Affordable housing. (Affordable Housing is another major issue in the Valley. No affordable housing for local residents is forcing them to relocate).
Protecting Agriculture lands and ag based opportunities. (Small family farms are finding it increasingly tough to stay in business because of regulations, increasing costs and low or not profits off the ag products. This is forcing many struggling to farm to sell their land which then becomes developed sub-divisions.}.
Rising property taxes and assessments. (Many residents in the valley are complaining about rising property taxes.)
Creating ag business opportunities. (agritourism, adding value added products to the farms or other means to increase sustainability of the valley’s agricultural base.).In
Youth activities during non-school hours.
Several other issues lower on the scale of importance included Incorporation of Manson, Lake Chelan Water Quality, Downtown business diversity, Crime and Drug concerns and Transit expansion into more remote areas of the community.
It was suggested that the Council hold a Community Forum quarterly. A date for that meeting will be decided on in the near future.
Colville Tribe Project: It was reported that the proposed Coville Casino/Resort project has grown to a one-quarter of a billion dollar facility with a conference center. “We should ask them to come and address us,” said Kari Sorenson. “The project keeps getting larger.”
Bob Goedde, Chelan City Council liaison with Manson, said that there was a conference meeting with the Colville’s last week and that Mayor Erin McCardle reported to the Council that the project was on hold indefinitely until the Tribe’s Tri Cities project was completed.
In other business: Kari Sorenson brought up the right-of-way issue on Pedoi Street. “I still have an issue of the wall in the middle of the right-of-way,” she said. Mike Kirk suggested she ask the county engineer about it. Willoughby replied that neighbors down the street were asking why they were being affected but not the property owners who have the wall.
Right of Way infringement on Pedoi Street is being addressed by Chelan County. One major issue is the home with a concrete wall built over the right of way and residents are wondering what the County plans on doing about it.
“There are some things there that need to be addressed,” said Willoughby
Kari Sorenson and Chris Willoughby were confronted by the home owner about parking in front of their home despite the fact that is on Community property and open to parking.
NOTE: After the council meeting an altercation between the homeowner, Sorenson and Willoughby took place in front of his home. Since his property is on a public street, vehicles are allowed to park adjacent to the illegal wall. The issue is probably going to heat up in the future.
Candidate forum: It was suggested that the council host a Candidate Forum in September with those candidates still in the November race for elected positions. Locations being considered are the Performing Arts Center or Riverwalk Park. “Let’s put it up to the candidates and if they can’t show, they can’t show,” said Sorenson. The date for the forum was set for Thursday, September 17 with a time and venue to be announced later.
Our Valley – Our Future: John Olson brought up the on-going Lake Chelan Vision Project and asked everyone to take the community survey. Goedde said the Council needs to ask Mayor McCardle to include them. “It’s more of a ‘What works now and what worked when you were younger… more of a philosophical event,” said Goedde.
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Northshore Pathway update: Apparently, the Northshore Pathway project has been taken over by the Chelan/Douglas County Transportation Council. The next meeting of the transportation council will be in August. “At some point I’d like to see them open it to the public,” stated Willoughby.
Mike Kirk brought up the need for the Manson Community Council to live stream its meetings. Sorenson stated they had tried in the past but couldn’t get it to work. “It needs someone more technologically advanced than I am,” she said. “I’m out of it.”
Kirk also stated that the Council needs some sort of website where a database and email functions can be used. Willoughby added that a website would help to get community members on board. He suggested that they look at IONOS as a domain and website possibility.
Manson Fire preparation: Willoughby said that strike teams have been going through the Manson neighborhoods and looking at structural integrity and risks. “They have been evaluating the area for fire”
Singleton Park in Manson is now the home of firefighters working the Pioneer Fire.
Evacuation protocols were also being explored because of the one road in and one road out. “It would not be viable with resources coming and residents trying to get out. Most fire management types feel that Manson residents would be safe at the high school or other downtown locations from any fire that might enter north Manson.
August primary ballots will be in the mail on July 15. There are two major issues on the District 3 ballot including Chelan County Fire District 5 Replacement Levy and a choice of four candidates to fill the Chelan County Commission seat being vacated by Tiffany Gearing.
The four candidates vying for her seat on the commission include Senator Brad Hawkins; Representative Keith Goehner’s staff assistant, Brandt Cappell; Manson Fire Commissioner Chris Willoughby and Wenatchee developer Flint Hartwig.
Following is a brief description of each candidate and what they feel is the most important priority facing Chelan Count over the next four years.
Brad Hawkins: “My primary focus, if elected, will be to help diversify the County’s economy,” said Hawkins. He also wants to maintain a balanced budget and mitigate the growing property tax issues. “If we continue to grow and get Malaga (Microsoft development) onto the tax rolls, that should help to moderate some property taxes.”
Senator Brad Hawkins
Hawkins has a long and successful public service record and is currently a Washington State Senator. He is vacating that position to be closer to family. The recent redistricting would have had him constantly on the road.
“My knowledge and relationships (at the state level) will help bring resources to the County,” More information about Hawkins is available at www.bradhawkins.org. He can also be reached at 509.393.3231.
Brandt Cappell: Cappell, who is currently Representative Keith Goehner’s Legislative Assistant stated that he has been focusing on issues in the Chelan/Manson area. Over the past several months he has attended many Chelan and Manson meetings to learn what issues are foremost”. “I’m trying to get the lay of the land,” he said.
Brandt Cappell
Cappell, if elected plans on opening an office in Chelan to be close to District 3 constituents and the Valley’s emerging issues. He is interested in getting in front of what is happening in the local agriculture industry.
Chris Willoughby: Willoughby’s primary focus, if elected, will be the County’s infrastructure. “Our infrastructure is at the center of everything that goes on,” said Willoughby who added that Entiat’s sewer systems is at capacity and will have to stop development. “Leavenworth and Plain also have infrastructure issues as does Manson.”
Chris Willoughby
Willoughby has been involved in Manson and the County’s politics since 1999 when he first served on the Manson Community Council until 2011. He is also the vice-chairman of Fire District 5s board of commissioners where he has served as a firefighter and EMT since 1988 and 2003 respectively.
He claims that he is not a “politician” and does not believe in them. “I am a long time public servant who represents the communities I serve.” He is also the only candidate who lives in the heart of the 3rd District.
Flint Hartwig Hartwig is the only candidate running for the 3rd District position who has no experience in politics. He is a Wenatchee businessman and developer who wants to streamline the County bureaucracy.
Flint Hartwig
His voters pamphlet promise is to make sure the County is only spending money on the essential roles of government.
“I’m good at getting things done,” said Hartwig. His primary focus if elected would be agriculture, tourism and affordable housing. “I want to fight for you,” he added.
The District 3 Commission seat is an important position for those who live in the Chelan and Manson area. It is incumbent on voters to educate themselves on each candidate running for the position and vote for the one candidate voters will best represent them.
Manson Fire Department Levy request: Manson Fire District No. 5 will be asking eligible Manson voters to pass a new replacement levy to replace the retiring 10-year levy that currently collects $0.89/1000. The district is asking the voters to pass a $0.75/$1000 which is less than the current rate.
The smoke plume of the Pioneer Fire 25 miles up lake from Manson.
Manson Fire District is a successful volunteer department with 40 volunteers, 25 of which are active in both fire fighting and Emergency Services. With only three paid staff, the district is hoping to expand its personnel, offer full-time training for personnel to gain full certifications to meet the needs of the growing Manson Community.
The district is in the process of building a training facility which would be used by all firefighting agencies for training purposes. Fire Chief Arnold Baker reported at a community meeting that other district’s and the Forest Service have contacted him about training and trainee housing at the facility.
The district would also use some of their budget along with grants to replace a 30 year old fire truck along with other equipment needs.
Operational expenses are used for fuel, overall maintenance needs and a hedge against current inflation increases.
Responding to over 100 fire-related calls and 500 Emergency Management calls per year underscores the increasing demand for trained personnel in a growing community.
A levy failure would be disastrous to the district. Budget cuts and reducing volunteers by half would leave Manson without the required safety net for the community.
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