Author: allthingslakechelan

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan Parks Board met Thursday, February 15 and went over the Park Department’s Annual Workplan.

There are a number of exciting things on the horizon for Chelan Parks.

Parks Director Paul Horne provided a 2024 Parks Capital Projects Overview.

Pocket Parks:
One of the major issues with residents in Chelan is more access to the lake and the Parks Department is moving forward with the Road End Pocket Park at Park Street. This project has been on the Parks agenda for well over a year and is now scheduled to be bid and constructed by the end of May. “We will have the project out to bid in March and built this spring,” Horne to the board.

The next pocket park project is the old Howe Sound Mining Dock area between the Boat Company and Sunset Marina. The Park’s Department will be going out for consultant proposals for design work this month.

Another exciting project that will be worked on this spring is Chelan County PUD’s popular swimming hole at the Southeastern side of the Woodin Avenue Bridge.

Lakeside Park’s improvements are scheduled to be accomplished in early 2025. The project has $800,000 and design work is 60% completed with permitting yet to come. “Its taken a long time to go through all the agencies. We are extremely close for the design to be completed,” said Horne.

The $100,000 grant from the PUD to build a community park at Stinky Field is undergoing its design phase. This work will begin in March and be completed by the end of May.

One of the ideas is to build a walking path around the perimeter of the property. It was also suggested that the PUD might entertain opening a walkway across the Chelan Dam that would connect Riverwalk Park with the trail on the south side of the dam.

The Parks Department is hoping to do an economic impact study for the Parks similar to the study done for the Golf Course. This study would be for Don Morse Park and Lakeside RV Park. John Olson remarked that the Golf Course study was impactful and asked if Earth Economics would conduct this study. Horne replied that Earth Economics would be willing to work with the department. “We need a firm that has done it all the time,” said Horne. “The investment in the parks will pay for itself.”

Don Morse Park, the RV Park and Marina Parking lot will all receive new asphalt this Spring as soon as the weather permits.

Regarding the athletic fields, Horne stated that once they start putting information on a map they will have a good consensus of where they are.

Recreation software and a parks website will be operational by early May.

The department is also seeking ‘Branding’ ideas, i.e. logos, signage, etc.

The department is planning to overhaul and modernize its irrigation system. “The design work has been done,” Horne told the board. They are now seeking the required permits. The two ponds will be filled as soon as the lake refills to its pump site. “We want to put the pump further into the lake,” said Horne. “We are looking at March 16. The pond serves as a reservoir for the irrigation system.”

Horne stated that the department will be hiring a deputy director (project manager) which is something that was in Horne’s original contract. It has been approved at the administrative level and Horne stated that would be using a head hunter for that position. He also has the authority to hire a full-time Office Lead, an Assistant Golf Superintendent and Parks Maintenance People.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan Hills residents should be happy with Chelan’s Public Works Department. After a devastating 100 year storm produced thousands of dollars in damage to private property, residents began visiting City Council asking the City for help with stormwater issues in the community.

Public Works Director Jake Youngren announced at Tuesday’s City Council meeting that they have been successful in getting a $248,900.00 grant for developing a comprehensive storm water plan for the City. “There will still be some administrative steps to take to have access to those funds to begin executing that plan,” said Youngren.

Public Works was un-successful in obtaining a Capital Sewer Infrastructure grant, but was offered a loan for that work. Youngren thanked Public Works Engineer Travis Denham and Annalise Noble for their work on these grants.

Councilman Bob Goedde asked if the stormwater grant was for the entire City or just Chelan Hills? Youngren replied that it was a city wide planning effort.

Tower Consulting:

Annalise Noble has left Andura Consulting to start her own consulting business and the City of Chelan entered into a new contract with her for helping the City secure grants and funding. The new company is Noble Strategies LLC dba as Tower Consulting.

City Administrator Wade Farris told the Council that Annalise will continue to go after grants for the City under the same terms as her old employer.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked about the City’s relationship with Adura. Farris replied that the City had a 30-day opt out clause in its contract and that there are no hard feelings between Noble and Adura. The Council unanimously approved the new contract at $155.00 per hour not to exceed $20,000.00.

Trespass ordinance:

The City will amend Chapter 9.04 of the Chelan Municipal Code which will establish new procedures for trespass on City owned parks.

Sgt. Rob Huddleston said, “It allows us to contact people. It gives us another tool to deal with after hours and other issues.”

Councilman Jon Higgins asked if the new ordinance change will include all parks within the City Limits like the ball fields. Huddleston replied that he wasn’t sure but would check.

Municipal Code Update:

The City Council approved a professional services agreement with CivicPlus Professional Services for a Municode Legal Review of Chelan’s Municipal Code. CivicPlus will provide a legal review of the City’s codes to make sure they comply with state statues.

DocuSign Professional Services:

Council approved a one year $2760.00 contract renewal for an electronic signature agreement with DocuSign.

GMA Population Allocations:

City Council unanimously approved the Mayor to finalize and execute the projected housing needs for Chelan County Commissioners. Chelan County, in collaboration with its cities, is responsible for setting population allocations for UGAs based on projections from the Washington State Office of Financial Management (OFM), which offers low, medium, and high growth scenarios.

John Ajax reported that the projections do not include second home ownership or tourists, but just full time residents.

Lynette Grandy, a resident and public advocate remarked on the GMA allocations. She said in her comments to the Council and Mayor that these allocations carry an enormous responsibility for the City administration and staff.

“How do we know who needs housing, or is doubling up in a household, or is cost burdened in a rental situation,” she said. In addition, she mentioned the second home market that has taken year round rentals away from the residential population.

In 2017, the level of growth projections in Chelan changed from high to medium, and Grandy wonders if that level of growth projection shouldn’t be further reduced from medium to low.

She ended her comments asking to be included in the comp. plan amendments. “I hope to participate,” she said.

Council comments:

Bob Goedde remarked that he has attended a Port meeting regarding economic development.

Tim Hollingsworth reported that he attended the Chelan County meeting in Chelan on the upcoming recreational plan in its comprehensive plan. “Anybody interested in recreation should take the survey,” he said.

Hollingsworth also reported on the Toyota Center meeting for which he is the City’s liaison. He would also like the Council to have more discussion on the Chelan Airport and worries about the proper management being in place during the expansion and afterwards.

Mayor McCardle reported that the PUD would like to see a prioritized list from the Council on its $100,000 grant towards recreation facilities on its Chelan Gorge property. “We need a discussion around the ballfields and what opportunities there are.”

She mentioned a direct appropriation process with Senators on a variety of projects. McCardle mentioned shovel ready projects like the Chelan Reservoir as a top priority, but she also mentioned the Northshore Trail project and the possible pocket parks along that trail.

Wade Farris said the City is moving forward with the airport expansion and the impacts to land owners. “We’ve had productive meetings with land owners,” said Farris. “We have a meeting scheduled with the FAA in April.”

The next regularly scheduled city council meeting is on Tuesday, February 27.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Do you recreate in Chelan County. The county encompasses a large area taking in U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Department of Natural Resources, North Cascades National Park and Recreation area, and Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife lands.

Chelan County is currently in the process of updating its Recreation Element of its Comprehensive Plan. This is done every seven years to ensure eligibility for grant funding opportunities.

The Public Engagement process is almost complete. The County held two public meetings; one in Chelan and another in Wenatchee to gather in-person input. They are also encouraging residents and others to fill out an on-line survey to gather further input from the community regarding recreational potential and opportunities.

The link below is for the survey and is open until Friday, February 16 for community input. It only takes several minutes to complete and will help guide the County in its recreational decisions for the next seven years.

Link to 2024 Chelan County Comprehensive Plan Recreation Element Update Survey

Take a moment and let your voice be heard in this important endeavor. Recreationists spend $650 million dollars each year to come and play in the County whether it be just visiting one of the many parks, boating, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, backpacking or paragliding. Chelan County offers many opportunities.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Transportation Benefit Districts:
The City of Chelan held a workshop on February 6, to educate its new council members on TBDs (Transportation Benefit Districts).

The City is considering going to the voters to form a TBD and increase its sales tax by 0.3% which would raise additional funds for its transportation improvements such as roads, sidewalk construction, maintenance, and operations. These funds can not be used for non-transportation purposes.

Once established and the City Council assumes board responsibilities, they can vote to either charge a local vehicle licensing fee or establish a local councilmatic sales tax of 0.1% (non-voter approved) or up to 0.3% by voter approval.

The council had an active discussion on the issue.

Mayor Erin McCardle began the discussion asking how the Council gets through the required public information piece of the ballot measure.

Community Development Director John Ajax stated that the large influx of tourists contribute the most money to sales taxes. “All of them go shopping in Chelan,” said Ajax.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth said, “I fully believe we should go to the voters.” He wanted to make sure the entire council was on board with that request. Councilman Mark Ericks agreed that the City should go for the 0.3% sales tax increase.

Ajax reiterated, “We are asking people to implement a sales tax increase.”

Councilman Bob Goedde remarked that there is a benefit of what the tax increase does.

The schedule towards the ballot measure follows:

• 2/24/24 – Recruitment of “For” and “Against” Committees
• Development of a talent bank application
• Develop clear committee responsibilities and timelines by 3/2/24
  
  
• 4/8/24 – Advertise opening of committees and solicit engagement from community
  
  
• 5/14/24 – Appoint members of each committee

From that point the City will launch a project website: a FAQ, Information, Outreach Calendar and then execute the outreach calendar by April 8. Along with monitoring the community’s concerns and misconceptions, the website will be updated to address those issues by April 8.

On June 24 through August 1, the committee will evaluate public support for the Council to vote on which direction the City will go.

By September there will be an Outreach Push to the community up to election day on November 4.

GENERAL TBD INFORMATION:

As of December 2022 there were 111 established TBDs in Washington; 34 of which are located in eastern Washington; 15 implemented a 0.2% voter approved sales tax. The State Legislature approved TBD sales tax authority from 0.2% to 0.3% with renewals of up to 10 years with voter approval.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Bluewater Terrace’s development application issues will come to fruition in the next five to seven days as Andy Kottkamp, Chelan County Hearing Examiner, reviews all of the material he has been provided from the City Staff, Developer and the concerned public.

At a hearing on Thursday morning, Kottkamp remarked that over 50 written comments on the proposed development had been received. He informed the crowded council chambers that his decision would be final and conclusive. The decision he makes can be appealed within 21 days of his decision.

Bluewater Terrace has created a number of concerns in the Community. The proposal is for a resort style winery/tasting room and vineyard with wine production on site including 20 homestay units and an event center for up to 120 people.

The proposal is for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) under the guise of the City’s agritourism code. The ag tourism code was initially developed so that working farms could have a homestay on site to add to the farms sustainability.

Bluewater Terrace has no agricultural use at this time. The plan is to circumvent that issue by building a winery and tasting room with production facilities. One of the questions is whether or not wineries, producing or not, are considered agriculture.

During his staff report, John Ajax, community development director, stated that staff had reviewed the CUP review criteria and said, “The applicant is proposing new agriculture on this site. They are providing vineyard and a production winery as an agri-business.”

Issues with the proposal have been forthcoming via written testimony for months. One of the most prevalent is access to the highway for which the applicant (Tim McDonald) has proposed moving the existing road farther east and build it to City street standards. This, according to his representative, Adam Haynie, will increase safety at the intersection of Hwy. 150 and Bluewater Road (the name they will call the new road).

The Haynie stated that the private access currently in use to serve nine residential properties is a private matter since the City doesn’t recognize Lenore Road as a city owned road. “We will coordinate with them,” said Haynie

Another issue that the community is concerned with is the addition of 20 homestay units (STRs) on the property. Haynie, stated buildout for the resort will take 10 years, also stated that the property is no longer feasible to use as an orchard. He also said that the income from the winery must be more than the homestay.

Kottkamp asked Haynie who long it would take for the vineyard plantings to produce wine grapes? Haynie deferred to McDonald who said it would take three years for the vineyard to produce wine grapes and that production facility would also need to purchase grapes from outside the area.

Kottkamp also asked how the 20 homestay units would support the winery? Haynie replied that the presentations on how wine is produced.

Public Comments:

Mike Cooney was mayor when the property was annexed into the city with idea that it would be built out as a residential neighborhood. He remarked that the move from a single family residential development to an ag-tourism resort was responsible. “Think about that,” Cooney said.

Brian Patterson said the proposed development was inappropriate for 20 homestay units. Stating that the development would not reach full capacity for the next five years, Patterson wondered why it was even being talked about at this stage. “It might support one or two homestay units,” said Patterson.

He had also written a 15 page comment for his testimony outlining all of the issue he sees with the development application.

Kari Sorenson, Manson business owner, stated that she has been a STR and Long Term rental owner and remarked that the applicant’s estimated use of STRs at the development was very understated. “We need to figure out what we are looking at,” she said. Haynie estimated homestays at three and one-half weeks. Sorenson said it was more like four months based on her rentals in Manson. “At $600 a night average,” she stated.

Julie McCoy said she was very concerned about the poor municipal code on agritourism. “I feel this is a very poor municipal code,” she said. She added that homestays would be the primary profit center. “Ag-tourism use does not support even one home stay. The applicant is hard pressed regarding primary income. It is the tail wagging the dog.”

After the public hearing was closed, Kottkamp stated that he was not taking the testimony lightly. “There are issues that need to be resolved,” he said. “I appreciate all comments and the lack of emotion,” stated Kottkamp.

He said he would apply the findings of fact and make his decision as it applies to the law.

Kottkamp told the audience to pay attention to the City and Planning Commission to stay informed. “You all add a degree of legitimacy to the process.

By Richard Uhlhorn

Manson Community Council Meeting Agenda
 | January 16, 2024
Manson Parks Department @ 6 pm

This meeting will be available on Zoom. If you can’t make it to the actual meeting, Zoom in:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89306676637

Meeting ID: 893 0667 6637•

There are several issues on the agenda of interest to the Manson community. The newest member of the council is proposing that a Community Survey be conducted and the council is asking for community input and delivery methods to reach the community. In the past, surveys have been delivered via Chelan County PUD bills.

The proposed Northshore Pathway has generated a lot of interest and while it’s a little early to be discussing ideas until a consultant has been hired to professionally look at the route, it certainly doesn’t hurt to get the communities concerns. The County will be reaching out in February or March with a forum to discuss the proposed pathway.

This project will be a collaboration between Chelan County and the City of Chelan.

On Thursday, January 18, Chelan County Hearing Examiner will hold a public hearing on the Bluewater Terrace development. There are a number of issues surrounding this development that are of concern to the Manson Community even though it is a City of Chelan development.

The meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the Manson Parks Conference Room.

 CALL TO ORDER Kari Sorensen | Cindy Smith | Chris Willoughby | Pam Calhoun | Michael Kirk •
 FLAG SALUTE •
TREASURER’S REPORT •
APPROVAL OF MINUTES November 2023 & December 2023

NEW BUSINESS:
1. Board appointment. (MOTION)
2. Nominations & voting for 2024 MCC Board positions. (MOTIONS)
3. Banking – Revisitation of signatories & address for statements. (MOTION)
4. Proposed “Community Survey” (Michael Kirk). (Delivery method? Mail? Email? Questions to ask?)
5. Proposal by Chelan County for around $40 million “North Shore Pathway” bike/walking path between Chelan & Manson: * Ideas on how to re-route & alleviate pinch point at Rocky Point & cabanas along the lake. * Location options for agreed upon upcoming community forum in Feb or March with County.
6. Chelan County discussing bringing one-way streets to Manson to help with parking issues. Thoughts? (Why don’t we suggest that Chelan County buy Manson School District’s half of Leifler Field to assist with District’s budgetary crisis?)
7. Brian Patterson to give update on Bluewater Terrace’s proposed project of 20 short term rentals (40 cars), winery, spa (cars cars) & event center for 120 attendees (cars) between Chelan & Manson at the long existing school bus turnaround just the Chelan side of Rocky Point. THIS VOLUME OF TRAFFIC WILL VASTLY AFFECT TRAFFIC ALONG HIGHWAY 150 AND WILL ADDITIONALLY SLOW TRAVEL BETWEEN CHELAN & MANSON.

This final hearing for this project is scheduled with the Hearing Examiner on Thursday January 18th at 10 am at Chelan City Hall.

PLEASE BE AT THIS HEARING. A SHOW OF COMMUNITY INTEREST IS VERY IMPORTANT!
The City of Chelan’s Planning Department has issued a recommendation of approval for this project, but final approval must come from the Hearing Examiner.

Also, there is still time to comment on this project. Address your comments to: “Andy Kottkamp, Hearing Examiner” and email them directly to John Ajax at: jajax@cityofchelan.us.

PUBLIC COMMENT | GOOD OF THE ORDER MEETING ADJOURNED

NEXT MEETING: February 20, 2024 @ 6:00 PM @ Manson Parks Department.

by Richard Uhlhorn

After hearing from eight City Council applicants, sitting councilmembers went into executive session to determine which applicant would be best to fill Mayor Erin McCardle’s vacant council seat.

After 30 minutes of deliberation, the Council returned and named ex-Mayor Bob Goedde as their choice to fill McCardle’s seat. Goedde, who has served the community for close to 30 years as a councilman and mayor, was the obvious choice because experience in municipal affairs and relationships with organizations and agencies.

It was obvious for those waiting to hear the council’s choice that other candidates were also being considered. Initially, the executive session was supposed to last 15 minutes, but got extended twice.

Goedde, who has been deeply involved in a number of ongoing city projects as the mayor, will give the new council some added experience and will be a welcome addition to the ongoing issues. “I want to assist Erin,” said Goedde. “There are a lot of things going on.”

He stated that he wants to work closely with the council and said he is not there to be a second mayor. “I’ve got two more years and then I’m done,” said Goedde.

Goedde was among the eight candidates, all of whom were quality applicants wishing to give back to the community they love.

Each applicant was given the opportunity to introduce themselves and answer a series of five questions which were:

1. What motivated you to apply?
2. What would be your three top priorities?
3. Should tourism be increased?
4. How would you address affordable housing?
5. Do you think the City should pay for downtown improvements?

Each candidate expressed their love of the community and their desire to give back.

Infrastructure, transportation issues, affordable housing, development, economic development and addressing the needs of Chelan residents was a thread through the answers.

Shane Collins remarked that affordable housing was the largest issue facing Chelan. When asked about tourism, Collins stated that there are a lot of ways tourism dollars could be spent.

Minda Gogal remarked that getting a handle on tourism and the need for infrastructure upgrades was high on her list of priorities. “We need to have a vision to find a balance with tourism,” said Gogal. She also stated that it is the City’s responsibility to fund downtown improvements.

Todd Higley would like to see more citizen feedback on issues facing the community and would like to see the tourism issues calmed down.

John Olson, who lost his seat on the council when he ran for mayor said he was still interested in in contributing to the council with his four years of experience. “I understand the issues and the great deal of work that needs to be done.” Housing, infrastructure and transportation were on top of his list of priorities.

Mary Signorelli said that the City’s water issues, airport expansion and affordable housing were the top priorities. “The City needs to get behind infrastructure issues,” said Signorelli. She also said the downtown Chelan should be a place that the community is proud of. She used Manson and its beautiful Christmas decorations as an example of what needs to be done. “We need a place we can all be proud of,” She said.

After Goedde’s appointment was announced, Mayor McCardle thanked all of the applicants and said that open positions in the City were coming up and hoped that the candidates would apply.

IN OTHER BUSINESS:

Rate & Fee Structure for Chelan Parks:

Parks Director Paul Horne got a little push back from Council on his proposed parking fee increase for local residents from Councilman Tim Hollingsworth. The proposed rate increase was from $25 per year to $35 per year. Hollingsworth said, “It does not bring significant revenue to the parks and it’s going to come off wrong with the residents. Personally I would like to see it remain at $25.” Councilman Terry Sanders agreed with Hollingsworth.

For non-Chelan Residents living in the Valley, the fee increased to $45 per year.

Councilman Mark Ericks was concerned that Parks was double charging those who pay a moorage fee for parking. “I would like to see no parking fees to those who pay a moorage fee,” said Ericks.

Lynette Grandy, a Chelan resident, spoke to the proposed increases in the Park’s AAU programs. She wondered why Parks wanted to increase fees to resident tax payers. “Families with more than one child could cost up to $200. AAU has far reaching benefits to the community,” she said.

Horne replied that AAU cards have gone up to $20 from $17 and that the Parks Department doesn’t make money off of AAU. “We are not opposed to keeping rates as low as we can,” said Horne. “We still offer incredible value.” He added that the new rate proposals are an effort to balance the Park’s budget.

Golfers will see an increase in greens fees from $38 to $44 in the off-season and $59 to $70 in the peak season. “Our fees offer an incredible value,” said Horne. “We have a pretty good sense of where we fit in the market.”

Single annual passes went from $900 to $975; Family annual passes from $1,500 to $1,600; Single Twilight passes from $500 to $550; Family Twilight passes from $700 to $800.

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS:

General Sewer Plan update:

Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the Council that the last sewer plan was updated in 2008 and needed to be updated again. “We asked Ecology for approval of the document and we did receive their approval letter on December 13.” Youngren said he now needs the Council to approve the plan which is over 400 pages. He introduced Eric Smith, RH2’s engineer to present an update.

Eric  told the Council that RH2 Engineering went over the plan and that it anticipates a 30 percent increase in population over the next 20 years. “You have a rather complex collection system,” he said.

According to Smith the treatment plant is getting closer to the 85 percent threshold when it will require planning and expansion. “We are not seeing that yet,” said Smith.

The City has surveyed all of its manholes and the mainline on Hwy. 150 is in need of replacement. “We are securing the funding for that project.”

Youngren added that the City has long term agreements in place with the Lake Chelan Reclamation District and South Shore Sewer District. “They are substantial funding partners,” he said.

Hollingsworth asked if the sewer lines could be replaced in sections. Smith replied that the City will have to maintain flow in service.

In addition to the aging sewer lines, the lift station on the north side of the old Woodin Avenue Bridge needs to be upgraded. “It is in a real critical location,” said Smith. Youngren added that design is comint to the Council in the next several months for approval. “There are many challenges that we are facing that still exist,” stated Youngren.

Smith also said the City would have to look at the sewer plant’s biological treatment system in the next five years.

Most of the above infrastructure upgrades are in the Capital Improvement Plans for action within the next six years.

Council Priorities:

City Administrator Wade Farris brought up the subject of the Council’s priorities. It was getting late into the meeting and Hollingsworth asked if the Council needed to go over it or hold off. Farris said, “Yes we do.”

Farris then reminded the Council that the City hired a federal lobbyist to look into federal help with the East Chelan water project. He also mentioned that the City is looking to Representative Mike Steele for a state appropriation for the project.

Mayor McCardle added that the East Water project is moving forward and the City still doesn’t have funding for it. “These are things we can’t kick down the road,” said McCardle.

Another issue is City Hall. Farris stated that several months ago, the City hired an individual to help deal with problems in the aging building. “He found some serious issues,” said Farris.

Youngren announced that the City has a grant to plan the stormwater system with a projection of stormwater construction two to three years in the future.

He also mentioned the Northshore Trail which he admitted wasn’t a perfect fit for the City’s priorities, but that funding is potentially available.

The Imagine Downtown is winding down its planning and the City is looking for funding from both the Feds and State to begin construction on the downtown improvements in the next one to three years.

Youngren stated that funding was available for Community ADA access and is currently in the planning phase with construction soon based on State funding sources.

Council Committee Assignments:

Council committee assignments not filled in at the earlier workshop were completed at this Council meeting. Shari Dietrich will liaise with Cascada Conservation District and the Chelan Planning Commission which she served on for five years. Councilman Brad Chitty will sit in as an alternate when Dietrich is not available.

Councilman Bob Goedde will liaise with the Port of Chelan and Douglas County, a position he held when he was the Mayor.

McCardle will liaise with Chelan County PUD.

2024 Council Committee Liaison Assignment Selection – AB AB 2024-001A (civicweb.net)

Mayor/Council comments:

It was announced that the Bluewater Terrace development would be heard by the Hearing Examiner on January 18 at 10 a.m. in Council Chambers.

Everyone on the Council thanked those that applied for McCardle’s position. Goedde said, “I’m glad to be back. It will give me the opportunity to help move issues I worked on forward.” Goedde has met with and promoted the East Chelan Water Project with Representative Schrier and will continue to work with her and McCardle to secure federal funding for the project.

McCardle encouraged all of the Council applicants to consider running for council positions and to apply for other positions within the City like the Planning Commission (one empty seat) and the Parks Board.

City meeting information:

City Council meets every second and fourth Tuesday in chambers beginning at 6 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend.

by Richard Uhlhorn

At its December 19th board meeting and after a post telephone conversation with CEO Aaron Edwards, All Things Lake Chelan learned about some of the issues and progress being made by the hospital.

Chelan Health has gone through a rough financial period over the past three to four years, but is currently on the rebound to financial health. Following is a report on the latest board meeting.

Board addition:
The first order of business was to swear in Len England as the newest member of the commission.

Bond Rating
The board was told that the hospital’s bond rating has been moved from negative to stable based on its current financial picture. CEO Edwards stated that the hospital has $9.9 million dollars in cash on hand which is way up from the $3.3 million last year. “We are doing a little better,” said Edwards.

The hospital grossed $5.3 million in November with a projected total of $52 million gross for the 2023 year.

November financials came in with a $107,000 loss which according to CFO Brant Truman is a massive improvement. “We continue to move forward.” Contracturals are up. According to Edwards, the hospital has contracts with insurance companies with whom the hospital negotiates prices for the year. A $600,000 Medicare adjustment will show up in the contracturals. “It is essentially a weird business,” said Edwards.

OB Services:
One of the big issues is the sustainability of its OB situation. With only eight to nine births a month it is difficult to keep OB’s on staff fulltime. “Nursing to date’s projected loss is $700,000,” stated Edwards. “It’s hard to keep up. We had 97 births last year.” He would like to grow that service line.

Director of Nursing, Rhianna Montgomery said, “If I lose one more nurse, we will be in a staffing crisis. OB nurses just want to be OB nurses.” She also stated that the nurses the hospital does have are very dedicated to the hospital’s mission.

The hospital has a nurse in training at Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane, but Montgomery said, “I need somebody now.” Truman remarked that a number of OB services across the nation have had to shut down.

The board unanimously agreed to entering a contract for an OB nurse at $243,000 per year.

Edwards stated that if it weren’t for the EMS Levy, EMS would also be a losing function. “We have gone to the legislature and argued that low volume hospitals should receive a special designation for EMT’s to medically assist in the hospital,” said Edwards. Both the House and Senate have bills addressing this issue (HB1907-2023-24 and SB5940).

Facilities:
The hospital is moving forward with its Highland Campus behind the new hospital. When built, it will house EMS and administration. “Our relationship with John Ajax (Community Development Director) has been very positive. There have been no surprises and no expectations we can’t meet. The permit is the next step,” reported Edwards.

The Hospital Board meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. in the new hospital’s Bragg conference room.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The City of Chelan moved into a new era of governance last night, Tuesday, January 2, when Erin McCardle and three new councilmen plus Mark Ericks were sworn in.

Mayor McCardle and the council assumed their seats and McCardle immediately got to the business of the Mayor Pro-Tem position. “Usually the most senior member of the council is selected as Mayor Pro Tem,” stated McCardle. “Tim Hollingsworth is the most senior.” Councilman Mark Ericks made the motion to approve Hollingsworth and the council voted for the motion.

Once the three new councilmembers: Terry Sanders, Brad Chitty and Jon Higgins were seated the workshop went into its business of the day.

Aviation Fuel Tax diversion:
First on the agenda was the “Diversion of Aviation Fuel Taxes” and the request for the city to join the coalition suing the State for diverting fuel taxes to other state uses. The amount of money diverted according to City Administrator Wade Farris amounts to an estimated $21 million per year that is under FAA rules supposed to be for aeronautical purposes only. “It turns out they’ve been doing other things,” said Farris.

Apparently whe00n called on this issue, the Airport authorities received no response from the state so the Chelan/Douglas Regional Port Authority decided to go through legal proceedings to help the coalition to rectify the issue.

“They are asking the City for S1,000,” said Farris. “They may come back for more. It is something we want to get going as soon as possible.”

Farris reported that the Port of Chelan County is giving $7,500.00 to the effort with Sea-Tac providing $25,000.00 and Spokane $10,000.00.

The Council approved a $1,000 contribution to the effort.

Council Liaison Positions:
Every year Council members are asked which liaison positions they would like to assume. McCardle began the discussion with the Council based on a spreadsheet they were provided.

Council members indicate their interest to liaise with the following agencies:

Cascadia Conservation District; Chelan County Sheriff’s Department Oversight Committee; CC Solid Waste Council; CC Fire District 7; Chelan Valley Housing Trust; Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council; Emergency Management Program; Historic Downtown Chelan Association; Lake Chelan Arts Council; Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce Board; Lake Chelan Research Institute; Lake Chelan Watershed Planning Unit; LEOFF Retirement Board; Link Transit Board; NCW Economic Development District; Parks Board; Planning Commission; Port of Chelan County; Public Facilities District; Chelan County PUD; and the Lake Chelan School District. What should be added is a person to liaise with the Hospital District.

“We have had good representation at the Port and it is definitely important.”

Tim Hollingsworth said he would continue to serve the Watershed Planning Unit and the Public Facilities District (Town Toyota). Referring to the Watershed Planning Unit, Hollingsworth stated that John Olson had been attending the meetings this past year. “It is an important group dealing with water rights and lake quality,” said Hollingsworth.

Hollingsworth also said it was important to stay engaged with the Chelan/Douglas County Housing District. “Having a voice at the regional level is important.”

Terry Sanders stated he was interested in serving as a liaison with the Parks Board and the Chamber of Commerce. Mark Ericks indicated that he would like to continue on the Sheriff’s Oversight Committee. He comes with a lot of law enforcement background.

Jon Higgins indicated he was interested in serving as a liaison with the Fire District and the School District. Brad Chitty is interested in serving on the Parks Board also.

Tim Hollingsworth added that he would continue as the City’s liaison with Town Toyota Center.

The Council will digest the information they have and address the final liaisons at the next Council meeting on January 9.

Mayor McCardle has created a “real” simple reporting sheet for City Liaisons to report on their positions at Council’s second meeting of the month.

Open Council Seat:

McCardle’s council seat is currently open. Interested applicants had until January 2 to apply for the position. According to Farris, the City has received eight applications. The Council will hear each applicants reason for wanting to fill the seat at the January 9 council meeting. The sitting Council will retire in executive session to determine who will take over McCardle’s old seat.

Council 2024 Priorities:

Farris reported on Council priorities for 2024 which include the East Water Project (TIF) and the City’s efforts to seek State and Federal funding to help pay for that project which hopefully will diminish the Junior Taxing District’s contributions.

The City has retained a Federal Lobbyist to help with the funding issue on a federal level. The City’s grant writer/funding consultant will work the State for other funding options.

Number two on the list of priorities is Affordable Housing. “We need to take advantage of the legislative appropriations for the State,” said Farris. A legislative priority list will be presented at the January 26^th Council meeting.

Farris said the priority list will be narrowed down to three to five  projects that will have a major impact on the community.

Public Works agenda:

Public Works Director Jake Youngren gave a quick synopsis of the department’s $4.8 million in projects under contract. He also remarked that Storm Water is an interesting issue with the City. “We don’t have enough allocations for storm water, but have applied for a $250,000 grant from the Department of Ecology (DOE) to address storm water,” said Youngren.

He also brought up the proposed Northshore Pathway and how Chelan has the most favorable chance of securing federal funding for that project. He mentioned the ongoing Imagine Downtown project with the HDCA which is pegged at $4 million to bring to fruition.

Parks:

Paul Horne reported that the Parks Department is looking at bringing the RV Park up to today’s standards. He also mentioned the Athletic Fields and the proposed community park project along with the Golf Course irrigation project. “There are long term plans to finance these projects,” said Horne.

Housekeeping:

City Clerk Peri Gallucci told the new councilmembers that she would be setting up secure emails for them.

Mayor McCardle thanked everyone for participating in the workshop and adjourned the meeting.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Manson Community Council’s meeting on Tuesday, December 19, hosted Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gearing and Mike Kaputa, director of Chelan County Natural Resources department. They requested an opportunity to present the possibility of obtaining funding to build the North Shore Pathway from Manson to Chelan.

Background:

This project was conceived as a priority for the Lake Chelan Trails Association approximately 30 years ago after the Association completed its 3.5 year effort to write a Comprehensive Trails Plan for the Valley.

The Association hired Jennifer Olson (JAO Consultants) to write a feasibility study along the Manson highway. (https://chelannorthshoretrail.com) It was, and is still planned as a multimodal trail separated from the highway.

The effort was supplemented with contributions from the City of Chelan ($10,000) and Chelan County’s Paths and Trails Fund ($30,000). The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) gave the Association a $225,000 ALEA grant to begin the project in 1995.

This grant, while welcomed, carried a 100% match and the Association was not ready to begin, so it returned the grant for the DNR’s other requests for ALEA funding.

In 2002, when Chelan County PUD was relicensing the Chelan Hydroelectric Project, Jennifer Olson, speaking for a coalition of eight Lake Chelan community and business groups (Lake Chelan Legacy Group), outlined an $11.25 Million Dollar request for funds to build four recreation projects as a part of their recreation obligations under the new license.

The request was for the PUD to create an endowment fund for these projects. The Northshore Pathway was a part of that request and the requested amount was about half of the estimated construction cost with the remaining funds coming from other public sources, private donations, and interest earnings from the proposed endowment fund.

Ultimately, the PUD turned down the proposal and the Northshore Pathway went into the hibernation.

Fast Forward:

Kaputa told the Council and audience that funding has been provided to the Chelan/Douglas County Transportation Council. The County is interested in exploring the proposed pathway’s potential development and is willing to seek a transportation consultant to provide a pathway alignment.

“What’s the best way for a consultant to reach Manson,” asked Kaputa. It was suggested that several open houses through the Community Council  and Manson Parks would be the best way to connect with the community.

The idea of constructing a multimodal pathway separated from the highway brought up a number of questions from the council and community members.

Kari Sorenson brought up the obvious choke point at Rocky Point and the potential difficulties of the cabanas on the east side of Rocky Point. Mike O’Neal, a resident on the Chelan side of Rocky Point and also a cabana owner said he would be concerned about trail being right against the cabana properties. He went on to say he would be concerned about safety on Hwy 150.

Mayor Bob Goedde remarked that a lot of leg work has already been accomplished which puts the Northshore Pathway at the top of the list for potential funding of the $40 million allocated for multimodal trail systems.

Chris Willoughby suggested that the route could be up and around Rocky Point. Gearing also mentioned that after it was built there was the need for someone to operate and maintain the trail.

With one road into and out of Manson, the corridor would have a number of issues to overcome along the waterfront.

Kaputa said the County was looking to hire a consultant in February to begin the design and cost estimate. He also stated that the County would need to place someone as the point of contact throughout the process.

With the Northshore Pathway’s corridor passing through both County, City and DOT right a way, it should be a collaborative effort between Chelan and Manson.

In other business:

Mike Kirk was sworn in to the council to replace John Frolker who resigned in October. Chris Willoughby agreed to stay on the Council to replace outgoing Cindy Smith . “I’ll do another round I guess,” said Willoughby.

Short Term Rentals:

Brian Patterson reported on upcoming changes to the current STR code. One change that will affect STRs is that the owner has to be on-site. Parking is another issue that will be addressed.

Sorenson said that for every bedroom a parking space should be required. Gearing remarked that the code changes will include not parking on right-of-ways. “We will change the code to address boat trailers also,” she said. “Parking has become a huge problem.”

Manson Community Council meets every third Tuesday in the Manson Parks Building beginning at 6 p.m.