by Richard Uhlhorn

Speed Limit Revision:
Chelan City Council had a lot on its plate Tuesday evening, September12 including Ordinance No. 2023-1611 reducing the Speed Limit to 25 mph on a section of Hwy. 97A from just west of Chelan High School to just east of Morgan Owens Elementary to increase safety.

The request for the speed limit change came from the Washington State Department of Transportation for the safety of pedestrians which is mostly students. City Administrator Wade Farris said, “WSDOT reached out to us based on the number of instances they’ve had.”

In addition to the revised speed limit, the City will be adding a number of crosswalks on the highway to facilitate crossing. The change will lower the limit from the current 30 mph to 25 mph. The Washington State Patrol is also in favor of the request.

Playground Equipment:
Guy Evans (Rotary Club of Lake Chelan) was on hand to tell the City Council that both the club and a District grant were donating $5,000 each to the City’s Park’s Department to provide new playground equipment at Lakeside Park.

These funds will augment the Colville Casino’s 2021 donation of $5,555 to the Parks Department to benefit children. “We agreed to spend some of the money raised from our bike ride (Century Ride) for something down at Lakeside,” said Evans.

Horne added that the new playground will serve children from two to five years old along with their parents. Horne said, “The importance of play is crucial for kid’s development.” The new structure will encourage imaginative play and encourage the development of cognitive and social emotional skills at a child’s critical development stage.

The Rotary’s $10,000 along with Colville’s $5,555 and $4,445 from the Park’s Operating Budget will pay for the structure from Kompan Manufacture.

Lakeside Park RCO Grant Update:
Parks Director Paul Horne and Berger Partnership LLC representative Jason Henry presented an update on the Lakeside Park grant to Council.

The current master plan is to perform upland improvements including a major restroom upgrade and playground improvements. “We’ve received lots of comments and input,” said Henry.

Out on the water side of the park, there will be new docks and a buoyed off swim area. Parking improvements are up in the air at this point. The project is projected to cost $1 million. Horne stated that the new docks would be metal grated and of higher quality than the original docks which will be removed. “The new docks will be there for a long time,” said Horne.

The current restrooms will modified with individual stalls. “This will be more of a remodel than a teardown,” said Horne. “We hope we can salvage the majority of it.”

The Playground will utilize the $20,000 in donations and is already Federally permitted.

Peter Jamtgaard said he is not in favor of of unisex bathrooms. He also sees continued issues with jet skis entering the swim areas, but Horne said that would be mitigated by a system they can’t cross. “We are using a different approach with a physical barrier,” said Horne. He also said they have had a good conversation with the Marine Patrol.

Mark Ericks asked about bathroom safety for children. Mayor Goedde remarked about the use of tents and barbeques. “Are they authorized,” he asked. Horne replied that tents with floors are discouraged because they damage the lawn.

The project is moving forward and should be under construction in 2024. The next steps are:

·         Three months to complete grant award from the RCO

·         Six months to finalize the design and documents on the restroom and water work

·         Six months for permitting

·         Three months for bidding and award

·         Six months for construction.

Lakerider Sports contract:
Horne reported that the Parks Department is in the process of revising the Lakerider concession contract. “When we started we had rose colored glasses on,” said Horne. “The numbers were too high. It sounds good on paper but was a lot of work. We are going to keep it simple with a flat rate and 20 percent of the gross receipts.”

Horne also remarked that Lakerider proprietor Wayne Bird has done more than just rent paddleboards and kayaks. “He has become an ambassador for Lake Chelan.”

Bird told the Council that he has served people from around the world. He said that one mother people are going through,” said Bird.

Horne also said he would like to reduce the 2023 contract also. “I don’t have a motion for that, but will have legal counsel to craft a financial reduction.”

Council approved the 2024-2026 contract extension.

In other business:

The Council approved a pavement preservation project on the Parks parking lots. This project will include crack sealing and restriping. “It hasn’t been done for 14 years,” said Horne.

This project will be conducted at Don Morse Park, Lake Chelan Marina parking lot and up at the Golf Course at a cost of $110,000.

The Council approved a 2023 Ardurra Department of Ecology Clean Water State Revolving Fund Task for sewer line replacement.

They also unanimously approved three RH2 Engineering issues including:

·         A Traffic Analysis Task

·         A task authorization for the design of the Submarine Water Main Replacement.

·         Pre-design Services for the Airport Water Transmission Main.

Mayor/Council/Staff comments:

John Olson remarked that the Housing Trust double booked against the Council meeting and that he attended for a short period. “Erin (McCardle) gave a nice presentation. It’s nice to see that they are moving in the right direction,” said Olson.

Peter Jamtgaard said he supports the Housing Trust and will work with them. He also remarked that he would like to see Card Rooms in Chelan. He thinks it would be a draw for people who like to play.

Erin McCardle stated that she was on a panel at the Housing Trust meeting and spoke for five to 10 minutes. McCardle said, “Growth is happening everywhere.” It is up an average of 50% in outlying areas and Chelan. Wenatchee is up 44%. McCardle also said that winter rentals from October to May put 30 to 40 households on the street after May with nothing to rent. She said that Senior Housing and Family Housing are the two top needs in Chelan.

Mayor Goedde stated that he met with Representative Schier and will be discussing the potential of some federal money for the TIF. He also said that the City needs to do something about the Beebe Springs and Wilmorth properties to help with the housing shortages. “We need to change from warehouse to multi family in that area. It is slow.”

Jake Youngren mentioned the Council’s request for a stormwater update. He said that the city is currently navigating legal challenges regarding the large storm events that caused damage. He is also in discussions with the DOE about a $250,000 proposed stormwater plan.

Youngren said he is working with the Chelan Hills Homeowners Association. “We are looking at ways to help with some of those (flooding) issues.”

Paul Horne said 330 people have taken the Parks Survey and that he will be keeping the survey open for several more weeks.

Wade Farris remarked that the State needs TORT reform. “We need to pressure the legislature which will take an effort by everyone.”

by Richard Uhlhorn

Paul Rodgers and his wife Carol, residents of Chelan Hills, were back at the dais at the Tuesday evening, August 22, City Council meeting during the Citizen Comment period reminding the Council that it has now been a year since the 100 year torrential rain storm flooded the community causing thousands of dollars worth of damage to residential property.

“We urge you to consider (upgrading) infrastructure,” Rodgers told the Council. His wife, Carol, stated that every time a thunderstorm threatens, she gets worried they will sustain more damage to their property.

Rodgers remarked that Jake Youngren did take a look at the area that was impacted and said his hat was off to Councilman Chris Baker who also took the time to visit the area.

When and if Public Works corrects City storm infrastructure in Chelan Hills remains unknown.

Community Development Proclamation:

Mayor Bob Goedde read a 2023 Community Development Proclamation into the record and said, “I’m really proud of our Community Development people. John (Ajax)… stand up and take a bow.”

Code Enforcement Compliance Officer:

City Administrator Wade Farris introduced a Law Enforcement Services Agreement Amendment for a Code Enforcement Compliance Officer. The motion put forth was to authorize City staff to proceed with negotiations with the Chelan County Sheriff’s Department for a Law Enforcement Services Agreement between the two agencies.

“Our (city) code enforcement officer has a hard time doing (complaint) code enforcement. I think this is a good idea.” Community Development Director John Ajax remarked that his code enforcement officer has more than enough building inspections going on to make it difficult to perform other enforcement issues that come up.

City staff met with Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison and his team to discuss the possibility of contracting for a full-time code enforcement services with a dedicated officer to the City.

This individual would have the authority to investigate city violations, issue fines and manage parking violations. The City’s approach has been reactive and the new position would be focused on more efficient and timely responses to violations.

Financial implications:

• Vehicle/Vehicle Equipment/Laptop                                            $73,534.00
  The City would have to purchase the vehicle
• Initial Issue Uniforms/Firearm/Taser                                         $  8,243.00
• Office Supplies & equipment                                                     $  4,996.00
• Training/Membership                                                                $  3,712.00
• Commissioned Officer with authority to enforce             $101,000 to $127,109
• Grand Total would be between                                     $191,681 to $217,594

Finance Director Jackie Tupling said the costs were comparable with our own costs.

Sgt. Rob Huddleston asked if the job was on a complaint basis. Farris replied that the City would expect the officer “to go out and see stuff (violations) like weeds, trailers, vehicles and STR violations.

Farris stated that last year abandoned vehicles and others impacted snow removal.

Sgt. Huddleston stated that this officer would be a brand new hire. Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if the new hire would be fully trained. Huddleston replied that the County hires fully trained retired law enforcement officers.

Councilman Mark Ericks (retired law enforcement) stated that he feels the Sheriff’s Department does a really good job for Chelan. “From my perspective, I’d like to see volunteer compliance to complaints.” He added that there are a lot of people in Chelan that don’t have driveways and have to park on the street and said the City Code allowed street parking for 72 hours.

One of the criteria being set forth for the position is that the Code Enforcement Officer would work, at least on Saturdays.

MOU with Chelan Fruit:

The City and Chelan Fruit have agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for utility easements and Right-of-Way Acquisition. The agreement will open up Anderson

Road for sewer/water for the Chelan Valley Housing project.

The Council unanimously authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute the MOU.

Legacy Ridge Phase 3 Performance Bond:

The Legacy Ridge developer is required to provide a left hand turn lane into its access to the development. The turn lane criteria has been through multiple agency reviews and is almost finished. The Council approved a 12 month bond extension for the left turn lane. Councilman Hollingsworth remarked that it isn’t the developer dragging their feet on this issue.

Sanders Street Pedestrian Improvement Project:

I’ve got good news,” reported Jake Youngren, Public Works Director. The City was awarded $709,092 of Federal Transportation Alternative Funds from the Chelan-Douglas County Transportation Committee. The City will be working with the DOT in hopes of receiving that funding in 2024.

This project includes a bulb out and crosswalk at the intersection of Sanders and Trow Avenue, Okanogan Avenue and Wapato Street. These improvements will create a much safer crossing for pedestrians including students walking along Hwy. 97A.

Imagine Downtown Chelan:

Separate article being prepared and coming soon.

Mayor/Council Comments:

Tim Hollingsworth said he thought the Wilmorth property was a good fit for an affordable housing development. “We had a robust discussion,” he said. He also said he was excited about a trail corridor.

Mark Ericks stated he would like to see an opportunity to open up the Citizen Comment period to the Council “so we can talk back. It would be an opportunity to get more information behind the citizen’s comments.”

John Olson also mentioned the 20 acres available above the upper Beebe Springs Trailhead that the county has offered to the City.

Erin McCardle wondered about the traffic study and Jake remarked that it will be available.

Mayor Goedde remarked that Link was still searching for a Park & Ride location. He also mentioned the 20 acres and said it was time to do something with it. “I think we need Commissioner Gearing to make possible to transfer (property) to the city,” said Goedde.

Parks Director Paul Horne reported that the parks survey has been tweeked. The survey is available for the next three to four weeks and can be found at https://chelanparkssurvey.com.

City Administrator reported that the annual City Council/Staff retreat will be held on September 30 in the downstairs meeting room at the Chelan Golf Course.

On Tuesday, September 5, the City will hold a TIF workshop and on Wednesday, September 6, at 6 p.m. at Campbell’s Resort, Roger Brooks will be giving a free presentation on the 20 Ingredients of an Outstanding Destination.

 This program presentation is being sponsored by:

City of Chelan

Chelan Douglas Regional Airport Authority

Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce

Visit Chelan County

By Richard Uhlhorn

Assistant Chief report:

Reserve Fire Fighter Program proposal:

Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman has written a proposal that could change the staffing dynamics at Chelan Fire & Rescue. It will be up to the commissioners to analyze this proposal before approving, changing or denying it.

Ever since the District began its move towards a career fire department, it has had a difficult time recruiting and retaining volunteers who were willing to dedicate the time to become certified firefighters required by State Law. Many potential volunteers either didn’t have the time to commit to the program or just weren’t interested because the benefits didn’t fit their expectations.

Sherman stated that only 50 percent of the volunteers returned post COVID. Since potential volunteers mostly come from the community’s working class, affordable housing becomes an issue. “They can’t afford to live here,” said Sherman. Both the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Forest Service are having similar staffing issues.

With career firefighters taking care of most 911 calls, the Department is asking less and less of the volunteer staff which the administration is now re-evaluating. “This program,” said Sherman “addresses the more critical factors of personnel issues.” Fifty percent of the current crop of volunteers are failing to meet the Department’s minimum participation guidelines.

The program will target people who want to be in fire service jobs but have flexible scheduling. Sherman says the program will embrace a new approach to community involvement and public safety.

“Wildfires in the wildland/urban interface are one of Chelan County’s greatest natural hazards,” said Sherman.

The program being presented would, in Sherman’s eyes, establish a cohesive team of reserve firefighters and enhance the agencies response capabilities. The program would require the following:

·         Reserve firefighters would have to commit to 72 hours per month for the first year.

·         Forty eight hours per month after the first year.

·         They would be offered 12, 24 and 48 hour shifts

·         They would be compensated at $26 per hour.

·         There would be overtime opportunities for State Mob responses.

Fire Chief report:

Chelan Fire has five firefighters on State Mobilization helping with the Oregon Road Fire near firefighting efforts and the District also has an engine with three firefighters assigned to help fight the blaze.

At its commission meeting on August 16, the Chief Asher introduced and pinned the District’s new mechanic, Jason Miller. Miller is replacing John Goyne who retires at the end of the month.

Last month the department responded to 57 calls, most of which were medical. However, Chief Asher stated that July was a busy time for the District. The department firefighters responded to 11 non-medical calls including three brush fires, one high angle rescue in the Chelan River Gorge, a potential fire in the Whaley Building that turned out to be just smoke, three state mobilizations, and a semi-truck accident at the bottom of McNeil Canyon.

Commissioner Jones asked if any fines have been levied for false alarms. Chief Asher replied that none had been.

Chief Asher reported that contract negotiations are continuing with the career staff.

On September 5, there will be a workshop with the City on the proposed TIF (Tax Incremental Financing) that encompasses two percent of the taxable land in the Junior Taxing Districts. “It’s an earlier in the day meeting between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. with City Administrator Wade Farris and City Development Director John Ajax,” Asher said. He added that he had been contacted by multiple fire districts that are struggling with the same issues the Fire District has with the TIF. “They have the same questions we have.”

“This is the busiest time of the year for calls,” said Asher. He reported on new radios funded by RiverCom and the new Slide Ridge repeater that will be up by November 1. The repeater tower is permitted for 60 feet.

Asher reported that the District would take delivery of a Type 1 engine at the end of October and the second engine at the first of the year.

Station 71 is getting a generator that is a piece of critical infrastructure for the station in case of power outages during emergencies.

The fire commission meets every third Wednesday at 3 p.m. at Station 71 in the upstairs meeting room. The public is encouraged to attend.

by Richard Ulhorn

After a contentious Manson Community Council meeting, the council lost its chairman. After a perceived threat by the County officials in attendance towards her Blueberry Hills business, Kari Sorenson tendered her resignation from the council. Her letter follows:

Please accept my resignation from Manson Community Council effectively. It’s been a pleasure to serve with each of you on the council in representation of the community of Manson, which has my whole heart. I plan on continuing to be involved, however, as a community member where I can represent my own thoughts and beliefs more publically in our community without being outright threatened in order to be silenced.

In regard to our Community Council meeting last evening, the level of depraved disrespect and devaluation that the County showed toward their Community Councils last night (Malaga and Peshashtin’s as well) sickened me, as well as their continued and vehemently defended lack of transparency toward the communities at large and to silence the voices of our small rural communities at all costs. Add to that having my own business’s conditional use permit literally threatened twice in that meeting to silence me in that meeting was the very last straw. The money grab at the County level versus the needs and desires of folks that actually live daily here in our communities is completely at odds. We all know how this will end if we don’t stand up and SAY SOMETHING as a community. We have a lot to lose.

I appreciate the service that the Manson Community Council has provided to the community over all these years and I will continue to support you in any way that I can. It’s a thankless job and I am here to thank each of you. It’s a tough job and thank you for being willing to do it.

Sincerely,

Kari Sorensen

While the agenda had a number of issues to tackle, the most contentious was “who made the decision to remove the Councils from the Agency list and how do we get back on it.”

My specific question to Deanna Walter – Chelan County Community Development Director, was why the council wasn’t informed of an application to open a distillery in a Manson residential area that residents were concerned about?

Sorenson asked why the council didn’t receive notices of projects that impact the Manson community. Walter replied, “You receive some of them prior to approval. What kind of applications are you looking for?”

Over the years, the Manson Community Council has struggled with getting information from the County on issues that impact the community. The Council would like the opportunity to view and advise on any application that potentially impacts the community.

Unfortunately, advise is the operative word here. The Manson Community Council is an elected advisory council and Walter made it very clear that Manson, Malaga and Peshastin, as advisory councils, are not able to impose conditions of approval on the applications the County receives. “Any comments that come in (on an application) are not agency comments,” said Walter. “They are public comments. I understand you are frustrated.”

Buell Hawkins, a past county commissioner, remarked that Manson’s council was advisory only. Councilmember John Frolker replied, “So we have no authority.”

According to Walter, the County advertises and posts each application in the newspaper of record (Wenatchee Daily World) and at the site of each application. Those who live within 200 feet of the proposed development are notified by mail.

Applications are approved based on meeting the relevant county codes. “You either meet the code or you don’t,” said Walter. It doesn’t matter if you oppose an application as an individual or agency. If it meets the code, it is automatically approved.

Hawkins turned the conversation to the topic of ag-tourism which he was involved with in the initial efforts to help commercial agriculture develop value added ag-tourism businesses.

Twenty years ago, Blueberry Hills came to life in the commercial agriculture area that was mostly planted in apple orchards. The business grew into a major tourist attraction and commercial agricultural business with acres of blueberries.

Along with Blueberry Hill’s success (so successful, they are having difficulty keeping up with the restaurant side of the endeavor) wineries began to emerge in the Manson area as orchardists gave up on the apple business and sold out to winery owners for vineyard development or for residential development.

“Beware of what you ask for,” stated Hawkins. He mentioned the huge increase of business in the valley that is disrupting the once quiet community. “You are seeing more businesses in the area that you don’t desire,” said Hawkins mentioning the NIMBI complex of “you have your piece of the pie” but not in my backyard.

The Manson population has increased to 4,600 as of 2020 and is currently estimated at 4,700 to 4,800 residents. Chelan’s 2020 (inside the city limits) population has reached 4,800 residential units and is estimated to be 4,950 now. (source – City Councilman John Olson).

Walter added that the commissioners can only put issues on the docket that they receive. The meeting segued into the issue of Manson’s STR (Short Term Rental) businesses.

Short Term Rental discussion:

According to Walter, STRs in a commercial agricultural zone need a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to operate legally. The questions asked by the Council were:

• How can the public obtain a current list of licensed STRs?
• What is the correct procedure for STR complaints?
• Have any STRs actually lost their licenses due to the three-complaint rule?
• Have any fines been paid by homeowners regarding valid complaints? How can we obtain that information?
• Now that the STR code is in place and licenses are being purchased annually, are the Code Enforcement officers’s hours being expanded beyond the Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule?
• What recommendations from the STR Task Force are moving forward, but not implemented yet?
• Are STRs allowed to be within the 100 foot setback for farms and orchards?

Commissioner Tiffany Gearing said the County is doing a map. “We are working on it.” This map will have the STR number and Occupancy number, the owners name and address.

If a complaint is made about activities at an STR, the owner of that STR has, by code, 60 minutes to mitigate the problem. “If they don’t, I need the contact number,” said Walter. “They have to remedy the problem within one hour and fix the problem. If they don’t it goes to Code Enforcement.”

Unfortunately, the three Code Enforcement officers work a regular five day shift. “We employ retired law enforcement as code enforcers,” said Sheriff Mike Morrison. “They don’t want to work weekends.” However, regular deputies will respond to a complaint on weekends and then turn the complaint over to Code Enforcement on Monday.

Morrison added that taking photographs and videos help code enforcers with their followups.

The County has the ability to pull a STR permit off the books and cancel their permit, but the STR  issue throughout the county is out of control.

The process for fines is in place and the County is looking at hiring a monitoring company to look at STRs and AirBnbs. Hawkins remarked that if the STR or rental isn’t paying the Hotel lodging tax, they are probably not reporting their income on the federal taxes. “Once the tax collectors enter your life takes on a much different light,” said Hawkins.

In other business:

Manson Parks has initiated WiFi at their building and installed a Smart Television so the Manson Community Council can no live stream their meetings to public through ZOOM.

The County Public Works department has installed “No Parking” signs in the alley behind Manson’s main street to the dismay of many employees who used to park there. “We have received a number of angry telephone calls,” said Gearing. The decision to limit parking is to enable emergency vehicle access.

People are still parking there despite the new signage. Gearing told the council to call RiverCom to complain and a sheriff’s deputy would ticket the offenders.

Council member John Frolker gave an update on the Chelan County Cascade Public Infrastructure Fund, a task force committee he serves on.

Six of seven applications for funding were approved and included a project in Cashmere, an Entiat general sewer plan, a Wenatchee sewer line, a renovation of a 31 unit affordable housing units in Leavenworth. Chelan Valley Housing Trust’s application was not funded because it did not qualify. “I was happy to serve on this committee,” said Frolker.

Comments:

One past Manson Community Councilmember stated that nothing has changed in all the years she served. “It’s like the County doesn’t care about what people in the community think.”

Several other individuals commented negatively about the meeting while one attendee said he appreciated that County officials showed up.

With Ms. Sorenson’s resignation, a seat will open up for an appointment.

The next Manson Community Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 19.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Our Valley Our Future agreement:

At its Tuesday, August 8 City Council meeting the Council approved a professional Services Agreement with Our Valley – Our Future (OVOF) to engage in an outreach program with the community to help assist in identifying shared community values.

According to Community Development Director John Ajax, the process will play a pivotal role in facilitating the development and updates of the City’s Comprehensive Plan that is scheduled for completion in 2016.

Ajax has reached out to the community of Manson to see how Chelan and Manson can interact with this process.

Councilwoman Erin McCardle asked when the process will begin. Ajax replied the “sooner the better.”

The agreement encourages the exchange of ideas and resources throughout the different communities in the region to promote cooperation and solidarity in an effort to proactively develop plans, policies, programs and initiatives.

The OVOF proposal includes the following summarized Scope of Work for community outreach in the Lake Chelan area to identify shared community values and aid in city and community planning:

• Tasks and deliverables are primarily OVOF’s responsibility, but City of Chelan and other communities may assist in some tasks.

• The preliminary budget is $33,180, subject to mutual agreement on final hours and tasks.

• Key players and their roles: OVOF: Overall advisor, process design, community outreach, research, value identification, and final report. Project Management Team: Input, review, public support, calendar management, and ensuring community representation.
Project Partners: Support with venues, publicity, and other tasks as needed. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS Professional Services Area Wide Planning Review in the amount of $40,000 is budgeted in Planning.

OVOF shall be paid $33,180 for the duration of the project.

History:

Our Valley Our Future was founded in 2015 by a group of community leaders following a TEDx Conference in Wenatchee. At the time, the region was facing several challenges including wildfires, the housing crisis, cultural divide, low educational attainment rates and the impending closure of the Alcoa Plant.

In April 2015, America’s Best Communities announced Our Valley What’s Next as one of the 50 quarterfinalists from around the country in the contest. Later that year, the organization made the top 15 list in the competition, receiving $75,000 to develop a community plan. That money allowed Our Valley What’s Next to gather input from more than 3,000 residents, to hold visioning and planning sessions, and ultimately to create a regional strategic visioning plan for the years 2017-21. When this Action Plan was unveiled in late 2016, the organization also announced a name change to Our Valley Our Future.

In January 2017, Our Valley Our Future kicked off the Action Plan’s implementation phase as 81 partnering organizations began work on the projects and programs contained in the Action Plan. OVOF also began awarding small grants to lead partners, with funding coming from the Community Foundation of NCW via The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Philanthropy Northwest.

Later in 2017, Wenatchee Valley TREAD (Trails, Recreation, Education, Advocacy, Development), was formed, becoming the first game-changer project in the Action Plan to meet its objectives.

Also in 2017, OVOF conducted a community survey to assist with the Housing game-changer initiative. The survey was completed by 1,700 residents and the results served as the basis for a 2018 “Where Will We Live?” housing report containing 22 recommendations to add more middle-market housing in the region.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Tuesday evening’s City Council meeting opened with a public hearing on the proposed annexation of the Sundance Slope LLC above Legacy Ridge an adjacent to Crystal View Estates.

Crystal View residents filled the Council chambers for a chance to oppose this annexation which has reached the required 60 percent petition vote needed to move forward with the annexation. The following public hearing was the next step into the annexation process. “There will be no decision at this meeting,” stated John Ajax.

The testimony taken at this public hearing will be heard by the Boundary Review Board and Ajax stated that he had no idea how the board will act.

The Council members had the first opportunity to comment on the proposed resolution and Chris Baker asked at what point would water and sewer be required on the property. Ajax replied that it would take a land application. “There is no development being proposed at this time,” Ajax said.

Currently the property is in use as apple orchard. Owner/annexation proposer Troy Hawkins stated that his orchard existed before Crystal View Estates and that it is difficult to have a piece of property surrounded by residential developments in the City. He added that he doesn’t have a crystal ball for the future, but currently and into the near future the land would remain in orchard.

Crystal View residents, on the other hand, are not happy with the proposed annexation. Resident Darrell Cotten stated that based on projected demand, there has been no discussion about roads, water or sewer.

Cotten added that 13 years ago when the Legacy Ridge development began, there were requirements in place to provide right and left turn lanes off of Hwy. 150. The uplake turn lane has been added, but to this date the down lake turn lane has not been installed.

In a letter he delivered to the Council, Cotten stated that the intersection with Crystal View and Hwy. 150 is “a dangerous accident waiting to happen.”

Cotten also claims that the City “seems to have a pattern of expansion without infrastructure..” He added that the Sunslope annexation proposal is another example of this and he is opposed to the petition for annexation.

Brent Morrison, president of the Crystal View Homeowners Association is also against the proposed annexation. “Chelan is experiencing uncontrolled growth,” said Morrison. He envisions another 100 lot development just like Legacy Ridge and asked the Council to consider a moratorium on more development until traffic issues are addressed. City Attorney said that a moratorium was not appropriate and answered John Olson’s question about the legality of a moratorium would be better suited for an executive session.

John Davis, another area resident, was in favor of the annexation and called the opposition typical of the ‘Not In My Backyard’ complainers. “I’m all for the City to go ahead and do the annexation,” he said.

The opposition issues clearly center around traffic in and out of Crystal View Estates and the traffic impact Legacy Ridge has had on their development. John Olson said he has heard numerous comments about the Hwy. 150 turn lane and a crosswalk to Crystal View Estate’s marina. Ajax replied that those issues will be addressed as soon as they are resolved.

Erin McCardle asked if any development application would address any of the concerns being raised. She was told they would be.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Several weeks ago, Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gearing and County Department Heads held a meeting in Chelan City Council Chambers to discuss County activities and to answer questions that residents may have.

Deanna Walter, County Development Director, spoke to the planning department’s activities. She said that staff turnover is always an issue and that the department is down two building technicians.

She said that average permitting with the Planning Department is three weeks for residential applications and three months for commercial applications. Interest rates have risen enough to make construction affordability difficult.

“We are looking for ways to increase density,” said Walter. She also said that manufactured homes are not allowed in Wenatchee and wondered why.

Short Term Rentals:

Walter said the County is still accepting applications for STRs in Manson. “I’m big on customer service,” she said. Chelan City Councilman John Olson asked if the County would accept tiny homes to alleviate affordable housing issues. Walter replied it was a great idea and the County is not closing down on it.

Microsoft plans:

Olson also asked about Microsoft plans in Malaga. Walter replied that the only thing they have received is an application to permit a retaining wall. “They are a ways out,” said Walter. She said the final facility would employ 70 for each building. “I don’t know what that means. There is no housing component. We don’t have workforce camping or an RV Park.”

ADU Density requirements:

The County allows for 12 units per acre and ADUs are exempt from density requirements. “ADUs don’t count for denisity.”

County Engineer:

Chelan County Engineer Eric Pierson remarked that the County is embarking on its chip sealing work with a lot of it being accomplished in the Manson area. “The work is weather dependent,” aid Pierson. He explained that the County schedules chip sealing of the main roads every two years and the residential roads every four years.

The budget for chip sealing is $1.7 million dollars.

Gearing remarked that Manson Blvd. has been narrowed to 11 feet in hopes it will lower speed limits to 25 mph. They have also posted No Parking Signs in the alley behind Manson Blvd. so Fire and EMS vehicles can get through.

Totem Pole road work is in the design stage and will include sidewalks and a new stormwater system. The initial estimate for this work is $2.3 million dollars. “The plan is to construct in 2026,” said Gearing.

Natural Resources:

Mike Kaputa, Natural Resources Director, told the audience that the Watershed Planning Unit and the County are working hard at keeping invasive species out of Lake Chelan. Zebra and Quagga mussels are the worst fear and a boat inspection program is in place. “Lake Chelan is at high risk,” said Kaputa.

The boat inspection program is mobile and made available through a series of grants to pay for six seasonal workers on Friday, Saturday and Sunday’s. “We want to collect as much information where boats are coming from,” said Kaputa.

Kaputa shared a story about a Minnesota couple that drove directly to Mill Bay where they tried to launch their boat only to find it locked to the trailer. “It had been flagged in Minnesota for invasive species.” Washington State Fish and Wildlife was called and the boat was cleaned.

Grizzly Bear introduction:

Much to the chagrin of local residents, Grizzly bear introduction to the North Cascade complex is back on the table. The National Park Service and US Fish and Wildlife are planning on introducing 10 bears annually for the next 20 years. That is up to 200 bears added to the ecosystem.

The biggest fear regarding Grizzly’s is potentially dangerous human interaction situations. Management is an issue. Wolves are currently being managed on the forests and a number of packs have been located..

Bull Trout re-introduction:

The introduction of the federally endangered Bull trout into Lake Chelan tributaries is being studied. If allowed the potential impacts could be profound. The study will not be finished for several more years and there will be public meetings on the issue in the future.

Water availability:

“We don’t have an immediate shortage, but we don’t have an endless supply,” said Kaputa. He added that there was plenty of water for the next 10 to 12 year horizon. “We are working with plenty of strategies.”

Stehekin:

There is a long term management plan for the Stehekin Community. The Park Service is looking at its land acquisition plan and the PUD is looking at Stehekin’s facility future.

Tiffany Gearing comments:

Gearing remarked that the County received 6,500 comments about an County economic plan. She also said the County is working with the Tribes, in particular with the Colville Confederated Tribe and the Yakima Tribe. They are looking at future partnerships.

Gearing also remarked that the County Commissioners received $2 million requests for lodging tax funds and decided to increase its awards from $560,000 to $800,000.

In Chelan and Manson,k the Echo Valley Ski Club was awarded $70,000 to construct a new rental facility and the Manson Chamber of Commerce was granted $68,000 for a Manson beautification project which includes removing trees and replacing irrigation in the downtown corridor.

The County is seeking a contractor to remove woody debris from the lake. “The PUD has $150,000 from 2005 for this purpose,” said Gearing.

Gearing stated that the County will be relooking at its STR code. “There were some things we didn’t account for,” she stated. Parking was one of the issues that has come up.

by Richard Uhlhorn

After one and one-half hours of negative discourse and Chelan City Council comments concerning the proposed TIF (Tax Incremental Financing) area, Councilwoman Erin McCardle made a motion to approve the TIA with six of the seven council members voting for its inclusion in the City’s plans to potentially implement the financing program.

The meeting began with the public voicing its concerns about the program with most comments coming from Lake Chelan Health representatives. Russ Jones – fire commission and Mayoral candidate Stan Morse also weighing in with their concerns.

Morse remarked that the proposed TIF was nothing more than a gift to the Campbell’s and Weidner Apartment developers. “What are you going to say Councilman McCardle when a Microsoft millionaire might want to build another TIF,” remarked Morse, who warned that it might bring in that developer’s attorneys.

Hospital Commissioner Mary Signorelli was the only conciliatory person commenting on the TIF. She remarked that she was a strong supporter of the Chelan City Council and the City, “and am still a strong supporter.” Signorelli stated that the City and Junior Taxing Districts should be working together on all things going forward. “June 1st (the deadline for setting the TIF into motion) is not a magic number. Let’s deliberate a little and continue to work together.”

Most of the comments by other Hospital staff and administration was not conciliatory, but accusatory. Hospital Commissioner Jordana LaPorte said, “Politicians are nickel and diming us one small cut at a time.” She stated that the TIF program was not the right answer or the right time to implement.

Others called the City’s proposal short sighted and diverting much needed revenues from the Hospital and EMS efforts to get out from under their financial issues.

Fire Commissioner Russ Jones, who earlier in the week stated that the TIF wasn’t as concerning as he thought, stated that he doesn’t believe the City’s consultant on the matter. “The first time I saw the ‘Added Value’ was last week,” said Jones. “As a Junior Taxing District, it is very difficult to get good answers. There are too many questions, bad data and legal premises.” Jones went on to say he is concerned about the City’s ability to repay its bonds.

City Administrator Wade Farris told the crowded Council Chamber that the City has been looking at the TIF for quite a while. “This is only to establish an area,” said Farris. “This will give Council a range of options. We will look at future opportunities.”

Public Works Director Jake Youngren stated that there were five projects included in the proposal. The first, and most important is the construction of the one million gallon reservoir to meet maximum demand and serve the many residents in the City limits. There are pump station upgrades and new larger water transmission lines in the proposed infrastructure upgrades.

Consultant Bob Stowe weight in and stated that the TIF is not a new tax. He reiterated that the proposal is a No Harm program to Junior Taxing Districts. “The TIA will exist for a period of time and the City cannot add to it after approval.”

Councilwoman Erin McCardle remarked that the City still has until the end of the year and asked if the ordinance was repealed, would there be any impact if expired? No, but discussions can continue.

Councilman Peter Jamtgaard stated that there is a lot of misinformation being spread around, and it is hard for the City to support growth with aging infrastructure. “This is a chance to get ahead of the game.”

Mayor Goedde stated that the TIF (which is only 2% of each taxing districts revenue stream) is a small amount in order to pay for improvement. Jamtgaard added that the TIF is not subsidizing new development. “There is not enough water… too much demand and this is the best way forward,” said Jamtgaard.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if there were late comer agreements associated with the TIF. Youngren replied that there are provisions for late comer agreements.

Mayor Goedde stated that if the Council decides not to adopt the ordinance and wait until June 1 of 2024, that whatever development takes place up to that time, the City will not be able to revenue off those new developments.

McCardle stated that there was no impact to the Junior Taxing Districts. “I hope that is cleared up,” she said. “The JTDs get everything coming to them.” She also agreed that the TIF should not be the first line of funding. “I agree with that. It is (just) one of the many things that can be used to fund this project.”

McCardle continued, “We have seven months to come up with a very detailed mitigation agreement with the Junior Taxing Districts by the end of the year.” According to her, the TIF is only one piece of a larger tool box.

Councilman Chris Baker said he cannot support the TIF because if it fails the City will potentially have (legal) claims against it.

Councilman John Olson read a prepared statement that supported the ordinance passage. His statement included what could happen if water availability was lacking.

Olson’s written statement stated that new developments could have permits denied including the Apple Blossom Center West Phase 1, 2 and 3, including affordable housing could be put on hold. The Hospital expansion and EMS relocation would need to be closely analyzed to assure water availability before being permitted.

Mayor Goedde also brought up the potential move of Chelan High School to their east Chelan location. “I think this is more emotional that it needs to be.”

Councilman Mark Ericks asked the hospital CEO how much money they would lose if the TIF went forward. The hospital’s CFO Brant Truman replied that he couldn’t give an answer to that question because it depends on if the assessed value in the entire district goes down.

“It’s common knowledge that the water system has been cobbled together for 100 years,” said Ericks. “The decision to fix it has definitely been punted down the road. We can punt again or we can try t do what should have been done long ago.” He added that the City has to make sure that it doesn’t harm anyone. “We have only two options, borrow and secure a bond or raise utility rates. What we don’t know is how much rates would have to be raised.” 

Ericks also remarked that someone paid to have anonymous calls made to Council phones. “I’m offended by that,” Ericks said. He then added that the Council is there to do the best for the community. “I’m not in favor of punting this for the next generation to address.”

Councilman Tim Hollingworth added that after five years on the Council, he has nothing but respect for Public Works and John Ajax. “I’m no influenced by big developers. “I’m convinced that the reservoir and water lines are very important.” He added that water is critical to both the hospital and fire district but is still skeptical of the TIF. “We are at a juncture where we have to examine all options available.”

McCardle ended the meeting with a motion to approve the TIF area and recognized that there is a lot of angst and concern. “I would add a deadline for us to have a detailed mitigation agreement by December 1.

With the approval, this gives the City and Junior Taxing Districts to move forward on the TIF program to the satisfaction of each organization. It also gives the City time to explore all other funding avenues available.

By Richard Uhlhorn

At last week’s City Council meeting (May 9) the City Council approved the new Council Rules of Procedure. “This has long been on the to do list,” stated City attorney Quentin Batjer. “All the (pertinent) issues were raised at workshops.”

The Council authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute the KRCI LLC, Parks Maintenance Building Stormwater Infrastructure Agreement. Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the Council that paving for the Maintenance building would be done by May 22 and that KRCI would install the stormwater system. An ample contingency fund of $34,000 was noted.

The Council Chambers was full of residents interested in any discussion on the proposed Tax Increment Financing (TIF) issue. City Administrator Wade Farris gave an update of what the City Staff has been doing.

The City’s TIF consultant Bob Stowe has reached out to each of the Junior Taxing Districts. Farris implored people to visit the City’s new website for more information on the proposal. “A page has been created on the website and is up and running,” said Farris.

TIF (Tax Increment Financing Proposal)

Tomorrow, Thursday, May 18, the City will host the Junior Taxing Districts in hopes of having a good discussion on the necessity of proceeding with the TIF.

The Council approved the necessity to move forward with the TIF, but will not approve the actual ordinance until after their Special meeting on May 24. Once approved the City as five years to enact the TIF and if not implemented any taxes collected goes back to the districts and the TIF goes away.

The State would be auditing the process very closely.

Update:

The City of Chelan sent out a letter and detailed information to the Junior Taxing Districts on May 16 detailing the additional work done to help them understand what is being proposed.

The Executive Summary outlines the information as follows:

• TIFs are not a new tax, but simply uses the existing tax levies that are in place
• The City plans on issuing bonds to construct a new water reservoir, a new booster pump and subsequent watermains that would be paid back from the taxes generated by new development within the TIF designated area over 25 years or when the bonds are paid off, whichever is sooner.
• In addition, the City will be pursuing all grant opportunities to assist paying off the bonds.

The TIF, when implemented, would help fund a portion of the cost of further developing the City’s water utility infrastructure. This includes construction of a Reservoir, Booster Pump Station and four watermain extensions for the surrounding neighborhoods.

The estimated costs of these public improvements is $25,059,100. Up to $16 million is planned to be supported by collected TIF revenues.

The City will issue two series of bonds; one in 224 for $9 million and another in 2028 for $7 million.

The Need

These infrastructure upgrades are not optional, but critical and necessary for the City’s future development.

Editor’s opinion: For years, the City has not only neglected its aging infrastructure, but has battled low fire flow in all of the upper reaches of its community. The need is critical, because water is now at a premium. In other words, the entire Valley is draining the last reserves of acre feet remaining as development continues at a rapid pace.

Chelan Fire and Rescue, while concerned about losing some tax revenue that will allow it to grow, also recognizes the need to fix the City’s water system so it has fire flow when needed.

Lake Chelan Health needs a reliable source of water for years to come. If the City runs out and is unable to supply water reliably, what solutions are available to the hospital.

These are issues that will hopefully be rectified at the Thursday meeting so the Council can move forward with its special meeting on May 24 to implement the TIF.

The Junior Taxing Districts also need to understand that the TIA (Tax Incremental Area) is a very, miniscule portion of their overall tax revenue generating districts.

In Conclusion:

All of the affected taxing districts will continue to receive:

• All property taxes generated outside the TIA
• Property taxes associated with the base value within the TIA
• New construction add-on values generated for all property inside and outside of the TIA in addition to the 101 percent increase each year in property tax.

For more information go to the City’s website: https://cityofchelan.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=30

by Richard Uhlhorn

Psst… Learn to play Pickleball
Monday, May 22 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Darnell’s Resort
It’s FREE

Thwack… thwack…. thwack…. the sound of a plastic pickleball being hit by opponents on a pickleball court is becoming common place in the Lake Chelan Valley.

The Lake Chelan Pickleball Club, now estimated to be around 120 individual players has become the fastest recreational outlet in the Lake Chelan Valley.

It all began in 2015 when four women began playing at the Lookout and eventually were instrumental in taping courts at Don Morse Park and Chelan High School’s tennis courts. As new player became active, Marilyn Raines converted the two tennis courts at Darnell’s Resort to six pickleball courts for the community.

“Pickleball is a great way to make friends,” said Pickleball board member and secretary Mici Tromburg. “When I joined I didn’t know anybody in town.”

Club President Rod Anderson added, “This is a great sport… a great way to get exercise. It is also a great social thing.”

Pickleball requires quick reflexes and builds aerobic fitness along with being fun, social and friendly with simple rules and easy to learn.

It all began in 2015 when four women began playing at the Lookout and eventually were instrumental in taping courts at Don Morse Park and Chelan High School’s tennis courts. As new player became active, Marilyn Raines converted the two tennis courts at Darnell’s Resort to six pickleball courts for the community.

“Canadians come down to play,” said Anderson, adding, “There is a group from Camino Island that comes to play also.”

Pickleball was invented by some bored guys on Bainbridge Island way back in 1965. Today, the sport is the fastest growing recreational activity in United States ranking third behind bicycling and running, but gaining popularity quickly. In 2022 it grew as a sport by 187 percent.

This Spring, the Club officially formed as a LLC and became a USAPickleball Association member which has insurance benefits for players. Club membership is $20 with $5 being used for player insurance. Dropin costs are $5 for club members and $10 for non members. A Summer Season pass is $200.

The 2023 hours of play are as follows
Monday thru Saturday – 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Tuesday and Thursday – 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Club has a new website with tons of information: http://www.lakechelanpickleballclub.com

There will also be a presence on Facebook and Instagram