Author: allthingslakechelan

by Richard Uhlhorn

Seven Acres Foundation Maribel Cruz, director of operations and Board President Ben Williams presented an update to the Chelan City Council on the construction of the Community Center. Cruz reported that the last three years have been difficult because of the pandemic and rising construction costs.

She stated that restated that the purpose of the Center was a physical space where people can meet in a centralized location. “It will also offer year-round recreational activities.

In 2021, the Foundation was able to level the building site and secure the critical permitting from the various agencies. Outside of construction difficulties, the Foundation has been able to develop relationships with a number of partners.

Williams told the Council that they have received financial support and that the facility will have three volleyball courts, six pickleball courts and a swimming pool. “Special Olympics is one of our partners,” said Williams. “Only 7 Seconds is another partner that has a mission to end loneliness.”

The project has received another million dollars but has/is facing a $9 million dollar

budget fall and Williams stated that they are looking for creative ways and options for support of the project.

Williams told the Council that the board has discussed ways the City could support the project through its AAU program which would be a benefit to both.

The other option that is being researched is a Muncipal Parks District within the City and County for funding. “This is the less desirable option,” said Williams. “We are looking for some support.” Williams asked the Council if they had any questions.

John Olson stated that the facility has to be accessible to everybody. Williams replied that it has been privately funded with the exception of State grants.

Chris Baker asked if there might be a market correction that might bring down costs? “I feel we are insulated from a recession.”

Peter Jamtgaard asked about membership fees to generate revenue. Williams replied that the Community Center has 11 partners who will be leasing space at the facility. “We are a couple of million in (long term) debt and would prefer to have no debt.”

The facility has grown from an original 26,000 sq. ft. to 40,000 sq. ft. Williams explained that the Roots School will be taking over the second floor. “We have a healthy demand for space,” said Williams. “Pickle Ball is in high demand.”

Williams also stated that there are 20 teams competing for time and space in two local gymnasiums.

Jamptgaard asked about the swimming pool. Williams said it will be an outdoor pool but the Foundation is developing plans to enclose the pool. “It is our intention to have a year-round facility.”

Tim Hollingsworth asked about the facility being closed airtight so interior work can begin. Williams replied that they are good to go to get the shell in place.

Chris Baker asked if the plans still include a church. Williams said Real Life would be occupying the facility for their church services and activities.

To help raise funds, individuals, families, organizations, companies and agencies can learn more about donating here: https://sevenacresfoundation.org/fundraising/

In other business:

The Lake Chelan Trails Alliance requested that the City release it from its required Liability Insurance clause that was put in place during the construction of the trail. Since construction is now complete, the Council approved the motion to release the Alliance from the liability insurance clause.

John Olson asked if the trail was on PUD property and how did liability play for users. City Attorney Quentin Batjer replied that the Washington’s recreational immunity statute protected owners in land opened to the public solely for recreational purposes. “I feel pretty good about it.”

Sundance Slope Annexation:

City Planner Craig Gildroy (who sadly passed away Thursday, April 28) said that he would like the Council to hold off on the Sundance Slope Annexation until the next meeting.

The property on Chelan’s North Shore is currently a working orchard with no future development plans except as an operating orchard. “We are trying to retain the right to farm within the city,” said Gildroy. He added that some property owners do not want to be annexed into the City. In addition property owners don’t want to lose their septic systems to a city sewer system.

“We would not take them off their well or septic system,” said Gildroy. Mayor Bob Goedde chimed in with the concern that he has real doubts about the annexation proposal and sees the possibility of the property becoming an 80 home development in the future. “It is just one more step in eliminating small town Chelan,” said Goedde.

Gildroy replied that there are no urban services in that area. Olson replied that the Manson Community Council is concerned with the proposed Bluewater Terrace and its access point to Hwy. 150. He asked if an alternative ingress/egress road could be built.

Jamptgaard stated he liked the idea of annexation because it gives the City control over the property like their control over Chelan Butte. “Preserving some of the orchards is important,” he said.

Batjer suggested that the issue be tabled until the next meeting. Council agreed.

Generator purchase:

The Public Works Department ordered a generator for Lift Station No. 5 in August of 2021. “We have yet to receive a deliver date,” said Jake Youngren. Currently the City is renting a generator for the Lift Station at $1,500 per month. Youngren requested the purchase of a used generator at a cost of $20,500. “It only has 5,000 hours on it and is in good condition.” The new generator would cost the City $50,000. Council approved the purchase of the used generator.

Mayor/Council comments:

Servando Robledo told the members that the Hispanic Community is planning a big Cinco de Mayo celebration and invited everyone to join in.

Mayor Goedde attended a PUD Stakeholders meeting and said that the PUD has revenues of $58 million dollars in Chelan County, but sells $259 million to outside sources. “We have an opportunity to work with the PUD.

Youngren reported that KCRI is having less issues on the 200 block of the Alley project. He also said Public Works would be re-striping on May 9. He also mentioned that the department is feeling the pinch of getting services. “We are making conservative projections concerning our budget inflation related issues.”

Parks Director Paul Horne commented that fertilizer has gone up 300%.

Gildroy said his department would be changing its hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. based on contractors needs.

City Administrator Wade Ferris said they have had a good discussion on a new skate park/pump track and dog park. “It was a good discussion regarding the priorities about areas.

City Council meets every second and fourth Tuesdays as 6 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Johnny and Sara Synder have been advocates for firewise mitigation efforts around residential properties for the last 20 years. When they moved to Union Valley, they were not really aware of the fire danger until a 4,600 acre human caused wildfire in the valley threatened them and other residents living in the rural wildland area.

Since that fire caused by an illegal trash burn, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources has been working with Union Valley neighbors through cost sharing programs to create fire safe zones around individual properties.

Twenty years later, the DNR is still on the job in Union Valley and, along with the Synders, created a Community based Fire District and communications system to defend themselves and neighbors.

On Tuesday, April 19, the Synders hosted a new DNR program called “Wildfire Ready Neighbors” at their property in Union Valley. In attendance were a number of neighbors, fire districts and agencies.

Sara Synder said the program is funded by the DNR through a State legislated effort to educate and help residents who live in an urban/wildland interface to prepare their homes against wildfire. “Home owners can hire contractors or do the work themselves,” she said. If the homeowner hires a contractor, they pay for the services and then invoice the DNR for reimbursement. “If a homeowner decides to do the work themselves, they can also be reimbursed for their time.”

Guy Gifford, a DNR Landowner Assistance Forester, stated that program is focused on point protection. “We want people to get motivated to take action,” he said. “This is now a statewide program.” Interested homeowners or businesses can learn more at http://www.wildfireready.com.

Land Commissioner Hilary Franz was able to get the State Legislature to agree to $2 million dollars a year over the next five years for the wildfire readiness program. She was unable to attend due to a positive Covid test, so Allen Lebovitz, DNR’s Wildfire & Resiliency Liaison, stepped in to address the assembled crowd of approximately 75 people.

“Wildfire is becoming more dangerous and severe every year,” said Lebovitz. “Last year April broke all records with over 200 fires.” He went on to say that the moisture level is around two percent. “This piece of paper I’m reading from has a five percent moisture content.”

Homeowners interested in what they can do to protect their property can visit the website and get a no cost site visit from a local fire agency. “We are all in this together.”

Chelan Fire Chief Brandon Asher thanked the DNR for recognizing Union Valley first. “We have a long history of fire in the Valley and a long history of homeowners being very progressive about protecting their property,” said Asher. “It makes our job much easier.”

Chelan Fire and Rescue will send out a team to conduct a home survey to help homeowners protect their homes from wildfire. The fire district can be reached at 509-682-4476.

Alma Chacon, CAFE (The Community for the Advancement of Family Education) thanked Hilary Franz for her passion and spoke about her organization’s ability to help educate homeowners about protecting their property whether it is in a rural forested area, a wildland/urban interface or within a township.

The illegal trash fire in 2001 involved 930 wildland firefighters at an estimated cost of $3.8 million dollars to suppress. Today, wildfires are even more severe.

In 2015, the lightning caused Chelan Complex burned over 56,000 acres destroying more than 50 structures and forced an estimated 1,500 residents in the area to flee. South Chelan was in danger of being lost. Chelan Fruit lost a major warehouse structure when it’s roof caught on fire from burning embers from the wooden apple bins stored on the south side of the warehouse. Estimated damage was over $100 million plus to lost structures.

One of the biggest concerns of many residents is the possibility of a major wildfire being pushed by a down lake wind taking out communities and residential areas around the Lake.

Wildfire Ready Neighbors is a program to help homeowners determine how vulnerable their property is. A free Wildfire Ready Home Visit can help the property owner decide how to better protect his/her property from fire.

If your property is located on forested land, you can sign up for a Forest Health Consultation to assess your forest’s health and identify problems and solutions.

http://www.wildfireready.dnr.wa.gov/visit to sign up and schedule a home visit and/or website consultation.

Property owners can support their local fire districts by installing reflective address signs where your driveway meets the main road. Chelan Fire and Rescue continues to seek new volunteers who want to serve their community and have the time to dedicate.

Union Valley property owners are working hard to protect their properties from the potential of a wildfire. It’s time for the entire state to get behind the DNR’s Wildfire Ready Program.

Some Statistics:

• Nationwide some 4.5 million homes are at high or extreme risk from wildfire
• In 2021 there were 58,985 wildfires across the nation burning 7.1 million acres which is a 17 percent increase from 2019 and a 223 percent increase from 1983
• Humans cause 90 percent of all fires
• 2020 was the third costliest year on record at $16.5 billion.
• In Washington State, 160,500 homes are at-risk.

Visit http://www.wildfireready.com or call 1-877-WA-Ready for more information.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Manson Community Council had a number of issues on its agenda at its Tuesday night, April 19 meeting including the Manson Chamber of Commerce’s on-going issues; a disucssion of whether or not the council should request a moratorium on development until a secondary route out of Manson could be developed by Chelan County; and a Bluewater Terrace update.

Prior to opening the discussion portion of the meeting, Chairwoman Kari Sorenson swore in Kathy Blum as its newest board member who has served before for 12 years. Blum offered the position to anyone willing to take it and also said, “It’s time for people to get involved and give back. I would love to see a seven member council again.”

Jeff Conwell and his wife, Debbie, addressed the Chamber’s issues as a total lack of help from Chelan County.

Apparently, the community has complained about the decorative trees that drop fruit and make a total mess downtown, and Conwell has requested that the County remove them or at the very least, prune them. “The County gives us every objection (as to why they can’t help) and have refused to help,” said Conwell. “Maybe we need a midnight massacre.’

The other issue facing the Chamber and community is garbage pickup. “They don’t want to pick up the garbage,” said Conwell. “We’ve got problems and they are not giving back what they are getting. They have all kinds of arguments.”

It was suggested that the Community just cut them down and deal with the county afterwards, however one person in attendance said, “They are the owners… give them an ultimatum. They are putting the community at risk.”

Board member John Frolker asked how one gets the County to allocate more money. “I’m in agreement that they should be responsible for what they own.”

Manson Community Council has had issues with Chelan County for years because the council, while being elected officially, are unofficial according to Sorenson. Frolker said, “People bring issues to us and we send it on.”

It was suggested and agreed that the Council will request that County Commissioner Tiffany Gearing attend the next meeting and answer questions and/or take the council’s questions back to Wenatchee for answers, and then return with the County’s responses.

Mike O’Neal, pastor at Manson’s Methodist Church, spoke to the issue of Bluewater Terrace telling the Council that they have more power than they realize. “I want accuracy and transparency,” said O’Neal. “Most of us feel uninformed.”

O’Neal went on to say that most people had issues with the highway, development and short term rentals.

The biggest issue with Bluewater Terrace was the misinterpretation of the agri-tourism code which clearly states that this designation was meant for working farms to augment their incomes. The developer tried to use ag-tourism as a method of getting the CUP passed.

Brock Lindsay, owner at Succession Wines, asked what the beef was. O’Neal replied that the applicant tried to cut corners. Lindsay said he felt the council and attendees were against development. The council denied this.

On one thread from the Manson Community Council, Bob Knauss remarked that development was not the only activity in the valley creating transportation woes on Hwy. 150. He reported that the wineries are adding to the transportation problem with tourists and wine visitors.

Knauss is the first to acknowledge that traffic is bad on 150, but asked if the Community wanted to limit the amount of visitors to Manson. It’s a question that hasn’t been answered.

At this point the Manson Community Council is deciding to call a Special Meeting prior to the May regularly scheduled meeting to ask Commissioner Gearing to answer question or to get answers to the Community’s questions and return with the County’s responses.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Highway 150 transporation issues were raised, once again, by Erin McCardle. She asked that the issue be discussed at a City workshop if it was time appropriate. She stated that she would like a briefing on the proposed Bluewater Terrace project that is in front of the City’s Planning Department. “I’ve has a lot of questions and comments on that proposal,” said McCardle.

McCardle brought up the new Lookout Operations/Maintenance building adjacent to Hwy. 150 and the Northlake Division II Final Plat Phase 2 which council authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute. McCardle abstained from the vote. “I thinking about the additional traffic on Hwy. 150,” she said. John Olson added that Hwy 150 was a real challenge.

Planning Director Craig Gildroy said there was no formal agreement between the County and City regarding the current impacts. “They (the county) don’t send us anythng,” he said.

Mayor Bob Goedde stated that the City needs to interact with Chelan County.

During the discussion on the Northlake Division issue, it was noted that the development was for 40 residential units. Chris Baker asked what the City’s responsibility was concerning orchard land, which the development is on. Gildroy replied that it was up to Ecology to implement remediation of orchard lands.

Olson stated that the increasing development along Hwy. 150 should include left hand turn lanes, but there wasn’t enough room. Servando Robledo remarked that the new Lookout operations center was having ingress and egress issues at Hwy. 150.

Gildroy remarked that there were no plans to his knowledge to install ingress/egress improvements for the Northlake Division development and that no furthere mitigatino measures or conditions are required.

Manson Community Council will once again be addressing transportation issues on Hwy. 150 at its next council meeting on Tuesday, April 19, which is an in-person meeting only.

Agenda Motions:

Sidewalk/street pedestrian replacement project:

Rudnick and Sons Excavation who completed the pedestrian sidewalks project behind Safeway found the underlying soil unsuitable. They over excavated, place fabric for soil separation and then filled with crushed surfacing base before pouring the new sidewalk to street concrete. They also replaced unacceptable storm sewer frames and grates which added an additional $8,450.13 to the $170,928.88 contract. “We have adequate funds to cover this,” said Jake Youngren, public works director. Council approved the Change order unanimously.

Alley Project Change Order:

KRCI, the contractor that is working on the 100 block alley sewer and water main project requested a contract time revision in a Change Order which was denied by the City. However, in discussions the contractor and city came to an agreement that makes the following changes to Section 1-08.5 of the Contract Special Provisions regarding Contract Time:

1) The original dates associated with substantial completion will be removed (Currently March 25, 2022 for Schedule A and April 29, 2022 for Schedule B). Contract time will be recreated by aggregating the original duration of the project stated in the contract into total calendar days based upon the first working day beginning on January 25, 2022 and ending on May 13, 2022. This change of contract time provides 109 calendar days to complete the work with no intermediate substantial completion dates. All calendar days are considered working days.

2) The starting point for the first charged working day will be adjusted from January 25, 2022, to February 7, 2022, which is the first day that KRCI was mobilized on site.

3) Contract time is extended by three days to account for work performed under the Contact bid item for unknown utility repair. This is for work billed on a time and materials basis (Force Account) work tabulated through March 25, 2022. Total contract time will be 112 calendar days. Substantial Completion of both Schedules A and B shall occur within 112 calendar days of February 7, 2022, for a Substantial Completion date of May 29, 2022. KRCI’s revised project schedule submitted on April 6, 2022 (attached) indicates a final paving date of June 6, 2022 or 120 calendar days since contract time began. The City will grant the eight additional days required for Substantial Completion in accordance with KRCI’s schedule.

4) The requirement for all of Schedule A work to be completed prior to beginning any Schedule B work is removed.

5) KRCI will be allowed to diligently pursue work on Schedule B immediately following execution of this change order, anticipated to occur on April 13, 2022. No cost adjustments to the contract are made for the changes described above. By Authorizing this change order, KRCI is in acceptance of the determination made by RH2 and the City regarding denial of KRCI’s claim to differing site conditions. KRCI hereby waives it right to pursue further action regarding this claim.

The stormwater realignment the contractor ran into increased the contract by $9,973 which Youngren reported adequate funds were available for.

Water Access Plan at Park Street:

The council authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute an agreement with GCH Professional Services for architectural design of the proposed water access park at the end of Park Street.

LakesidePark Initial Design Phase:

The council authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute an agreement with Berger Partnership for schematic design and federal permitting for the Lakeside Park Redevelopment Project.

Parks Director Paul Horne that the agreement with Berger would insure that the grant would be expedited if the City has all of its permitting ducks in a row when the grant is awarded. “That way we can hit the ground running,” said Horne.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Union Valley’s rural wildland interface has always been a wildfire threat and the valley has been subject to a number of fires, some human caused and others lightning caused. As far back as 2001, the Union Valley community organized itself to remove deadfall, thin over-crowded tree stands, remove ladder fuels, and mow bitter brush on private lands.

This was accomplished by private landowners with the help of the Washington Department of Natural Resources.

The work is still going on and Tuesday, April 19 at 10:30 a.m., neighbors will kick-off an event of its second year as a Wildfire Ready Neighbors group. Union Valley is recognized as one of the most high-risk communities in the Chelan area. Most of the homes are very rural and very private.

On hand will be Lands Commissioner Hilary Franz and Fire Chief Brandon Asher along with the Department of Natural Resources, regional fire districts, community partners, and local wildfire experts, to better prepare those most at risk.

The effort connects forest health and wildfire experts with residents so that they can take proactive action this spring to help protect their homes and surrounding property from wildfires.

Commissioner Franz will share how Wildfire Ready Neighbors helps build community resilience and share tips on how residents can sign up to get a free action plan. Chelan Residents Johnny and Sara Synder, Wildfire Ready Neighborhood Captains will also be on hand to help answer questions and show how the program works to protect residences.

This will take place at the Synder’s property at 474 Nancy Lane in Union Valley. When driving up to the property look for directional signs.

Property of Wildfire Ready Captains, Johnny and Sara Synder is located at 474 Nancy Lane, Chelan, Washington

Directions note: Event site located in wooded area with winding roads. When approaching intersection of Union Valley Rd. & Idyll Spurs Ln, look for directional signs.

Chelan was the first county to launch Wildfire Ready Neighbors in spring of 2021. In its inaugural year, the Wildfire Ready Neighbors program resulted in over 550 program sign-ups and 329 home visit/Forest Health Consultation requests in Chelan County. For several summers, Chelan has endured bone dry and hot conditions that create tremendous wildfire risks for communities. Last summer alone, 60 fires burned more than 36,514 acres.

by Richard Uhlhorn

April Slagle’s Environmental Studies 202 Class joined Lake Chelan Research Institute’s Phil Long to sample the beach adjacent to Chelan Ranger District for Eurasian Asian Clams, and to learn how to use an underwater Remote Operational Vehicle to explore the near shore littoral zone for invasive species.

The Asian Clam sampling takes place within a one square meter zone. The students dig down into the substrate and then sift through the recovered material for evidence of clam populations.

In 2019, students found 99 live clams within the square meter. On Friday, April 1, the students found evidence of the Asian clam but no live clams. This puzzled Dr. Long who suggested that the sampling area was too near the shore and that farther out might deliver different results.

Ken Gordon, ROV operator, introduced the students to the ROV’s operation and gave the students an opportunity to operate the device. Dr. Long hopes to obtain funding to purchase enough coaxial cable to take the ROV to the deepest part of Lake Chelan where no one has ever visited before.

Invasive species into Lake Chelan has become a huge concern of the Research Institute and the Lake Chelan Watershed Planning Unit. While Eurasian Clams are already present, other invasive species like the Zebra and Quagga mussels, if accidentally introduced, would create a massive and destructive situation that would eventually cost millions to reverse.

With so many watercraft owners visiting Lake Chelan, the National Park Service is funding a May through November mobile water craft inspection program on weekends and during tournaments like the Lake Chelan Hydroplane races. Currently the grant is for one year but can be extended for an additional three years.

The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife is operating boat inspection services at the main borders into the State. These include Spokane, Portland/Vancouver, BC, and CleElum.

There are other near shore issues being investigated by the Research Institute including the development of algae along the shorelines in the lower Wapato Basin and the increase presence of milfoil which is now estimated at 20 acres.

Check out the Lake Chelan Institute’s booth at this Saturday’s Earth Day Fair.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Jake Youngren, public works director, told the City Council at its Tuesday, March 22 meeting that the Alley project was going well. “We’ve the sewer installation is complete,” said Youngren.

The next phase will be the installation of the waterline in the same trench as the sewerline, but at only four to five feet deep. The sewerline is at 12 feet deep. The water line will be followed by installation of the new stormwater system. “We hope to finish this up by early May,” stated Youngren.

The second block of the construction project between Emerson and Saunders will not begin until fall of 2022.

Craig Gildroy, planning director, told the Council that the new proposed text amendments to the 2022 Comprehensive Plan and Development Regulations will offer the staff some flexibility.

The proposed amendments will include the following:

Lakeside Trail – Conceptual Design & Alignment- Add Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies

Northshore Pathway– Conceptual Design & Alignment- Add Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies

Housing Action Plan (HAP) Implementation: Alternative Housing Types (Tiny Homes, Micro-Housing….) Parking Reductions or Flexibility for Affordable Housing Density Bonus (incentive based per GMA) Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Flexibility Dormitory – New Land Use & Standards (density, parking, etc.)

The Council unanimously directed the Mayor to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendations and to prepare a recommendation on the 2022 Comp. Plan.

The motion does not approve or deny the proposed amendments and requires Planning Commission to review the proposals for a future recommendation to City Council after holding public hearings. A recommendation would happen in September 2022 followed by City Council workshops and a public hearing on the proposed amendments.

LakesideMarina ‘Clean Marina’ designation:

Parks Director Paul Horne told the Council that the City has been awarded a grant from the Washington State Parks & Recreation Commission that will help the Chelan Marina keep its clean marina designation.

The grant will pay for 75% of all costs for maintenance of this system up to $18,000 over the course of four years. Immediately it will pay for new hose, fittings, and gaskets required to have the system perform optimally. This grant includes maintaining the marina’s pump-out station which helps prevent human waste from entering our lake.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements Design:

“This is a project we are excited about,” said Youngren. The motion unanimously approved by Council tasks RH2 Engineering to provide a Scope of Work and a Fee Estimate to complete the design of the Wastewater Treatment Plant improvements project.

The project The project consists of three components; standby generator replacement, blower building MCC replacement, and sludge dewatering system replacement. It has been scheduled and budgeted within the approved Capital Budge Plan for 2022.

Youngren said that he expects the design work to be accomplished this year and a bid for the work to go out in the Fall. The estimated cost is $267,404.

Council authorized the Mayor to enter into a Professional Services Agreement with Aspect Consulting, LLC to help the City prepare a Certified Water Rights Examination Report.

Youngren said the Public Works Department would create a capital project next year with Aspect Consulting and ask for 2,000 acre feet of water per year.

Mayor Goedde asked if the City holds any agricultural water rights. Youngren replied that they don’t, that the City’s water rights are all for domestic use. “This process is for protection,” said Youngren. Councilwoman Sheri Dietrich asked for a workshop to explain how water rights work because it is confusing.

“I think a workshop or two to develop concrete proposals to move forward,” stated Hollingsworth.

Water availability is becoming a serious issue in the Valley with only an estimated 5,000 acre feet remaining in the pool.

by Richard Uhlhorn

At last Wednesday’s Chelan Fire and Rescue commission meeting, Fire Chief Brandon Asher reported that outside of an uptick in overtime the department was in good shape.

The department received another $51,200 in State Mob. money for the 25-Mile Creek Fire and is expecting another $33,500 in outstanding State Mob. money.

Asher reported that there were no fires during the month of February, but they responded to 41 callouts including six that were Advanced Life Saving; 21 Basic Life Saving and 14 that ended up as No Ambulance Transfers. “We had no significant responses,” said Asher.

Asher reported that the District hadn’t received approval for an extension of SAFER Grant to utilize funding not spent in 2021. The department did receive a 50% DNR equipment grant with a cap of $3,000.

A $250,000 grant has been approved to “start up a Hazmat team in the region. “It’s a pretty amazing grant and a good thing for the area,” stated Asher.

Volunteer recruitment:

The department had no dropouts in its firefighter classes. Asher reported that Adam Jones, Entiat’s new fire chief, is putting together a plan for wildland fire season.

Asher also attended the National Fire Chief’s convention last month and reported that it was, not only an awesome experience, but that he was able to network with fire chiefs from around the Nation. “I’m receiving all kinds of email from chiefs asking how we do things and what they can do to help,” said Asher.

The Roof at Fire Station 71:

With bids from $140,000 to $190,000 to replace the roof at FS-71, Asher reported that the more they talked about it, it is not the time to do a replacement. Any leaks will be addressed individually saving the District a lot of money.

Assistant Chief search:

Asher reported that the District was excited and will be interviewing three top applicants. “We are looking forward to having help on board,” said Asher.

Seasonal Firefighters:

The District had four applications for the seasonal firefighter slots and will hire three who will begin on May 1. “They will work a 36 hour shift with 12 hours off.” Asked if the department was paying for their housing, Asher replied that they will bunk down at the Fire Hall.

City of Chelan v Fire Department Agreement:

Asher reported that the department has entered into a one-year agreement with the City to provide fire services at a no-cost monetarily to either party.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Update on Golf Course Concession
A special City Council ZOOM meeting was called for Thursday afternoon at 4 p.m. to discuss and approve or disapprove a motion to enter into a contract with Albatross LLC for the Chelan Municipal Golf Course concession.

According to City Clerk Peri Gallucci, the five council members who attended (two did not) approved the contract unanimously.

Motion Considerations:

ParksMaintenanceBuilding:

The Council unanimously approved a professional service agreement with Graham Baba to produce bid documents, guide the bidding process, and if bids are accepted by the Council, to perform the necessary construction administration associated with the upcoming Parks Operation and Maintenance Building project.

Chelan Fire & Rescue Interlocal Agreement with the City:

The Council approved and authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute the Interlocal Agreement between Chelan County Fire District #7 and the City of Chelan for fire protection services on City properties.

City Administrator Wade Ferris told the Council that the City would be responsible for fire investigations through its Fire Inspector in the Planning Department. Fire Chief Brandon Asher stated that he would like to be involved in any fire investigation.

The City will have the responsibility to maintain its fire hydrants and Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the Council that they have purchased precise flow measuring equipment.

Historic Downtown Chelan Association Revitalization Project:

The downtown revitalization project was brought forward for discussion and a vote on moving forward with a Memorandum of Understanding between the City and the Historic Downtown Chelan Association (HDCA).

The council originally approved a resolution to support the project on November 9, 2021. Citizen comments were taken on November 23, 2021 at the City Council meeting.

The revitalization project plan is to develop a roadmap for future downtown upgrades that will retain Chelan’s historic charm while enhancing features to ensure its future viability and relevance.

At the March 8 Council meeting, City Administrator Wade Ferris said that a lot of discussion on the issue has taken place and that a SWAT committee had been formed to go over the details of the proposed plan.

Eric Campbell presented the findings of the committee and said that they saw no need for additional crosswalks on the first block of Woodin Avenue, but felt that one could be put in place by the Chamber of Commerce on the second block. They determined that none were needed on Emerson Street.

Campbell added that parking remains a priority and that the committee would like to see new street lighting downtown along with some trees with small root balls.

Sidewalks remain one of the contentious issues on the plan. “We could not come to a consensus on sidewalks, but it is going to be an ongoing conversation.

McCardle asked if everyone on the committee was in agreement that downtown need improvements. Campbell replied, “Yes!” He added that garbage pickup, parking and restrooms were issues that need to be addressed.

Ferris said, “The MOU will guide the projects from the City’s viewpoint. The city owns the sidewalks. It will provide what kind of design moving forward with the exception of the sidewalks.” He added that more citizen input was needed.

Mayor Goedde said, “Let’s not rock the boat too much.”

The HDCA has grant funding to move forward with a conceptual plan. “We need a meaningful discussion based on experts. We need a definite direction of where we go.”

John Olson wasn’t entirely happy because he feels that there still isn’t a unified voice. “We need other points of view,” he said. Mayor Goedde added that he had attended one of the committee’s meetings and said he doesn’t want to see wider sidewalks.

The  opposing point of view at the council meeting was Larry Hibbard, owner of the Ruby Theater. He stated that he didn’t even know who was on the committee. “I have no idea of what’s going on,” Hibbard told the council. He did admit that the downtown needs improving.

McCardle said she was happy to engage with people. “We are not coming in with an agenda. We are looking at objectively.” Ferris added that the MOU will allow the City to be a part of the process.

The Council voted unanimously to move forward with the MOU.

by Richard Uhlhorn

At its Tuesday, March 8 Council meeting the council was presented with a proposal to take over the Chelan Municipal Golf Course food concession by Albatross LLC. The company is associated with Karma Vineyards who are planning on shutting down their Bistro at the winery due to Chelan County Code changes.

This opportunity to move restaurant operations from Karma to the golf course is a win-win for the City and Karma. Albatross LLC will invest $345,000 over a two year period to update the Clubhouse and bring a top-notch restaurant to the facility for both the golfing community and non-golfers wishing to have a superb dining opportunity.

Paul Horne… “Our clubhouse is faded and old,” said Paul Horne in an introduction to a presentation by Albatross LLC to take over the food and beverage concession. “We were looking to find something that our golfers would make our concession successful.”

Wade Ferris …. “We thought we had a contract ready,” Ferris told the Council. Unfortunately, there are a few changes than needed to be discussed and approved before going towards the Council for a vote. Ferris set up a Council Zoom meeting for Thursday afternoon to approve the contract which is expected to pass.

Adam Rynd, owner of Coldwell Banker Real Estate, was hired by the Chelan Parks Department to seek interested parties to take over the food concession at the Golf Course with tenant improvement making the facility more attractive to both the golfing and visiting public.

A RFQ was sent out October 15 and resulted in 16 firms responding. Rynd also reached out to 4,000 restaurants regarding the opportunity. They received only one proposal.

Julie Pittsinger, owner of Karma Vineyards reached out to Rynd with a possible couple new to town that could be interested. In the end, that collaboration didn’t work out for several reasons, but Pittsinger and Rynd entered conversations about the opportunity.

Pittsinger told the Council, “Holie Molie… I could see this has incredible potential… incredible things for this valley. I took the (Karma) staff up there on Thursday.” She feels that they are within a timeframe to get it done, but it will be close. That, of course, will depend on the City approving permits for contractors to move forward. “I believe we have the crew… I’m very excited,” she added.

The Albatross plan calls for a simple breakfast ‘grab and go’ with a step up on weekends; a hearty lunch with great atmosphere for people finishing or starting their golf rounds, and with the hope of attracting non-golfers, as well; dinner ocused on the view, great drinks, and a great menu; a bar serving beer, wine, and cider refreshments, including onsite wine tasting and retail wine sales for off-site consumption.

“We have a large following at Karma,” said Pittsinger. Currently seven employees are available and Pittsinger is trying to coordinate with the golf course. During the off-season, Pittsinger is in discussions to figure out “what we can do.”

“It’s a massive undertaking, but we have builders waiting to start,” she stated. “Our goal is service. We want to put something great (in place).” During the off-season, from October to January, they will serve dinner only from 4 to 8 p.m.

The investment be an estimated $345,000 over a two year period which includes a fully renovated top floor with a restaurant, kitchen and showcase bar, and an improved ground floor including a banquet area and renovated bathrooms. The plan also calls for a dedicated beverage cart.

Rynd explained that the concession contract includes a five year lease with the option for two five-year extensions at $3,000 per month ($36,000 per year). “To enhance the building will take a substantial investment,” said Rynd.

Erin McCardle, Chris Baker and Mayor Bob Goedde stated they were excited for this to happen. McCardle said, “This project couldn’t be in better hands.” Goedde stated that the City was lucky to have Karma jump in. Baker asked if the group would be conducting weddings on the premises? Pittsinger stated that she didn’t see doing any weddings at the Golf Course because they already have a premiere wedding venue at Karma Vineyards.

Tim Hollingsworth asked if this proposal is within a realistic timeframe. He was assured that permitting could be turned around in 30 days.

Because the contract was not completed by the time City Council met on Tuesday the Chelan City Council will meet in special session beginning at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 10, 2022 via Zoom Video Conferencing.

The purpose of this special meeting is to discuss the Lake Chelan Municipal Golf Course Concessionaire Agreement and potentially approve a concessionaire contract with Albatross LLC for the Golf Course.