Author: allthingslakechelan

by Richard Uhlhorn

City Council approved a number of motions at its regular scheduled meeting on Tuesday, February 8. Following is a short description of those items.

A. Budget Amendment

            City Council approved a budget amendment that rolls forward project balances to complete contracted engineering tasks approved by City Council in 2021. It transfers funds for the downtown Alleyway Project between Columbia Street and Sanders Street.

B. Rate and Fee Resolution for Lakeshore RV Park Rates.

            Parks Director Paul Horne stated that there was a little confusion on the proposed rate increases surrounding tent camping. “We still offer hikers and bicyclists tent camping at $10 a night,” said Horne.

            Councilwoman Sheri Dietrich initially had concerns about how large the rate hike was, but subsequently met with Horne to discuss in detail why those rate hikes were needed and concurred that they were necessary.

            Profits from the RV Park, Golf Course, and other park enterprises fund all maintenance and operations for the entire City park system, which allows residents free use of those parks instead of being taxed. In addition, revenues from park operations also pay for downtown beautification, tree care and sidewalk snow removal in City parking lots and other designated areas. Revenues also funds some other governmental functions.

Councilman Peter Jamtgaard remarked that council had talked about flexible rates. “I do think we need to be talking about flexible rates for the early birds that come in and do as they always have done,” said Jamtgaard.

Councilwoman Erin McCardle thanked Horne for the context he supplied to the Council. “It’s nice to know where the funds are going and where funds will be directed,” she said.

C. Asset Management.

            “I’m very excited to bring this to you,” said Public Works Director Jake Youngren. “We interviewed six companies and Cartegraph was the best.” Youngren told the Council that the software was pretty powerful. “It can be integrated with our utility mapping, cloudbase, and it is easy to use in the field.” The initial cost is $17,000 and $11,000 a year there after. “We have adequate funds to cover this. The program will pay for itself within a few months.” Council approved the motion to authorize the Mayor to finalize and execute the Professional Services Agreement with Cartegraph.

D. RH2 Engineers Task Authorization:

            The Chelan asked RH2 Engineering to analyze a portion of the water main pressure issues that feeds the Darnell and Highlands Booster Pump Stations to determine causes of low flow pressures experienced in that zone.

The findings identified two separate projects; 1,200 feet of waterline replacement and incorporating an additinal pump in the Darnell’s Booster Pump Station to help alleviate low water pressures within that zone.

The Council unanimously approved the request that RH2 Engineers complete the Main Zone Capacity Improvements Design.

E. Pedestrian Infrastructure Replacement Project:

            When the City received a Transportation Improvement Board (TIB) grant funding for $150,000 which is required to be fully obligated by March 2022 for ADA compliance projects. The City will be using the funds to develop a Pedestrian Access Route that meets ADA on North Cedar Street and Columbia Street in the vacinity of Bayshore Courts and the Safeway Grocery Store.

“We had three bids,” said Youngren. The low bid was by Rudnick & Sons LLCfor $162,479.00 followed by two higher bids of $275,000 and $330,000.  The City will add $60,000 that is budgeted for sidewalk replacement and $200,00 for the annual street overlay projects.

The Council approved the motion along with another motion for SCJ Alliance for construction services at a not-to-exceed $34,976.

Mayor/Council Comments:

Tim Hollingsworth reported that he attended a Town Toyota Center board meeting as the City’s liaison and said the Government Vaccine Mandate to attend indoor events has hurt the Center. “They had 2,100 people attend an event prior to the mandate and only 300 after the mandate requiring proof of vaccination,” said Hollingsworth.

Hollingsworth said the mandate continues to hamper the Center but its finances are in good shape and that the Youth Hockey Program is strong.

John Olson thanked Paul Horne for this press release on the RV Parks Rate and Fee Resolution.

Jake Youngren stated that the Alleyway project is now underway between the 100-200 block between Columbia and Saunders. “Everything will have to go perfectly for us to finish this project before June,” stated Youngren. “We don’t want to get caught in June just half done.” He added that the department will communicate frequently with the public on the progress.

Paul Horne stated that a good turnout was achieved at the recent meeting to release and discuss the survey results by the Park’s consultants on the Parks needs.

Wade Ferris, city administrator, reported that the Washington State Department of Transportation will be conducting more rock scaling work on 97A and that there would be some closures on SR 971. He also said that the DOT plans on doing some work on the Beebe Bridge.

The Chelan Planning Commission meets on February 16 and the Council reconvenes at its regularly scheduled Council meeting on Tuesday, February 22 at 6 p.m. The public is invited to attend.

by Richard Uhlhorn

• Chelan residents and others from outside the city limits are very interested in the findings of Chelan’s consultants who are working on a five year master plan and conceptual design for Don Morse Park.

The Parks and Consultants held a public meeting on Wednesday, February 2, with an estimated 20 people in attendance.

Art Thatcher – a manager at Berry Dunn’s park and recreation group, told those in attendance that they would be present the results of the community survey conducted through the City billing process and over an open link internet connection. They received 435 surveys by mail and another 710 people took the survey on the City’s open link for a total of 1145 respondents. “The response was much higher than 10 percent which is the norm,” said Thatcher.

Females responded 2:1 over males and 85 percent who responded by mail are permanent residents and 82 percent on the Open Link were also permanent residents.

“The importance falls along the line of users,” Thatcher said.

In order of importance to Chelan residents, public access to Lake Chelan was No. 1 followed by more trails and pathways, Don Morse Park, and Lakeside Park.

Dave Peterson, a member of the team said, “One of our tasks was to go out and look at the parks.” He also stated that they looked at other local amenities like the PUD Parks.

Peterson went on to say that Restrooms are very important to people. “It makes their visit more comfortable.”

All three City Parks Playgrounds scored very low. A Destination Playground along with a Splash Pad was high on the list. Dog parks were also high on the list of needs by residents. The Skate Park would be moved and rebuilt as an actual park with a Pump Track added.

The Putting Course which brought in $60,000 in revenues before COVID would be removed to open the park up for other amenities. The Go Kart Concession would also be gone, but could relocate to a new location.

Julia Culp, a Bernardo/Willis Architect principal, said the team was also looking at the community waterfront. “We want it to be ADA accessible.” She also mentioned larger playgrounds, opening up lake views by getting rid of trees that block views. She also mentioned an open lawn space that would replace the basketball courts and picnic area. It could be used for a Farmers Market, concerts and other events.

Following are some of the survey results:

Improvements desired:

• More Public Access to the Lake
• More Trails and Bike Paths
• Winter Activities

Improvements over the next 5 to 10 years:

• A Community Farmers Market
• Additional Youth Sports Opportunities
• Enrichment Classes
• Senior Programs

Future Needs:

• Public access to the lake
• More trails and bike paths
• Dog parks

By Richard Uhlhorn

“I think that’s too high,” stated Shari Dietrich at her first in-person City Council meeting during discussions about proposed rate hikes at the Lakeshore RV Park. “They will freak out at that price. I caution you to going that high.”

Dietrich comes from RV rental experience since she and her husband Darren run a RV Rental service. Her other concern was showing loyalty to longtime RV people who have been camping in Chelan for 40 years.

Parks Director Paul Horne replied that the Parks Department values the loyalty of past visitors. “We looked at the competition,” said Horne. He added that amenities like proximity to the lake, downtown and the park make Lakeshore RV Park a tremendous asset for the City. “This is a real gem,” said Horne.

Currently, because of the COVID pandemic, RV trends have spiked with many people actually working remotely from their RVs.

“We are proposing a 49 percent increase for 2023,” stated Horne. “We can command that rate if we are a resort destination.”

John Olson asked if this was a recommendation of staff. Horne replied that the staff conducted an informal market rate analysis of the RV Park and but felt that the proposed increase was sustainable. “If you think it is too high, we will go with the direction of the Council.”

City Administrator Wade Ferris reminded the Council that they wanted to raise rates. Tim Hollingsworth added that the City has a responsibility “to get what we can.” However, he said that he was squeamish about raising the rates to quickly and suggested a gradual rate increase over two to three years.

Chris Baker felt the proposed rate changes for RVs were ok, but felt that the tent rates were a bit high.

Lakeshore RV Park is so popular with RV owners that it is nearly fully booked nine months in advance. The park operations pull in approximately $40,000 in 3% lodging taxes.

In order to accommodate larger (65 foot) motor homes, the Parks Board recommends the Park setting up a reinvestment fund to help it remain an attractive asset. Needs include:

• Electrical upgrades;
• Extension of asphalt pads up to 60 feet, crack sealing and sealcoating of its existing roads;
• Upgraded wayfinding signage; and
• Selective tree pruning and tree replacement by arborists.
• Electrical upgrades;
• Extension of asphalt pads up to 60 feet, crack sealing and sealcoating of its existing roads;
• Upgraded wayfinding signage; and
• Selective tree pruning and tree replacement by arborists.

Another idea si to provide niche glamping or park model rentals which would provide year round appeal.

The proposed 49 percent increase from the 2021 $67 a night to $98 a night in 2023 and $104 in 2024 is considered to still be an attractive price compared to local hotels.

The proposals will continue to be discussed. 2022 is already mostly booked in advance of the upcoming season.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Legislative Priorities:
City Council approved its 2022-23 Legislative Priorities after a lengthy discussion concerning amendments proffered by Councilman Tim Hollingsworth (also board member of the Chelan Housing Trust) on Affordable Housing.

Hollingsworth was not able to attend the Tuesday, January 25, meeting but was on a Zoom Call to the Council. His letter requesting amendments to the language was based on the fact that a lot of communities are struggling with affordable housing needs. “I don’t think we should ask for an additional tax on Short Term Rentals,” said Hollingsworth who felt it would become a divisive issue.

Councilman Chris Baker asked what it would be. Hollingsworth replied that it was based on a proposal by Senator Hawkins to utilize 1 percent of the 3 percent bed tax. John Olson said the entire county has been behind on affordable housing needs. “I’m personally not opposed to a new tax on STRs,” said Olson. He stated Mayor Goedde’s remarks that an additional 1 percent on a $300 a night room at Campbell’s or elsewhere would not upset any renter because it would only added $3 to the bill.

Mayor Goedde added that he didn’t want this tax, if approved, to affect the residents.

STRs pay the same 3 percent tax that the hotel/resorts pay. Planning Director Craig Gildroy stated that if you are a registered and licensed STR, you pay the 3 percent.

It was pointed out that if the City wanted to have a new 1 percent tax on STRs they have no authority to do so.

Hollingswoth’s amendments include:

• Broadening eligibility requirements to allow for a larger range of incomes to purchase affordable homes;
• Legislation to give local jurisdictions more flexibility to implement possible solutions to include land donation and use of local tax revenues;
• Use a housing affordability index rather than median income as a basis for funding eligibility;
• Impose an additional tax on short term rentals (this was removed from the list); and
• Allow more local control of building and planning codes to make it easier to construct dormitories and short-term rentals for additional worker housing availability.

With affordable housing being a major issue within the City, it supports the efforts of non-profit organizations like the Chelan Valley Housing Trust and Habitat for Humanity. It also will support proposals that assist in creating rural residential housing for communities like Chelan, including the efforts of Representative Mike Steele and Senator Brad Hawkins.

Lake Chelan:

Lake Chelan is one of the finest bodies of fresh water on Earth that attracts visitors from around the State and the World. The Chelan Valley economy is based on tourism and agriculture; both are dependent upon the lake. Visitors don’t come here for major professional sporting events, or fine museums and art galleries, they come here for the lake!

To keep the Lake the unique, valuable asset it is, the City Council supports legislative funding for the following:

1. Increased/improved waterfront access. This includes existing park improvements and development of new public access areas (Road ends projects within the City).
2. Enhanced safety on the Lake (More marine patrols, buoys, etc.)
3. Water quality monitoring, including the efforts of Lake Chelan Research Institute.

Youth support:

Support for Chelan’s Youth The Chelan City Council strongly supports providing opportunities for our young people to engage in outdoor activities and securing funding for the following:

1. New, improved skate park
2.  Ice rink for winter activities
3. More outdoor basketball courts
4. A pump track
5. Support for the new community center (under construction)

Traffic & Pedestrian Safety:

Traffic and Pedestrian Safety City Council strongly believes that Chelan needs improvements to both its traffic and pedestrian safety. To accomplish this, funding is needed for the following:

1. Adding well marked and visible crosswalks (rapid flashing beacons, etc.) on Woodin Ave and Saunders between the bridge and Woodin, as well as in front of our schools.
2. Building round abouts at busy intersections (Johnson and Saunders, Woodin and Saunders) to improve traffic flow and safety.
3. Upgrading sidewalks and crossings to meet ADA requirements.
4. Strategic Planning Priorities Improved traffic flow/safety Support for youth activities/development Improved downtown parking

by Richard Uhlhorn

Brian Patterson, the new president of the Chelan Basin Conservancy (CBC) and Lisa Garvich, vice president, addressed Chelan City Council about the CBC’s new and more focused direction.

CBC is most recognized for its efforts to have the Three Fingers removed from Lake Chelan. It eventually lost its case in Washington State’s Supreme Court and the fingers are now being developed. They also were active in trying to stop any development on Chelan Butte.

Patterson told the Council that the CDC is looking to partner with public and private organizations and that “the City of Chelan is an important part of that.”

The CBC is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit and currently has 25 members, but is hoping to grow that membership. Patterson introduced Garvich and Tony Crosetto as the Treasurer and Mary Bider as Secretary.

The CBC’s vision for the Valley is to have ample open space, public lake access and a clean and safe environment for future generations of residents and visitors to enjoy.

Its focus will include Aquatic Invasive Species, public access to the lake, orchard soil contamination and its remediation, and the old Save the Butte campaign.

Patterson stated that the organization would be working on public access and said, “I’m pleased to see the City has embraced this idea.”

Patterson, a retired environmental engineer, was at the forefront of the efforts to convincing the Department of Ecology to address soil contamination on old orchard lands that were subject to contamination from lead arsenic and other chemicals. Each development will now be required to hire a consultant to oversee the initial dirt work and getting clean topsoil.

Garvich told the Council that she has high hopes the organization can develop outstanding relationships and build on those alliances.

She said they would be strategically recruiting and identifying people who can bring diverse attitudes and ideas. “We are encouraging people to get involved,” she said. “We feel strongly that projects need to be looked at globally.” To that the CBC wants to partner with others on how they can protect the environment. “We feel strongly that the public needs to be engaged.”

She stated that lake quality is at the top of the list when it comes to the environment. “We are lucky to have Phil Long (Lake Chelan Research Institute) and the CBC will continue to help “Keep it Blue.”

Garvich mentioned that the CBC continues its efforts to Save the Butte and would lie to see the public purchase that land. She said they are talking with the Trust for Public Lands and the Chelan Land Trust along with the State Legislature. “It’s a part of Chelan’s small town feel,” she said, but noted that the Butte Property is under a contract for potential development at this time.

The City, under Mayor Mike Cooney, had the Butte on its Legislative Priority list and wanted the purchase the 900 acres currently privately held. The purchase price, if it becomes available again, is approximately $8 million dollars.

Chelan Basin Conservancy’s website is at http://www.chelanbasinconservancy.org.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan Fire and Rescue (Chelan County Fire District #7) has a new fire chief. Brandon Asher was sworn in as the district’s new chief by outgoing chairman Phil Moller who is being replaced by Russ Jones after Karyl Oules declined the opportunity to chair the commission.

During the Public Comment period, retired Fire Commissioner Rick Nedrow congratulated Brandon Asher on his ascendancy to the Chief’s position. “The board needs to let the Chief find his place and the Chief needs to allow the same for the board,” said Nedrow. “You have made the right choice.”

Also recognized and sworn in was Firefighter/EMT Brandon Fogelson and the promotion of Recruit Firefighter/LT Ron Simmons who has also assumed the presidency of the Firefighter’s Association.

During Simmons’ report, he stated that a number of people showed up at an Association’s meeting asking how they could become involved. “We are looking for people with an interest in helping the association out,” said Simmons. “There is a lot being done, but I’m still learning about what has been done (in the past).”

Simmons told the Commission that there were no activities planned in the next month or so, so there would be nothing to report, however, he added that if there was information the Commission wanted, he would certainly provide it.

The Firefighters Association has been a conduit between the public, district administration and district needs for several years. Examples of the association’s community service are donations to residents who have suffered fire losses, and to the department, most notably funding for Marine 71, the Coast Guard vessel acquired by the District through Jones and the commission’s efforts.

The Department’s parade vehicle is maintained and operated by members of the Association.

Fire Chief’s Report:
Chief Asher reported that the District’s expenditures were at 95% and that the District received $114,000+ from State Mobilization in 2020 and is expecting another $121,183 in State Mob funding for 2021 in 2022.

The District responded to 1023 Calls-for-Service in 2021. In December, there were 86 Calls-for-Service; 10 were for Advanced Life Support, 25 for Basic Life Support, and 20 for no ambulance transport.

Firefighters were busy during the extreme cold weather helping with multiple water pipe breaks. “The crews were out helping secure water lines,” said Asher.

Asher said RiverCom has a grant that will sync all the Radio Systems in their region. “It is a pretty good program,’ said Asher.

Regarding volunteer recruitment, Asher stated that there was still funding available in the SAFER grant and the District is looking at extending the grant for another 30 to 60 days to expend all the funding available under the grant. “It’ a matter of being equitable with all three districts,” said Asher.

“We got a lot out of this grant over the four years,” said Asher. That included 81 recruits going to the Fire Academy. “A lot of them finished the academy,” he stated.Asher reported that the District has one Hazmat certified indiviual, six Rope-Rescue, four PADI Water Rescue and all have Red Cards for wildland fire fighting.

Currently, the District has seven Career, four Seasonal and 33 Volunteers who are combat qualified. “We dropped a little, but are getting a real solid group.”

Assistant Fire Chief position:
“We’ve had quite a bit of interest in this position, but only one application so far,’ said Asher. The deadline for applications is February 28, interviews will take place on March 14/15 and then the Commissioners will interview the top listed candidates on March 21.

City of Chelan Fire Protection:
Chief Asher said he has received a draft copy of the Memorandum of Understanding between the City and District. “I had only one question,” said Asher. “We should have a final draft real soon.”

District 5/EMS collaboration talks:
He reported that Lake Chelan Health is pretty content with their system and that he had a three hour meeting with Chief Baker. “We were able to change District 5’s drill night to Tuesday’s. I think that is a good start.”

Jones added that he has also discussed the EMS system with a few Hospital Board members. “They are pretty well integrated into the Hospital system,” said Jones. “In talking with some Hospital commissioners, they are not interested.”

Phil Moller said, “We just wanted to house them.” Asher replied, “That is something to talk about.” Ex-Chief Mark Donnell entered the conversation and said, “It’s all about efficiencies. What can we do to be more efficient.” He added that it wasn’t a takeover or merger that was being asked for. Jones stated that the bottom line is cooperation between EMS, District 5 and the rest of the fire services.

LongRange Strategic Planning:
Asher told the Commission that with the passage of the Levy Lid Lift, the time was to begin thinking about long range planning. The Commission agreed to  meet on February 21 to discuss the strategic planning steps.

Seasonal Firefighters:
Asher told the Commission that there was a lot of competition for seasonal hiring from the Forest Service and Department of Natural Resources. The District would like to have seasonal employees on by April, prior to the fire season.

Capital expenditures:
Asher told the Commission that the District is looking at purchasing a new, compact 4-wheel drive structural truck that can access the narrow driveways on the South Shore. He stated that there would be no payments for a year. “It would be functional for us.”

Jones said, “With more mob money coming in we will have (up to) $300,000 plus (any) 2022 mob money to help purchase.

Commissioner comments:

Karyl Oules said that there were a lot of things to look at in depth within the District.

Jones brought up an individual’s false narrative on his participation with the community committee that discussed the Levy. Jones said he checked with the State and County and said as a commissioner he was free to interact and to support the committee and levy as long as he didn’t use District facilities, etc.

“It is unfortunate that people use Social Media instead of calling appropriate people.”

Executive Session:
The Commissioners moved into executive session to receive and evaluate complaints or charges brought against a public officer or employee. No action was taken afterwards.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Legislative Priorities:

City Council was handed an incomplete Legislative Priority list to discuss and give City staff some direction to develop the final 2022-2023 document for approval at the January 25, 2022 City Council meeting.

The first item up for discussion was Affordable Housing. Chelan, like many Washington communities is struggling with a lack of housing options which makes it too expensive for many local workers to live in the community.

The City supports Senator Hawkins proposal to utilize one percent of the three percent tourism tax to help fund affordable housing projects in the region. One percent of the three percent tax taken in by Chelan is approximately $300,000 a year.

The City also supports the creation of a tax on Short Term Rentals that would also be dedicated to funding affordable housing.

Erin McCardle opened the discussion with concerns of imposing a tax on Short Term Rentals (STRs) with no opportunity to talk to the STR community. “I’m concerned about the unintended consequences,” she said. “We need a more in-depth discussion about this.”

Chris Baker agreed with McCardle’s points. Mayor Goedde remarked that such a tax would be an easy way to generate money for affordable housing. He supports Senator Hawkins proposal but said, “This is a good opportunity to do it.”

Tim Hollingsworth said, “In general I support Senator Hawkins proposal.” However, he would like to see the priority simplified. “Make it brief bullet points of specific things we would like to address… highlighting specific thing we are asking for.”

Hollingsworth also liked the one percent STR proposal, but said the Council would need to figure out how to apply a lodging tax. “The money coming in is impacting our town.”

John Olson said that the Senator Hawkins legislation proposal would be awesome.

Water Safety:

Erin McCardle segued away from affordable housing to water safety issues. “We’ve been pushing the can down the road with people on the water that shouldn’t be driving a boat.” The Parks Department’s ‘white sheet’ has allocated $400,000 to this issue which would include new swim lines with larger buoys delineating authorized swim areas in Lakeside Park and Don Morse Park.

To Erin’s comment, water safety is more than swimmer safety as pointed out in Park Director Paul Horne’s white page. Safety on the lake has become an increasingly big issue. The Sheriff’s Department only has so much funding to provide on-water law enforcement. However, with an ever increasing presence of visitors on the water, the City needs to seek ways of securing more funding for on-water law enforcement.

She brought up the “Keep It Blue” campaign and would like to see a larger emphasis on educating the public and getting more buy-in.

Phil Long, director of the Lake Chelan Research Institute told the Council that there was an interest in doing this. He stated that no body of water in the State has the highest level of protection, but felt that the upper Lucerne Basin could qualify because of its federal status. “It would be a hard lift for the lower end of the lake,” said Long.

he was asked why there wasn’t more activity by the Department of Ecology on the lake? Long said that would be a legislative matter.

Chris Baker segued away from the lake issue and remarked that the building of a skate park/pump track would be a good thing. “We need the City to support youth,” said Baker. “COVID 19 has affected our youth greatly,” he added.

Trifecta:

Councilman John Olson read a prepared statement during the Council comment period and stated that Chelan was currently experiencing “negative” trifecta. His statement called out the aging and failing infrastructure (roads, water and sewer systems) and all the other services the City is responsible for.

“For years, the City has not kept up with repairs and/or upgrades to these services; it was far easier to push those expenses down the road when another council would have to make the decisions and another generation would have to pay the costs,” wrote Olson.

He mentioned failed sewer and water lines and the escalating costs of repairing or renewing City infrastructure. This is along with the highest growth rate in the history of Chelan.

Olson stated that it was time for the City to buckle down and begin looking for solutions. He pointed out Chelan County PUD’s strategic planning project titled, “Funding Growth.” The PUD has a plan to establish system impact fees assessed to new customers to help recover the costs for new infrastructure. (www.chelanpud.org/fundinggrowth).

The PUD expects to spend $15 million annually to support growth in the County and Chelan’s Public Works Department expects the City expenditures to exceed $5 million annually for its infrastructure needs.

Olson stated that it is neither reasonable nor equitable for the current City residents to pay for new growth and it should initiate its own impact fee structure. “A simple 1% impact fee on a $600,000 home with 200+/- new homes in the valley each year would result in over $1 million to help meet the City’s needs,” wrote Olson. “I therefore challenge our administration to investigate this (potential) new source of revenue to meet the future.”

Citizen Comments: Lisa Garvich requested that the City’s Public Works department will flag the City’s fire hydrants so snow removal equipment won’t bury them. Both Mayor Goedde and Public Works Director Jake Youngren thought this was an excellent idea.

Motion Considerations:

The City unanimously extended the Interlocal Agreement between the Lake Chelan Research Institute and the City of Chelan for one year so the Research Institute can use the remaining $15,000 on lake research.

Council unanimously approved a motion to allow City Administrator Wade Ferris to sign and execute a $32,000 funding grant for the Lake Chelan Airport. The funds will be used to help with airport operations.

Council unanimously agreed to an easement for the installation of the proposed storm water infrastructure for the Downtown Alley Utility Project. It involves the relocation of primary Chelan County PUD power conduits.

City Council agreed to a new air space lease with Crystal View Estates which was needed to marina infrastructure being constructed within public right-if-way that is needed to provide access to the marina. The term length of the agreement is for 10 years and can be automatically renewed annually for up to 10 years unless terminated by either party. The rent is $839.85 per year plus $107.84 in excise tax.

By Richard Uhlhorn

At the beginning of each year, the City of Chelan decides on what will be its Legislative Priorities for the year will be. Legislative Priorities are a list that is submitted to the Washington State Legislature as the most important issues facing the community. The following list of priorities will be approved by the City Council at their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, January 11. They are as follows:

Affordable Housing:

Affordable housing has been a hot button issue in the Community for a number of years. While the Chelan Housing Trust is dedicated to building affordable homes for individuals wanting to purchase, the need far outweighs the Trust’s efforts.

The largest issue is the both the hospitality industry and retail establishments continue to experience worker shortages because potential employees cannot afford to live in Chelan

The City Council support efforts to develop dormitory style housing for those seasonal and full-time workers.

The City’s priority will in 2022 will be to support proposals that assist in creating rural residential housing including the efforts of Representative Mike Steele and Senator Brad Hawkins who recently proposed utilizing 1 percent of the 3 percent bed tax for affordable housing.

In addition the City supports the creation of a tax on Short Term Rentals that is dedicated to funding affordable housing.

Public Waterfront Access:

Public waterfront access is another hot button issue that has become even more acute with the increased visitation during the summer months that fills up Chelan’s public parks to capacity.

The community at large has been requesting more public access to the lake and it has become a high priority for the City Council to address.

Increased and improved public access is a critical legislative priority for the City of Chelan. This year, the City has prioritized increasing access through two targeted initiatives.

The Parks Department has developed and refined a master plan for Lakeside Park to increase capacity, safety and functionality. This plan increases parking and restroom capacity as well as adding ADA compliant trails, beach enhancements, swim area improvements and a new playground.

The City ranked below allocated funding from the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) in 2018 and 2019. With City funds already allocated for the required matching funds for this project if it is granted the $1 million from the RCO.

Another grant being sought is from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) which uses Federal funds at the State level. The City is requesting that $4 million be added to the $6 million allocated to the program for the 2021-2023 funding cycle or to allocated $1 million of capital budget funding specifically for this project.

Chelan Waterfront Access Plan:

The City has identified seven locations for its Waterfront Access Plan (Road Ends Project) with the City Council approving $150,000 to improve the Park Street access point. The problem is that the total cost of these projects is an estimated $1,486,000 which without an influx of money will take years to accomplish.

Pedestrian Safety:

The City is requesting $700,000 from transportation funding for infrastructure to improve pedestrian safety along both Hwy 97A and Hwy 150 in the City. This would include visibility enhancements, traffic calming measures, additional Rapid Flashing lights and refuge islands.

The City is mostly concerned about the crosswalks in front of its schools and other high use areas like Saunders Street between the Bridge and Woodin Avenue.

These Legislative Priorities may be amended, changed and or embellished at the Tuesday evening City Council meeting.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan County Fire District No. 7 will have an assistant chief in 2022. At a special meeting on Wednesday, December 22, to specifically discuss whether or not to hire an assistant chief, the commissioners first heard from the public.

The issue has been whether or not to hire an assistant chief who would be an exempt employee on salary versus placing a Captain in the position when Chief Brandon Asher was unavailable.

The administration and Commissioner Russ Jones have argued that hiring an assistant chief will save the department in the long run instead of paying overtime to a career staff individual who is a union member.

Resident Robert Wentland told the commissioners that the voters had voted in November for no reduction in staffing or other areas of the fire service. “Fifty seven plus percent of the voters are expecting no reduction in services. They expect that to be honored,” said Wentland.

Chairman Phil Moller replied that the district won’t see any money to hire personnel until April. “As far as reducing staff, I believe there are other ways to provide without hiring an assistant chief.” He stated that he is fiscally conservative and if the district can save money he will always do that.

However, Ann Wright, another resident, said an assistant chief is valuable tot he district. “It’s a whole job,” she said. She accused the commission of always fighting the department… always being antagonistic. She specifically called out Commissioner Karyl Oules who says her constituents are always complaining. “Who are they,” she asked. “Are they five people or 100. They never come to a meeting to be heard.” She stated that Oules is not representing the people or the department.

Commissioner Russ Jones opened the commission discussion by asking if Moller and Oules are opposed to hiring an assistant chief? Moller replied that he wasn’t opposed to filling that position. Oules stated that the commission and administration needs to look into the issue further. “It doesn’t need to be done in a week,” she said. “There have got to be options available.”

Jones remarked that an email was sent out detailing the differences between an assistant chief versus having a career union firefighter in the position. “We are going to pay a lot of overtime,” said Jones. “We budgeted for this. I don’t know what kind of message you are looking for.”

Chief Brandon Asher asked what the other options are? “There is a ton of work.” He added that he spent 358 hours a year extra while he held the position. “The bargaining unit would have to be brought in to negotiate the position.”

Asher also commented that he just spent eight days in Mexico on vacation. “There was no question of who was in charge… it was Chief Donnell.”

Moller asked if an assistant chief would also be the training officer. Asher replied that training would be a big part of his job along with meetings and 911 responses. Moller asked if the assistant chief would go on combat calls? Asher replied that he would and that an assistant chief is an absolute necessity.

A firefighter in the audience stated that someone needs to fill that role. “If it is one of us, our salary increases.”

A volunteer firefighter remarked that a training position carries a huge liability. He added that since he has been here he has gained huge respect for Chief Asher.

Jones asked once again. “Why wouldn’t we fill that position?” Moller replied it’s not filling the position, he just wants to be fiscally responsible. “I’ve never not wanted that position… I just wanted to save a little money and get the job done.”

Jones said, “What I’m hearing is you’re ok with an exempt position… just not an assistant chief. Oules said she isn’t opposed to an assistant chief, but just wants a little more time to investigate alternatives.

Asher replied to the commissioners that the district is fiscally responsible. “I think we’ve proven that.”

Chief Mark Donnell stated that the district had the luxury to have Asher on a grant. “We abused that grant,” he said. “It’s an amazing amount of work.” He added that if they decide to go with a union career officer, they will have to negotiate the terms with the union. “Right now we are looking at four months. If we wait, it will be May 1 and then we are into the fire season.”

Jones made the motion to post the position for an assistant chief. It took Moller about 10 seconds of thinking before he seconded the motion. Moller and Jones voted to post the position and Oules voted No.

Resident Larry Peabody said, “I believe the board had made the right decision.”

by Richard Uhlhorn

The City of Chelan City Council tied up and finished its 2021 business at last week’s year ending Council meeting. The meeting ended on a note of thanks to outgoing Dr. Ty Witt who has served one term, but chose not to run for two because he is getting married and moving out of Chelan to Manson.

Planning Commissioner Sheri Dietrich will be taking over Witt’s seat on the Council.

All council members thanked him for his service. Erin McCardle said, “A big thank you to Ty. I very much appreciated working with you. You will be missed.”

Servando Robledo seconded McCardle’s praise saying it has been great working with him. Mayor Bob Goedde stated he appreciated Witt’s insight in city issues.

When all were through wishing Witt well, he stated that the Council and Staff were all great to work with. He explained that he came to the council with no experience and no specific agenda but water quality, preservation of open spaces, trails, housing, and the glass pulverizer. “I would like to say a special thanks to Ray Dobbs who taught me alot about bridge building.”

City Administrator Wade Ferris told Witt in closing that he has made a difference.

2021 ending business:

The Council unanimously approved both the 2022 Chelan Airport budget and the City’s $23,488,389 2022 budget. The only comment after several months of work putting it together came from Councilman John Olson who objected to the $700,000 requested by the Chamber of Commerce for marketing to promote Chelan. “This is when we can’t even accommodate the tourists we have,” he stated. However, he also stated that he appreciates the work the Chamber does and the work State Representative Mike Steele does for the region.

Tony Mears, an irrigation designer with Mears Design Group gave an update presentation of his Lake Chelan Golf Course Irrigation Study. His conclusion was that the course’s current irrigation system is “pretty deficient.” He stated that there were a number of factors leading to his conclusion including including pipe size, sprinkler heads, and irrigation phasing that is not consistent. “You need to keep (irrigation) consistent, especially on large turf areas. The goal is efficiency whether it is water or power.”

The golf course irrigation system was initially installed in 1968 with upgrades in the early 90s. “You are well past your life expectancy on the system,” he said. There are leaks in the main line and the ponds resulting in lost water which needs to be taken care of.

John Olson stated that funding was set-up in 2023. Parks Director Paul Horne said that was correct and that it will cost $25,000 for a design of a new system. It will cost $250,000 in 2023 to begin the upgrades and in 2025 it will be completed for a total cost of $2.6 to $2.8 million dollars. “It (golf course) is a great asset,” said Horne.

This is the recommendations in order of priority:

            1. Replace irrigation mainline and lateral piping.

            2. Incorporate new efficient irrigation sprinkler heads with single head control.   

            3. Incorporate isolation valves throughout the course system.    

            4. Incorporate new pump stations with wet wells.         

            5. Incorporate a central control communication to pump systems.

ChelanBay (Three Fingers development):

The Council approved the final plat for the Chelan Bay development on the Three Fingers. They also approved the Chelan Bay Final Plat Maintenance Agreement which give the City an easement for pedestrian ingress and egress to Lake Chelan, a walking and biking trail along the frontage of the plat, a park, public parking areas and for other recreational purposes. This easement is for the benefit of the public.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth said the City needs to make sure “we are not approving this stuff when issues remain.”

Planning Director Craig Gildroy said there were a number of conditions set down including the construction of the Lakeside Trail on the easement and a swim area on the west side of the property that is open to the public.

Downtown Alley Project:

The council approved a MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with Resource Environmental LLC (RELLC) which is under contract with Chevron to address and remediate petroleum product contamination from the “Chelan Chevron Site.”

Public Works Director Jake Youngren said that the MOU is advantageous to the City and that RELLC will cooperate on the execution of the downtown alley project if petroleum contamination is encountered. “We are embarking on a project that has risk. If we do encounter petroleum contamination, it will be the responsibility of Chevron and won’t burden the City.”

Youngren said, “We will mostly be excavating in the same trench line that currently exists, only six inches deeper.” City Attorney Quentin Batjer added that typically the polluter pays for cleanup efforts.

The Council also authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute all applicable Temporary Construction Easements for the Downtown Water and Sewer Utility Project.

This project will require entering some private property to complete and staff felt it prudent to develop a general Temporary Construction Easement which would be used to execute with each property owner that may be affected by the project.

Other motion considerations approved by council:

1. – Davis Arneil Law Firm 2022 City Attorney Services Agreement.

2. – Kottkamp, Yedinak and Esworth, PLLC Legal Services Agreement for Indigent Criminal Defendents. Batjer explained that the State Constitution requires that the City have a public defender. Councilman Ty Witt said it was interesting that the taxpayers pay to prosecute and defend these people.

3. – Chelan Public Library Elevator Maintenance Agreement with Inland Elevator.

4. – RH2 Engineering General Services Agreement Renewal.

5. – Chelan Traffic Improvements Project Change Order. Because of a worldwide supply chain issue with pavement markings, Specialized Pavement Marking, Inc. (SPM) has not been able to secure the material for the pavement marking project at Johnson and Sanders. The decision was made by staff, contractor and SCJ Alliance to wait until Spring 2022 to complete the project.

6. – Council authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute the Legacy Ridge Stormwater Maintenance Agreement.

The next meeting of the City Council will be a workshop on Tuesday, January 4 beginning at 4 p.m.