I have been a journalist, photojournalist and reporter in the Lake Chelan Valley since 1988; first with the Wenatchee World, then 15 years at the Lake Chelan Mirror and another 12 years at GoLakeChelan.
Currently, I am semi-retired but can't give up the media gig which is why I started All Things Lake Chelan blog. I also have two social media platforms; allthingslakechelan/facebook and lakechelansportsandrecration/facebook. I am also a professional photographer with many credits with major outlets around the world.
City Hall: Chelan’s September 2 Workshop brought up a wrinkle in the city’s effort to remodel its current facility… the possibility of building a new $20 million city hall.
The workshop was the first time the council had heard this idea. Communications Director Chad Coltman remarked that MMEC Architecture consultants had identified a number of issues with the city’s current buildings.
At issue, of course, would be the cost which has been estimated at $20 million. The council’s issue is whether or not a new city hall is even needed versus a remodel of the existing building. Another issue is where a new City Hall would be built.
Mayor McCardle remarked that the current city hall is outgrowing itself and there will be a lack of space in the next nine years. “The problems are not going away,” said McCardle. “It’s like putting a finger into a dam,” she added.
Mayor Erin McCardle
McCardle told the Council that they need to consider coming up with a plan the city can start budgeting for. “Nothing is getting cheaper. We need to sit down and have a hard conversation,” said McCardle adding that the need is there within the next five to seven years.
Mark Ericks asked about remodeling the current facility. Terry Sanders stated that selling a $20 million dollar bond would be tough. Shari Deitrich said she doesn’t get real excited about adding a third floor. Tim Hollingsworth said the city needs to come up with a plan fr the Sheriff’s office. “We need a hard look at what they need here in Chelan,” Hollingsworth said.
During the Mayor/Council comment period at the end of the meeting, Mayor McCardle said, “You guys have to make the hard decisions on a new building.” She added that now is the right time to be thinking about this project. “It’s not going to happen tomorrow or even in four years but we need to be engaged.” She asked the council to continue to strategize and to keep the conversation going. “Let’s keep this positive.”
Note: Since the September 2 workshop a number of council members have remarked that there is a number of alternatives to building a new city hall. One of the top alternatives is to build an annex at Public Works for the Planning Department which would free up approximately 2,000 sq. ft. of space at City Hall.
Joint Operating Agreement – Airport. meeting. “Their proposal contribution includes a three-year agreement. In a nutshell that’s the progress we’ve made.”
Currently, the contribution is $50,000 for Operations and Maintenance. The proposal follows:
Year 1 – O&M $80,000; Capital Equipment Match – $15,000 Year 2 – O&M $95,000; Capital Equipment Match – $15,000 Year 3 – O&M $100,000; Capital Equipment Match – $15,000
The two year increases are subject to completion of the airport waterline and expanded Airport Development District (UGA) prior to December 31, 2026.
The Regional Port payments would be made quarterly.
The City will continue to provide monthly income and expense reports and a yearly financial summary.
Interlocal Law Enforcement Services Agreement – 2026-2029 Coltman stated that the proposed agreement revolves around the cost per deputy. Under the agreement, the department has three deputies on patrol 24/7. Currently the department has 12 officers on board. “We pay for six deputies and the new rate is $270,952 per deputy.
Mayor McCardle said, “We can’t absorb a15% increase.”
The City will pay the County the following amounts for base services to 2029 2026 – $1,72,900; 2027 – $1,793896; 2028 -$1,865,651; and 2029 – $1,940,278.
Chelan will also be required to pay for discretionary overtime.
The County will pay rent on that 1,200 sq. ft. portion of City Hall formerly the police station.
The agreement was approved unanimously by the City Council at its Tuesday, September 9 council meeting.
I, along with other members of the local media, was invited to tour Morgan Owens Elementary School (MOE) with Maintenance Director Rosie Burkhard on August 25, 2025.
Chelan School Superintendent Brad Wilson and Maintenance Director Rosie Burkhard welcomed the local media for a tour of the Morgan Owens Elementary School in August.
The Lake Chelan School District is asking the voters in its district to pass a $73 million dollar bond issue, primarily to build a new elementary school for its 450± students.
MOE, while structurally sound, was built in 1948 and has major infrastructure issues the district must deal with each year. Last year alone, according to School Superintendent Brad Wilson, the district paid out $97,000 in plumbing and electrical repairs.
THAT IS WHERE THE CANCER COMES IN… Rosie Burkhard was carrying a length of copper pipe and when we came to a bathroom that had been taped off, she explained that section of pipe had a pinhole in it that flooded the ceiling and bathroom which was getting repaired.
Burkhard explains the issues with the buildings plumbing and electrical systems.
Students and teachers are faced with issues like leaking plumbing and electrical HVAC shutdowns on a regular basis.
Unfortunately, once old copper pipe begins to experience failure, it continues to fail until the system needs total replacement.
We were also invited into a classroom where the teacher was running water in her sink. The water coming out was brown, another serious indication that plumbing failures were right around the corner.
This is apparently the issue with water within the building. There are only two drinking fountains in the building.
In addition, the building has no fire sprinkler system or fire suppression system in place. Fire exits are on the main floor, but one classroom has windows high up towards the ceiling as a possible escape route.
The building’s HVAC system would cost the district $5.2 million dollars to replace. “It just shuts down by itself,” said Burkhard. “We are definitely on our last legs here.”
The district is stuck with an aging kitchen system that won’t allow the kitchen staff to do anything beyond basic food services. Despite this, the school serves the majority of students breakfast and lunch, and sometimes snacks in the buildings gymnasium. “We can’t use the gym because it serves as a dining room most of the time,” said Burkhard.
The building has 97 single pane windows that contribute to a major heat loss during the winter months. The cost to replace them is estimated at $2.2 million to replace. Other classrooms have no windows at all.
In addition to aging building issues, at least 250 students have to cross Bradley Street twice a day for PE at the Community Gym. This takes a minimum of 20 minutes of learning time away.
Also, Bradley Street has become a major semi-truck route off Hwy. 97A.
Hwy. 97 to Bradley Street has become a major semi-truck turn point to navigate Chelan.
Students in the School of Innovation and Chelan Digital classes are situated in a building across the street from MOE and Pre-School students are also located in a building separated by the elementary school. All of this would, according to District plans, be eliminated with a new school building.
The district wants to replace the 1948 school with a new elementary building that will last well into the future. The decision to run a $73 million dollar bond issue came from a long line of Capital Facility committee meetings.
If passed by the voters, the funds would be used to build a new elementary school on district property behind the Community Gym at a cost of $54,74 million. In addition, Chelan School District’s Middle/High School would have its metal shop and wood shop remodeled to meet industry standards. A new ADA accessible weight room would also be added. The Middle/High School remodels and additions would cost $8.81 million.
Out at the Mt. Goat Field Complex, additional bleachers, parking for up 300 vehicles and a new eight lane all weather track, locker rooms, concession stand and restrooms would be added at a cost of $9.45 million.
The district has two tour opportunities in September for the public to be more informed about the need for a new school. These two tours will take place on:
Flock camera systems: Under Sheriff Dan Ozment gave Chelan City Council an update on the department’s Flock Camera program that will be put into place around the 2,900 square miles the department is responsible for.
Under Sheriff Dan Ozment presented the Chelan County Sheriffs Department’s plan to install Flock cameras in the Valley.
A Flock camera is an Automatic License Plate Reader (ALPR) system that captures vehicle information. Typically, the information includes license plate numbers, make, model, color and other features on the vehicle like bumper stickers, tool boxes, etc.
Flock cameras are solar powered and help communities and law enforcement deter and solve crimes by providing law enforcement agencies searchable footage of vehicles and generation of known threats like missing persons. Access is limited to customer owners and law enforcement agencies.
“It’s a way for us to look to see if a (suspect) vehicle has passed through an area,” said Ozment. “They are not live recording cameras.”
Ozment went on to say that the cameras can be used for Amber and Silver Alerts, but that information is not shared with ICE.
He gave an example of how the system works for law enforcement. “We received information about a $180,000 boat that was stolen.” Ozment said through the use of the Flock camera system, they were able to trace the pickup and boat to East Wenatchee.
There will be a camera at Les Schwab, two at Pat and Mikes, and one at Lakeside. “This is not a surveillance tool,” Ozment added. “Yakima has 46 of them in use and has already helped them solve three homicides.
“We are ready to install.”
Mayor Erin McCardle asked where in the county they would be used. Ozment replied that they only capture one-way. “At Pat & Mikes we capture outbound traffic.”
Sheriff MikeMorrison.
Sheriff Mike Morrison added that if the cameras had been in use during the Decker tragedy, “We would have had him when he turned onto Icicle Road.” Morrison added that Omak has solved a homicide with the use of camera information.
In other business: Parks Director Paul Horne presented information to council on two items:
Parks Prohibited Acts and Area Restrictions: Horne reported that the department has developed two revisions to the mandate including Area Restrictions for non-motorized watercraft are permitted during the seasonal watercraft restrictions at Lakeside Park.
That a provision has been added to permit mooraged at designated City supplied mooring buoys at Lakeside Park.
Service animals – revised to identify that ADA-defined service animals are permitted in all City Parks when accompanying disabled individuals. Propane & Electric cooking devices – The parks prohibition has been expanded to clarify the prohibition of propane and electric cooking devices.
The second item was a request that the council award the Dock Company’s bid for in-water work at Lakeside Park this coming fall. The Council unanimously approved the motion to award the $224,257.80 bid.
Administrative reports: Business License Threshold. City Clerk Peri Gallucci reported that the State has mandated that all cities update their business license threshold model with a one=time increase for non-resident business licenses from $2,000 to $4,000 effective January 1, 2026. The ordinance will be brought forward to the next Council meeting
Lake Chelan Sailing Association Marina area use agreement. Paul Horne proposed continuing the City’s agreement with the Lake Chelan Sailing Association. “They have been providing 1,000s of hours of sailing instruction over the years,” said Horne.
Lake Chelan Airport Update. In the ongoing negotiations with the Port of Chelan/Douglas County Port Authority, City Administrator Wade Farris reported that the two agencies were “way farther ahead than we were a couple of weeks ago.” Mayor McCardle added that the last meeting was very productive.
Chelan House Fire: Chelan Fire and Rescue firefighters responded to the house fire on Woodin Avenue last Thursday morning within 4 minutes of the alarm going off. The fire, which is still under investigation by the ATF, became a 3-Alarm fire in fear that it could spread to other buildings in the neighborhood. “It might be a couple of weeks before they (ATF) release something,” said Fire Chief Brandon Asher.
There are many rumors about the cause of this fire, but until the ATF releases its final report, no one has a true picture of what actually started it.
There were two fatalities and several injured during the fire. One of the injured was transferred to Harborview’s Burn Center.
Asher went on to say that if fire had started during the day, the department could have lost several buildings. “We were lucky it started at 5 a.m.”
Chelan Fire and Rescue was dispatched to a fully ingulfed house fire on Thursday morning August 21.
Responding to the third alarm was Manson Fire District #5, Orondo and Wenatchee Fire Districts. Wenatchee brought up a ladder truck to compliment apparatus the Chelan and other agencies had on site.
All Things Lake Chelan will update information as soon as it becomes available.
Chelan Fire Commission: Chelan Fire and Rescue held its monthly commission meeting on Wednesday, August 20 one day prior to the house fire that destroyed the home on Woodin Avenue.
During the Fire Chief’s report Asher reported that the department responded to 148 calls which is the second highest in the department’s history. “We are having a busy August. Our average is 136 calls.”
Assistant Chief Shaun Sherman and Fire Chief Brandon Asher both give reports to the commission on department activities and issues at its monthly meetings.
Asher went on to say they had no significant fire loss and no wildfires that got out of control. They responded to a second alarm for a fire at Grand Coulee, recovered a body from Lake Chelan, and responded to a small brush fire at Chelan Shores. Chelan Fire did send units to Winthrop’s fire.
Asher reported that he called the U.S. Department of Agriculture on grant programs and stated that fully funded grants are almost non-existent.
There was an unfortunate issue with reimbursements from State Mobilizations. “If we go to help, we get paid 100 percent for out time and apparatus,” stated Asher. “It won’t happen again.”
TIF news: Commissioner Russ Jones reported that the district still has a lot of questions and is seeking feedback. “It’s a matter of knowing which questions to ask.” The City of Chelan has implemented a Tax Increment Financing District for the East Chelan Water Project. The TIF affects the amount of tax revenue each Junior Taxing District receives during the project.
Commissioner Russ Jones reported on ZOOM and remarked that the audio from the Zoom feed was better than the microphones the department uses.
New Business: There was a discussion on obtaining a Utility Vehicle from a grant. Commissioner Ron Simmons remarked that the department needs to “make sure we are talking about obtaining the right apparatus.”
Moving to a five man commission: There was a discussion regarding changing the commission from three members to five. “I don’t know if this is the right opportunity or time to do this,” said Commissioner Mark Donnell. “We need to have a discussion about the cost. It is a discussion worth having.”
Commissioner Mark Donnell brought up the possibility of going from a three member commission to a five person commission.
Chief Asher stated that a five man commission would allow the department to have committees without worrying about quorams.
Simmons stated that he didn’t feel the department was large enough for a five man commission. “It would add two more bureaucrats. Do we need to do that.”
Jones stated that it would be worth looking at the cost, but added that the current three member commission was working pretty well. “It is always good to look at things though,” stated Jones.
Special meeting: The department is planning on holding a special meeting to discuss the Board of Commissioners and Fire Chief Relations, along with Board and Staff Relations.
School Bond Issue: Superintendent of the Chelan School District, Brad Wilson, was on hand at the beginning of the meeting to inform the fire district of the $73 million dollar bond issue on the November ballot.
Wilson said the ballot measure includes a new elementary school to replace MOE which has serious infrastructure issues, new ventilation for the middle/high school, construction of a ground level weight room, Mountain Goat All Weather Track facility that would allow the school to hold track events, adding 300 parking spots at Mt. Goat Field, along with restrooms and grandstands at Mt. Goat Field.
Wilson remarked that the OSPI’s Facilities Rating System has rated the elementary school at scale of 50.3/100 and the middle/high school at 57/100.
Manson Community Council had Chelan County PUD representatives Edrie Risdon – Customer Outreach Specialist and Abra O’Leary, – a Project Manager on board at their Tuesday, August 19 meeting to report on the PUD’s plans to add new substations.
Edrie RisdonAbra O’Leary
The PUD begins the process of searching for and building a new substation to take increased load from development when the current substation reaches 80 percent of its capacity.
Risdon explained that the PUD is looking at a 50 year plan to continue providing resilient and reliable power for its owners, and encouraged people check out PUD’s website for information.
Over the next 10 years the PUD plans on adding 15 new substations to meet its increasing energy demands.
O’Leary explained that the PUD is addressing the future needs in Manson and starting the process to build a new substation near Roses Lake. This process includes looking at alternative solutions along with obtaining property and land rights for a new substation through 2026. From 2027 to 2028 the PUD will design and build a new substation and power lines.
Currently, they are collecting feedback from stakeholders. In the design phase, the PUD will listen to the stakeholders and address any concerns.
An Open House will be held on September 30 at 5:30 p.m. at Manson Fire Hall to discuss the PUD’s plans.
In other business: The Council discussed splitting up agency and organization meetings between the members of the board. This would include a board member attending the Lake Chelan Reclamation District board meeting, Chelan City Council, Chelan County Watershed Meetings and Link Transit meetings.
Gerry Ustinak
Timi Starkweather reported that One Voice would be holding a public meeting on September 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. and September 12 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Manson Grange Hall.
Dom Amore
Dom Amore reported that a council meeting with the Colville Business Council has been scheduled for December 4. Amore stated that it would be an introductory meeting with the council to find out how Manson Community Council and they can fit together. “It will be up to their council to discuss the Casino Project with us.”
Chairman Mike Kirk
Mike Kirk said he had mentioned a roundabout at Hwy 150 and Wapato Lake Road with the Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council.
With traffic becoming increasingly busy between Manson and Chelan, reducing traffic conflicts becomes extremely important.
The council is working on getting the Manson School District and the Chelan Boys & Girls Club on their schedule.
The council has applied for status with the North Central Washington Foundation for potential grant opportunities. Amore stated that it takes up to two months for applications to be approved.
Jeff Conwell
Jeff Conwell reported that he was having difficulty getting sales tax information from the county. “The don’t seem to be able to break it down,” said Conwell. He had a meeting with the City of Entiat and remarked that they are excited to work with Manson on these issues. “We are trying to get the financial picture solidified,” he added.
There was a short discussion about Dark Skies in Manson.
Lakeside Surf will be offering plenty of surfing action over the Labor Day weekend.
The Event: It’s one of the most exciting action packed events of the year. On Labor Day weekend some of the best river surfers in the world will be in Chelan competing to compete for some of the $40,000 in cash prizes at the first biennial Gerry Lopez River Surf Invitational.
The History: Over the past three years, Lakeside Surf has hosted an annual Continental Surf Cup featuring a European team against the best surfers from around the region. The highly successful Continental Surf Cup has been put on hold until next year to make way for the Gerry Lopez River Surf Invitational.
“It relieves some of the tension to be here,” said Robert Bordner. “The logistics of traveling here is challenging for the Europeans.” Obtaining team visas is one of the main challenges.
The Gerry Lopez event gives individual surfers from around the world to come and compete on one of the best standing river surf waves in the world.
The Venue: Lakeside Surf has become one of the most enjoyable and stunning venues anywhere on the planet. Situated above Waterslides, Lakeside Surf offers both spectators and surfers an engaging experience. Spectators are always free and surfers, new and experienced have an exciting, adrenaline fueled rush of fast moving water 51 feet wide and up to six feet tall. The views from the location is also stunning offering a spectacular scene of Lake Chelan stretching out to the surrounding orchards and vineyards and mountains.
Lakeside Surf’s venue offers plenty of seating for spectators. Spectators are always free.
The Competition: With $40,000 at stake, the Gerry Lopez River Surf Invitational will see a number of male and female surfers from around the world compete against each other in a variety of segments from tricks to open surfing competition.
Beginning on Wednesday, August 27, the Pros will have a practice session beginning at 12:45 p.m. and again beginning at 5:45 p.m.
On Thursday, August 28, The pros will again have some practice times, but actual competition begins with the Round 1 of the Open Amateur competition at 5:45 through7:15 p.m. Round 2 takes place on Friday, August 29 from 3 p.m to 4:30 p.m. with the finals from 7:15 to 8:45 p.m.
The top male and female surfers in the Open Amateur comp. will fill the final roster in the Gerry Lopez Invitational
Saturday’s Professional competition will begin with Heats # 1 followed by the Best Trick session and finishing up around 9:30 p.m. with the Best Trick & Grab session.
Sunday’s competition will begin at 2:30 p.m. with Standard Heat #2 followed by the Semi finals and Finals with an Awards show following.
The Competitors: There are a number of local surfers on the list of professionals that fans will recognize and cheer for. High on that list is Cash Eygabroad who won this year’s Battle of the Butte competition with some incredible surfing. He’s joined in the pro ranks by Ben Benson who is a major challenger of Eygabroad’s. Liam O’Driscoll, Elijah Moody, Jared Eygabroad (Cash’s dad) and Logan Watson fill out some of the local surfers who will be challenging the surfers traveling to Chelan to try and claim some of that cash up for grabs.
On the ladies side, there is Cash Hoover who is from Hawaii, but is a well known Lakeside surfer. She is joined by Sierra White, Reese Bordner, Kale Funston and Madeline Cowan.
Sponsor Involvement: Want your business to be front and center. Lakeside Surf has a number of options for you to consider. Join Rocket Apples, File Boats and other sponsors of this competition and be seen by hundred’s of spectators for as little as $200.00
Apple Blossom Development changes: What is affordable in the housing market? That has been an ongoing debate. We all know that the Weidner apartments will rent at market rate prices.
At the Chelan City Council meeting on Tuesday, August 12, the council passed Ordinance No. 2025-1640 Amendment No. 1 to the Apple Blossom Center Development Agreement.
This agreement will increase the density of the development from the assumed number of 720 units to an estimated 828 units. Chelan Apartments might develop up to 64 cottage units while Weidner and Chelan Apartments will add no more than 80 450 sq. ft. micro units.
Initially, Weidner plans on constructing 250 apartment building and increasing that to 450 if their initial investment is rented.
It was rumored that the micro units might rent for approximately $1,500 per month which in many minds is not affordable. I reached out to Weidner’s Development Director, Nick Nowotarski about micro unit and cottage rents. He replied that the Leavenworth micro units were renting for $1,000 per month. “As market rate housing, the rents for the micros will be determined by what people are willing to pay.” Weidner is not planning on building any cottage units.
Chelan Community Development Director, John Ajax, stated in his opening report that the micro units are about the ability to provide affordable units.
Council members all have concerns with the increased density, parking and increased traffic. Ajax addressed the potential traffic issues by reporting that currently there are no plans to alter traffic flow. “There might be a roundabout at the Walmart intersection,” said Ajax. “Weidner would be making some contribution to that intersection.”
Terry Sanders is concerned with proper infrastructure being in place along with serious concerns about traffic, etc.
“Traffic is something we are going to have to address,” said Brad Chitty. Mark Ericks added that potential traffic problems need to be addressed before they arise.
Both Sanders and Jon Higgins voted No on the amendment due to their concerns.
With the Ordinance in place, Weidner and Chelan Apartments have a clear road to increasing the density of the development.
Unit Lot Subdivisions: City Council unanimously approved an ordinance allowing Unit Lot Subdivisions as required by a state law passed in 2023. This law required short plat regulations for all cities, towns and counties.
The law allows the division of a parent lot into separately owned unit lots. Portions of the parent lot not subdivided will be owned by the owners of the individual lots or by the homeowners association.
These four units are an example of subdividing a parent lot into four individual lots.
Jon Higgins asked where these lots would be allowed. Ajax replied parent lots could be subdivided everywhere in the city. Tim Hollingsworth asked about covenents.
Lynette Grandy is concerned tht building heights will ruin iconic views within the city and buildings that don’t represent the communities small town historic architecture. “The look like shipping containers,” she remarked.
Lynette Grandy and friend addressed city council regarding the new law allowing parent lots being subdivided.
Grandy would like to hear more public testimony on the subject.
Downtown Sewer/Water project: City Staff requested its consultant, Ardurra Group Inc., to provide an Additional Services Addendum (ASA) for the Lift Station No. 1 Improvements Project.
Jake Youngren, public works director, told the council that the work encompasses all the requirements by the Department of Ecology. The city is working with Chelan County PUD on the lift station remodel that will become a main feature of the Riverwalk Park property.
Youngren reported that adequate funds are available. The PUD is estimated to pay $85,100 as their portion of the work. The total additional services amount is $241,842.
The pumphouse located at the northwest end of Riverwalk Park will be removed and remodeled.
The design ASA includes the following additional work:
Coordination with Chelan County PUD regarding the landscape architecture components and park features to be installed as part of the lift station project. 2) Geotechnical support to understand and mitigate potential soil contamination as well as soil mechanics. 3) Completion of environmental permitting requirements established by the Department of Ecology as part of the funding agreement. 4) Inclusion of gravity sewer design elements for a gravity sewer pipeline upgrade along Columbia Street between Johnson Avenue and Lift Station No. 1.
The council unanimously passed this ordinance.
Lakeside Park bid award: Chelan Parks Department, after rejecting its first bids on the Lakeside Park project, rebid the project after working with Berger Associates to revise the project plans, accepted the rebid by Cascade Central Construction. The new base bid was $1,279,299.21. The original scope of work included restroom and playground renovations, a new ADA compliant walkway, beach improvements and other park enhancements.
During the community comment period at the beginning of the council meeting, Lakeside resident Barry DePaoli told the council that there has been some improvement at the park but that he has seen multiple violations of the new rules without consequences and that the security team has no backup from the Sheriff’s Department. He also told the council that he is disappointed that he was told to stop providing feedback in the collaboration process. “We want to be a part of the process,” he stated.
The work has been scaled back resulting in reducing the cost of the base bid by $234,000. Cost-reduction efforts in the revised bid included reducing finishes within the restroom building, square footage of beach enhancement, square footage of concrete pathways, and some site furnishings.
The project will begin in early September.
In addition: The in-water work for the Lakeside Park Renovation Project was bid separately for the installation of a new T-dock and beach enhancements to the designated swimming area.
The Dock Company bid $ 231,748.60 for the work. The total project exceeds the budgeted amount by $250,000 and the Parks Department is seeking approval to reallocate funds from its shoreline access and road-end parks funds which has $379.115 available. This will require a budget amendment.
Tim Hollingsworth asked it the department is sure the city needs to have docks at Lakeside. He cited potential conflicts with watercraft users and the swimmers. “We need to think outside the box on Lakeside.”
The existing docks at Lakeside Park are heavily used
Parks Director Paul Horne replied that Hollingsworth’s question was a valid one but that the docks are constantly in use by people. Horne feels that the Sheriff’s Marine Patrol can help with inappropriate watercraft use at the docks.
Lakeside resident Tammy Haig told the council that she encourages the city to pursue its pocket parks. She also mentioned that the Butte developer is now asking for a booster pump for water and warned the council that 1300 acres could potentially be developed under its TA zoning.
Administrative reports: Communications Director Chad Coltman recognized several employees for outstanding work and in particular, Deputy City Clerk Cailey Couch who has taken all the classes necessary to become a full-fledge certified clerk. “Her understanding of the profession is an important aspect of the job.”
Deputy City Clerk Cailey Couch
City Administrator Wade Farris said, “The city clerk is extremely important and having a backup is helpful.”
Jake Youngren reported that his department had to put divers into the lake to help seal a sewer leak.
Paul Horne remarked that the City’s parks are a lot more family friendly this season.
A weekend day at Don Morse Park.
Farris remarked that crowds were overwhelming at times and that there were still some problems. “We still have lots of work to do,” said Farris. He added that the Sheriff’s Department is stretched thin.
Mayor/Council comments: Terry Sanders stated that Lakeside Park “is a work in progress.” He would like to see increased signage at the park.
Brad Chitty said he appreciates public input. “It’s how we get things done.”
Tim Hollingsworth stated that he doesn’t want to lose the pocket park projects.
Mayor McCardle remarked that hundreds of hours of staff time have been devoted to the Lakeside Park issues. “You will find a much more family friendly park at Lakeside,” she said. McCardle said that not listening to the residents is a bit frustrating.
Transportation Benefit District revenue use: “We are fortunate,” Jake Youngren, public works director, told the council at its Tuesday, August 5, workshop. His comment relates to the Transportation Benefit District that will allow the Public Works Department re-structure how they address capital projects.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren presented a draft framework for allocating close to one million dollars from next year’s Transportation Benefit District to City Council and staff at the city’s August 5 workshop.
Youngren presented a draft framework for allocating TBD revenues to align with the department’s six-year Transportation Plan. Youngren told council that the draft allocations were to get the department’s recommendations to them. “We want to leverage that money,” Youngren said. “If you don’t take care of what you have, you are going to be spending a lot of money.”
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked how much revenue the department already receives from property tax. Youngren replied that it was 75% of property tax revenues.
Youngren wants his draft allocation framework to be a starting point for discussion. Hollingsworth replied that the city needs to prioritize how that funding is used. TBD revenues can only be allocated within the TBD district.
In his draft document Youngren allocated 30-40% of revenues towards Preservation projects like routine maintenance, street overlays, and chip seals. The next highest allocation would be towards Self-funded critical projects without any external sources.
Fifteen to 20% would be allocated to be used as a local match for competitive grants. Five to 10% would be saved as a contingency fund for emergency expenditures or short term debt issuance and another 5-10% would be used to prepare shovel ready projects.
With the TBD Revenue Allocation draft in the hands of the Council to study, a future meeting will be held to discuss these allocations.
2026 Comprehensive Plan update: Community Development Director John Ajax gave an update on the state required comprehensive plan update.
Elements being addressed this year include:
Land Use – According to recent calculations Chelan’s Urban Growth Area will grow by 500 to 2,500 people over the next 20 years. The Land Use element will take into account population growth, housing capacity and zoning consistency. Zoning implements the comprehensive plan by organizing growth throughout the city and county. “We will look at how growth in Manson and the South Shore impact our UGA,” said Ajax.
Housing – The comp. plan will identify current and projected housing needs. The Housing Element will update Chelan’s housing needs assessment. This element will provide goals and policies for affordable housing, housing types, and density.
Transportation – This element will outline transportation infrastructure needs including multi-modal transportation, which includes pedestrian, bicycle and other forms of alternative transportation. One of the largest changes in Chelan’s multi-modal transportation is the advent of electric scooters, one-wheels and electric bicycles This will lead to new standards and the development of future routes.
Capital Facilities/Utilities – With a Water and Sewer Comprehensive Plan already in place, documentation of 20 year capital facilities needs during the upcoming budget process.
Climate Resilience – With climate change already affecting the area with extreme weather, this element will create climate goals and policies.
Parks & Recreation – This element’s purpose is to establish a vision, goals, and strategies for providing high quality parks, open spaces, recreational facilities, and programs that enhance the quality of life for Chelan residents and visitors. in the comp. plan?” Ajax replied that this year’s comp. plan is a major undertaking. “Any suggestions you have are appreciated.”
A Public Hearing on the update will be held in September and the Council will move to adopt the plan on December 8, 2025.
Parks and Recreation Ad Hoc committee update: Chelan’s Park System is the only known park system in the state that is not funded by a tax levy. It is self-funded through its enterprise system that includes the golf course, RV park, City Marina, and putting course.
Chelan’s Lakeshore RV Park is just one of the park systems revenue generators.
An Ad-Hoc committee was set up to develop three to five items to help the park with sustainable funding for park operations and capital investments for 2026 to 2030. The current business model is not sustainable.
Currently, all of the parks enterprises with the exception of the golf course, are making money. The golf course is breaking even. “I think the golf course is the difficult one,” said Hollingsworth.
Finance Director Jackie Tupling remarked that the solution to the golf course issue might be turning it over to a management company. “I see a lot of opportunities,” she said. Bob Goedde remarked that there may be no money in golf, it is still a valuable property and amenity for the community.
Horne said he needs a little more guidance. Brad Chitty brought up the Lodging Tax money. Under new guidelines, lodging tax funds can be used for tourist related projects. “That tourist money being locked up and not being able to move it around is an issue.”
Hollingsworth remarked that the course’s irrigation system needs to be upgraded. “The original plan was to update the irrigation system. What’s the best way for us to maintain a quality golf course… other management, what are the limits of what you are asking?”
Tupling replied that the department needs a long-term solution for the entire parks system. Hollingsworth replied that the council needs to keep an open mind on potential solutions.
“Are Pocket Parks still a priority,” asked Horne. Hollingsworth feels that pocket parks should not be tabled because the residents want water access. The Lakeshore Trail (under construction) will disperse people to water access points and there are some opportunities along that corridor for more water access opportunities.
Current park operations and downtown services are being supported through a combination of public tax dollars and generated revenues of its parking fees and concessions.
One of the other potential solutions is the establishment of a dedicated capital fund for which there is no dedicated source of funds to establish it.
Goedde remarked that one solution could be a park tax levy. Hollinsworth replied that lodging tax revenues are a pretty reliable source of money.
Mayor McCardle remarked at the end of the meeting from ZOOM that the meeting was productive.
With the current park business model not sustainable, alternatives need to be developed and presented to the council before the budget season. Parks Director Paul Horne asked if the council would support a refined financial structure for its current enterprises.
At Tuesday’s City Workshop, City Council members unanimously moved to authorize Mayor Erin McCardle to finalized and execute a recruitment agreement to search for qualified candidates for the upcoming City Administrator position.
City Administrator Wade Farris told the council that Greg Prothman, GMP Consulting, has revised his proposal to open up the search for a new administrator. Councilwoman Shari Dietrich asked how far the search would extend. Farris replied, “Mostly in Washington and Oregon.”
Originally, GMP Consultants signed an agreement to evaluate Chad Coltman’s expertise and experience to take on the job as Chelan’s new city administrator. Mayor McCardle had proposed that Coltman be promoted to that position, but several council members felt that it was important to extend the search to find the best possible candidate and to find who is out there.
HR/Communication Director Chad Coltman is Mayor Erin McCardle’s choice to replace Wade Farris as the new administrator. At council’s direction the position has been opened up to find potential candidates.
GMP Consultants will advertise, evaluate candidates, and then recommend potential candidates for the position at a cost of $18,000 and reimbursable expenses.
Projected costs for this candidate search includes:
Website, job boards and other advertising – $1,800 to $2,200;
Direct mail announcements – $1,200 to $1,500; Consultant travel – IRS rate plus $75 per hour; and
Background checks of each candidate – approximately $225 each.
The search for additional candidates is in no way a reflection on Coltman’s experience for the position and is still at the top of Mayor McCardle’s choices.
At the July 22 City Council meeting four of the seven council members voted no on agenda bill 2025-037D and asked to conduct open recruitment for the upcoming city administrator position.
Councilman Terry Sanders remarked that his comment to open the recruitment effort was not a reflection on Chad Coltman, but that the city administrator position is a critical hire. “We need to have confidence in our decision,” said Sanders.
City of Chelan Communications Director Chad Coltman is Mayor Erin McCardle’s choice to replace current administrator Wade Farris when he retires later this year.
Councilmen Bob Goedde, Brad Chitty and Jon Higgins all agreed with Sanders position. “It is important that we see who is out there,” said Sanders. Council members Mark Eriks, Tim Hollingsworth and Shari Dietrich all supported the effort to hire internally.
Mayor Erin McCardle wants to promote Communications Director Chad Coltman to the City Administrator position.
It is the Mayor’s perogative to select who will replace Wade Farris who is retiring later this year. As per City policy, the decision has to be ratified by a majority of council.
McCardle stated that Coltman has been with the City for a year and has the support of City staff. “He is someone who is very qualified,” McCardle said. She also stated that hiring a new administrator from outside would have no connection to her or the staff.
With the decision to cancel the hiring process to assess qualifications of Coltman, a new proposal for the hiring process will be brought to the Tuesday, August 5 workshop.
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