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.
Last Wednesday’s Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce 2025 Candidates Forum was an apathetic example of voter and candidate interest.
Only five candidates turned out to voice their wishes to be voted for and an estimated 25 voters were in attendance, some of which were their to support their specific candidate.
Dave Reinhart
Dave Reinhart – Fire Commission candidate challenging current commissioner Ron Simmons was first on stage to answer questions and give a two-minute explanation of why he was running.
Reinhart, a retired law enforcement officer stated he would push for volunteer recruitment, engage with the residents and work hard on homeowner insurance issues if he was elected.
Kylie Schmitz
Kylie Schmitz, a Manson Parks Board candidate and mother of young children stated that her interest in the position is to serve the public with the issues facing the parks.
Krysta Westmoreland
Krysta Westmoreland is seeking a position on the Manson School Board. As a mother with children in the school district, Westmoreland is committed to maintaining a balanced budget and making sure that the students have the programs available to succeed. “I know my perspective may be different than others, but I want to serve everyone in the community.”
Jordana La Porte
Jordana La Porte is seeking her reappointment to the Lake Chelan Health board of commissioners. She is currently the chair of the board and has been over the seven years served, a stalwart finance member of the board. She is still focused on the hospital’s financial system and said, “We were in negative numbers for the past seven years and have now gotten on track.” She is also committed to the highest quality of health care for the community.
La Porte also stated that the hospital is facing challenging time with Medicad and Medicare which is 75% of the hospital’s income.
Shane Collins
Shane Collins is a fourth generation farmer who stated that the community is facing development challenges and changes. He wants to protect development but said he needs to know more about the city’s infrastructure issues.
Affordable housing is high on his list of priorities and said, “I would like to make it easier for people to build affordable homes. We need to keep fees and costs down.”
He is a believer in the community’s tourism, inviting more people to the valley. “Most people I know rely on tourism dollars.” Collins is a parks board member and has served on the Washington Wine Alliance for 10 year.
“There are a lot of issues in the community and I promise to work hard if elected.”
MC David Mars
The evenjng’s 35 minute session was monitored by KOZI’s David Mars.
In his opening remarks, Chief Operating Officer Shawn Ottley said, “Our EMS is one of the best Emergency Medical Services in the country.” He honored the department saying their maintaining the highest level of experience is the key to their success.
Chief Operating Officer Shawn Ottley
Lake Chelan EMS is 50 years old and on Monday, September 30, held a groundbreaking ceremony for its long awaited building adjacent to the new Lake Chelan Hospital.
A number of residents and luminaries were in attendance to listen to speakers involved in the project.
Dean Gable – Hill International
Dean Gable – Hill International, will be the acting project manager of the building project. He said he is happy to be working with the talented and creative people assigned to the project. “We are looking forward to a robust new home for EMS,” he said.
Matt Pulick – Graham Construction
Matt Puick – Graham Construction will be the contractor’s senior project manager for the project. “Chelan is a unique community and they have put a lot of trust in EMS. I’m looking forward to bringing this project on-time and on-budget.”
Ellyn Freed – Forte Architects
Architect Ellyn Freed – Forte Architects, is excited to be involved in the growth of the Valley.
Aaron Edwards – LCH CEO
Hospital CEO Aaron Edwards stated that this project was three years in the making. “Ray (Eickmeyer) can remember six different locations spread all over the place. They are now in a two story mobile home.”
Edwards also thanked the city, Erin McCardle and Planning Director John Ajax for shepherding the project through.
Edwards also remarked that Representative Michael Steel secured the vast majority of funding for the project. “This would not have happened if not for Mike Steele.”
Jordanna La Porte – LCH Board Chair
Jordana La Porte, LCH board chair remarked that the new building will be more than a garage. “It will help the hospital be more effective.” She introduced Mike who said there is nothing more special than helping projects at home. Steele is the head of the legislative appropriations committee.
District 12 State Representative Mike Steele
“I’m fortunate enough to have enough influence to make a small difference for people in the community,” said Steele. “I hope this facility will also.”
EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer told those in attendance that he is thankful for all the support the team gets.
The ground is broken. EMS will have a new home in 2026.
The new facility will provide EMS emergency responders with a permanent home that will have shared indoor/outdoor living space, office spaces, sleep rooms and bathrooms for on-shift staff, an ambulance garage and dedicated training areas for staff and community education.
Community education includes CPR, First Aid & AED training, Paramedics program, Paratransit services and Event EMS standby. To inquire about these programs by email at ems@lcch.net or by phone at 509-682-3300.
Chelan City Council’s ‘Citizen’s Comment’ period is an opportunity for residents to speak their mind about issues that concern them.
Marina security issue: At the September 23rd meeting, Mr. Craig Timothy remarked that he was surprised that the Lake Chelan Marina has no security cameras in place.
Craig Timothy, a marina user told the Council he was surprised that the Chelan Marina had no security cameras in place to monitor boats.
He told the council that this is his second year of mooring his boat at the marina. “I’m surprised that there aren’t security cameras monitoring the marina,” he said. “There are a lot of high end boats moored there.” He went on to report that five teenagers were breaking into a boat when he confronted them. Apparently they allegedly assaulted him.
His boat also had its cabin door kicked in at the beginning of the summer season. “It cost a few thousand dollars and another police report,” he said. “It’s time for cameras at the marina.”
Mayor McCardle thanked him and said the issue would be brought up at the next meeting.
Special presentation: Marci Volmer, CEO of the Snohomish Boys and Girls Club was on hand to address City Council about the Chelan facility that is currently operating under the Snohomish organization.
Marci Volmer, CEO of the Snohomish Boys and Girls Club visited the Chelan facility and thanked City Council for their participation in the local facility.
“We are already seeing huge success,” Volmer said. The club has four priorities which include academics, life and citizenship activities. So far the club has spent $673,000 on the Chelan facility at the Community Center. “That includes the building and staffing,” she said.
Angela Collins reported on the club’s activities.
Angela Collins, director at the Chelan club told council members that if they haven’t visited the facility to please come and see it. “We are all about families and children.”
Currently Chelan’s club is the 27 club associated with the Snohomish organization.
Collins was hired one year ago and her first job was to begin the club’s sports activities. They began its basketball activity which drew 220 kids. “We didn’t know what to do with all those kids,” said Collins. In the end, they held basketball training and games. “It was fantastic fun… recreational fun.”
Since the initial basketball program, the club had 35 kids turn out from Manson and Chelan for Flag Football. During this summer, they have held summer camps that have included a sports camp, water safety course and art.
“We are open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Both Chelan and Manson School Districts are working on transportation with the club. “We need to get more kids signed up,” Collins said.
They are in the process of building a library with the help of the Chelan Rotary Club and individual donors. One resident has donated all of her birthday supplies she had previously used for birthdays. This includes toys, crayons, pencils, paper and etc.
One of the activities the club is working on is helping kids with their homework assignments. “If they don’t have homework, we will find something for them to do.
A Winter Camp is in the plans also.
Rick Chavez is the club’s athletic director.
Collins introduced Rick Chavez, the club’s Athletic Director. The club conducted its first golf activity for five to 13 year olds. Chavez said, “It’s been awesome. Both Chelan and Manson were involved. We are excited to continue the golf program next year.” He is getting ready to start this year’s basketball program.
Volmer told the council that no one is turned away. Currently the club charges $25 per day per child, but if a parent can’t afford it, there is DSHS funding available to cover the cost through the State. They also have grants in place to help. The club also has monthly rates for families.
Councilman Terry Sanders asked if there are a lot of kids joining. Collins replied that it is beginning to happen, but there is a lot of things that need to happen.
Mayor McCardle, who has visited the club several times said, “It is amazing to see how many kids are there and also how supervised they are.”
Virtual Video GameSome hockey actionDonated supplies
Motion considerations: Airport Joint Operating Agreement: City Administrator Wade Farris reported that the negotiations with the Port on a JOA is ongoing. “You guys are well aware of what’s going on,” said Farris. “We have agreed on some issues,but are still figuring out how much the Port is going to pay us.”
Farris went on to say that the end of September was the drop dead time, but both parties have agreed to extend the negotiation period to October 31.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth said he hopes the city can work something out. “I would like to see a better formula. We haven’t seen any kind of development plan. We need to take a hard look at those things.” Hollingsworth said he has some concerns. “I don’t want to keep kicking the can down the road.”
Councilman Brad Chitty said he is very encouraged by the meetings at the Port. “They seem to be willing to step up.”
Councilman Bob Goedde said, “It’s our airport, We need to take the lead and use their expertise.”
Housing Trust & infrastructure: Communications Director Chad Coltman reported that a Community Housing Infrastructure Program (CHIP) grant application was ready to submit in partnership with the Chelan Valley Housing Trust.
Analise Noble has been working on the application which is estimated at $350,860 in water improvements and $837,888 in sanitary sewer improvement for the Chelan River Heights affordable housing development adjacent to Anderson Road. C hitty encouraged the City to move forward on this application. Council unanimously approved the Mayor to finalize the application.
Parks Rate and Fee rates: Assistant Parks Director Audrey Cooper reported that the Parks Department is already receiving reservations for 2026. The department is proposing an early adjustment to its rates and fees to support both customer service and internal financial efficiencies.
This amendment will separate taxes from the parks rates in customer transactions and provide transparency to customers and streamline the city’s financial accounting process. In addition, it will allow the Parks Department to update its point of sale software prior to the 2026 season.
These adjustments will also support long-term sustainability of Parks commercial operations.
Sanderson asked about golf rates. Cooper replied, “On average it will be a 10% increase.” Councilwoman Shari Dietrich asked about rounding out taxes to the nearest dollar so the department wouldn’t have to deal with cents. “Will customers know its coming,” Cooper replied, “Yes.”
City/Link Interlocal Agreement: The City and Link Transit are formalizing Link’s participation on current and future transportation capital projects that are adjacent to Link’s bus stops. These projects currently include the Lakeside Trail Project; Sanders Street Pedestrian Improvements; and the Woodin Avenue and Center Street Pedestrian Improvement Project.
USDOT grant for safe streets: The City was awarded this grant in early 2025 and has finalized the funding agreement with the DOT for the planning document. Total project cost is estimatedat $177,700 and requires a $35,540 city match.
Staff will seek Statements of Qualifications from qualified engineering companies.
Staff reports: Audrey Cooper reported that the parks had a well-staffed summer. She also stated that construction renovations have started at Lakeside Park.
Manson Community Council hosted two guest speakers at its September 16 meeting which was held at the Grange Hall instead of the Parks Building.
Manson Community Council hopes that the Manson Grange will become its new meeting location. The next council meeting will be held at the Grange on October 21.
Tabitha Mires, superintendent at Manson schools and Angela Collins, director at the Lake Chelan Valley Boys and Girls Club were on hand to discuss what was new at both the school district and the new boys and girls club.
Manson Schools Superintendent Tabitha Mires
Manson Schools: Mires stated that new programs and a four-day school week is driving Manson’s success. “We have 600 students enrolled,” said Mires. This enrollment includes on-line students, 394 students on a half day schedule, 17 four year olds in early learning and 40 kindergarten students.
The new programs include language instruction so students can acquire dual language skills.
Manson is one of 22 schools that have moved to a four day week. In order to do that, the district has to have less than 1,000 students enrolled. “It allows us to provide professional development and more instructional hours,” said Mires. “It has become remarkably successful.” It also allows more opportunities for families to be involved.
Mires said the district is working hard to give its students the skills to be successful when they graduate. Classes begin at 8 a.m. and are over at 3:45 p.m.
Dom Amor asked if the district has received much feedback from the community with all the changes. Mires replied that they have not received a lot of concern. “We want everyone (in the community) to have a voice,” she said.
Dom Amor
Rene Commons asked if the district needed volunteers. Mires replied that they are always seeking volunteers and when the district’s enrichment program is up and running volunteers are an important aspect to the district’s programs.
Rene Commons
The District is also working closely with the Boys and Girls Club. “The Boys and Girls Club is open much longer than we are.”
The District will be monitoring its educational models in January.
Lake Chelan Valley Boys and Girls Club: Angela Collins, the Boys and Girls Club director, was hired one year ago and started the club’s first athletic basketball program for third to sixth grade students. “We had 216 kids sign up and the program was super successful,” said Collins. “It is all about fun.”
Angela Collins
The club partnered with the Junior Major League Basketball Association.
They started their Golf Program at the Chelan Golf Course in August for first through eighth grade students and conducted a water safety program.
On July 7, the club open its doors upstairs at the Community Center. Open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at a cost of $25 a day, parents can safely drop their children off for the day and know they are in a safe environment. “Parents who work early can drop their kids off.” She also said the club doesn’t have enough customers yet.
The facility is, according to Collins, very techy. “However, we are not letting kids have 12 hours of free time,” said Collins. She said they really need some volunteers.
In other council business: Don Amor remarked that the final report by the One Voice Coalition’s consultant, Dan Eernissee, is still just a draft. It will be up to the Coalition to decide how to move forward. (NOTE: There will be an article on the contents of the final consultant’s draft soon).
The Council also has a meeting with the Colville Tribal Government Committee on Septermber 4 in Nespelem. Commons said the group was very welcoming and while the meeting was scheduled for only 30 minutes it went on a lot longer.
“They had a lot of questions for us which is always a good sign,” said Amor. The Colville’s are planning to build a new hotel/casino in Manson in the near future which opens up a number of concerns for the community, mainly transportation issues.
Hwy. 150 and the intersection with Wapato Lake Road and the Old Mill Bay boat launch along with the Colville’s RV Park on the lake have created a major transportation issue and the Community Council would like to see a Roundabout at that busy intersection.
The Council is hoping to make the Manson Grange Hall its permanent meeting place.
Mike Kirk and Dom Amor both attended the Lake Chelan Collaborative meeting on September 10. “It was a very fascinating meeting on Lake Chelan’s water quality and pollution, agriculture and irrigation issues,” said Amor. (Note: An article on that meeting is being prepared.)
Upcoming events: On September 30, the Chelan County PUD will be at the Manson Fire Hall to discuss the electrical capacity expansion beginning at 5:30 p.m.
On October 21, the Manson Community Council will host a PUD Dark Skies Presentation at the Manson Grange Hall beginning at 6 p.m.
Capital Path LLC – lobbyist City Administrator Wade Farris stated that John Culton has done an exceptional job as the City’s lobbyist. “It has been well worth it,” stated Farris.
The motion was to accept a new contract with Culton under his new name, Capital Path LLC at a monetary figure of $4,000 per month. Culton’s job as a lobbyist has been to facilitate contacts and relationships with senators, congresswomen and their staffers, hopefull leading to significant grant opportunities in the near and far future.
Tim Hollingsworth asked if the city’s grant consultant, Ms. Noble was doing the same job. Farris replied that Culton works on a federal level while Noble works with the state legislative body. “Just making sure we are not double-dipping,” said Hollingsworth.
Chelan County Sheriff’s agreement: Farris reported that the City and Chelan County have negotiated a new Interlocal Law Enforcement Agreement starting on January 1, 2026 and lasting until December 31, 2029.
Under this agreement, the Sheriff’s Office will serve as the City’s law enforcement department providing 24/7 patrol coverage with a minimum of 6.33 full-time deputies, This agreement includes marine patrol duties during the summer months, 208 hours of foot patrol, investigative and special operations support, dispatch through RiverCom and annual planning for city priorities.
The cost of these services are, $1.72 million in 2026, increasing to $1.94 million in 2029 plus RiverCom costs. The City continues to rent office space to the Sheriff’s department at a cost of $14,800 to $16,700 over the three year term.
Construction management – Sewer Lift Station No. 3: KRCI, LLC has been awarded the construction contract for the Sewer Lift Station No. 3 and has requested that RH2 Engineering provide them a scope of work. RH2 will also be providing construction management services for this project at a cost of $40,000.
Sanders Street Pedestrian Improvements: Public Works Director Jake Youngren reported that the local agency agreement with the Department of Transportation (DOT) has been updated to reflect actual expenditures and more detailed cost estimates before going to bid. The three project phases include design, right-of-way and construction.
Youngren told the council that the project costs have increased. The City originally committed to a contribution of $82,000. It has now bloomed to approximately $ $200,000 with additional funding from the Transportation Improvement Board – $100,000 and $66,000 from Link Transit. The additional city funds will be added as a part of the 2025 Budget Amendment No 2.
Youngren stated that the project includes additional stormwater work.
Temporary Construction Permit – Lakeside Trail Project: City Council unanimously approved Temporary Construction Easements for the Lakeside Trail Project with Bulandet Properties, LLC and Sunniford Properties, LLC. The City, in coordination with its legal counsel and Tierra Right-of-Way Servies have secured temporary easement rights for two Woodin Avenue properties at 1228 W. Woodin and 1230 W Woodin at a cost of $7,200 and $9,600 respectively. “The reason this is important is the differences in elevation between the properties and the project,” Youngren stated.
In other business:
Administrative reports: The Finance Department reported that additional funds were added to:
Administration for City Admin Recruitment and CivicPlus Media/Agenda Management software Finance for ClearGov renewal; additional training expenses for incoming Finance Director and final 2022 & 2023 Audit Costs Legal Services for City Attorney and Conflict Counsel Reserve Wellness Physical Fitness Reimbursements Human Resources Benefits adjusted to reflect actuals Facilities were adjusted to reflect reallocation of staff and repairs & maintenance of facilities| Communications subscription for Placer.AI Public Safety Services to reflect 2025 contract| Community Development had increases for Comp plan and reallocation of funds between Building and Planning departments Parks Operating revenues were adjusted to reflect increase in parking fines, insurance reimbursements, and golf course fees Additional expenses related to the irrigation pump failure such as wages, overtime and pump parts Development deposits beginning fund balance was redistributed to individual accounts Capital Improvement received funds from City Hall Facility Professional Services-Audit & Assessment Parks Capital moved money from Lakeside Park Golf Maintenance Other Improvements Irrigation System Recycle Insurance Recovery for Recycle Center Reductions were made in the following areas: City Hall Facility Audit & Assessment funds were moved to Capital improvement Facility Projects to cover unforeseen repairs and maintenance of the city facilities Public Safety contracts funds were removed from old contracts that have not been utilized Parks Capital Lakeside Park funds were moved to Golf Maintenance Other Improvements Irrigation System Water & Sewer Capital funds were adjusted to reflect project costs and/or updated estimates
ADU Code Update: Community Development Director John Ajax gave the council a brief overview of the new state requirements regarding Additional Dwelling Units that are being added to the City’s comprehensive plan.
The plan allows for up to two ADUs on a residential lot of 1,000 sq. ft., however, Ajax said the City will bump that square footage to 1,200 sq. ft. “We continue to work on Chelan housing issues,” said Ajax. For complete information on this issue go to the city’s code at Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) Chelan Municipal Code (CMC) Update – AB AB 2025-063
Tim Hollingsworth asked Ajax if it was possible to limit ADUs under the code for STRs. Ajax said the city would work around that issue.
PUD/Chelan Interlocal Agreements: Jake Youngren reported on agreements being sought with Chelan County PUD for Fish Hatchery Discharges to the Sewer Treatment Plant and the PUDs contribution to the Lift Station #1 Project Contribution.
“We are working with the PUD on a couple of different projects,” said Youngren. He reported that the city is working on the $750,000 Lift Station project with the PUD. “We want them to be very involved in this project.”
As for the fish hatchery discharge, Youngren explained that an agreement would only be for several months during hatchery operations and would only involve about 200 gallons per day. He said the City would charge a one-time fee of $3,000.
Other entities would be charged 1.5 times the going rate for the Lake Chelan Reclamation District and South Shore Sewer District, both of which have a long standing agreement to discharge their effluent to the sewer treatment plant.
HDCA funding agreement: The City and the Historic Downtown Chelan Association (HDCA) have developed a funding agreement to support the placement of sixteen (16) Big Belly garbage cans in downtown Chelan.
The City will purchase, own, and operate the units. HDCA will reimburse the City for the full purchase cost upon invoice, ensuring no net cost to the City.
Key Terms:
· Purchase & Ownership: The City will procure and maintain the garbage cans
· Funding: HDCA will reimburse the City for 100% of the cost following invoicing
· Branding: HDCA may add its logo to the units at their own expense
· Agreement: Establishes the partnership and outlines the responsibilities of both parties
Link Transit agreements: Youngren reported on an agreement with Link Transit for related improvements regarding Link’s contribution to the following city projects: 1. Lakeside Trial Project – $296,853 2. Sanders Street Pedestrian Improvements Project – $66,297.50 3. Woodin Avenue and Center Street Pedestrian Improvements Project – $94,340.94
City Department Reports: Finance Director Jacki Tupling reported that the department is getting ready for the fall budget hearings Parks Director Paul Horne reported that the department is working on its rate resolution for the September 23 City Council meeting. Community Development Director John Ajax reported that his department is looking at Short Term Rentals. “We have a number of those but there is nothing extraordinary.” He also said the department is working with the County on STRs. City Administrator Wade Farris told the Council that advertisements went out in search or potential city administrator applicants. “We will choose who we want to interview by the third or fourth of October.
The next City Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 23 beginning at 5:15. The public is encouraged to attend.
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.
All Things Lake Chelan 