Author: allthingslakechelan

by Richard Uhlhorn

Lake Chelan Health is moving forward despite carrying a $1,572,727 net loss for the year. In an unaudited financial report ending on May 31, the hospital came in $768,000 under its budget.

It was noted at the Tuesday, June 29, board meeting that the facility will be hiring an experienced biller in July and adding a second biller shortly thereafter which, according to CEO George Rohrich, “will make a huge difference in our Accounts/Receivable.” Rohrich expects these hirings to cut the receivables in half which will affect the bottom line.

At the end of May, the revenue projections were $1.9 million under budget. CFO Cheryl Cornwell reported that the restricted $3 million plus cash reserves from the CARES act is still sitting in the bank, with the hospital waiting to hear if some or all of it will have to be returned to government coffers. Those funds would, if released, put the hospital in a positive financial position moving forward.

There are a lot of connotations to moving forward. According to Rohrich a Master Facility Plan is being prepared. “We will be reporting back to the board in July on what we propose for the Clinic (new location) and who is in the new hospital.” Rohrich will also give the board an auditing report and costs at the next meeting.

Chairman Mary Murphy said, “People are anxious about where they will be located.” Rohrich added that the potential of getting rid of leases is paramount. The Clinic will be moving out of its current location and will probably be relocated at the existing facility as well as the administrative staff. “We will see what space is left over,” said Rohrich. “We might be able to put a daycare here.”

The cost of physically moving the hospital to its new location will be available prior to the 2022 budget.

Hybrid meetings:

A number of community members have been asking when in-person meetings will begin again. Rohrich stated that the hospital is considering an in-person hybrid model which would include in-person attendance and ZOOM.

Rohrich stated he has received confusing information from the Governor’s office about in-person meetings, but hopes to have in-person meetings beginning with the July board meeting. “If we continue at the hospital, we will have to wear masks so we can listen to everyone mumble.”

Potential locations mentioned outside the hospital facility included the Senior Center, Fire Station conference room, City Hall (which has the audio infrastructure for ZOOM meetings) and the Lake Chelan School District.

HeritageHeights update:

The Hospital, which leases the property Heritage Heights sits on, is working on an amendment to extend its lease. “Timing is significant and we will have an amendment ready for your review and consideration for the next meeting,” said Rohrich.

Rohrich stated that there were two items of importance which includes the length of the lease and a clarification to the access road which goes through the hospital’s property. The hospital is researching and getting a legal opinion on the requests. “We need to get this moving along with what they have to do,” said Rohrich. “We may need a special meeting when an amendment is ready to discuss.”

Surgeon status:

The hospital is losing its surgeon, Dr. Joshua Schronowski, to Alaska at the end of September and Rohrich told the board that the search is on for a good orthopedic doctor who might be able to work on major joints. “We are interviewing candidates,” he said.

Strategic Planning:

The hospital is planning its Strategic Planning meeting which will take place sometime in September. Two proposals for moderators are currently being considered. Jody Corona who has moderated hospital strategic planning meetings in the past and Heron Company. Both parties cost about the same with the price tag somewhere between $15,000 and $25,000.

The next strategic planning meeting will include a survey of what community members would like to see going into the future. The planning effort will cover the hospital’s service area, market share, population census data and survey considerations.

The hospital holds its board meetings on the fourth Tuesday of each month beginning at 1:30 p.m. Beginning in July, there is a possibility that the meeting will be held as an in-person meeting with the ZOOM option available.

by Richard Uhlhorn

GLASS RECYCLING:

Public Works Director Jake Youngren announced that the City and 911 Glass Rescue have “come up with an operating agreement” for the glass recycling program. “We feel like we are at the finish line,” said Youngren.

The recycling program will run on weekends and will not be in conflict the City’s other ongoing recycling program. Only authorized personnel will be allowed to work with the glass recycling program.

City Attorney Quentin Batjar told the Council that paragraph four of the agreement gives the City a lot of leeway. “It has been a pleasure working with 911 Glass Rescue,” said Batjar. Councilman Ty Witt, one of the Rotary proponents said he was impressed with the efforts by the City.

The glass crusher machine is on site and being set up with July 24 set as the Grand Opening of the program. “We need to get the word out so we have glass to process,” said Witt. “It’s up to the public to bring it to us to make the program successful.”

CHELAN WATERFRONT ACCESS PLAN UPDATE:

Park’s Director Paul Horne brought forth cost estimates for the seven sites designated as having the best potential for public waterfront access. The City has put aside $150,000 in the budget to help fund improvements as directed by the City Council.

The sites that have been designated as having the most potential out of the 17 sites researched were:

• Lake Chelan Shores – A long beach area between Willow Park and Lake Chelan Shores that is in the public domain would be improved with a boardwalk that would allow access to the lake as well as becoming a part of the proposed North Shore Pathway. The cost to improve this area is estimated to cost $320,626.00.
• Dietrich Road Street End – This location is at the lake at the end of Dietrich Road and improvements were estimated to cost $298,374.29.
• Chelan Riverwalk Park – This site would be constructed on the southwest side of the Woodin Avenue by the Grandview at an estimated cost of $149188.35.
• Peterson’s N. Park Street – This site is adjacent to Peterson’s Waterfront Resort and is currently being used by the Chelan residents as a place to escape too. Under the proposed improvement, it is estimated to cost $94,915.65
• Sunset Marina/Lake Chelan Boat Company – This area is between the Boat Company and Sunset Marina where the old Howe Sound Mining Dock was. It is already a perfect beach area. Improvements are estimated to cost $161,754.86.
• W. Main Avenue – Estimated improvement at this location are $132,945.58.
• Green Dock Micro Park – This park is in use, but the consultant has included an over the lake viewing dock at the corner of Water Street and Terrace Avenue at a cost of $327,450.28.
• Two alternate sites have been included at the end of the seven sites selected for improvement. they include the following:
  1. West of the western finger at Three Fingers for a lake access dock and several swimming docks adjacent to the Lakeside Trail and 97A. This project would be an excellent collaboration between the City and PUD. All the underwater land is owned by the PUD at this location.
  2. Spader Bay Water Access – It has been suggested that the City make use of the Spader Bay acquisition with several floating docks that would accommodate paddle boarders and kayakers to help disburse water use from the Chelan River.

The Three Finger and Spader Bay alternatives will be discussed at Chelan’s next Council Workshop.

SHORELINE MASTER PROGRAM UPDATE:

Craig Gildroy, planning director, updated the City Council on the required Shoreline Master Program that is required to be submitted to the State by June 30.

The amendments include a number of comments from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife which was the only agency making a comment. Most of its recommendations were changes in the language used in the updates including references to accessible ramps and docks, and the hydraulic code.

Gildroy told the Council that he would be bringing back a resolution for council to approve at the next Council meeting. A representative of the WDFW told the Council via ZOOM that “some of the recommended changes are unique to Lake Chelan, some of which are required by the Department of Ecology and some that were not.

Public Works Director Jake Youngren requested approval of a Change Order with KRCI for the Lift Station No. 5 Improvement and Force Main Replacement Project for a total of $9,252.34 which will be reimbursed to the City by Ziply Fiber.

The request for a change order was derived from KRCI discovering an unknown/unlocated fiber conduit near the intersection of 97A and Waterslide Drive. This fiber conduit is owned by Ziply Fiber and was identified as a part of their main service line for the region.

The conduit was installed directly above the City’s 10 inch gravity sewer line that is being replaced. “It was unfortunate that the unlocated fiber line was on top of our sewer line that is being replaced,” said Youngren. “To keep the project moving we came up with a plan to relocate the line.”

Youngren also reported that the City received two bids for a Chelan Traffic Improvements Project. The low bid was submitted by Specialized Pavement Marking, Inc. in the amount of $45,166.15. The engineers estimate was $66,279.00. “This project was funded through the legislature,” said Youngren. “We have more than adequate funds.”

The project is a proposed short term channelization project in lieu of the proposed traffic signal control project identified at the intersection of Johnson Avenue and Sanders Street.

The City Council approved a Construction Management Agreement with SCJ Alliance for the Chelan Traffic Improvement Project not to exceed $11,500.00.

Youngren added that SCJ Alliance will be putting an effort in to make the public aware of the project.

Councilman John Olson asked if the ultimate solution would be forthcoming in the next five to six years. Youngren replied that was the plan.

This began a discussion about truck traffic turning at the corner of Woodin by MOE and driving through the elementary school’s area. Councilman Chris Baker suggested that the City should talk to the school administration about the traffic situation. “It’s an all day long issue.”

by Richard Uhlhorn

Fire Chief Mark Donnell publicly announced that he would be retiring effective December 31, 2021, however, promised the Commissioners that he would remain on until a new fire chief was found.

In his following Chief’s report he said the Department is on budget (slightly lower) and that the District received $70,000 from last year’s State Mobilization. “We have transferred $20,000 into the Capital Equipment Fund.

Donnell reported that the District is having a difficult time filling its Sesonal Firefighter position. “We are struggling to get that,” he said. “There are so many firefighter positions open.”

Chairman Phil Moller asked if it was possible to get staffing help from the Department of Natural Resources or the Forest Service. “We are all struggling to fill positions. It is a struggle for us, the Forest Service and DNR. California is having huge problems.

Moller replied that if the District is unsuccessful in filling the seasonal position by July that it doesn’t make sense to continue the search. Seasonal firefighters are hired from May through September normally.

Last year, the seasonal hires helped the District immensely when its career firefighters were deployed under State Mobilization.

Donnell reported that May was slower than normal. “Memorial Day was very calm Even the police said it was.” However, the weekend after Memorial Day there were 60 calls, “and we are only halfway through the month,” added Donnell.

The big worry by all agencies including Chelan Fire and Rescue is the July 4 weekend. “That is a party weekend.”

Donnell gave a lot of kudos to Marine 71 which has responded to a number of on-water issues already this year and helped making contact with boaters and personal water craft users.

The District held an open house at its Union Valley facility on June 11 and between 40 and 50 people attended. Most were interested in the fuel reduction program that has been taking place in Union Valley for a number of years under DNR grants.

Moller asked where the estimated 50 attendees were from. Donnell said that most of them were Union Valley residents. “That area is growing fast.”

Donnell also reported that Ladder 71 could be back in service by October. It is undergoing corrosion repair work.

Assistant Chief Brandon Asher gave a Volunteer and Retention and Training report to the commissioners.

Asher reported that one lateral fire fighter has been added, and “it is a great addition for us.” Another volunteer signed on at Station 75, two at Orondo and one in Entiat, however, Asher also reported that the District has also lost some volunteers.

The District has been filling its stipend slots with fire fighters who have been coming off of a 48 hour shift at their District and coming to Chelan for another 48 hour shift… or 96 hours.

Moller asked if there was a policy on that. Asher stated there wasn’t any and that these firefighters were working towards a career post somewhere. “They want to get as much experience as possible.”

The 96 hour stints does not mean that these firefighters are working the entire time. There are periods of sleep and rest, but they are available for service if an issue arises.

Asher reported that the wildfire training has finished up and red cards are being issued.

It was also reported that it will take the fire department 15 minutes to respond up Bradley Street to the newly approved 82 residential development above the golf course.

It was announced that a major paragliding competition is coming to Chelan in mid-July and Moller asked if there were any plans to respond to that area in case of an accident.

Asher responded by telling the commission that they have learned a lot of lessons for accidents up on the Butte. “A big benefit will be the ability to get a helicopter up there.”

(Editors note: Beginning on July 11 and lasting through July 24 Chelan will host a US Open Paragliding event and a US National Paragliding event that runs concurrently with the Open. Over 200 pilot have registered and 130 will be allowed to compete.)

FIREFIGHTER ASSOCIATION REPORT:

Dan Crandall, president of the association reported that they have made one $100 donation and have gifted $500 to the parade truck.

Currently the Association has $31,754 in the bank and Crandall mentioned that the Association has been requested to cover Marine 71 operational expenses. “We are reviewing that currently,” said Crandall. “It’s a new request.”

In the past the Association has supplied the funding to outfit Marine 71 with engines and other accessories to make it water ready.

Crandall stated that the Association’s new website has been launched at http://www.cd7ffa.com.

Commissioner Russ Jones added that Marine 71 has been on the water and well received by local law enforcement.

LEVY LID LIFT:

Chief Donnell reported that the resolution for going forward with the proposed Levy Lid Lift is ready for the board to approve or not approve. “We have to file no later than the end of July,” said Donnell. He added that the resolution has been reviewed by the District’s attorney.

The board unanimously approved the resolution to move forward with the levy.

Donnell remarked that if didn’t matter if he was still chief or not during the new chief search. “It has no bearing on whether I’m here or not. I’m committed to stay in place until a new chief is on board,” said Donnell. “I’ll be here to help… I’m committed to success.”

Donnell stated that the success or failure of the Levy will have a direct impact on finding a new chief. “Failure will limit the pool.”

Moller has proposed that maybe the District should look at contracting out for a part-time chief, i.e. Fire Chief Arnold Baker from District 5. Jones said the District needs to explore all options. “There are all kinds of options after the levy.”

Karyly Oules said they need to move forward and if the District can get it done before the levy that would be good.

Larry Peabody, a member of the District’s Advisory Committee, said he appreciated open discussion about the Levy. “Speaking for myself, having Marine 71 hang out on the water creates enforcement.”

John Corian said he had 31 years in fire services, both as a volunteer and firefighter. He told the commissioners that he is on the HOA board of Chelan Hills. He said that in his 31 year history with fire services that the board is making the step in the right direction. “This area is exploding,” he stated.

He said the size of the District calls for four to five on staff at the fire station all the time. “You really need two crews on at a time.”

Shawn Sherman, a Lt. with the District, wondered where the line is drawn legally and ethically in a supervising role. “We are putting people into dangerous positions while in stress,” he said. After the meeting and during public comment the 96 hour shift issue was discussed. Firefighters are not working for 96 hours, they are just on duty in case of an emergency.

City Council liaison Chris Baker said the department has to grow. “There are many hundred’s of new houses planned. I support the levy and feel it is a small amount to pay.”

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS:

Oules stated she was already sold on the need for the Levy Lid Lift.

Jones thanked the Firefighter Association for its contributions to Marine 71. “Your help has been immeasurable. We have a solid relationship with law enforcement.” Jones also said he rode with the department staff to a motorcycle accident on Sunday and stated that he was impressed with the coordination between EMS, the Fire Department and Law Enforcement. “Everybody knew what to do and did it.”

Moller said he appreciated the Associations purchase of Marine 71’s motors and other equipment. “It’s nice to be on the water and ready to go.”

The Chelan Fire and Rescue commission meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 3 p.m.

by Richard Uhlhorn

FROM AND ARTICLE IN THE Christian Science Monitor’s Politics Newsletter by Story Hinckley on 5.30.2021.
After the upheaval of the academic year, it’s perhaps not surprising that school boards across the country have become lightning rods for political debate. As Zoom classes dragged on through the fall and winter – and with many public schools, including those in Fairfax, even now not fully open – heated battles erupted over how to balance the safety of teachers and students against other concerns such as learning loss and mental health. 

Apparently there are a number of school boards facing the scrutiny of their constituents across the nation.

On Tuesday night, May 18, the Lake Chelan School Board was officially presented with a Formal Discrimination Complaint that was filed in the Superior Court of Washington. This complaint was signed and notarized by 217 individuals who are concerned with alleged discrimination and harassment against students in the District.

The complaint cites unlawful violations against students in the district such as allegedly segregating, masking and excluding students from school activities “based on their parent’s choice to not allow an experimental vaccination of their children.”

This complaint goes on to claim that the District is not complying with its own District Policy as written in the Student/Parent Handbook that states “The Lake Chelan School Board is committed to a safe and civil education environment for all students, employees, parents/guardians, volunteers and community members that is free from harassment, intimidation or bullying.”

In her opening comments to the School Board, Jacquelynn Dalton, said that 75 percent of parents voted to return to full time school in the Spring which was shut down by the board. Dalton stated that those signing the complaint were no longer trusting the collective board of directors or Barry DePaoli, the superintendent.

The final ASK of Dalton’s opening statement stated: “The concerned parents and community members of Chelan are asking the board to remove the mask mandate, to offer all students the same benefits regardless of inoculation status, and to refrain from any future injections being offered on School District Property.”

DePaoli explained that he and/or the school board were the ones to lift the mask edict. “We don’t have jurisdiction to do that,” he said. Masking requirements come from OSPI and everyone entering the school is required to mask up.

In a conversation with both sides, the issues presented are not so easily addressed.

DePaoli said that being vaccinated, or not, is a personal medical decision of each family. “In regards to the Vaccination Clinic that was held at the School, DePaoli wrote that it was organized, staffed and run by Lake Chelan Health, and that the School Nurses did not participate or administer the vaccine.

“Students needed a signed parent signature to obtain a vaccine,” said DePaoli. Dalton remarked that under State Law individuals 13 and over can make their own medical decisions concerning certain issues like pregnancy without their parents knowledge.

 While that may be true, EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer said he could not give a vaccine to any student unless they had a signed parent/guardian permission slip. “The state has made it abundantly clear that anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian signature to be vaccinated,” said Eickmeyer.

Eickmeyer went on to say that there were two reasons for conducting the clinic at the school. First is that the school is a neutral safe ground and that 25 percent of the eligible population was getting it at the school. “It is done for equity reasons,” said Eickmeyer. Most of the vaccinations were given to the Latino population. “Seventy nine percent getting the vaccination at Chelan were Latino,” said Eickmeyer.

He also explained that, unlike the flu and tuberculosis, COVID is strange. “If 10 people are infected, nine will not give it to others, but the other infected individual can spread it to 20 to 30 people,” said Eickmeyer.

The School District sent out a letter to all parents regarding the Clinic with a screening sheet, a fact sheet, and a sheet to guide individuals to register, and each teacher handed out vaccine packets to all students in their advisory classes.

The fact that only 112 plus 12 more that had permission but didn’t show up for a vaccination is indicative that parents made a decision based on information provided to either hold off or have the vaccination administered elsewhere.

One parent has commented when her child came home with the packet and asked if he should get the vaccine, she told him, “Not at this time.”

With regards to the complaint addressing alleged discrimination such as separation of vaccinated and non-vaccinated students, DePaoli stated that was false. In other words, as an example, if a student athlete has not been vaccinated, the school will continue to allow that students participation in his/her sport.

However, when asked why a non-vaccinated student would have to quarantine for 10 to 14 days if he/she were exposed to the virus, but an exposed student who had been vaccinated would not have to be quarantined. DePaoli said the follow the science. Eickmeyer added that the CDC has come out with the ruling. Discrimination?

Since being served with an official Discrimination Complaint, Dalton was asked during an interview if the group filing the complaint was going to sue the Lake Chelan School District. Dalton replied, “That is the last thing anybody wants,” said Dalton. One of the groups big concern is the threat of State required Vaccination Passports. “If we are just following the political line, we are putting kids in danger,” said Dalton.

With the school year winding down and the potential promise of moving to Phase 4 by the end of June will help the District prepare to fully open up to in-person instruction again in the Fall.

by Richard Uhlhorn

At last Wednesday’s May 12, Fire Commission meeting, a number of issues were discussed. The meetings are being held in hybrid in-person status, but the District’s audio on Zoom is difficult at best. I called Chief Mark Donnell to go over my sketchy notes and following is an edited version of the meeting.

Billing for Marine 71 rescue operations:

Fire District 7 commissioner Phil Moller is concerned about budget creep on Marine 71. The Search and Rescue boat has been put on the water at little cost to the district but Moller is concerned about the costs of running the boat and how it might effect the budget.

Chief Mark Donnell explained that the plan for the boat is to have it on the lake on major holidays if the District has the staffing. He hopes that Marine 71 can operate on the lake on a regular basis. Assistant Chief Brandon Asher said, “”We are here to save lives.”

Since any on-water rescue operation by Marine 71 is expensive, the commission discussed how to alleviate those expenses. While the District is still working on its SOP (Standard Operating Procedure), everyone concerned agreed the District would charge a rate based on its Contract rate with the Forest Service for Marine 71 use.

Asher stated that there is an expectation that Marine 71 is on the lake. Commissioner Karyl Oules said she didn’t see how the district could afford to be a towing service on the lake. Donnell answered that $200 per call seemed reasonable to help the district recover its expenses.

Moller stated that there is currently no boat rescue operation on the Lake. “Shawn Raines tried, but there was not enough business to make it viable,” said Moller.

Marine 71 will be operating on the lake during the Memorial Day weekend.

Levy Lid Lift measure to the Voters:

The District will be asking voting residents within the district to approve a Levy Lid Life to approximately $1.10 per thousand dollars of assessed value from its current rate of $.85/1000 that has been in place for the last 15 years.

Commissioner Russ Jones said, “We are limited on revenue that we collect. We can only increase by one percent per year and our expenses increase by at least 10 percent,” said Jones. “We know we are growing.”

In the meantime, the District will be conducting a campaign to educate the voters to the needs of the District over the next 10 years. “It is a pretty well thought out plan,” stated Jones.

The District will now begin a campaign to educate its voters to the necessity of raising its levy amount to maintain the current level of service.

April Statistics:

Chief Donnell reported that the Fire District responded to 87 calls in April of which six were fires, 61 EMS calls, two service calls, 15 good intent calls and three false alarm and false calls. “April had the highest number of calls since 2010,” said Donnell.

The Emergency calls included 12 Advanced Life transports, 25 Basic Live service transports and 26 non-transport calls.

A commercial alarm sounded at Marcella’s Restaurant and the Fire crews arrived to find a fire in the exhaust fan created when the staff was cleaning the grill. “The fire alarm triggered but the sprinkler system didn’t,” said Donnell. the crew put the fire out quickly with no real damage.

Burning Season ending:

The annual burning season is coming to an end at the end of the month. The District encourages people to burn safely. Wind events a created an early fire season for Chelan Fire and Rescue. They have responded to burns that have escaped boundaries to become brush fires. “These people were doing the right thing,” said Donnell. The fires were quickly controlled, but 2021 is expected to be much drier and hotter than even 2020 and that has fire agencies concerned.

City of Chelan-Fire Department MOU:

“We finally got everyone together,” said Donnell. The District and City came to an agreement in principle added Donnell. The District is not able to collect on property taxes in the City, so an agreement between the two entities has been sought after for a number of years.

To offset the inability to collect taxes, the two entities will offset that inability by drafting a Memorandum of Understanding that states, “You do this and we will do that” contract.

Memorial Day:

Chelan Fire and Rescue will be working with its partners in the Sheriff’s Department and others in the District to make sure it is a safe holiday for everyone concerned. “It will be a busy summer,” said Donnell.

The Commission meetings are held on every third Wednesday of the month at 5 p.m. Residents are encouraged to attend via Zoom. The link is posted on its website under Agendas and Meetings.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Lake Chelan Trails Alliance dedicated the 2.4 mile long Reach 1 Trail on Saturday morning, May 15.

Guy Evans thanked the trail partners which include the City of Chelan, Chelan County PUD (land owners), the Lookout, Chelan Health and Wellness and the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust who handled the financial issues.

The actual trail, which was first proposed during the Chelan Dam Relicensing efforts, was finally authorized by the PUD as long as the City of Chelan took ownership of trail legalities and maintenance. The Alliance signed an agreement with the City of Chelan to  maintain and operate the trail.

The Eastern Washington Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, the Lake Chelan Rotary Club and others volunteered time to construct the trail.

“The unsung hero of this trail is Bob Knauss,” said Evans. Knauss worked countless hours cutting in the new trail with a trail machine. Chelan Ranger District’s Paul Willard helped layout the trail and worked hours to support Knauss in the effort.

“We are grateful for both of your work,” said Evans. The completion of this newest trail was a true collective effort by many in the community.

The Trails Alliance continues to work on access to land for trails in and around the Lake Chelan Valley.

Along with the dedication, the Trail Alliance held a self guided walk/run on the trail.

Construction of the trail began in the Spring of 2020 and was completed this Spring with a total budget of $12,500.

For more information on the Lake Chelan Trails Alliance or to donate, visit https://www.lakechelantrails.org/

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Chelan County Fire District No. 7 Commissioners held a special meeting on Wednesday, May 12, to discuss the decision to float a Levy Lid Lift to the District 7 residents.

Commissioner Karyl Oules began the discussion saying, “I still say yes, we need one, but I’m leaning towards Spring.” She stated that she is still getting questions from voters asking just what they are going to get.

Chief Mark Donnell stated that the Levy Lid Lift would allow the District to hire three new firefighters, save $XXX each year for new apparatus, maintain the seasonal fire fighters, help with capital projects and maintain funding levels.

Commissioner Russ Jones emphatically stated that the District has no plans to build new stations. “We are working with a very conservative number,” he said. The proposal is to float a $1.10 per thousand levy.

Chairman Phil Moller added that 17 residents sat on a committee to help make the decision. “It was pretty clear that we need to do this. The question is when?”

Donnell stated that the group of 17 committee members was a good representation of the community. “We have a tremendous amount of momentum.” Moller asked Donnell what part of the discussion he didn’t understand? Donnell replied running the levy in the Fall of Spring.

Moller stated that he wants it run the levy in November and Chief Donnell told the commission that they had to get on the November ballot by August 3.

Commissioner Russ Jones also favors November as a time to go to the voters. If the District waited until Spring they wouldn’t see any money until 2023. “I believe the assessment will be greater than what we are anticipating,” said Jones. “If we waited a year there is a lot of uncertainty with the economy and disruption.”

Oules said she was good to go for the fall election and is in agreement that the District needs to go to the voters in November. “We need to run an effective campaign,” she stated

Moller stated that if the campaign begins now, they have five months to educate the District residents of the need for more money. “If we waited until spring I think we would lose momentum.”

Oules said failure was not something in her wheelhouse.

The Levy being proposed would be for 10 years and the commission believes the time period is sustainable.

A final decision to run the levy in November will take place at the Commission’s meeting in June.

The next meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. on May 19.

by Richard Uhlhorn

At last week’s City Council meeting the City held a Public Hearing for the Chelan Valley Housing Trust who are seeking a partnership with the City to get the infrastructure needed to support the 45 home sub-division adjacent to Anderson Road.

Mike Cooney, executive director of the CVHT, told the Council that the proposed development still needs to secure public water, sewer and power to the site.

The property was donated through an exchange with Seven Acres Foundation who was planning on building its Community Center on the property, but exchanged it for property the Housing Trust has a the Lookout.

The Housing Trust plans on building quality single family homes on the property that are affordable for residents so they will not have to commute from other areas around the region. “We are permitted to build 40 homes… up to 45 homes,” said Cooney. The plan includes five market rate homes to help the Housing Trust to raise funds. These home sites would be free of the Housing Trust’s criteria with the exception of potential covenants for the entire development.

The City’s 2017 Housing Element of its comprehensive plan identified the need for affordable housing within the community. It recognized that one method to accomplish that need would be to partner with a non-profit to get the infrastructure need to support any homes built.

There is a $900,000 Community Block Grant available which the Trust hopes the City would sign on to be the signature agency to obtain it. There is also a $500,000 grant from the State for infrastructure needs.

Not everyone is excited about the proposed development and the City received a number of letters from surrounding residents proposed development because of what they view as potential problems to the surrounding area, one of which they feel would lower their property values.

Other concerns cited included increase traffic, crime, drugs and noise. “I get the angst,” said Cooney. “It’s a rural area and we would be bringing homes to that area.”

Erin McCardle said she wants a more in-depth look at the American Recovery Plan. “There is a lot of money set aside for infrastructure.” Cooney replied that the Trust would like to be a part of what government money the City receives. McCardle added that there are lots of opportunities for grants and that she doesn’t want to miss out on any opportunity.

Mayor Goedde stated that the City needs to hire a grant writer. Peter Jamtgaard asked how much matching funds would be required. Rachel Golde, executive assistant, stated that matching funds would be required. Jamtgaard said, “We’ve got some windfall money that could be used.”

Golde said that no number has been written down and she has no idea of how much matching funds would add up to.

Cooney said he clearly understands that development pays for development, but that other cities have helped with needed infrastructure for affordable housing. “We would like to have a reasonable discussion on the subject,” he said.

Ty Witt added that the City  brings infrastructure to developments. “Our real goal is to help with affordable, attainable housing. Cooney replied that the PUD is considering a way to come up with hookups.

John Olson stated that he is totally behind the Housing Trust on this project. Hollingsworth said the Community Development Block Grant would provide the public to have input into the project.

Planning Director Craig Gildroy told the Council that a sub-division has not yet been applied for. “Once that is done, there will be another public hearing.”

by Richard Uhlhorn

At Lake Chelan Health’s board meeting on Tuesday, April 27, the board and CEO discussed Facilities including the transition plan for the current hospital building.

CEO George Rohrich told the board that the plan was not ready yet. “The Facilities Plan will go back to the Facilities Committee and then to the board when it is completed.,” said Rohrich. “Staff will have to do the work and bring it to the committee.”

The plan will, according to Rohrich detail what the hospital will come up with. Questions like… “Do we have the space for everybody,” stated Rohrich.

Chairperson Mary Murphy said she hopes the plan utilizes the best use of what is available including the disposition of what is not needed. “It should have not only an assessment of our needs, but how they are being met,” said Murphy. She added that the plan needs to bring the board and the public up to what is happening with facilities and the potential surplus of the old hospital. “Things are very different then what we looked to do two years ago.” said Murphy.

Boardmember Jordana LaPorte asked if the Facilities Plan would be available by the July Strategic Meeting. Rohrich replied it would be finished by that meeting.

Dave Yackell joined the board and gave a report on the QHR Health efforts to deliver progress in bringing the hospital’s accounts receivable down. Currently he reported that average ‘patient discharge to billing cycle is down from 51 days to 37 with an eventual target of 10 days before a patient is billed for services.

He said that 64 percent of the issues delaying billing was coding errors, missing charges, and documentation that does not support charges being billed.

The board expressed some concerns with the contract and Murphy stated that there have been challenges along the way. “What is the corrective actions,” she asked? Murphy said detailed discussions of the concerns need to be discussed in the Finance Committee and that Yackell needs to be invited into those meetings.

New Board member Jeremy Jaech agreed with that and asked what the roadblocks have been. “The contract is not what was expected,” he said. Board member Mary Signorelli stated that there are some key milestones missing from some of the initiatives.

Murphy suggested that a special meeting might be useful in correcting the issues.

Another issue that is particularly bothering LaPorte is the possibility of expensive Change Orders during the new hospital construction. Rohrich explained the policy concerning Change Orders. “In a nutshell, they will come out of the contingency fund.” LaPorte asked if anything over $25,000 could be approved by email. Jaech was explicit in his comment that no work should be done until approved. “The goal is to maintain a fund. You can’t go beyond an approved budget.”

Rohrich replied, “We cannot exceed our budget.” The contingency fund has approximately $1.4 million in it which is five percent of the entire budget. LaPorte asked who would approve the change orders? Rohrich stated that there was a process in place and that he was on call 24/7.

The hospital is still facing financial issues and CFO Cheryl Cornwell told the board that they are waiting for 100% forgiveness on the first $3 million of CARES money they received which will bring the hospital back to a secure financial position. “There are a lot of moving parts,” she said. “The restricted funds are not doing us a whole lot of good.”

She feels they are still several months away from an answer on the federal money.

Financially the hospital suffered from being forced to shut down regular services for several months during the pandemic along with the decision to shut down the Sanctuary which affected the hospital’s cash flow.

In the meantime, Bouten Construction is moving dirt at the new hospital site across Apple Blossom Drive from Columbia Valley Health.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chief Mark Donnell told the Chelan Fire & Rescue commissioners that the department had 62 calls in March. “It was a fairly busy month for us,” said Donnell. There were 39 EMS calls with12 requiring Advance Life Support; 15 – Basic Life Support and 12 that required no ambulance transport.

The Department has had over 1,000 people vaccinated by the EMS at the Fire Station and vaccination dates continue to come up for non-vaccinated individuals. Go to lakechelanhealth.org for information and/or to register for your vaccine appointment.

The Department responded to two brush fires on Little Butte that turned out to be a fires that escaped a controlled burns when the wind came up. It burned approximately 14 acres. “The folks were doing the right thing,” said Donnell. “Unfortunately the wind picked up.”

Chelan Fire also responded to a structure fire on East Center Street and an Aircraft Standby emergency. “All of the planes landing gear was not functioning, but they got it down and landed without incident.”

Assistant Fire Chief Brandon Asher said he signed one new recruit but lost four. He hopes to get a few volunteers he can get trained up to be on the fire lines this summer. “Red cards will be issued in the first week of May,” said Asher.

Asher reminded the Commissioners that there would be a practice structure burn out by Pat & Mikes on Saturday.

Chairman Phil Moller stated that despite rumors to the contrary, the District has no intention of putting a Fire Station out at Pat and Mikes.

Fire Association President Dan Crandall reported that the association has $31,500 in the bank, but only brought in $700 last month while spending $2,500. The Association usually holds its annual Pancake Breakfast during the June 5 Cruzin Chelan event. “This year we are going to try a Grab n’ Go,” said Crandall. “We will have a booth set up where people can pick up breakfast and a few beverages. It will keep us in the publics eye.”

Crandall also announced that the association is on the verge of releasing its new website.

He also congratulated Commissioner Russ Jone on his successful completion of the recent EMT course. Jones is now a certified EMT in the State of Washington and will continue towards a National Certification. Jones said, “After I retire from the bank, I’m interested in becoming an operator on Marine 71. I am not interested in becoming a combat fire fighter or a wildland fire fighter.”

Chief Donnell stated that the Advisory Board is going along. In a separate conversation with Jones, the Department is looking at the possibility of running a Levy Lid Lift in November. The District is looking at a levy that will be in place for 10 years and will allow the District to keep abreast of new regulations and allow it to replace outdated equipment.

Moller said he was concerned with the 240+ hours of overtime this past month. “I don’t have a solution, but we are going to have to find a lot of money for OT.

Crandall noted that with the pandemic winding down, more people might be interested in volunteering. “Let’s keep a positive outlook.” Moller replied that volunteerism is coming to the forefront nation wide. “We need to keep a close eye on that.”

Practice Burn:

On Saturday, April 24, Chelan Fire, Manson District 5, Entiat District 8 and Orondo came together to conduct a major training exercise at a residential structure burn. This exercise was designed to give firefighters (volunteer and staff) real time training with combat firefighting inside a burning house.

“This is important training for them,” said Fire Chief Mark Donnell. “They get to see what it is like under real conditions and learn how to use the tools available to them to combat a house fire.”

District 5 Fire Chief Arnold Baker echoed Donnell’s remarks and stated that the training was an important part of becoming a combat fire fighter. When he and a volunteer took a fan up to the smoke filled front door, he described how the fan, as long as an escape hole has been  attained, will push the fire out and allow fire fighters access to the structure.

When it got too hot for firefighters to effectively fight inside, hoses were put into play to cool the fire down to help fight the fire.

This practice burn was an excellent opportunity for new and old fire fighters to learn new techniques. The entire exercise was run by Assistant Chief Brandon Asher, Lt. Shawn Sherman and Fire Fighter Adam Jones.

Chelan Fire and Rescue needs more individuals willing to commit and volunteer for the District. Interested individuals can contact Assistant Chief at 509-682-4476 or basher@cfr7.org. Contact the department and find out what opportunities exist. Fire service is a great occupation for those willing to commit to the training. There are plenty of high paying jobs available in Fire Departments, the U.S. Forest Service, Department of Natural Resources and other organizations with fire departments.