Author: allthingslakechelan

by Richar Uhlhorn

Lake Chelan Community Hospital has received $3.1 million from the SBA Disaster Relief Fund for rural hospitals and another $4.8 million loan which will have to be repaid. CFO Mike Ellis explained that both of these funding influxes have been set aside in case they are needed. The Hospital also received a $142,000 grant from the State of Washington from the State’s list of rural hospitals.

Hospital CFO gave a financial update to the Hospital Commission.

Ellis reported that cash on hand currently is equivalent to 22 days. They have been able to pay off their $350,000 Line of Credit. There is still a huge amount of money out there in Accounts Receivable. To help with collecting those funds, the Hospital is hiring a company named Resolution.

Resolution does not get paid unless they collect. Its fee is three percent which could add up to $100,000+ . There is apparently over $5 million dollars in Accounts Receivable out there. Resolution will supply two people for three months to help collect these receivables. “This contract is in our favor,” said Ellis. “They take all the risk.”

Hospital CEO George Rohrich wants to see the Hospital’s outstanding accounts receivable get under control. 

CEO George Rohrich stated that the hospital has to get its A/R under control. “We’ve got to get this fixed,” he said. Commissioner Mary Murphy asked how the Hospital can use this opportunity to develop its own in-house training. Rohrich replied that they would develop a process or procedure for this.

The Hospital had a net operating loss of $642,000 in March and Ellis said, “This is one of those months we expect a loss before summer.”

Salary and benefits are approximately $4.3 million, but is about $4 million now because salary and wages have not gone up. “Pretty much in every category we are below our budget which tells you again our volume is off.”

With regards to the SBA disaster relief funds, Ellis lauded the help of North Cascades National Bank and the hospital’s attorney. “We talked on Sunday night and by Monday we were able to get it done,” said Ellis.

There is another $80 billion coming from the government for hospitals and CEO George Rohrich said, “We haven’t seen the details of who gets what yet.”

The commission unanimously agreed to continue its Interqual Contract. Rohrich explained that the company provides a service that insures that when a patient is diagnosed, everything those patients need is documented. “It is a get out of jail card,” said Rohrich. “We send it and they (insurance companies) cannot deny… that is what the value is.” He went on to say that the service helps the doctors document and helps to stop denials for payment.

The commission approved Rohrich’s decision to add to the Hospital’s ZOOM contract without their approval. “We needed more than 25 and I deemed this as an emergency for our health care services. Approve it or I will fall on my sword,” he quipped.

The Hospital is working on its Network Security with a firm out of Colorado that has network engineers available 24/7 365 days a year to make sure that bad actors never access the Hospital’s servers. “It blocks foreign states like China and other countries fro accessing our network,” said IT Director Ross Hurd. “They are watching our network traffic and if they see something strange they will address it.”

Every new employee and employees are required to take a Cyber Security Training course.

The board agreed that a Succession Plan was needed and will develop a short term and long term succession plan with Rohrich/Gleasman/CNO Jaimie Minnock on the committee.

EMS LEVY:

EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer is requesting a $.39/$1,000 replacement levy in August that will run for 10 years.

EMS director Ray Eickmeyer said they would be requesting that voters approve a $.39 per thousand 10-year replacement levy in August. “It will provide capitial to replace old equipment,” said Eickmeyer. Gleasman asked if there would be enough in the levy to replace an old ambulance. Eickmeyer replied that it would.

For potential clients that are afraid to come to the hospital, Rohrich said that a campaign needs to begin that tells potential client patients that the Hospital and Clinic are the safest public buildings in the community. “We have staff to see people safely and to clean the space.

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by Richard Uhlhorn

At last night’s City Council meeting, Mayor Bob Goedde opened the discussion on the purchase of the Spader Bay property that was approved by the City Council in 2019 with this comment; “I have made a stand on this. I am not going to sign the contract. It would be up to the Mayor Pro Tem to sign the contract.”

Mayor Bob Goedde announced prior to the decision to purchase the Spader Bay property that he would not be signing the purchase contract.

Spader Bay property as seen from the Chelan Ranger District.

With that comment, City Administrator Wade Ferris gave the Council members a short update on getting access through an easement to the property that had been an issue. “We had trouble getting access,” said Ferris. “We have worked something out with three different property owners.”

City Administrator Wade Ferris

Ferris also reported that Larry Lehmbecker, owner of Vin du Lac Winery is potentially willing to allow access through his property in the future. He then turned the discussion over the Guy Evans who is representing his family in the sale of the property.

Guy Evans represents his family on the selling of Spader Bay

Evans told the Council that he wasn’t sure how much longer his seller is willing to work on this because of financial issues that are cropping up. He also told them this was a once in a lifetime opportunity for Chelan. He called the purchase a risk free deal because the City is paying only half of the assessed value and could over subsequent years recoup that investment by selling the property and/or a portion of it.

Council members all chimed to the discussion with Peter Jamtgaard saying he had talked with 20 or so people on the street about the purchase and that they were unanimous in support. “This was done before I was on Council,” he said. He also talked with Lehmbecker and said he feels the purchase is a good opportunity for the City.

City Council member John Olson voted No on the
purchase of the Spader Bay property .

John Olson stated he has also had conversations with constituents, most of whom were against the purchase. This was done during his campaign to be elected to the Council. Olson has asked the Council to instigate Eminent Domain on the Three Fingers, but that the Council hadn’t listened to him. “Not all real estate actions are all positive,” stated Olson.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth has been a major voice in supporting the purchase.

Tim Hollingsworth stated that he has supported this acquisition from the beginning and continues to support it. “I would like to point out that I’m not necessarily supporting this for me, but as a last piece of shoreline (available). It is a backdrop for people crossing the old bridge,” said Hollingsworth. “Our children and children’s children will find ways to utilized this property.” He said he had talked with Lehmbecker and thinks that there is a win-win situation in the purchase.

Councilman Ty Witt has also been a big supporter of the purchase.

Ty Witt is also on board with the purchase. He said that he had met with some principals at the Lookout and that a neighbor (Ken Friedman) is very interested in a collaboration to build a park on Lookout property above the property with ADA access. “It was just a conversation and was quite positive on the idea of something very positive. They are very interested in doing something on that bench.”

Councilman Ray Dobbs voted No on the purchase because he feels that the City does not have a functional easement to the property.

Ray Dobbs asked Witt why the Lookout hasn’t stepped up before this. Witt said he thinks the Lookout is approaching the saturation point with development and are very interested in adding a new park. “I was excited by that.”

Dobbs said, “We are creating an amenity for the Lookout, They are going to be the closest neighbors.” He went on to remark that the Council is getting to the end of a legal document. “I don’t think we have a very functional easement.” Dobbs added that if the Lookout was resolved to build a park right now, he would be excited.

“All of our world’s have changed,” said Dobbs. “This is a purchase that would be nice to have,” said Dobbs. However he stated he was against the purchase based on the easement.

Councilman Servando Robledo is another supporter of the purchase.

Servando Robledo told the Council that some people are very positive about the purchase and some are not. “It is not going to be usable right away,” he said. “It is an investment.” He finished by stating he was in favor of the purchase.

The Council voted 5 to 2 with both Dobbs and Olson voting no.

Councilwoman Erin McCardle has the been given the opportunity to sign the sales agreement on the Spader Bay Property because Mayor Bob Goedde is against the purchase and said he would not sign the contract.

So once the contract is signed, sealed and delivered, the City will own the Spader Bay property.

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by Richard Uhlhorn

At Thursday’s virtual teleconference of the Chelan Leadership Response Team meeting, Barry Kling – Chelan-Douglas County Health District (CDHD) stated that Social Distancing has worked really well. “Our approach is to tell the community the truth of what is happening,” he said.

Kling said most of the positives have been asymptomatic. “We have a concern for farm workers… it is a critical industry in our area. We are working with the Ag. industry to formulate some plans.” The largest concern is the influx of an estimated 3,200 workers coming in for the upcoming cherry harvest.

The City of Chelan added seven more positives to its count over the last week, most of which Kling says is Ag. Worker related and members of their families.

Other concerns are for homeless shelters and the inmates at Chelan County Jail.

Chelan District Ranger Kari Grover-Weir asked if the Stemilt numbers reported earlier in the week would remain asymptomatic. Kling replied that some of those workers would likely develop symptoms. “We don’t have the answer to that. Those who do need a higher level of care will get it,” said Kling. He added that the CDHD is exploring the possibility of letting farm workers continue working even though they have tested positive, but are asymptomatic. “These people are feeling fine and want to work.”

Chelan Fruit’s Jim Colbert stated that he is receiving a lot of calls from growers who have licensed housing (not H2A housing). “Is there anyway to know how long they will be positive,” asked Colbert. Kling replied that the only way would be to retest.

Debbie Conwell – Manson Chamber, said she had some community members complaining about shoppers not wearing masks. Kling replied that there are no requirements to wear masks presently. “You should wear a mask when you go into a store. Masks reduce your risk a little bit, but not a whole lot.”

“By and large, people are doing a good job. We have a pretty high level of cooperation. It is an act of Love for other people in the community,” said Kling.

Kent Sisson – Emergency Management (EM), said that the current hotspots for positive cases are the farm worker camps. “It will be a big operation to test,” said Sisson, but he added that testing kits are finally coming through and that EM did order an additional 1,000 kits. “Omak is the latest hot spot,” added Sisson. He also stated that the State would be picking up the cost of all orders after May 1. “I’m in the process of explaining the process to hospitals, fire departments and other agencies.”

Ray Eickmeyer – LCCH-EMS, said the hospital and clinic are doing well. “We are open to a significant surge, but I don’t know if we will see that,” said Eickmeyer. “It will be interesting to see what things look like in six months or a year from now.”

Eickmeyer also said the hospital has created a very safe place for people who are either contagious or not contagious. “I just want to make it clear that if you have symptoms other than Coronavirus, please don’t hesitate to call.”

“We are using artificial intelligence called WANDA,” said Eickmeyer. WANDA is an integrated proactive screening, remote care management, and multimodal telehealth platform that has been adapted to monitor patients remotely in their homes, using CDC symptom guidelines for COVID-19. The patients can then be monitored by clinical staff who may themselves be self-isolating, as well as clinicians working routinely. The COVID-19 program can be implemented alone or in combination with other programs for vulnerable patients.

Christy Morris – Columbia Valley Community Health, reported that CVCH is sending Coronavirus patients to their COVID hallway, but also said they are going to be losing three rooms to the construction company soon. “They will be tearing down a wall to connect to the new space,” said.

Kari Grover-Weir told the team that the District will be on boarding firefighters next week. “We have been doing a bunch of scenario planning for things they might need this summer to prepare,” said Weir.

The seasonal firefighters will live together and ride in the same trucks together. The District plans on keeping spacing in vehicles as much as possible and instead of 10 people in a vehicle, it will be reduced to six.

Jim Colbert said Chelan Fruit is overseen by state regulators and wondered if they will be held to a different standard than the Forest Service. Kling replied that during emergencies there are times for compromising.

Colbert added that most of the Co-Ops growers are not large and will be dealing with housing issues and social distancing issues. Kling again stated that the key is sending emergency workers out to an emergency which will put them under different standards. Colbert replied, “I get your point. Cherry harvest is like a wildfire.” Kling said, “I understand your feeling, but there are different standards for different situations.”

Mayor Goedde said that it has been a very busy week in Chelan. He has been dealing with the Construction issue and the issues of people traveling to Chelan who should be sequestering at home. “I’m asking the governor to expand on the stay home-stay healthy issue,” said Goedde. He is also receiving requests for interviews and television clips.

Goedde wants to make it clear that Chelan wants its visitor base to please stay home until this crisis is over, and then Chelan will open up and welcome visitors back to the valley.

Goedde said he has had meetings with Sgt. Chris Foreman regarding planning for Memorial Day. “What are our options… what kind of enforcement can we expect,” said Goedde. “It is so open ended that we don’t know where we will be.”

Goedde is on the LINK Board as the City’s liaison and said that LINK is considering reducing the number of riders to 10 on its buses and adding three buses to each route to serve the public. Goedde said the LINK is down 35 percent in ridership from about 4000 to 1200 per day.

Manson, Chelan and Entiat Fire Districts reported that they are doing well.

The Food Drive is continuing to May 1 and Eickmeyer said the hospital is challenging people to raise funding for the Food Bank. Councilman Ray Dobbs replied that checks can be mailed to the Food Bank at P.O. Box 2684, Chelan, WA. 98816.

The Food Bank served 175 families this past week.

by Richard Uhlhorn

At yesterday’s Leadership Response Team meeting, there were several items of interest for the Lake Chelan Valley community.

Sgt. Kent Sisson – Emergency Management, stated that the emergency management team is currently getting its PPE orders turned around. “Our staff is getting that turned around for agencies in dire need for PPEs (Personal Protection Equipment). We have a little stockpile left and are getting regular shipments in.” Gowns are becoming an issue. One vendor promised 4.5 million disposable gowns, but had to cancel because the raw material wasn’t available to produce them.

Sisson stated that the team is working on the reimbursement process for any public entity that is registered on the public assistance side. Fire Districts and School Districts need to register before the Drop Dead day. Even if your organization doesn’t use the system you are at least registered.

Barry Kling – Chelan-Douglas County Health District, stated that the area is fortunate because the critical care cases have not materialized. “Social Distancing is working,” he said. “It is working better than we hoped.” However, he stated that any loosening of the Stay At Home edict should not happen until more testing can be done on the public at large.

The State is testing health workers and first responders first. “It’s not that we need 50 percent more testing, we need 500 to 1000 percent more,” said Kling.

Kling also said the agency is working with Chelan County Commissioner Doug England on worker housing guidelines.

Regarding agricultural issues, Jim Colbert – Chelan Fruit, joined the team for the first time on Thursday and stated that they are battling Coronavirus and attempting to keep Chelan Fruit’s 650 employees safe. “We have reduced our workforce on the lines, expanded our lunch rooms and offered masks,” said Colbert.

Colbert also stated that Chelan Fruit does not transport employees, but that some of the co-ops mitigation procedures are a struggle. “How do you get five employees from climbing in to a car,” he asked.

His biggest concern for the shed is the addition of 900 people for the upcoming Cherry season. “Cherry packing is very challenging for us,” said Colbert. Cherries are a fresh product that needs to ship to the market immediately.

Chelan Ranger Kari Grover-Weir

Kari Grover-Weir asked how long the temporary influx of workers is. Colbert replied that all packer shippers work two 10-hour shifts per day. He added that it is a cross section of workers. “We have kids out of college working the cherries as a summer job.” He also stated that Chelan Fresh is just one of six packing sheds fighting over the same labor pool.

Superintendent Barry DePaoli

Superintendents Barry DePaoli and Matt Charlton said both of the District’s employees are working remotely. Depaoli also lauded the kitchen staff who are busy putting out meals for students to pick up. “We have served 4,996 meals,” said DePaoli.

Regarding the seniors, both DePaoli and Charlton said it was a difficult time for them and plans are in the works to celebrate them, however, DePaoli said they are still hoping to be able to hold a traditional graduation. Charlton replied that Manson is looking at ways to make graduation special for their seniors.

With regards to on-line teaching, DePaoli said, “Right now we have about 70 percent of our students engaged. We are going into a full court press to find out where the other 30 percent are. Some of them are working.”

Manson Superintendent Matt Carlton

Charlton said Manson Schools has ordered 30 hotspots from T-Mobile for students who don’t have an Internet connection.

Kari Grover Weir – Chelan District Ranger, told the team that its developed recreational sites are closed, but that the trails are open. “You just have to park along side the road,” said Weir. She reiterated that the District has shut down prescribed burning for Spring. The District’s employees are also working remotely and no employees have tested positive for the virus. “We are working on operational procedures for our seasonal employees,” said Weir. By May the Entiat and Chelan Districts will have full force hotshots on board.

HDCA director Erin McCardle

Erin McCardle – HCDA, said a number of businesses have applied for financial help, but no more applications are being accepted because funding has run out. She stated that representative Mike Steele is working hard with the SBA and the governor to get another round of financing available.

She said businesses are concerned about how long they can stay closed before they have to permanently close their doors. “We should have a pretty good view of what our businesses will look like in a month or two.”

EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer

EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer stated that the hospital and clinic are doing well. “The hospital is getting more PPEs. We’ve had a lot of people in the community giving masks and shield,” said Eickmeyer. He also reported that the hospital has emptied its third floor to be ready for any surge in cases. “We are ready to take on more patients. We are seeing increased amount of people with symptoms,” said Eickmeyer. However they are all being taken care of at their homes. “We don’t want to discourage people from seeking health care,” he said.

Eickmeyer also stated that the hospital is going to be launching a survey via telephone to all of its patients to find out if they have any symptoms at all. “This should show us some hot spots that we can give to CDCH.” They will be making those calls once a week to make sure they have everything they need.

Manuel Navarro – Columbia Valley Community Health, stated that they are in pretty good shape. “We are not in dire straights for anything. Business is steady.” As of Thursday morning, CVCH had tested 150 people with 14 testing positive. “We are focusing on agriculture worker camps,” he said.

CVCH is assuming a responsibility for contact tracing with all patients. This program starts with an individual and works out to all of his contacts he/she have been in contact with.

Sgt. Chris Foreman – Chelan Detachment

Sgt. Chris Foreman – Chelan Detachment, said that he didn’t have much to report. “There hasn’t been any real up tick with complaint calls from last week,” said Foreman. “We have had some confusion on our waterways and boating. Boating is allowed… fishing is closed. Doesn’t make much sense, but we are going with the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife.”

Fire Chief Arnold Baker – Manson Fire District

Fire Chief Arnold Baker – Manson Fire District stated that they were available and healthy. Fire Chief Mike Asher – Entiat stated that the case count in Entiat is extremely good. “We’ve had no aid calls last week.” Fire Chief Mark Donnell said Chelan7 has seen fewer EMS responses but an up tick in fire responses. “We had 23 fire calls since March. This fire season is going to be busier than a normal season”

Mayor Bob Goedde – City of Chelan

Mayor Bob Goedde – City of Chelan, proclaimed that Chelan was a hotspot for Coronavirus, claiming that percentage wise, Chelan has more cases than Wenatchee and/or East Wenatchee.

Goedde has released his Declaration of Emergency and is trying to figure out how to get Governor Inslee to recognize that people are not staying home but are driving back and forth from the Westside to their second homes with no concern about the residents in the Valley. “We’ve got a problem over here,” he stated.

The Leadership Response Team meets via teleconferencing every Thursday afternoon at 1 p.m. for agency updates on the Coronavirus situation.

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by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan Fire and Rescue commissioners held their regularly scheduled meeting via telephone conference on Wednesday, April 15.

Several items came out of the meeting that are of real interest to the community.

Siren:

During commissioner comments, Russ Jones asked what the disposition was to turn the City’s Siren back on. Chief Donnell remarked that feedback has been positive. “If it is something we decide to do, it will only go off for multiple fire alarms (2 and 3 call fire alarms),” said Donnell.

Jones stated that he feels good about the alarm especially when residents are educated that it will only be used for second and third fire alarms.

Moller stated that without the old orchards protecting the town anymore, that the alarm would let people know that a serious situation is happening. Commissioner Oules stated that it is needed.

Fire Forecasts:

A part of that discussion about the siren included the upcoming fire season, which Donnell said was going to be interesting this season.

Assistant Chief Brandon Asher said, “Let’s move forward (with the siren), but Donnell interjected that there is a cost to getting it back into service. A radio will cost approximately $2,400 unless they district can use one of the radios out of the surplus vehicles. “That funding can come out of our RiverCom fund,” said Donnell.

The commission authorized the funding to get the siren back in service.

Currrent Operations:

Chief Donnell told the commissioners that the administrative staff is working from home until the COVID-19 crisis is over. “The crews are busy catching up with apparatus maintennace,” said Donnell.

He also stated that if any property owner wants a fire assessment on their properties to call the station and set up an appointment.

There were 57 incidents in March of which six were fires. “We seen a call decline,” said Donnell. “We’ve had a really good response to all of the fires we’ve had this year.” Response time is ranging between nine and 17 minutes depending on the location of the incident.

Assistant Chief Brandon Asher stated that the Districts have lost five volunteers for not maintaining training schedules. “No one came back and said they wanted to be on the Fire Department. It is a big hit,” said Asher.

He stated that the COVID situation has helped out and given some volunteers a chance to catch up on their training.

Fire Association Report:

Dan Crandall reported that the association has an ending balance of $45,547.00 after spending $5,971 this past month. The bid expense was for a storage shed at Station 71 that cost $3,000.00.  The association also purchased $3,600 worth of electronic equipment for Marine 71.

“We had an online vote to donate $3,000 to Thrive Chelan Valley so they could help provide food on their Friday night programs for Manson and Chelan,” Crandall said.

The annual Spring Pancake Breakfast has been cancelled because of the pandemic.

Unfinished Business:

Long Term Planning has been put on hold but Donnell will have a completed packet fo the commissioners to review soon. “We still have some time to work on this,” he said. “We might have some challenges coming up that we don’t know about yet that could affect it,” said Moller.

New Business:

The commissioners delegated the authority to the Fire Chief to declare an emergency when an emergency situation arises.

The commissioners heard about Incident 2020-129, Illegal Burning Invoice. The commissioners agreed to a $3,000 bill to Lake Chelan Tree Service who was fined for illegally burning two separate piles of debris. “We’ve had issues with him over the years,” said Donnell. He also stated that Fire Marshall Bob Plumb and the DOE agreed on the amount for the use of manpower and apparatus. “He has paid these bills in the past,” said Donnell.

Commissioner Oules said, “Put a stamp on the envelope and Jones said he had no problem with sending the invoice. out.

Shady Pass and Swanson Gulch Fires:

Donnell stated that the property owner at Shady Pass had opted not to annex into the Fire Department. He told the commissioners that he was sending a bill for $4,972 for manpower and apparatus with a suggestion to the property owner to opt into annexation which would be much less expensive than paying the invoice. “Bob Plumb agreed that it is a great way to get people into the fire department.”

Moller replied that it was a win-win for that property owner. Oules asked what the advantage of annexation was for a property owner. Donnell replied that it benefits the entire area where residents and property owners can share the wealth.

Jones was concerned about the cost to record the annexation if the property owner decided to do that. Donnell said the cost would depend on whether or not the land had been surveyed during the original annexation process. “I will let you know what the costs are.”

The Swanson Gulch Fire brought up some interesting facts. “I naturally assumed that fire was within the fire district,” said Donnell. It turned out that any fire west of Swanson Gulch is in No Man’s Land. “Because we are the agency that responds up there, there are only five I could annex in. Most of the others have no serviceable roads.”

Moller asked if these property owners paid a Forest Service Assessment Tax? Donnell replied they didn’t. “Believe it or not, they don’t pay for Manson or Chelan Fire.”

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Chelan Leadership Response Team met via a teleconference yesterday, Thursday, April 9, to be updated by members of the team. The number of people invited to the meeting was reduced considerably including members of the press.

Fire Chief Mark Donnell is handling the Leadership Response Team’s PIO duties and can be reached at 509-699-9762

Fire Chief Mark Donnell, as acting PIO, sent out a report on the meeting later in the evening. In attendance by telephone were: Sgt. Kent Sisson – Chelan County Emergency Management; Barry Kling – Chelan/Douglas County Health District; Sgt. Chris Foreman – Chelan County Sheriff’s Office; Kristi Morris – Columbia Valley Community Health; Kari Grover-Weir – USFS; Mike Steele – Lake Chelan Chamber; Debbie Conwell – Manson Chamber; Mayor Bob Goedde; Wade Ferris – Chelan City Administrator; Mike Fire Chief Mike Asher – Entiat CCDF #8; Assistant Fire Chief Brandon Asher – Chelan Fire & Rescue; and Fire Chief Mark Donnell – Chelan Fire.

Mayor Goedde said the City of Chelan is relying on the Chelan County Sheriff’s Department to handle STR violations. 

In a telephone conversation with Mayor Goedde this morning regarding the Chelan County Declaration on Short Term Rentals (STR) he said, “We have no teeth.” As far as Mayor Goedde is concerned it is up to the Sheriff’s Department to deal with STRs that are out of compliance with the order. “We pay $1.4 million dollars a year for law enforcement,” said Goedde.

Sgt Chris Foreman reported that his deputies are working hard to educate the public and owners of short term rentals before enforcing violators.

Sgt. Chris Foreman, Chelan’s law enforcement lead, he reported that his patrol officers are working more towards educating the public regarding essential businesses and the vacation rental declaration rather than enforcement.

Chelan County Sheriff’s Department has a dedicated telephone number for the community to report violators. It is 509.667.6985. One deputy has been assigned to this task.

Mayor Goedde is seeking clarification on owners of second homes and where they need to shelter in place. “If they are here, they need to shelter here, not drive back and forth, which I know they are doing,” stated Goedde.

With the three-day weekend in play because of Easter, it will be interesting to see how many people decide to travel to the community.

Kari Grover-Weir reported that the District is beginning to staff up for the upcoming fire season while working within the confinements mandating social distancing.

Chamber Director Mike Steele gave updates regarding unemployment benefits and the business community grant program. He said that over 200 businesses in Chelan County have applied. Steele also reported that he is looking at residential construction as an essential service and what the definition and guidelines for this would look like.

He also recommended adding the CEO from Chelan Fruit to the Response Team as a resource for working with growers in the area.

Fire Chief Mike Asher reported that he was working with the Chelan County Commissioners and Chelan County Fire Marshall Bob Plumb about the possibility to invoke a burn ban earlier this year (May 1).

On the Medical side Kristi Morris – Columbia Valley Health, stated that they currently have five positive cases and nine patients with results pending. Overall, Chelan-Douglas County Health reports that Chelan County has 45 positive cases.

Sgt. Ken Sisson – Emergency Management, restated his frustration from the inability to obtain PPE (personal protective equipment) through the State due to changing guidelines and a lack of coordinaton.

Chelan County has receive the needed ventilators and were able to send 40 of them back to the State due to lower than expected patient counts.

Sisson also said that the Sheriff’s Office is working with property owners regarding the recent declaration from the County regarding vacation rentals. The Sheriff’s department is using education strategies before implementing enforcement.

Barry Kling – C/D County Health told the team that information concerning the number of patients testing positive in the Chelan/Manson area could be found on their website at https//cdhd.wa.gov/covid-19/#case-count.

Kling offered to work with Christy Morris to reach out to the Okanogan County Health District to assist in infection control measures at packing sheds in Okanogan County.

He reiterated the importance of keeping social distancing processes in place. “We need to keep sending the message out to our community about staying home, maintaining social distancing, and practicing effective infection control,” he said.

Next week’s meeting will take place at 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 16 via conference call.

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by Richard Uhlhorn

The Lake Chelan Community Hospital board of directors held a special meeting on Thursday, April 9, to discuss disaster relief funding from the Small Business Administration (SBA)

Chief Financial Offer Mike Ellis led the board through the steps that had already been taken with the finance committee, legal council and banks. “It is a first come-first serve program and late last week we made an application to get in line on Monday,” said Ellis. The decision to do this was with the hospital’s auditors, bankers, legal council and the administration.

The Federal Government is releasing $3 trillion dollars to help business to get through the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds will provide payment (loan) to keep staff employed, not laid off. Debt forgiveness is also a part of the program. Ellis stated that 75 to 80 percent will be forgiven by the Federal Government. This program is available for employers with under 500 employees. LCCH qualifies for this loan.

Ellis said he needed a Resolution passed to proceed with the program. Chairperson Phyliss Gleasman asked how much money was involved. Ellis replied that it was for $3,681,000.

Ellis also stated that the bank already has clearance from the SBA to move forward in the process. The funding would be used specifically for payroll. CEO George Rohrich stated that the loan would be used only for this purpose. “Payroll would exceed the maximum, “he said.

Boardmember Jordana LaPorte stated that the funding would not be used for any non-allowable use. Her biggest concern was when the money would come in. “We have no idea of when this money comes in. Is the bank going to front the dollars.” Ellis replied that the bank would not be lending any funds without SBA approval.

LaPorte also said that at the end of the day, it is the watchdog that will prove you have used the funds as promised. Ellis stated that North Cascades National Bank did ask for backup payroll and that the funds had an exclusion of up to $100,000. It also only covers straight wages, not benefits.

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The Board passed the resolution (#622) unanimously.

In addition to the SBA loan, LCCHC will continue to receive payment for services provided, including reimbursement from the Centers for Medicaid Services (CMS) at a rate of 99% though with the recent pause to Medicare sequester cuts due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, reimbursement from CMS will be at 101 percent.

The board also approved an interest free prepayment loan offered by CMS for an additional $4 million dollars. This loan advancement would be for services to Medicare patients and its repayment would be made back to CMS through Medicare patient visits.

Like many rural hospitals, Lake Chelan Community Hospital has been dealing with lower patient loads and, now the effects of COVID-19 which has had to make severe reductions and changes in the way safe care is provided to the Lake Chelan Valley.

With the community following the State and Federal Stay-At-Home Guidelines, the hospital and clinic has seen a major reduction in outpatient services along with the temporary closure of its Sanctuary Alcohol and Drug inpatient rehabilitation unit.

LCCHC continues to see patients in a variety of new ways through phone appointments, telehealth (video) appointments, and as needed face-to-face appointments for the safety of patients and staff.

The staff at Lake Chelan Community Hospital and Lake Chelan Clinic want the community to know that they are working harder than ever to provide the Lake Chelan Valley community the safest healthcare experience during these extraordinary times.

by Richard Uhlhorn

“We are concerned that this is going
to be the spark that ignites that.”
Dr. Butler

Laura Schmidt, Columbia Valley Community Health and a member of the Leadership Response Team updated the team with a serious concern. Her concern is that the packing sheds are not requiring social distancing for their workers. They apparently are also transporting workers in buses to Wal-Mart for grocery shopping. “They are utilizing vans and buses packed with workers multiple times a week,” she said. She added that Manson growers said they were going to shut down, but are still up and running. “That’s kind of my big concern right now,” said Schmidt.

Mike Steele, Chamber Director replied to her concern. “They don’t have a way of social distancing. They don’t have the resources to act appropriately.” He also said the health department has been in contact with the sheds.

Chelan/Douglas County Health District released the number of positive test in the county and two of those were from Chelan, and one of those two individuals allegedly works at a local packing plant. “As far as our community, these are big hot spots,” said Schmidt. Dr. Butler stated that the positive “we have is an employee of a packing shed. We are concerned that this is going to be the spark that ignites that. It is appropriate that we follow through.”

Getting the word of the seriousness of this crisis in Spanish was also discussed. “We need to come up with a plan for the community.” Some grocery stores are limiting how many people are allowed in and Schmidt wondered if Wal-Mart had looked at that policy.

“How can we work with the packing sheds to keep them (workers) safe,” asked Schmidt. Barry Kling of the Chelan/Douglas County Health District said that it may be simple enough to have a conversation with them. “I think it might make sense to take a crack at that, unless you have already done that.” He went on to say that they should try to get voluntary compliance

Wade Ferris, Chelan City Administrator said that the City had a complaint about Gebbers Farms. Mayor Goedde said, “If it is still going on, we need to remind them.

Schmidt said, “They are still required by the Governor to follow the order. It doesn’t mean they don’t have to act in a responsible way.”

EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer said that the valley is holding steady. “Most tests have come back negative,” Eickmeyer. “Our people are doing a good job. We are working on follow-ups on patients.”

Eickmeyer stated that they have enough surgical masks to get them to July 1st. He said there is a lot of misinformation about masks. He added that even surgical masks doesn’t protect. “The only good thing about homemade masks is that they offer some protection. There are so many variables,” he said. Material used is one of them. “We know that a mask from a manufacturer is better than nothing.”

Dr. Butler said the individual that returned positive on Thursday is not hospitalized, but is in home quarantine.

Sgt. Kent Sisson, Emergency Management, stated that they have a lot going on at Chelan County Sheriff’s Office.

“The National Guard has arrived at the Toyota Center and will be going out to other communities. The Guard will be helping with supplies and logistics.

“We’ve been putting out a lot of small fires,” said Sisson. He stated that there is redundancy on ordering medical supplies. “The Department of Health is reaching out individually (to facilities) and it has created a Firestorm. Why are we being asked twice.”

Rich Magneson added that he is in the process of writing an email to DOH to try and streamline the process. “We will keep you posted on that.”

Sisson added that was just one of things they are trying to get clarification of. The Emergency Management operation is also helping CDCH get personnel from Wenatchee Valley College to help out. “These are individuals with medical or EMT experience and are willing to help out,” said Sisson.

Dr. Butler said that CVCH can test about 20 people per day and that Confluence Health has begun testing again also.

Fire Chief Mark Donnell asked what the turnaround time is. Butler replied that nothing comes back within 48 hours. “It is difficult to get testing.” CVCH is collaborating with the hospital which also had the ability to test. “They run their tests through Quest Diagnostics and it takes four or five days for the results.”

Kling added that better tests are on the way and thinks there will be quicker results. “We think we are at a point where we will see a spike. There is lots going on with community outreach education. What you are doing up there (Chelan) is good and it is really helpful.”

Chelan Ranger Kari Grover-Wier asked about a steep climb to the peak. “When do you guys think this will peak,” she asked. Kling replied that he would rather see a lower flatter curve to a peak than a rapid peak in cases. “I am really hoping it will take longer. My crystal ball hasn’t been very clear lately.” He feels that it will be a couple of weeks before they will know.

Kari Weir said that the Wenatchee/Okanogan National Forest has closed its campgrounds, snoparks, and trailheads. “We are trying to avoid a concentration of people,” said Weir. “The Forest is not closed.” The District has delayed seasonal employees until the end of April and is conducting no prescribed burning.

Erin McCardle, HCDA executive director, said that a number of business owners were on a call with Employment Security on Wednesday afternoon. “It was very informative,” said McCardle. The downtown businesses were trying to figure out how to take out a small business loan and the unemployment picture. “That’s what Mike (Steele) and I have been focused on.”

Debbie Conwell, Manson Chamber of Commerce, said it is hard for business owners. “We are reaching the (peak) season quickly. They want to know when they can start advertising.”

Schmidt asked about a list of businesses offering takeout. McCardle mentioned the Lake Chelan Chamber’s Virtual page (www.lakechelan.com/virtual) and Lake Chelan Now’s page (https://lakechelannow.com/coronavirus-updates/social-distancing/).

Mayor Goedde informed the team that he would be meeting with Wal-Mart on Friday to make sure of social spacing is being enforced.

City Administrator stated that the City is working with a skeleton crew, but that Public works would be doing some striping because of the lack of downtown traffic.

Fire Chief Arnold Baker said the Manson Fire District is just holding on tight and keeping all services available to the community.

The next Leadership Response Team meeting will take place next Thursday, April 9, beginning at 1 p.m.

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by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan City Council held its Tuesday night meeting on-line streaming the audio. Council members were at home while the essential staff, Mayor, City Administrator and City Attorney were in Council Chambers for this meeting.

The Council had a number of Corona Virus issues to cover including the following:

• A Deferred Utility Payments Policy;
• A policy for funding for certain Community Agencies during the pandemic
• A Rate and Fee Resolution to waive cancellation fees at the RV Park during the crisis;
• A policy on the Payment of Employee Wages and Benefits during the pandemic.
• A policy on Telecommuting during the crisis; and
• A policy relating to the Washington Paid Family & Medical Leave Act.

Of interest to residents, the proposed policy on deferring utility payments during the crisis had a number of council questions after Finance Director Steve Thornton explained the policy to them. He told the council that the policy would eliminate late penalties and that that City would not disconnect any water, sewer or sanitation services during this period.

Thornton went on to say that at the end of the crisis, residents would be offered a payment plan to catch up with their utility charges. City customers would have up to five months to catch up.

Councilwoman Erin McCardle said she was concerned. “A large part of our community is out of work,” said McCardle. “This would not be the only bill they have to pay. We haven’t given them any rebound time.”

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth said he had the same concerns. “The utility bill would be one of the smaller bills they would have to pay, but I tend to agree with Erin,” said Hollingsworth. He also feels that the City is giving customers a pretty good deal. Councilman Ty Witt added that with the proposed payment period the customers are getting a pretty good deal. The Council passed the ordinance unanimously.

The next item on the agenda was a policy for emergency funding for community agencies like the Food Bank, Thrive and others who are already vetted by the City and being funded.

Thornton said the resolution was designed and written to provide the Mayor and City Administrator the authority to fund these agencies when they need it. “It is a pathway for agencies on our budget to get funded,” said Thornton. Thornton stated that there would be a requirement to have some reporting at the end of the crisis to see how the money was used.

McCardle asked if this policy extends beyond the end of the emergency timeframe? City Attorney Quentin Batjer replied that if was only emergency funding during the current crisis and is limited in its scope. Councilman Peter Jamtgaard said, “Once the emergency is over doesn’t mean that people are going back to work immediately.” He wanted to see this funding policy extend for 90 days out.

Councilman Ray Dobbs the council would be the ones to decide to extend the funding period. “When the President or Govenor says its over doesn’t mean its over for us.” Batjer replied that it would ultimately come back to the Council. This Resolution was passed unanimously.

The Parks Department offered a Rate and Fee Amended Resolution to waive cancellation fees and offer those people canceling the opportunity to re-schedule their visit to Chelan. “Customer loyalty has been earned over time,” said Paul Horne, the City’s new Park Director. Dobbs wanted to see the $5 credit card charge also waived. It was also passed unanimously.

There were other items on the Agenda that were passed by the Council. They can be seen on the City’s Civic Portal.

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Mayor/Council Comments:

 John Olsen – “I just want to say that the senior group has been hit hard with COVID-19 issue.” The Senior Center has shut down, but is still delivering meals to seniors. Olsen said that the ReRun Store is a major funder of the Senior Center. “I think we are good for four to five months,” said Olsen.

Erin McCardle remarked that a weekly meeting was taking place on Thursday afternoons at 5:15 on ZOOM with all the agencies dedicated to helping the community and county get through this crisis. “Our business community is feeling very nervous,” she said. “The latest proclamation by the Governor has had a major impact on our business community.”

Ray Dobbs said that the buzz this past weekend has been about short term rentals. “People are advertising on Facebook that their rentals are Coronavirus free. I think the City needs to do something… somehow we need to see it (rentals) stopped.”

McCardle replied that the Govenor’s proclamation was very specific about that people were to stay at home and stay healthy. Batjer stated that he doesn’t see short term rentals as essential and that renting them could be construed as a gross misdemeanor, but that by contrast, the City has no enforcement available except for its code enforcer. “If we regulate STRs it wouldn’t do anything about rentals outside of the City.” Dobbs added that the Chamber and community needs to prohibit any marketing or advertising for Short Term Rentals. McCardle said the Chamber has stopped all of its Spring marketing.

Councilman Ty Witt added that the City has all the contact information for Short Term Rental owners and that the City should communicate to them. “Make some kind of threat that we could notify the authorities.” Dobbs asked if the City could revoke their business licenses. Batjer said that would have to come from the County.

Wade Ferris said the City has been working on what the Sheriff’s Department can do. Mayor Bob Goedde said he had been in communication with Chelan County Commissioner Doug England and the he said the County was working on the issue.

Tim Hollingsworth stated that Town Toyota Center has been taking a big hit, but taking the time to do some maintenance and helping warehouse some of the food items for Chelan and Douglas County’s foodbanks. “They have become a focal point of the crisis.”

Ty Witt said he wanted to make a quick comment on health issues and the communities ability to handle them. “Today we have only six positives, but we know it is coming. We are all eventually going to be exposed.”

Dr. Witt also said he is worried that by stopping normal procedures at the hospitals and clinics who already work on tight margins, that it could force the closure of up to three hospitals in the area. “If we can’t start doing our normal surgeries and right now we aren’t doing any surgeries,” said Witt. That could lead to hospitals not being able to cover payroll. “The only thing that is going to help this is some real money,” said Witt. “We need some funds that are taking the place of the workloads we are missing.”

Mayor Goedde stated that rural hospitals seem to be ignored. Goedde alsos said he is glad everyone is on board. “We are in this together. It is a good start.”

Ferris told the Council that he has been extremely impressed with all the hard work by staff and the council.

One other issue that came up was the City Parks. Paul Horne said that the plan was to keep the Chelan Parks open. “Keeping our parks open is critical,” said Horne. “People walk their dogs in front of the Parks office all the time.” He also said the Lakeshore RV Park and Golf Course are closed.

McCardle said she totally agrees with open spaces being open but is concerned with kids gathering to play basketball in the Park. “The PUD has started cordoning off their playground,” said McCardle. “We think about that all the time,” said Horne. “We are taking steps that entail larger signage and better signage.”

Hopefully the signage and staff walkthroughs of the recreational areas will help discourage groups gathering to play ball or skateboad at the skate park.

The meeting ended with Ferris stating that the upcoming Workshop is cancelled and the next Council meeting is up in the air at this time.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan County Fire District No. 7 held its annual Chelan Fire and Rescue Recognition Awards banquet recently. Following are the staff and firefighters who were honored.

Fire Chief Mark Donnell recognized the following members for their contributions to the department and community.

• Firefighter Laura Cross – As one of our newest members of Chelan Fire & Rescue this individual taken the personal commitment to be the best that they can be by stepping up as a firefighter on South Lakeshore.  She has continually sought out additional training, started to master operation of apparatus assigned to ST-75, and has helped out at many of our social events making a positive impact within our community.
• Firefighter Chrys Fine – Chrys has done a tremendous job as “Sparky” in promoting fire safety and education throughout the County. She has made a trememdous effort in getting Sparky into as many events as possible throughout the year and is always a hit with kids and other mascots.
• Lieutenant Taylor Rains – Lt. Rains has been at the helm of our public education program for the past year and has made a tremendous effort in keeping us connected to the community. As the junior lieutenant in our organization, he has been an ardent supporter of training for career and volunteer members alike and daily demonstrates the spirit of our mission.
• Chelan Firefighters Association & Auxiliary – The Firefighters Association has been the benevolent arm of Chelan Fire & Rescue and our huge supporter to our community in their time of need. Under the guidance of Dan Crandall and Anne Brautovich-Clark, the Association and Auxiliary have successfully raised significant funds that directly benefit the Fire District and members of our community. This organization truly represents the heart and spirit of the fire service.

Commissioner Russ Jones recognized the following individual for the 2019 Commissioners Award. This award recognizes a member of Chelan Fire & Rescue or a member of the community or community group or business that has significantly contributed to the Fire District’s mission of protecting lives and property.

• Chrys “Sparky” Fine

Assistant Chief Brandon Asher recognized Support Services Robert Takagi for the 2019 Chief Timothy Lemon Memorial Award. This award recognizes the member of Chelan Fire and Rescue who displays the spirit of commitment, compassion, and courage in their daily contributions for the organization. It was created in memory of Fire Chief Tim Lemon who saw the best in every member, was always there to listen to your story, held us steady throughout his span as Chelan 7’s Fire Chief, and would always greet you with a big hug.

Chief Donnell gave the 2019 Chief’s Company Award to the entire membership of Chelan Fire & Rescue for all of their hard work and dedication over the last year. It is given to members of the organization based on their merits and skills during emergency responses and their contributions to the organization and community as well.

This year’s award recognizes members who held strong through a year of many challenges facing many obstacles and receiving many accolades along the way. These members held steadfast to the Mission of protecting the lives and property of the community through emergency response, training, and education. They contributed time, energy, and resources unselfishly to keep the community safe throughout the year.

• Chief Donnell said, “I cannot thank these members enough for the support that they have given of themselves for this orgaization and I am eternally grateful for the support that they have given me this past year.”The 2019 Chief’s Company Award goes to the Membership of Chelan Fire & Rescue for all of its hard work and dedication for the past year.

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