Author: allthingslakechelan

by Richard Uhlhorn

Last Wednesday evening a meeting was held in the Performing Arts Center about the potential rollout of 5G Cell Service in Chelan.

Brogan Kelly arranged to hold a meeting on 5G technology and concerns surrounding this technology last Wednesday.

Since the meeting was not well advertised, only 25 to 30 people who had heard of it through word of mouth attended. It was organized by Brogan Kelly who intends to hold more meetings on the issue of 5G.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has mandated communities to allow 5G development, and because of this mandate, the Chelan City Council, despite some health concerns, voted across the board to allow its development within the community.

The tipping point for concern came when T-Mobile had a 5G capable cell tower installed on top of the Chelan Museum. This event raised some major concerns, particularly by other renters in the museum building.

Two of them were on hand to speak their concerns about the development of 5G service right above their businesses.

Jacqulynn Dalton is the owner of Chelan Dance Center and is extremely worried about the potential health risks associated with 5G technology.

Jacqulynn Dalton, owner of the Chelan Dance Center, spoke of her concerns about 5G development right above her studio that caters to 150 kids. “I don’t want to spread rumors,” she said. “But it is important the community knows about this.”

Dalton explained that 5G is 10 times more powerful than 4G and requires antennas every 500 feet to work. “This is a town issue,” she said. “The electromagnetic frequency is 10 times as strong as 4G.”

She said telecommunication companies are pushing hard to develop this new technology. “It’s all about the money,” said Dalton. According to her research, people would be forced to purchase cell phones and other electronics capable of using 5G technology at a price point around $1,000. “It is extremely expensive.”

However, the real concern is the health risks according to Dalton. She mentioned a cell tower installed on an elementary school in San Joaquin, California has potentially cause cancer in four elementary students and the company removed the tower from the school. https://prepforthat.com/5g-cell-tower-cancer-san-joaquin-county/.

Dalton is very concerned over the potential health risks of 5G on her dance students. “My concern are the kids in this community,” she said. “We need to work together and come up with a solution. There is not enough research. I expect the City to keep us informed.”

Magnolia Polley is equally concerned about 5G technology and its affect on the human body. She also has a business right under the 5?G tower on the Museum’s roof.

Magnolia Polley, who also has a massage business right under the cell tower, is also concerned. “Bodies are really sensitive,” she said. “It’s important to me to speak to all of you.” She spoke to outside influences like electro magnetic frequencies on our environment. “Both weak and strong frequencies affect our bodies,” said Polley. “Can we learn from out past mistakes,” she asked.

Polley asked if we can learn from out past mistakes. Moller had a slide that points out a past mistake regarding cigarettes.

Museum director Ron McGaughey and board member Jane Loyd came to the 5G meeting to listen and learn. The museum rents the roof top space to telecommunication companies.

Museum director, Ron McGaughey and board member Jane Loyd, said they had come to listen and learn about the concerns. “We are open to listening to your concerns,” said Loyd. “I did not know about the towers.”  T-Mobile is a renter and according to McGaughey can use the top of the roof for whatever purpose they want. “We don’t have control over what they do,” said McGaughey.

Dr. Nate Moller presented his research into the potential dangers of 5G technology.

Dr. Nate Mollar, a local chiropractor, has done a lot of research on 5G technology and presented a slide show to the attendees. “Faster is always right… NO,” he quipped.

“Kids are using their cell phones 24/7 and we won’t know the long term effects for 20 years,” said Moller. “They (telecommunications companies) are just pushing it forward and sacrificing our health. This is real,” he stated. “5G is like playing with fire.”

His research shows that 50% of our population will die of degenerative brain disease directly related to microwaves. The number of autistic children increases every five years.

Moller pointed out that there will be an antenna every block and with 5G, 90 billion electromagnetic waves will hit every person.

The military is using these frequencies as a biological weapon. The FCC is saying they are harmless. “Who’s lying,” asks Moller.

The human nervous system is most sensitive to EMF and exposure creates Anxiety, Depression, Autism and Alzhemiers, along with causing cancer and reproductive problems.

According to Moller’s research, 5G will provide great advancements in telecommunications, but at what cost. The telecommunications industry is more well funded than the Pharmaceutical industry, and is just as powerful politically.

While it is true that not enough research has been done on the potential affects of 5G technology, it should be noted that Japan, and other countries in Europe have stopped the development of 5G technology because of health concerns.

Brogan Kelly promised more meetings on this issue and also promised to get the word out to the community so they can attend.

If you are interested in 5G, Moller provided a number of unbiased research websites available here:

• justproveit.net
• biointiative.org
• EMF-portal.org
• Powerwatch.org.uk

by Richard Uhlhorn

An estimated 1600 athletes came to Chelan last weekend to swim, bike and run in the 12^th annual Chelanman Multisport Weekend. “That is a perfect number for us,” said Julie Pittsinger, race director.

For a number of athletes, it was the first time they had competed in a triathlon. Sean and Lori Van Norman participated in their fourth Chelanman. Lori said, “This is absolutely the best run event I’ve ever participated in. Everyone is so friendly and it is so well organized.”

Lori and Sean Van Norman (left) talked Stephanie Fife into trying the Try-a-Tri at this year’s Chelanman. They have competed for the past four years and say it is the best run event they have ever been involved in. Stephanie plans on coming back next year to have another go at a triathlon.

She talked Stephanie Fife into trying the Try-a-Tri which is a shortened version of a triathlon. The participants swim 400 meters, bike for 13.1 miles and run a 5K before finishing at Lakeside Park. Stephanie did the Try-a-Tri without training for it. She said the swim was the hardest part and was tired after the event. “I loved it. I’ll be back next year.”

Kurtis McFadden of Kennewick ( a Chelan HS graduate) finished third in his category. In the beginning, he just wanted to finish. In the end, the journey became much more for him. He posted the following on his Facebook page after he completed the race… “I began this journey about me and my health and a goal. My final race result blew me away: 3rd in my age group in 1:23:05 (more results in pics). The result of my journey in the multi sport world has only began and was so FUN today because of what I found to give others on the leg.”

Kurtis McFadden finished third in his category and plans on continuing to compete in Triathlons.

The overall winners of this year’s Chelanman were Seattle’s Seth Barnes (1:02.58) and Amanda Miller (1:10.23).

Over 200 volunteers make Chelanman run smoothly and safely.

Chelanman is organized by a group of Chelan athletes, headed up by Julie Pittsinger. The event could not take place if it weren’t for the volunteers that make it possible. Over 200 volunteers step up each year covering all aspects of the event. They all deserve a huge clap on the back for coming out every year to make this incredible event happen.

All net proceeds after expenses goes into the Chelan Multisport Foundation to help fun youth activities in the Lake Chelan Valley. The list of groups receiving foundation help is extensive.

If you have never experience an event like this, try it out next year.

Have a great rest of the summer.

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by Richard Uhlhorn

The primary season is upon us and Chelan voters have a chance to select two of the three candidates who will end up facing each other in the general election this coming fall.

The candidates are:

Incumbent Mayor Mike Cooney
Past Mayor and Council Member Bob Goedde
Past Council Member and attorney Stan Morse

The City of Chelan has a number of issues of concern to its residents with Traffic Control and Traffic Safety being the primary concern.

Following are the results of conversations with the three candidates and why they are in the running to lead the City into the future.

Mayor Mike Cooney:

Mayor Mike Cooney

“I like what I am doing,” said Mayor Cooney who had vowed to serve only one term. “I have the right to change my mind,” he said. He had planned on finding something else to move on to but said that the few job offers he has had did not offset the Mayor’s job.

Cooney is running for a second term because he wants to continue representing the residents of Chelan. “Some people don’t like change,” said Cooney. “I am proud of what we have accomplished as a team.”

If re-elected to a second term, Mayor Cooney will continue to work with staff to upgrade the City’s infrastructure, build attainable homes with the Chelan Valley Housing Trust which he helped to launch, continue the City’s plan to make Chelan a more pedestrian/bike friendly town and work towards increased public lake access for the residents.

Mayor Cooney is also interested in continuing the Community’s quest to purchase Butte property from Golden Gate for recreational purposes while preserving it in its natural state.

Cooney will also continue to work with the Planning Commission to do things that get desired results. “I want to see developments get developed the way we want it to.”

Mayor Cooney wants to see the Dan Gordon Bridge become the main route into and out of town. According to Cooney, the Woodin Avenue Bridge is no longer a State Highway, but a City street. “There are a whole lot more people walking and using the bridge now than before,” said Cooney.

He also wants to see more bike usage in and around town, particularly students going to and from school.

Cooney has a BA from Gonzaga in Business Administration, has been married to his wife Janice for 41 years and has two children and three grandchildren. He has coached 8th grade basketball for Chelan and volunteers time to teach “life skills” to both Chelan and Manson Schools.

“Service is at my core,” says Cooney.

Challenger Bob Goedde:

Challenger Bob Goedde

Bob Goedde is no stranger to the City of Chelan and its inner workings. He was a City Councilman for two terms (and serving as Mayor Pro-Tem for four years) before becoming a two-term mayor.

“I want to give Chelan’s registered voters a choice to return to a common sense and balanced approach to City Government,” says Goedde. “I feel that I can bring my experience in public service to work with the citizens while maintaining the most efficient and highest quality public services available. I would use my extensive governmental experience along with my public service contacts with other public officials to make Chelan a place where citizens are proud to call it home.”

Goedde’s biggest priority is the communities traffic corridor issues. He is also concerned with the efforts to purchase land on Chelan Butte for millions of dollars. “I don’t feel that is in the public’s best interest,” he stated.

The affordable housing crisis is also on his mind. “Almost every city in the County has a housing crisis.” He has noted that Chelan Fruit is working to alleviate its housing crisis for employees and that Weidner Apartments is seeking to build a 280 apartment complex on the Naumes property out by Walmart.

Goedde believes that the City needs to run its parks as a business and start charging visitors for access while giving back to the residents with free access. “Lakeside Park needs a fee. Also, there are other great park options on the Columbia River.”

Goedde’s other concern is City money being spent on consultants and lobbyists with no real return. “I went to all kinds of meetings as Mayor… you can’t do it with lobbyists.”

“If given the chance to serve this community again as its Mayor, I will do my best to represent the citizens of Chelan to the best of my ability.” He is willing to discuss any issues with residents at their convenience and asks that they call him at 683-2366 to make an appointment.

Goedde is a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam war where he served for 21 months in a combat zone. After the Army, Goedde worked for the City of Chelan as a Police Dispatcher and also was a self employed owner of a small auto repair shop. Bob is currently retired.

His public service includes: Chelan City Council – 8+ years; Mayor ProTem – 4 years; City of Chelan Mayor – 8 years.

As a Mayor and Council member, Goedde served on the following boards: Link Board Director – 10 years; Chelan County Veterans Assn. – 10 years; Resource, Conservation & Development Board; Economic Development District; Rural Transportation Planning Organization; Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce Board Liaison; Lions Club President; Past Zone Chairman, Eagles 2218; Past President Wenatchee Valley Street Rod Assn.; Member VFW, American Legion; Assn. of Washington Cities Board of Directors, District 3 – 10 years.

Goedde has a degree from Spokane Community College and also attended Wenatchee Valley College from 2000-01. He is certified with the AWC Certified Municipal Leadership Program.

Bob is divorced and has two children: Jay William Goedde and Dawn Michelle Loduha (both adults).

He does not have a website, but can be reached by Emails at bgoedde@nwi.net.

Attorney Stan Morse:

Challenger Stan Morse

Stan Morse is a local attorney who served on Chelan City Council for one term before turning his attention to the Hospital Commission, losing that race. Morse is seeking the Mayoral job to bring basic government back to Chelan.

He has done his research and is unhappy with the City spending $70,000 a year on a lobbying firm that has brought results back. “They were successful in obtaining $300,000 in the past for the bridge,” said Morse.

Morse is also concerned about the City’s worsening traffic issue. “Traffic is so much worse now than it was,” said Morse who feels the City didn’t consider the increased building in Manson and the wineries that is contributing to the traffic issue.

He also feels that the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce does a lot to encourage tourism in the summer, but says, “Why are we not encouraging tourism in the fall, winter and spring months?” He feels that tourism is oriented towards drinking wine.

The effort to purchase Chelan Butte makes no sense to Morse. “Sixty plus percent of the community doesn’t want it in the city,” said Morse who feels that the City could de-annex the property which he feels would stop any future effort to develop. “The City has a poor track record of maintain what we already have. Just look at the bathrooms at Lakeside.”

He feels the City gave the Lookout development a nice entry with the round about. “They prettied up the round about with a water feature on the Chelan side giving the Lookout a grand entry,” said Morse.

He is concerned with all of the development going on and feels it is incumbent on the City to maintain a fine balance. “Forty seven percent of the people who buy homes here do not live here,” said Morse. He also feels that Chelan needs apartments to help alleviate the current housing crisis. “How many people can reasonably fit in the valley and still make it a nice place to live,” he asks.

His priority if elected would be to get back to basics. “We need to work on our water pressure issues,” stated Morse. He is also a huge advocate of a major Fire Wise program in the Valley.

“We need long term thinking and neither of the two mayors have impressed me with long term thinking,” said Morse.

Stan Morse was born in Chelan. He has a degree in Political Science and Psychology from Central Washington University and obtained his law degree from Southern Illinois University in 1979.

He continues to practice law and has never been married.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The 11th annual Chelanman Multisport Weekend begins at 7 a.m. on Saturday morning when the Long Course Triathlon swimming section begins on the west shore of Lakeside Park.

Triathletes hit the water early Saturday morning in wave after wave.

Upwards of 2000+ athletes will compete this weekend for glory of winning or just the fun of competing in what is Chelan’s largest event.

Over 200 volunteers make Chelanman successful every year.

Parking is an issue, so competitors and their families are encouraged to use the bus transport from the Chelan Ball Fields to Lakeside Park.

If you plan on traveling to Wenatchee or other places south of Chelan, consider using Hwy 97 on the east side of the Columbia River to alleviate any delays in your travel plans.

Traffic is not conducive with Chelanman. If you must travel south, use Hwy. 97 on the east side of the Columbia River

If you are competing in the event… enjoy. The weather is supposed to heat up by Saturday and the water is around 70 degrees.

A lot of athletes competing in Chelanman are anchored with family and friends cheering them on throughout the event. 

Chelanman is a non-profit event with all proceeds, beyond the professional services hired to make the weekend smooth, going to the Lake Chelan Multisport Foundation. One hundred percent of the net proceeds are donated to the Foundation and over the years have helped fund arts, literature, science and wellness programs for youth since 2007 throughout the Lake Chelan Valley. For a full list of programs that have benefited from the event’s foundation, go here: http://chelanman.com/about_32.html.

Saturday’s schedule is as follows:

• 5:00 AM
  Buses begin transport of athletes and fans from Chelan Ball Fields to Lakeside Park at corner of Center Street and West Terrace. Parking is not available at the park or on the highway outside of the park. **Vehicles parked on the highway will be towed**
• 5:30 AM – 8:00 AM
  Race Expo open
• 6:30 AM
  Long Course Racers warm up at swim start
• 6:50 AM
  Swimmers out of water
• 7:00 AM
  ChelanMan Long Course Triathlon waves start
• 7:15 AM
  10K and Half Marathon begin on East Center Street.
• 7:30 AM
  Olympic Triathlon & Collegiate Triathlon  waves start 
• 12:00 PM
  Awards for Olympic Racers begins
• 3:00 PM
  Awards for Long Course Racers begins

Lakeside is a small community and parking is at a premium. Racers are encouraged to take advantage of the bus transport to get to and from their vehicles at the Chelan Ball Fields.

Sunday’s schedule

• 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM
  Buses begin transport of athletes and fans from Chelan Ball Fields to Lakeside Park at corner of Center Street and West Terrace. Parking is not available at the park or on the highway outside of the park. **Vehicles parked on the highway will be towed**
• 8:00 AM Sprint age group waves start
  8:30 AM Try-A-Tri age group waves start
• Each wave is made up of 50-60 athletes and start every 5 minutes based upon age group
• 08:45 AM Youth Triathlon Ages, 11-15.   400 m swim, 13.2 bike, 5 k run (30 athletes per wave)

• 12:00 PM Splash n Dash
  50 meter swim/(wet run if needed), 1500 meter bike and 300 meter run. All in the park.

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By Richard Uhlhorn

Shawn and D’Arcy Burke brought a proposal to the City Council to see if the City would be interested in leasing space for a 20-meter Ferris Wheel in the City Boat Launch parking lot.

“It would be a nice addition for the City,” stated Burke. “It is safe for all ages and the company has a great track record.” Burke’s flyer states it would be a total family attraction for all ages at an affordable price.  They were not looking for an immediate answer, just to have the idea considered.

Motion Considerations:

 The Council received recommendations from Andy Baker of the FCS Group regarding Water and Sewer Rate Structure for disconnected services.

The issue at hand was and is the disconnected service of John J Fragnito’s lot on Sanders Street. “We asked FCS to make a recommendation,” said City Administrator Mike Jackson. “The recommended we continue with our current policy.”

John J Fragnito has incurred $35,000 plus $15,000 in penalites for City water he has not used since his building on Sanders was demolished.

Since the Fragnito building was demolished in December of 2016, John J has incurred a $35,000 water bill despite the fact that he hasn’t used one drop. He has also been charged a penalty of $16,000 for non-payment.

This is the second time Fragnito has appeared before Council on this issue and the first time was assured that the City would work with him behind the scenes. Councilwoman Erin McCardle remarked that the penalties are not Fragnito’s fault. “He asked us to look at this for a long time,” she said. “We need to look at our policy. Right now it just covers residential.” McCardle asked the City to waive the penalty fees for this specific situation.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth added that the City needs to come up with a consistent policy. City Attorney Quentin Batjer stated that he would review the existing code to see what the City could legally do to mitigate the issue.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth stated that the City needs to come up with a consistent policy regarding hardships

Mayor Cooney said the Fragnitos have been good for the past three years. “I’m leaning towards clearing this whole mess up.” Hollingsworth added that if the City waives the charges, it would not have a significant impact on the other users.

Jackson said they would come back at the next meeting with a plan.

In a separate motion consideraton, the Council discussed a policy for disbursement of Water/Sewer Rate Subsidies for Affordable Housing.

Jackson stated that he wasn’t sure they were ready with a policy on this subject and Batjer added that there is a problem with gifting city funds.

At an earlier Council meeting the Council included $100,000 in the 2019 budget for the “Affordabel Housing Initiative.” This funding was approved but the City cannot spend any of the funds without a funding policy in place.

Batjer said that the policy needs to be grounded in fact in case it is challenged in court.

City Administrator Mike Jackson

Jackson asked if apartments would qualify. “Would they be eligible.” They also talked about some sort of “Deed Restriction” tied to the affordable housing subsidy of up to 50 years.

Mayoral candidate Stan Morse remarked that subsidizing is problematic. “It’s a wonderful thing you are trying to do, but this doesn’t get you there,” said Morse. Councilwoman Kelly Allen wants to see subsidies kept to home ownership.

Jackson said they would bring the issue back in four weeks which will give Batjer the time to do his homework on the subject.

Parks Director vacancy:

 The City Council approved a motion to authorize the Mayor to finalize and execute an agreement with Prothman to handle advertising. recruitment and initial interviews with potential Park Director candidates. They will recommend the top candidates and the City staff will arrange and conduct interviews with the candiates.

Jackson stated that he has revamped the Park Director’s role for the City. The City will vet the initial recommended candidates through Skype interviews to hold costs down to $10,500.

Councilman Ray Dobbs

Councilman Ray Dobbs asked if the position would have more of a business fiscal aspect to it and less on the operation component. “Someone who can focus more on the management of the parks,” said Dobbs. McCardle added that she would like to see a director who has the capability of looking at the future of the parks, not just keeping them the same. “For 15 years the parks have stayed the same,” said McCardle. “It doesn’t seem like we are focusing on our strategic vision.”

Records Assessment:

City Clerk Peri Gallucci presented a proposal for Laserfiche electronic program for scanning and keeping documents

City Clerk Peri Gallucci reported that Leslie Turner, FreeDoc Public Records Administration Consultant, spent two days in the City evaluating the records processes with staff from each department. “What we would like to do is phase in the project,” said Gallucci.

Gallucci and Permit Technician Williams have held 10 meeting and numerous telephone conversations with FreeDoc evaluating Laserfiche. They also visited two cities currently using the Laserfiche program and recommended that the City implement the Laserfiche ECM program over the next two years.

1. Year One Proposal – $18,292.
2. Year Two Proposal – $24,615
3. After Implementation is Complete – $15,215.24 Annually
4. On Site Disposition Assistance – $7,038
5. Conversion Budget Estimate – $75,205

They will come back with a motion for the Council to approve.

Skate Park/Pump Track:

American Ramp Company proposed several locations for a new skate park and the potential addition of a pump track at Don Morse Park.

The City is moving towards a Skate Park/Pump Track and discussed the possibilities of the park location at Don Morse Park.

The City contracted with American Ramp Company (ARC) for design work and public input on concepts for a pumptrack and/or skatepark skatepark located in Don Morse Park.

A Public meeting was held at the Chelan Library with an estimated 35 people in attendance. Tim Babcock, a Bike Park Development Manager with Progressive Bike Ramps, was on hand for ARC to present a video and answer questions as a part of the City’s contract for conceptual design services.

Councilwoman Erin McCardle suggested one more location for a new skate park.

McCardle told Babcock at the beginning of the public meeting that it was being held to find out what people want to have in the community. Administrator Jackson stated, “This can become whatever the community wants.”

Babcock had a site visit with staff and said ARC would be looking at a conceptual plan that will either expand or change the existing skate park or add a bike (pump track) element.

Councilwoman Kelly Allen has been pushing for a pump track.

Kelly Allen stated that the plan was to provide outdoor activities for local youth, not to hold events.

At the July 9 Council meeting, Jackson and the Council were given three options from ARC. They included the following:

1. We do a design for an asphalt pumptrack beside Lake Chelan Skatepark and then for a phase 2 we do a new design that would be a sweet expansion on the existing skatepark.
2. We do a hybrid park with an asphalt pumptrack and a concrete skatepark at the location near LakeRider Sports location (Or a different location).
3. We do option 1 and for $3,750 we also put together a custom site-specific concrete skatepark design for a different location for a future park.

McCardle brought up a different potential location down where the existing basketball court is. “We could move the basketball courts up to the existing skatepark,” she said. “We have been requesting an update for a long time, but doing a pump track without a skate park is not an option.”

Mayor Cooney stated that the Park Board agrees that a skate park is needed first. Hollingsworth is not totally convinced that Don Morse is the best location because of parking issues, but Allen said the downtown park is an area where kids can ride their bikes to it. “Parking is always going to be an issue.”

ARC will be providing more information going forward.

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by Richard Uhlhorn

Sunday morning was quiet on Lake Chelan and the perfect time for Chelan Fire & Rescue to conduct “Rescue Swimmer” training off Chelan Fire’s new Rescue Boat in front of the Chelan Ranger District. “We will double our volunteer base with this program,” said Deputy Chief Mark Donnell.

Chelan Fire & Rescue’s 26-foot Defender Class Response Boat had a trial run early Sunday morning.

One resident saw the action and told me that she thought someone had drowned. “I quickly said a prayer for the family,” she said. What she saw was two trainees towing a dummy to the boat as a part of their training.

The vessel was used to help train Chelan 7’s Rescue Swimmers on Sunday morning.

The 26-foot Defender Class Response Boat was purchased as surplus from the U.S. Coast Guard for $5,500 of which $3,000 came from the sale of the District’s old boat. It was outfitted with two used Honda 225 outboards, courtesy of the Chelan Fire Association and installed by Reed Marine.

Chelan Fire Commission Chair Russ Jones pushed to obtain the vessel for the department. “We do live on a lake,” he once said. Jones has also received the OK from Commissioners Jay Witherbee and Phil Moller to help operate the boat without pay on the water. Jones is a certified pilot.

Chelan Fire Commission Chair Russ Jones pushed to have this response boat on the water by the summer boating season. The Fire District has requested moorage space at the Chelan Marina and City Administrator Mike Jackson will present the District’s proposal to City Council at its upcoming Council meeting on July 9.

Chelan Fire & Rescue swimmers received training on recovering a drowning victim from the lake bed on Sunday morning. Lt. Shawn Sherman is heading up the District’s Rescue Swimmer Program. When fully trained these swimmers will be able to dive to 30 feet to recover a victim.

It should be noted that the Chelan County Sheriff’s Department has jurisdiction on Lake Chelan, but has been accepting of the new response boat as another potential life saver.

It should also be noted that there is no funding available for the operation of the boat and grants and donations are being sought to keep it in operation throughout the summer. The District can also rent the vessel to the U.S. Forest Service during wildfire events on Lake Chelan.

Eventually it will also be outfitted with a water pump for firefighting along the shoreline.

Under Coast Guard rules concerning surplus sales to agencies, the agency must agree to keep the vessel for at least 18 months. After that, if it doesn’t work out, the agency can put the vessel up for sale. The Defender Class Response Boats are currently listed for sale between $100,000 and $200,000 depending on how they are outfitted.

The District’s boat will hopefully be moored at the Chelan Marina where it can respond immediately to accidents on the lake.

The ability to respond to marine accidents quickly will hopefully save some lives this summer. There has already been one drowning and a head on collision between two personal watercraft this season.

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by Richard Uhlhorn

FIRE… Illegal fires and fire concerns were a part of the discussion at the Chelan Fire Commission meeting on Wednesday, June19.

On Saturday, June 22, an individual(s) thought it would be fun to shoot bottle rockets at some bicyclists participating in the annual Century Ride. This happened on Boyd Road and created a brush fire that Chelan 7 was able to put out rather quickly.

According to Fire Commission Chairman, Russ Jones, the car involved in the incident has been located and the Sheriff’s Department is looking for the owner.

Commissioner Russ Jones

This brings up the major concern that all agencies have regarding local fire conditions. It should be noted that fireworks are banned in Chelan County including the City of Chelan. So if you enjoy fireworks, plan on attending the fireworks shows being put on by Manson and Chelan.

Commissioner Phil Moller stated that there is a Red Flag Warning regarding current weather conditions. “I don’t see a big focus on our fire conditions. I don’t think the public gets it.”

Commissioner Phil Moller

Chelan Fire is seeking ways to get the word out, particularly to the traveling public who in many cases do not understand how dangerous and dry our conditions are. This past winter’s snowpack fell way short of normal and very little rain fell to augment the water content.

In Stehekin, the water levels are already at July levels and Nick Davis at the Stehekin Log Cabin said the Stehekin River will be at September levels in August. “There should be some good fishing.” Unfortunately, most agencies are very concerned about this fire season’s chance of being the worst in years.

Everyone needs to be aware of just how explosive the fuels are in the region. No one wants a fire in the area and especially the smoke that is associated with fire situations.

The other topic at the Commission meeting concerned Illegal Fires. These include orchard burns that are unattended and other potential illegal burns.

Jones opened the discussion with a statement that there is a RCW that allows Fire Districts to bill for their services on illegal fires after the burn ban is in effect. Chief Tim Lemon said, “Bill them all or not at all.” Commissioner Jay Witherbee said, “If we are going to charge people, we have to charge everybody.” Lemon added that the District should bill for the actual time and for the apparatus.

Deputy Chief Mark Donnell

Commissioner Jay Witherbee

Deputy Chief Mark Donnell added that it’s not like these people don’t know the law. “We know who’s burning,” he said regarding the Department of Ecology’s permit program for agriculture burns. “It’s the people who are pushing the envelope.”

Witherbee said he would feel more comfortable about charging if the District would bring the subject up at the Regional level. “We need to have that discussion regionally,” he said. Jones tabled the discussion until other Districts could be reached.

In other business, Chief Tim Lemon reported that this year’s Memorial Day was pretty average regarding callouts. “It was more family oriented,” said Lemon. “There was nothing of real significance.”

Chief Tim Lemon

He also reported that two fire fighters were sent to a State Mobilization brush fire for four to five days and that would generate about $4,000 above and beyond expenses.

Donnell reported that a class for Rescue Swimmers would be held on July 13 and 14. “There will be 10 to 12 attending this class including members of the Chelan County Sheriff’s Department also.”

Assistant Chief Brandon Asher reported that a questionnaire asking potential recruits “Why they were Joining” and “What they Expect” from the fire service as volunteers. “I think it will do a lot of good.”

Asher also said there is an operational guide on how District’s get paid on fires. Both the Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Forest Service have adopted its guidelines. Apparently after 12 hours on a fire, it is discussed who and how it gets paid for.

The Fire Fighter Association reported that it has revised the amount given to victims to $500 with a chance to revisit if more is needed. In May the Association gave out two $500 checks to fire victims.

The maiden voyage of the Chelan Fire and Rescue Boat was a success. “The Rescue Boat needs to get on the Water. Apparently there was a head on collision between two personal watercraft that were jumping other boats wakes and the Sheriff’s boat did not respond. “We need a place to park it.”

Regarding the lack of community attendance at the recent Fire Town Hall, Jones said the District needs more meetings. Witherbee added that the District needs open public dialogue regarding the future plans. “We put together what we thought was a good plan,” said Witherbee. “We have to get better at communicating to the community.”

Donnell suggested that opening the floor with the commissioners up front to answer questions would work. “It is important that we listen to them (the public).” Moller said the District needs to be more transparent. “The information is not getting out.” He suggested a Facebook page.

Jones suggested adding a Public Comment period at the end of their commission meetings so the public can ask questions of what was covered in the meeting. Witherbee was supportive of this.

The public is invited to attend the Fire Commission meetings every third Wednesday at 3 p.m. The next Commission meeting is on July 17 at the Fire Hall in the upstairs meeting room.

Be careful out there.

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by Richard Uhlhorn

Josh Weiss, a lobbyist at Gordon Thomas Honeywell (GTHGA), gave the Chelan City Council a post legislative report on the 105 day session of the Washington State Legislature. “The city’s priorities feel short,” Weiss said. “We did not fare very well. There is a lot of work to be done in 2020,” he added.

John Weiss – City of Chelan Lobbyist

The legislature spent $52.4 billion with a significant portion going to mental health issues. The State’s Capital Budget is $49 billion. “There is less money to be spent on transportation projects.”

Weiss did remark that the proposed new gasoline tax did not make it, but that tax collection continues to be a major source of revenue for the state. “There is definitely momentum around (passing) a new gas tax in the next two to three years. Your entire delegation was in support of this.”

With regards to the City’s request for more transportation funding for its Pedestrian Safety project fell on deaf ears because they felt Chelan had done pretty well with funding for the Woodin Avenue Bridge. Weiss feels that the City should continue work with the 12 Legislative District to keep take Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons alive in 2020.

Weiss said that Affordable Housing will continue to be a hot topic. The City had requested that the legislature allow larger City’s to participate in an affordable housing cap of $15,000. “There is opportunity there,” said Weiss.

Funding for The Chelan Butte Conservation project had mixed reviews amongst the legislators.” If you want to go forward you need to strategize.”

Mayor Cooney stated that the City needs to make sure the council is behind the Butte Project. Erin McCardle added that they need a conceptual plan. Tim Hollingsworth said, “The Legislature would like to see grassroots interest n this. I know there is a grassroots move against development up there.”

The City sought funding to move forward with the Lakeside Park project, but Weiss stated the other projects for this funding ranked higher.

In the end, Weiss said, “We do really appreciate representing you. We are developing an interim plan (to go forward) with Mike Jackson.”

Councilwoman Erin McCardle wants to focus on transportation issues and outdoor recreation issues with the Washington State Legislature next session.

McCardle said the City needs to be really focused on short requests including transportation and outdoor recreation. Councilman Ray Dobbs asked, “Were we surprised we fell so short?” Weiss replied that he wasn’t surprised. Mayor Cooney stated that the City has tried to get funding without a lobbyist. “You an access the floor,” said Cooney. But getting the legislators attention is hard.

Councilman Ray Dobbs asked if the City was surprised the Lobbying effort fell so short in the last session.

Weiss said that GTHGA would meet with 12 the District legislators to discuss priorities, and identify possible legislative winners.

Past Mayor Bob Goedde is now attending Council meetings and will be running for a third term as the Mayor of Chelan.

The first part of the meeting concerned the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) with City Attorney Quentin Batjer and attorney Krystal Frost. Absent from this workshop were Kelly Allen – traveling in Europe, Wendy Isenhart and Ty Witt.

City Attorney Quentin Batjer presented information required by law for all Council people to understand about the Open Public Meetings Act.

“The public deserves to know what it’s government is doing, said Batjer. The purpose of OPMA is to allow the public to view the decision making process. “Any final action (by a public board) must be taken in public,” stated Batjer. Executive sessions is the exception.” Each public meeting must have minutes that are promptly recorded and available for public scrutiny. Executive sessions must be limited to a specific purpose.

Attorney Crystal Frost went over the City’s requirments
under the Public Records Act .

Crystal Frost went over The Public Records Act where government records are presumed open to the public. “It’s always a good idea to reduce a verbal request to writing,” said Frost.

Batjer said that agencies should work with requesters. “Sometimes a requester doesn’t know what they want… Narrow it down.”

City Clerk Peri Gallucci stated that the City always over produces public records. “We go over the legal limits,” she said. Time to respond to a public request depends on a lot of factors like how big it is. They also document every search.

Councilman Ray Dobbs said that each council member needs to secure their cell phones and to not use. Their personal computers for City business. Batjer added, “Don’t write anything you don’t want to see on the front page of the newspaper or on Facebook.”

Writing includes: handwriting, typewriting, printing, photo stating, photographing, and every other means of recording any form of communication or representation including but not limited to letters, words, pictures, sounds, or symbols.

Gallucci says that she can spend up to 20 hours a week on public records requests.

Agencies have five business days to respond to a public records request. The agency can also ask for clarification of a request if it is not reasonably clear, or does not request “identifiable records.”

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by Richard Uhlhorn

The future is already impacting Chelan Fire & Rescue’s district. “There are proposals for over 1,000 new residential units proposed for the Lake Chelan Valley,” said Fire Commission Chairman Russ Jones.

Commissioner Russ Jones

Jones stated that the District is not interested in running a new levy at this time. “I want to have a year’s conversation with the community,” said Jones. “When we do go for a levy increase, I want it already won.”

By law, the District is allowed to run a levy at $1.50 per thousand of assessed value, but Jones thinks the District will only ask for an estimated $1.09 per/1000 from the current tax levied at $.88 cents per 1000.

The Line Item cost per unit at the District.
The largest cost is for suppression personnel

Fire District are hamstrung to a one percent cap on what they can collect from the tax payers, which means that for every $100 collected, the cap restricts them to  $101 the next year. “As the population grows, we can’t keep up,” Jones stated.

A $.21 cent increase from the current $.88 cent collected now would allow the District to hire two more full-time firefighters ($240,000), add $60,000 to help retain volunteers through the District’s stipend plan, and put $200,000 a year into the District’s apparatus equipment fund.

Myrna Duke, a retired Forest Service employee, stated that the District failed a levy attempt a year ago. “You found money to keep fire fighters,” she said. “Why?”

Jones replied that money came from the equipment fund. She then remarked that the District had the money to purchase a boat. Jones replied that the District paid $2,500 for a $200,000 boat and while it is true that the Chelan County Sheriff’s Department has the primary responsibility for operations on Lake Chelan, they don’t have the capability to go below the surface.

He further stated that one of the District’s rescue swimmers was near the recent drowning accident but wasn’t able to free dive the 55 feet to the victim. One of the District’s fire fighters came out with SCUBA gear and was able to retrieve the body on his own time. It took the Sheriff’s Department over one-half hour to respond to the scene.

The District, under the terms of purchasing the boat from the US Coast Guard, has to operate it for 18 months, after which the District could sell it.

Duke then asked how long it takes to get mutual aid to a fire situation. It was explained that mutual aid comes into play on a second alarm fire and can take up to 30 minutes to respond.

Commissioner Jay Witherbee remarked that consolidation would be nice, but getting voters approval would be extremely difficult because of the tribal attitude between Districts. “It’s almost impossible.”

Assistant Chief Brandon Asher said that under his grant to recruit and retain volunteers for Chelan, Entiat and Orondo, he has attracted 146 potential volunteers and that only 46 have remained. The cost of living is one of the problems in retaining volunteer firefighters. “We’ve lost four people to the Forest Service and some have gone to Alaska.”

“All of the positions we have hired are local and out of our volunteer base,” said Asher. He added that, unlike Wenatchee, the District doesn’t have enough living space for a resident program.

Chief Tim Lemon

At the beginning of the meeting, Chief Tim Lemon remarked to those attending the  Town Hall that “We are your fire department… you own us! If we are going to maintain our services, we will need funding.”

The District covers 120 square miles. “We have to cover the city and we do get support from our neighbors,” said Lemon.

The District also participates in State Mobilization efforts for up to 14 days. “This generates revenue and gives our firefighters significant experience fighting fires to bring home.”

Chelan Fire also has vehicle extraction equipment including air bags; special rescue including water rescue swimmers, and high angle rescue capabilities.

The District conducts Fire Prevention efforts with inspections for defensible space and free smoke detectors.

Assistant Chief Brandon Asher (left) and Deputy Chief Mark Donnell

Chief Mark Donnell is in line to become the next Chief when Lemon retires later this year. He moved to Chelan in 2013 and joined the volunteer staff before accepting a job as Deputy Fire Chief.

Donnell told those in attendance that since 2010 there has been a 22 percent increase in calls, or over 200 more calls each year.

The laws concerning fire have also changed and made the job more dependent on trained personnel. There is a two in/one out law concerning structure fires. “Down in Washougal, the firefighters ignored this rule and made a tremendous save, but were fined by the State anyway,” said Donnell.

The District maintains 2 career staff on board 24/7 and a volunteer under a District stipend program plus volunteer shift personnel. The secondary response to fire are from the home volunteer base or career call back.

In the urban interface it takes the District no more than nine minutes to respond; in the suburban it is 10 minutes; and in the rural areas, 14 minutes 90 percent of the time.

Training is a major issue with the District. To become a firefighter 1 requires 212 hours of training; a firefighter II, another 116 hours. Hazardous certification take 40 hours of training in EMT status is 200 hour of training. Hi-Low Angle rescue takes 84 hours of training and rescue swimmers undergo 40 hours of training.

Assistant Chief Brandon Asher stated that the Department has 21 pieces of equipment, some of which is over 25 years old and more that is approaching that age. “It is important to keep equipment up to date,” said Asher. “Our goal is to slowly upgrade… the new ladder truck is an example. To replace this stuff takes funding.”

Jones remarked that the District’s succession plan is to move Donnell into the Chief’s position when Lemon retires. “He is a pretty good guy to take over. He has 29 years of experience.”

Jones also said without additional funding in the future the District would be forced to eliminate one chief’s position.

While the Town Hall was not well attended, Jones and the District plan on holding a series of Town Halls to engage with the public… to find out concerns and gather information.

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by Richard Uhlhorn

Lake Chelan Community Hospital has hired two new senior positions; Mike Ellis takes over as the new Chief financial Officer and Kate Pina is the new Chief Human Resource Officer.

Mike Ellis (left) has been hired at the Hospital’s new Chief Financial Officer and Kate Pina has been hired as the new Human Resources Officer.

Ellis said that most of his history has been in larger hospitals over the last five years. “There have been a lot of changes in the health care industry,” said Ellis. He said he was excited to be back in a rural setting.

Pina is from Arizona and said she left home directly out of high school for the Air Force where she spent 22 years. She is also excited to be in Chelan and a smaller environment.

Dr. Megan Guffey has been named the hospital’s new Chief Medical Officer and will oversee the critical operations at the hospital and clinic.

Dr. Duffy has been named the new Chief Medical Officer at the Hospital.

The board went over its powers and duties as commissioners. Mary Murphy stated that each person on the board is only an individual with no power to make decisions. “We have to bring issues to the board,” she said. She also hoped that more people would access the board meetings and comment during the Public Comment periods of which there are two. One prior to the agenda and one following the agenda.

Responsibilities of individual board members are as follows:

• Chairperson – Phyllis Gleasman
  Medical Staff
  Facilities Steering Committee
  Affiliations Partnerships Committee
• Vice Chair – Mary Murphy
  Quality committee
  Affiliations Partnerships Committee
• Secretary – Fred Miller
  Finance Committee
  Trustee/Retirement
• Commissioner – Mary Signorelli
  Community Committee
  Credentialing
  Facilities Steering Committee
• Commissioner – Jordana LaPorte
  Community Committee
  Finance Committee
  Warrants/Vouchers

LaPorte remarked that she would like the public to have more access to background documents. “The public doesn’t have access and I’d like to make those more available,” she said.

Signorelli remarked that all meetings were posted within 24 hours on the Hospital’s website and over the radio. “We don’t have to post to all media,” said Signorelli. Murphy shared this reporter’s concern that all media should be notified about the board’s meetings. “We want the public’s engagement,” said Murphy.

CFO Mike Ellis gave a short financial report to the board and said, “I do have ideas going forward, but the (financial) trend is the same as in prior years.”

Director of Public Relations, Celeste Hankins, told the board that a Prevention Fair would be held on June 20 at the Chelan Fire Station. This will include a Giant walk through super Colon, booths, prizes and food. She also mentioned the Hospital’s Health Challenge had 100 participants, many who had participated in past challenges.

Director of Public Relations, Celeste Hankins , gave a
short report on Community issues

Hankins also stated that they are finishing up a Chronic Disease Self Management program and would be offering a Diabetes Self Management Class later this year.

Kate Pina, the hospital’s new Human Resources Director, said her top priorities would be to change the performance based personnel evaluations. “We will be moving towards a merit based evaluation instead of a 2% over the board raise.” Employees performing at a high level will get more than those that are not performing well.

CEO Steve Patonai reported that the Hospital has retained both Bratton Construction out of Bellevue and Jerry Boyd in Chelan to oversee the construction of the new hospital. “Both interviewed very well,” said Patonai who added that Bratton will be the overall project manager while Boyd will be the on-sight manager.

Patonai said he is excited about the hospital coming together. “We’ve got managers here who are very strong,” he said. He recognized Vicki Bodle for the numerous hats she has worn at the hospital over the past five years. “Her work has been very, very important to us.”

Patonai said the hospital would be keeping things moving and that a lot of changes were going on.

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