Author: allthingslakechelan

I have been a journalist, photojournalist and reporter in the Lake Chelan Valley since 1988; first with the Wenatchee World, then 15 years at the Lake Chelan Mirror and another 12 years at GoLakeChelan. Currently, I am semi-retired but can't give up the media gig which is why I started All Things Lake Chelan blog. I also have two social media platforms; allthingslakechelan/facebook and lakechelansportsandrecration/facebook. I am also a professional photographer with many credits with major outlets around the world.

Airport expansion… Woodin Avenue Bridge two of many issues on Council agenda

By Richard Uhlhorn

Public Works Week
Next week is National Public Works Week and Mayor Erin McCardle honored Public Works Director Jake Youngren and his staff of 29 employees that keep the city running. “He consistently puts out excellent work,” stated McCardle. McCardle read a proclamation about the celebration that began in 1960 to honor the hard work by public works staff.

**Jake Youngren and his staff of 29 keep the City’s infrastructure in good shape.**

The Public Works Week begins on May 19 and ends on May 23 when students from the Lake Chelan School District will have a chance to meet with public works staff and see some of the machinery used to keep Chelan’s infrastructure running smoothly.

Council Rules:
City Council approved its Rules of Procedure which includes new criteria. Council members will be allowed to miss three meetings unless otherwise approved by the Council.

This decision to change when a council member may be absent has essentially removed Shari Dietrich from her Position No. 7 because she is absent for most of the winter months, but always attends via ZOOM.

Councilman Brad Chitty remarked that if a person is absent, but stays involved via ZOOM should be given some latitude for his/her absences. Jon Higgins agreed with Chitty. Bob Goedde abstained from the vote approving the agenda bill.

Airport Land Acquisition:
Tim Ike, JUB Engineers gave a brief report on the proposed land acquisition of the 17 acre Orchard Heights property at the airport. “This is a draft acquisition application,” said Ike. “There will be an update draft with final numbers as soon as the draft is submitted,” he added.

**The Chelan Airport will be extended to bring it into compliance with the FAA.**

The 17 acres will allow for protection of the airport’s Runway Protection Zone and approach surfaces of the existing runway. The land acquisition is also needed for the proposed runway realignment which will would bring the airport up to current standards.

Currently the financial implications of this acquisition is $1,789,000 of which the Federal Aviation Administration will pay 90% leaving WSDOT and the owners, Chelan and Port each payjng an additional 5%… the city and Port will be responsible for 2.5% each as co-owners.

Councilwoman Sheri Dietrich asked Ike how they arrived at the $1.8 million number? Ike replied that JUB’s estimate was developed from the master plan from similar acquisitions, “particularly the one in Wenatchee” for the Pangborn Airport expansion.

Wade Farris, city administrator, said that the $1.8 million estimate is just that. “We don’t go in with an offer (land owners) until we have an appraisal.” Ike replied that if the appraisal comes in higher they will need to revisit the council.

This brought up more questions. Terry Sanders asked if there was a lot of engagement with property owners. Farris replied that a number of engagement meetings were held. Jon Higgins asked if there was a purchase and sales agreement in place. Farris said they are working on that.

Mark Ericks asked about condemnation if necessary. Ike replied, “If it all falls apart we would go for condemnation.”

Grant writer/funding:
Annalise Noble has been working on acquiring grants and funding sources for the City of Chelan since 2024 under her Noble Strategies LLC. She is assisting the City with grant and funding applications. She will continue providing services under her existing Master Services Agreement with an amended contract amount of $60,000 from January 1 to December 31, 2025.

Woodin Avenue Bridge:
The elephant in the room Tuesday evening was the Woodin Avenue Bridge dilemma. During a city survey, 72% of the respondents wanted to see the bridge reverted to two-way traffic again. That presented a huge, and potentially expensive problem for the City who wants to appease their residents.

**Currently, the Woodin Avenue Bridge only allows one-way traffic into Chelan. Residents overwhelmingly want it reverted back to two-way traffic.**

Public Works Director Jake Youngren said that the department’s first order of business is to take a hard look at the bridge. “It would be appropriate to have a low end and high end bid.” The department is looking at a 44 foot cross section to get an order of magnitude on “how we want to tackle this.”

The feasibility of reconfiguring the bridge back to accommodate two-way traffic is identified in the city’s Six Year Transportation Improvement Plan.

A prior study developed an assumed cross section consisting of two 11-foot travel lanes, two foot shoulders and two five foot sidewalks for a total of 36 feet.

An updated concept level construction cost estimate is needed to provide an order of magnitude understanding of potential costs.

City staff recommended authorizing KPFF, Inc. Consulting Engineers (KPFF) to prepare this concept-level estimate based on the previously assumed crosssection. The scope of work includes a plan sheet showing the assumed retrofit concept, a memo summarizing key assumptions and the estimating approach, and a detailed construction cost estimate.

KPFF will be required to deliver a draft of their findings within six weeks of receiving notice to proceed. Final deliverables would be submitted two weeks after receiving City comments on the draft.

The work will be billed on a time and material basis not to exceed $10,000. It is the intent that Transportation Benefit District (TBD) revenue will be utilized for this effort.

Council members commented on the motion. Tim Hollingsworth remarked that some hard information was needed. “I think it’s the elephant in the room.”

Mark Ericks stated that pedestrian safety was important and Bob Goedde, one of the main proponents of returning the bridge to two-way traffic said, “We had 10 foot lanes for 90 years without an accident. Ten foot lanes would save a lot of money.”

Youngren told the council that he would do whatever they want. His concern is how current codes would affect the effort.

Summer communication plans:
Chad Coltman, communications director, reported that the city was preparing for the Memorial Day weekend crowds with new signs that are easier to understand. “That’s all happening this weekend,” he said. “We are also taking advantage of social media with what we want to get across about the changes in our parks.”

**Communications Director Chad Coltman.**

The City has also dropped off informative postcards at the local resorts and community organizations have been informed of the changes.

Administrative reports:
The City will be holding a community meeting at the PAC to go over the upcoming Comprehensive Plan updates that will be worked on this year.

Coltman also reported that interviews for the upcoming Finance Director position will be held.

Jake Youngren reported that the Lakeside Trail construction was coming up.

Wade Farris reported that the contract for Memorial Day security is in place. “We are also working with law enforcement. He also said that Sgt. Huddleston reported that Marine II will be back on the water.

Mayor/Council:
Bob Goedde remarked that the City used to have 100 law enforcement officers in town for Memorial Day and it wasn’t unusual for 1,000 arrests to be made.

Jon Higgins asked about parking enforcement and how that was working out.

Tim Hollingsworth said he was looking forward to the Fourth of July. He also mentioned that the community has a new District Ranger and that the community needs to figure out about ways we can help under the current political situation where so many federal employees have lost their jobs. “At some point we need to talk about the district and what is going on.”

Mayor McCardle remarked that the City needs to have something out in the public for visitors who don’t know about our fire danger.

**Last year’s wildfire on Chelan Butte began in Stayman Flats and quickly climbed the Butte. Fortunately, aircraft was available to help control the burn before it got out of hand.**

The next City Council meeting is on Tuesday, May 27 beginning at 5:15.

Is your home defensible against wildfire… Ruby Theater program outlines the areas fire assets

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Ruby Theater held its second presentation on Fire in the Valley featuring Chelan Fire and Rescue Fire Chief Brandon Asher and Fire Commissioner Mark Donnell. This event took place on Thursday evening, May 1 to a crowd estimated at 50 interested residents.

Chief Asher described Chelan Fire and Rescue’s mission that includes responding to structural fires and wildfire incidents in a district that is 125 sq. miles. In addition, the district responds to all EMS calls, automobile accidents including victim extraction, water rescue on the lake, Regional rope rescues and Hazmat situations.

**Chief Brandon Asher and Fire Commissioner Mark Donnell presented fire information at the Ruby Theater on May 1.**

The district has just hired two new career firefighters to fill out its needs for all situations. It also carries up to 35 volunteers and is always looking to attract more. The largest percentage of volunteers are over the age of 60. While there are a number of younger volunteers Asher said, “It’s hard to attract younger men and women who have jobs and are unable to respond to calls.”

The district responds to more wildfire than it does structural incidents, but its firefighters are trained in both types of firefighting techniques.

Wildfire is the most worrisome event that visits the valley each year. It is rare that the Lake Chelan Valley escapes having a wildfire during the fire season with the exception of small brush fires that are contained quickly.

Asher described the downtown fire siren as a method of letting people know that a second alarm fire or incident is ongoing. “When it goes off, step outside and look around,” said Asher. “We also try to inform the public through KOZI Radio and social media.”

Fire Commissioner Mark Donnell moved to the Valley in 2015 as a retired westside paramedic and firefighter. He quickly signed up as a volunteer and eventually ascended to the position of Fire Chief before retiring.

Donnell presented his story as a Union Valley resident. He shared photos of his Union Valley home prior to preparing it for a wildfire incident to a photo of the work he has accomplished to save it in a wildfire event.

**A fire plane dumps water on a section of wildfire in Union Valley in 2022.**

In September, 2022, a wildfire started adjacent to the Union Valley road just below his residence. This fire was human caused, probably by a spark from a trailer hitch safety chain dragging on the ground.

Chelan Fire and Rescue’s initial attach crew responded quickly which helped with control, but command was handed over to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). At the time, Asher reported that a unified command was set up quickly. “We had good response on this fire.”

Donnell along with many other residents living in this fire prone area have taken advantage of a program offered by the DNR to make their property defensible.

It wasn’t always like that. Prior to any real defensible space being created in Union Valley a resident in summer of 2001 started a trash burn on his property which got away and ended up burning 46,000 acres on Union Valley.

**A fire investigator inspects damage left by the 46,000 acre 2001 human cause fire.**

The DNR and residents began working on defensible space and are still at it.

The most recent and devasting fire in the Valley began in 2015, burning 56,000 acres of land before it was contained. This wildfire began as a lightning strike on Chelan Butte. Eventually an afternoon wind picked it up and it roared through the south end of Chelan causing millions in damage to homes and fruit warehouses.

Wildfire has a long history in the Lake Chelan Valley. Most of the lakeshore has been engulfed over the years and many thousands of acres have been consumed.

Last year’s Pioneer Fire was just the latest in a series of large wildfires at a cost of millions to the taxpayer. The Pioneer Fire has been reported to have cost $100 million plus to contain.

The August 1970 lightning fire in the Entiat and Chelan Mountains burned a total of 122,000 acres. This fire can be seen in a documentary narrated by Loren Green, as detailed by HistoryLink.org and YouTube. Chelan residents had to evacuate and were sheltered in an evacuation center, but returned the next day to scenes of devastation.

In 1994, the Tyee Complex, another lightning fire that began in the Entiat drainage burned over 135,000 acres and forced evacuations of resident on the south side of Chelan.

As more and more people move to the area and build homes in the wildland/urban interface, constructing defensible space is an important part of building here. The following link will help you negotiate the ins and outs of working with the DNR.

Defensible Space – Prepare Your Home | WA – DNR

City Council approves new contract with Chamber of Commerce

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce has a new and revised contract that will be in effect until December, 2026. The contract was approved by four of the seven person council on Tuesday, April 8. Voting No, was councilman Brad Chitty; abstaining was Jon Higgins; and absent from the meeting was Terry Sanders.

Prior to voting on the motion to approve the new contract, councilmembers had a robust discussion concerning several aspects of the new contract.

“When this discussion started it was for a five-year extension and $700,000 per year,” said Chitty. “It is time to regroup. I propose to keep it at $700,000 for the next two years while we plan.”

**Councilman Brad Chitty was the lone councilmember to vote No on the current iteration of the Chamber contract.**

At issue was Point 5 a 2 extending for the period through December 31, 2026 where the city would agree to pay the Chamber 20% of the average total city lodging tax collections from the two prior calendar years.

City Administrator Wade Ferris asked about the 20% concept. “What does that 20% look like. Higgins replied that it was a considerable amount of money that would be added to the $700,000 on a yearly basis.

Chitty stated that it was his understanding that the committee would review the $700,000. “I think transparency is important,” he said. Shari Dietrich stated that she supports Chitty’s proposal to keep it at $700,000.

**Shari Dietrich agreed with Chitty but ended up voting for the new contract that will end December 2026.**

However, Tim Hollingsworth said things had gotten more expensive. “Twenty percent of 2024 is $400,000. We need the resources to provide for people who come here,” he said. “I would like consensus on the board that instead of a minimum of $700,000 we make it a maximum of $750,000 in the two-year contract. That is a modest increase.”

“I understand what you are saying,” said Farris. “There is a reason why we spent so much time to put this together.”

**Tim Hollingsworth suggested an amendment to the contract.**

Hollingsworth admitted that the council doesn’t know what the chamber is spending money on. “Right now we don’t know and are just second guessing.”

Mayor McCardle replied that the chamber has to report exactly what they are doing (in the new contract). She stated that the city needs to take a look at what is spent. However she said that for every dollar spent, the city gets back $2.5.

Hollingsworth added that it is lodging tax money. “We are not limited to how we spend it.” He then mentioned the Golf course and that the city needs to find a way to make an investment. “We did determine we could use lodging tax money for this.” Hollingsworth stated he would support the contract as it is.

He then suggested an amendment to the motion as follows: “I move to authorize the mayor to finalize and execute the LCCC Lodging Tax Fund Agreement subject to the following changes:

1.- Sec. 5 (c) Remove the words “not fall below” and replace with “not to exceed $750,000.

Final Agreement Change

5c. Minimum Funding Guarantee. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the combined total reimbursement paid to the Chamber for Advertising and Promotion Services and Visitor Information Center Operations shall not exceed $750,000 in any Agreement Year during the term of this Agreement.

Chamber Reporting Requirements.

a. Annual Report: The Chamber shall submit a written annual budget and performance report to the City by January 15th of each calendar year for the upcoming year. The report shall include:

(1) Overall Performance Metrics: i. Lodging Tax collection growth, overall as well as Q1 and Q4; ii. Sales Tax growth, overall as well as Q1 and Q4.

(2) Traditional Marketing Performance Metrics, including but not limited to: i. PR impressions by target audience; ii. Social media engagement by platform iii. Website traffic (e.g., page views, unique visitors); iv. SEO key words and click-thru rates v. Social media engagement (e.g., followers, engagement).

b. Mid-Year Review: A mid-year discussion shall be held during the July Council Workshop of the current calendar year. The review shall include: (1) Review of year-to-date Lodging Tax collections and marketing performance as defined in section 4; (2) Adjustment to Q4 strategies if necessary.

c. Quarterly: during the April, July, October and January workshop, a Chamber representative will provide an update on marketing efforts to City Council.

d. Monthly Expenditure Reports: Payment shall be made following the receipt of a report from the Chamber showing the previous month’s expenditures. The report shall be submitted by the 5th business day of each month and include: (1) Date, vendor, check number, and purpose of each expense; Page 4 of 7 (2) Categorization of expense (e.g., Wages, Supplies & Materials, Marketing, Legal & Prof. Fees, Permits, Utilities, Insurance) (3) The City percentage of each expense. (4) Any other information reasonably requested of the Chamber by the City, provided that the Chamber is permitted adequate time to prepare the information requested.

Public input: John Olson, a past city council member told the council that the City of Chelan is falling behind in its infrastructure needs. He mentioned the burgeoning second home sales, the population, number of retirees and new developments like the Wiedner Apartment

**Citizen advocate John Olson reminded the council that the city is falling behind on infrastructure needs despite the growth.**

Tourism:
Tourism in Chelan and around the world has become a double edged sword. Tourism has surpassed agriculture as the Valley’s number one economic driver.

In 2020, lodging tax receipts hit $1,357,013 which is the year that COVID hit and began to shut down air travel and other vacation locations. The pandemic drove lodging tax receipts up to S2,602,445 and $2,019.330 in 2021 and2022 respectively. Since then, receipts have remained above the $2 million mark.

With the increase in lodging tax receipts (more heads on beds) some unintended consequences arose with overcrowding at Chelan and other Valley public parks. Most notable were major issues of overcrowding at Lakeside Park which resulted in residents forming “Friends of Lakeside’ coalition to bring the overcrowding issue to the City Council.

**Last summer, Lakeside Park overflowed with visitors.**

This overcrowding issue didn’t just materialize from out- of-town visitors. It also included weekend issues wherein local users of Lakeside would show up at the park early in the morning, set up tent camps for large family gatherings that included loud music, barbeques and potentially illegal consumption of alcohol.

The Friends of Lakeside and the City worked together to change the city’s park rules that will hopefully eliminate most of these issues. To help, new signage, new parking kiosks and $100,000 contract to a company to help enforce those rules.

**Don Morse Park also receives its quota of visitors on a hot summer day.**

In 2024 there were over five million visitors to North Central Washington. Over 10 million visitor days were recorded with July and August being the busiest months.

“International travel to the United States has plummeted in recent months following President Donald Trump’s return to office, with global tourists increasingly avoiding the country due to fears of detentions, deportations, political rhetoric, and heightened border scrutiny,” Travel and Tour World wrote in a March report.

The steepest drop off in travel to the US comes from Canada. Border crossings fell by 12% in February and 18% in March. Tourism industry losses could exceed $90 billion dollars this year.. If the above reports are true the 2025 tourism season should be calmer with the advent of the current federal administration’s trade wars that will keep Canadians and other international travelers from visiting the Lake Chelan Valley.

Manson Community Council notes

by Richard Uhlhorn

New council member:
Manson Community Council’s Mike Kirk swore Rene Commons as the latest council member to join. Commons replaces Chris Willoughby who left the council to join the Chelan County Planning Commission, a position he can use to help the Manson community with its issues.

**Interim Chairman Mike Kirk swears Rene Commons in to the Council.**

“We are looking for one more councilperson,” said Kirk.

Finance report:
Dom Amor reported that the council has $417.78 in the bank and that they have filed a 501 (3) application with the Secretary of State. A federal filing will be applied for soon. “We have only one check left,” said Amor.

The council will seek a grant from the Community Foundation of North Central Washington to help with financial needs. “We don’t need a lot of money,” stated Kirk.

Incorportation:
Kirk mentioned that the council would like to engage the community to discuss the pros and cons of incorporating the community. Incorporation can only be done within the Urban Growth Boundary. Kirk says there are 1500 residents in the UGA.

Councilman Jeff Conwell would like to see a feasibility study or public survey done on the subject. “There’s a lot of good reasons and a lot of bad reasons to incorporate,” he said. “It would be a good exercise for us.”

Kirk mentioned that the yearly required GMA comprehensive update is coming up. The council needs to be involved in the process. Willoughby would be a good source of what updates are being considered.

Northshore Pathway:
The Northshore Pathway is being considered once again under the auspices of the Chelan Douglas Transportation Council. Kirk reported that the council considered moving the multi-use trail off Hwy150 but right-of-way issues emerged.

They are looking at moving some of the trail to the north side of 150 but still considering the southside along the lake on the 150 corridor. “They are meeting with the cabana owners tomorrow,” said Kirk.

Cost of the trail has swelled to $18 million on both sides of Rocky Point, but someone came up with a $50 million dollar estimate to negotiate around Rocky Point. More current information can be found at the www.chelannorthshoretrail.com

Amor asked if the trail could be done in segments.

Some insights – Residents in Chelan Hills have been asking the City of Chelan to extend the trail from the Roaundabout to Chelan Hills. Another segment that could be constructed from Manson to Rocky Point which would open up a number of residents and visitors to a multi-use system.

Northshore Pathway history:
The Northshore Pathway is and was initially a long term planning effort by the Lake Chelan Trails Association (501 (c) 3) which was an offshoot of the Lake Chelan Recreation Association. It was just one of the many trails outlined in the Lake Chelan Comprehensive Trails Plan which is still in use by agencies and municipalities today.

The Northshore trail feasibility study was undertaken by the Lake Chelan Trails Association with JAO Consultants (Jennifer Olson). When it was finished, the City of Chelan contributed $10,000 to the effort. Chelan County contributed another $30,000 from their Paths and Trails fund and the Department of Natural Resources gave the trails group a $225,000 ALEA grant to begin construction in 1995. These funds were too early in the process and the AlEA grant was returned.

During the Chelan Hydro-Electric Relicensing, a Chelan Legacy group put together a $11.25 million dollar endowment fund for five projects including the Northshore Pathway and Lakeside Trail project from downtown to Lakeside which will be built this year for an estimated $3 million dollars.

The PUD flatly turned down the Legacy Groups request and the proposed trail systems collected dust until the federal government designated trail systems as important projects to fund.

The funding is available. The Northshore Trail needs to be completed even if only in segments.

City adopts Chelan Riverwalk Park resolution

by Richard Uhlhorn

Riverwalk Park resolution:
“Good job finding our priorities for that area,” said Councilman Tim Hollingsworth. His comment was echoed by Councilwoman Sheri Dietrich. Councilman Terry Sanders mentioned Sgt. Huddleston’s concerns about safety on the rive and agreed with the tenants of the resolution. The Council unanimously passed it

The City’s Riverwalk Park resolution included making the Chelan River available for non-motorized traffic and swimmers. The only exception was motorized watercraft transitioning from the PUD boat launch.

Popularity with paddleboarding, kayaking and swimming has grown in the river. The resolution was arrived at through a series of meetings between city leadership, Chelan County PUD (park owner), community stakeholders, and the public in general.

With the exception of boats transitioning to the lake and from the lake to the PUD boat launch, motorized traffic on the river has been eliminated. This includes the efforts by the Lake Chelan Waterfront Dock Advocacy Group to install docks in the river up-lake from the Pavillion.

The resolution is in favor of expanding dock space on the west side of the Woodin Avenue Bridge to accommodate motorized watercraft users to access the downtown area for shopping and eating.

The city will work on developing a five year strategy with its PUD partners to:

Increase non-motorized and ADA water access points on the north side of the river.
Upgrade the existing bathrooms to increase safety, accessibility suitable for all visitors.
Make the pavilion usable year-round.
Expand modest boat docking amenities on the up-lake side of Woodin Avenue Bridge.
Improve the picnic shelter area
Improve power accessibility in upper park areas to provide reliable power for events.
Develop interactive sculptures or water features to attract visitors.
Update streetlights for compliance with the NightSky code.
Install EV charging stations in parking lots to support eco-friendly travel.

County-wide hazard plan:
John Ajax presented the County-wide Hazard Mitigation Plan as it relates to Chelan. “This is an update from the 2023 plan,” said Ajax.

The 2023 planning effort was a process to update the 2019 Chelan County multi-jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) to help prepare the region for and to lessen impacts from potential natural hazards and technological hazards.

This plan also includes a wildfire plan. The 15 member planning partnership involved updates for the county, Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Chelan, Entiat and Cashmere along with nine special purpose districts.

Archaeological & Cultural monitoring:
Public Works Director Jake Youngren brought an amendment for approval of archaeological and cultural monitoring at a cost of $88,320 on the 2025 Downtown Water and Sewer Improvement Project.

Councilman Terry Sanders asked about the cost of this amendment to the project. Youngren replied that the last monitoring of this type only cost $35,000, but that the funds were available for the 2025 project. Councilman Tim Hollingsworth stated that it was a lot of money. He feels that agencies are being taken advantage of, particularly since the construction site has been developed over the last 130 years.

Youngren replied that he appreciated Hollingsworth’s remarks, but that the city has to respect the process for preserving the potential archaeology .

Airport update:
City Administrator Wade Farris reported on discussions between the Port and City regarding the status of the Chelan Airport Joint Operating Agreement.

The Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority (CDRPA) is proposing three courses of action going forward.

Renew the current agreement with some changes
City of Chelan takes over complete ownership
CDRPA assumes ownership

Mayor McCardle said, “I guess we will see what the Port comes back with. Farris stated that there has been no joint meeting. “We need to have a joint meeting, but I’m not sure when that will happen,” stated Farris.

Hollingsworth said it was getting more and more difficult for the city to provide the necessary oversight of the airport. “I’m not saying anything against the staff,” said Hollingsworth. He, however, has been the one dissenting voice on the council on airport issues. Hollingworth has asked why the airport is an asset to Chelan? The answer might well be the battle to get water to the airport which will spur development.

The City and the Port do not share 50/50. The port, according to Jackie Tupling, City Finance Director pays $60,000 per year while the City has to make up any differences which amounts to $74,000.

According to Tupling, the city does not receive any sales taxes. The State Legislature apparently snatches up airport gas taxes and uses those funds for their agenda, however, it has been determined to be illegal because those tax funds, by law, are supposed to be returned to airport operations.

The Port and City do share capital projects 50/50. Any other revenue generated is used for airport operations and maintenance.

Climate impact survey:
Three hundred and fifty six participated in the Climate Impact Survey. Community Development Director John Ajax stated that the study is a part of the GMA updates. Communications Director Chad Coltman stated that wildfire and smoke was mentioned 70% of the time and the climate 30% of the time. “There was a range of opinions from residents,” said Coltman. “The had a desire for more education.”

Ajax also stated that residents want to know what the City can do when we have wildfires and smoke.

Sports fields and Court use agreements:
“This agreement will define responsibilities of users and the park,” reported Parks Director Paul Horne.

Previously, to 2025, use fees were waived for groups who provided maintenance. Horne states that ongoing maintenance costs will necessitate fee collections going forward, but this year new fees will not be imposed on groups without sufficient time to plan for them.

**The bench seating at the Chelan Baseball and Softball fields need updating.**

Baseball and softball leagues will not be charged fees this year, but have been notified that fees will begin next year.

**Beach volleyball has an established fee system.**

Beach volleyball already has an established fee system with the Parks Department. There rates have been adjusted to accommodate an additional 25 days of play. The adjusted rate remains below the daily use fee outlined in the rate resolution and will be increased gradually.

Hollingsworth stated that the baseball/softball fields are in bad shape and some capital improvements are needed.

Boys & Girls Club:
The Parks Department and the Boys and Girls Club are entering into a Memorandum of Understanding of their roles and responsibilities. “They had a successful basketball season this winter,” said Horne. “They have scheduled football for this spring,” added Horne.

Moving reimbursement policy:
Chad Coltman reported that the moving reimbursement policy has been studied and gives the city an opportunity to offer up to $10,000 to potential employees to move to Chelan. “This does not apply to every offer we make,” said Coltman. He hopes it helps to relocate talent to the city.

Brad Chitty asked if that included temporary lodging costs. Coltman replied that it did.

Coltman also stated that the search is on for a new Finance Director when Tupling retires at the end of the year. “We have a number of applicants starting to apply,” he said.

Peri Gallucci:
Councilmembers congratulated Gallucci on her recent elevation to President Elect of the Washington Municipal Clerks Association (WWMCA) at a recent clerks conference.

Mayor McCardle echoed all who congratulated her and said, “What Peri has accomplished has taken passion, time and effort. Congratulations.”

School superintendent presents potential bond issue to city council

by Richard Uhlhorn

Lake Chelan School District Superintendent Brad Wilson made a special presentation to the City Council on the potential $70 million dollar bond issue that will be presented to the district’s voters in November.

**Lake Chelan School Superintendent Brad Wilson**

“We are in the pre-bond phase right now,” said Wilson. “There is no official bond issue yet.”

The district has been exploring the process leading to an eventual recommendation for the bond to be issued in November. “Bonds are challenging,” stated Wilson. “They require a 60% approval.” The district has no other bond issues currently.

The district began the process back in October, 2022 with a community/staff listening session and then a student listening session in November 2022.

In February, April, May and September of 2023 and then in March, April and September of 2024, the district worked with an 18 member Facilities Advisory Team to continue the process.

An OSPI grant was used for a study and survey completed by ALSC Architects of Spokane.

New elementary building:
The largest portion of the proposed bond issue is the construction of a new elementary building. MOE (Morgan Owens Elementary) was built in 1948 and has been rated as 30 percent effective for drainage, roofing, ceilings, plumbing, HVAC systems, fire protection, and electrical systems. OSPI rates the building at 50.30 out of 100.

The building is located adjacent to Hwy.97A which adds to safety concerns of the students.

“We got a good rounded view of what we need to do to our facilities,” Wilson stated.

The estimated costs to replace the elementary school and add Pre-Kindergarten is $54,740,000 with OSPI matching funding of $4,044,314 (only if bond passes).

Middle/High School:
The middle/high school has been rated only 30 percent effective (poor) for its roof, doors and windows, interior construction, ceilings, HVAC systems, electrical systems, audio communications, and electronic security & integrated automation systems.

The building is not up to industry standards for CTE learning. The bond issue would remode the metal and wood shop, move floor-weight room next to art room on the main floor and the mezzanine would become the wrestling room for an estimated cost of $9,550,000.

Mt. Goat Fields:
The field modernizations would include a track field with lights, more parking, locker rooms and two concession/bathroom buildings for $9,850,000.

Other issues:
It would cost an estimated $50 million to remodel the existing MOE building of which up to $6 million would be required to provide portable buildings while the remodel was being accomplished.

The proposed location for the new elementary building would be on the northwest end of the Community gymnasium property.

The overall cost to district property owners is estimated at $0.86/$1,000 of assessed value for a 20 year bond. A $500,000 home would cost the property owner $1.18 per day. Or $430.70 per year.

Presentation:
Brad Wilson can be reached at 509-682-3515 or by email at wilsonb@chelanschools.org.

Wilson’s presentation to the City Council can be seen here:
Facilities plan for April 9 community mtg.pdf

Manson creates a One Voice Coalition to address numerous issues

by Richard Uhlhorn

Manson’s One Voice Coalition held its first public meetings on March 20/21. The coalition is a combination of the following organizations:

Manson Community Council
Manson Chamber of Commerce
Manson’s Historic Main Street Association

**Manson Chamber of Commerce Director Timi Starkweather opened the One Voice Coalition meeting on March 20 at the Northshore Church.**

Chamber director Timi Starkweather began the meeting by saying, “We are here to shape the community for the next five, ten, 20 years.”

**Kim Ustanik heads up the new Main Street Association in Manson. Kim has been an active member of the Manson Chamber since its inception.**

Kim Ustanik is heading up the Historic Main Street Association. “It’s a place we are creating,” said Ustanik. The primary goal of the association is to preserve the historic nature of Manson.

**MIke Kirk is currently the interim chairman of the Manson Community Council. The five person council is shy two members.**

Mike Kirk, Manson Community Council’s interim chairman added that the coalition is a unique chance to address Manson’s priorities.

The main purpose of this coalition is to bring the community together to:

Build systems that will support healthy growth in Manson
Provide places within the community that create tangible value
Support business that will broaden economic opportunities.
Tell stories that will attract meaningful investments.

**The first meeting was well attended by interested residents.**

The first meeting was well attended and the coalition’s consultant Dan Eernisser took up most of the time going over the coalition’s potential direction before turning it over to the public attending for their thoughts. (Note: people need to learn how to use a microphone).

**Dan Eernisser, Eernisser Consulting has been hired to help lead Manson through the issues facing the community.**

Eernisser asked that the attendees use the sticky note pads to write down their desires for the Manson community and paste them to a wall provided. This generated 10 pages of desires which are summarized below:

Roads:
Over the past several years, the Manson Community Council and residents have been discussing road conditions around Manson, in particular, Wapato Way through the downtown corridor. Speeding cars and commercial trucks during harvest are the biggest complaint by residents living on Wapato Way.

Those attending this meeting specifically stated that truck routes, road improvements and vehicle capacity on Hwy. 150 need to be addressed.

Priorities:
Community priorities include lighting, murals, gateway signage, preserving the historic district, adding more outdoor seating, developing pocket parks and looking towards the County and State for funding opportunities.

Parking:
Parking is a problem in both Manson and Chelan, particularly during the summer months. Attendees want parking availability increased in the downtown area for residents and tourists.

Non-Motorized Traffic:
Everyone was concerned about sidewalk safety. Bike trails and the Northshore Pathway was mentioned more than once.

The Northshore Pathway is being studied once again by the Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council. The pathway would offer an alternative way to travel between Manson and Chelan.

In addition, someone mentioned opening up the old flume line in the Manson Project as a way for residents and visitors to access the variety of wineries, cider houses and other amenities in the area. (Problem… orchardists are against this idea because of spray drift and other concerns.”

Water Taxi:
There is a lot of interest in the possibility of having a water taxi operating in the Wapato Basin. The Boat Company is rumored to be studying this option of travel.

In addition, residents would like to see a Manson stop for the Lady of the Lake or Express. Years ago, the Lady of the Lake stopped in Manson to pick up passengers on the way to Stehekin.

Residents would love to see a non-motorized kayak/paddleboard launch in Manson.

Other issues:
There were many ideas proposed at the meeting including:

Cultural history, i.e. apple history available for visitors to learn about Manson’s history.
More parks
Consistent participation from the County in Manson issues
Revamp of the Urban Growth Area
Incorporation
Development of healthy shoulder seasons.
Promote Echo Valley/Echo Ridge year round.
Develop an indoor swimming opportunity for residents

Tangible Values:
Farmers Market expansion and development of an indoor market for year round operation

Events:
Events drive business. Manson has several successful events that help merchants. Winterfest and the Lake Chelan Hydro-Fest are two of the annual events that take place.

**5-litre hydro planes race to the start/finish line for the start of their race at the annual Lake Chelan Hydrofest.**

Residents asked for more spaces for community events and the inclusion of Sports events that would draw outside teams to play in Manson tournaments

Ag-tourism:
Offer farm visits… With the apple industry in a steep decline, this will require some serious attention. Manson has a full-on farm offering many opportunities for visitors to learn about farming. Also Manson Growers offers tours of its production lines and its new business Cider Press offers cider pressing and locally produced foods.

**6,500 acres of apple, pear and cherry orchards, and grape vineyards make up the Manson Agricultural Project on the north shore of Lake Chelan.**

There was one note that stated that Manson has too many wineries and not enough food options.

Next Meeting:
The next meeting of the group will meet on Thursday evening, June 5 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and then again on Friday morning, June 6 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

**Join the RESTORE THE BEACH Event this Saturday at 9:30 to 11:30.**
**For more information go to http://www.Keepitbluelakechelan.org**

Restore the Beach Saturday, April 12

by Richard Uhlhorn

**Volunteers will help restore the shores of Lake Chelan this coming Saturday, April 12 as the third annual Restore the Beach project gets underway at 9:30 a.m.**

The third annual Restore the Beach event will take place on Saturday, April 12 at various locations around the lake. It is a chance for the community to help the lake’s beaches clean of debris and trash that gets dropped into the lake when it is full.

**This map shows this year’s areas for volunteers to work the beaches.**

This year’s event will begin at the Lake Chelan Marina parking lot and other locations around the lake (see map). The idea is to pick up and remove as much trash as possible throughout the morning hours.

**Anna Galipeau, an environmental engineer with a passion for trash in the environment will be on hand this Saturday to help volunteers work the beaches on Lake Chelan.**

“This is my passion project,” said Anna Galipeau, an employee at the Lake Chelan Research Institute (LCRI).

Her passion began in high school where students were asked to pick a community impact project. “I decided to pick up trash and thought it was interesting” She was fascinated by the diversity of trash she collected.

**Anna Galipeau collecting trash on a Lake Chelan beach**.

Her passion for trash has led her to individually work several areas around the lake including State Park, Manson beaches and Willow Point Park area. It is amazing the stuff she has recovered from the lakeshore.

**Phil Long, director of the Lake Chelan Reseach Institute will help direct volunteers to beaches around the lake.**

Phil Long, Institute director said, “Students from the Chelan Project do a log of heavy lifting.” April Slagle’s environmental class works the beach at Chelan River and along the beach at the Chelan Ranger District.

On Saturday,the main group will meet at the City Marina Parking Lot. Meeting at the parking lot is optional, and you are more than welcome to go directly to your preferred cleanup site. Please “bring your own bag or bucket”, preferably reusable, because we want to minimize our environmental impact while we restore the beach.

At the parking lot, students from The Chelan Project will be organizing groups to cover specific sections of beach. A certain number of canvas bags and 5-gallon buckets will be provided for people to use, but we ask that you please return them to us at the end of the cleanup.

**April Slagle’s Chelan Project Volunteers last year.**

If you are cleaning up a section of shoreline that is not highlighted on the map, please let us know the general location of where you picked up trash by texting Anna at 425-765-4449. This helps us create a comprehensive analysis of how much lakeshore was restored!

This year, Restore the Beach will be utilizing an app called TrashBlitz created by the 5 Gyres Institute to create a log of all the trash that is collected. The app is free to download on Google Play or the App Store and can be found at https://www.5gyres.org/trashblitz.

Paper forms will also be provide so participants can log their trash in place of utilizing the app. Because we want to make sure that we are documenting all the trash that is collected, there is also the option to drop off your collected trash at our office location at 601 W. Woodin Avenue. Bins will be placed outside of the office for you to leave your collected trash in.

For those individuals or groups who will not be near our office location, please contact Anna at 425-765-4449 and we will make arrangements to come pick up the trash at your collection location. The main takeaway here is to have a complete record of all the trash collected from the lake!

In addition to picking up trash, volunteers are encouraged to pick up fragments of aquatic weeds like milfoil to help prevent milfoil growth when the lake rises.

Also volunteers are encouraged to take photos of algae to help the institute map and track what happens when the lake level rises. Photos can be texted to Phil Long at 509-531-2987.

Galipeau was an awardee of the 5 Gyres’ TrashBlitz Ambassador Action Fund! This fund is intended to be used by the recipient to organize a TrashBlitz cleanup project on federal land. In Anna Galipeau’s application, she chose the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin as the intended site for her cleanup project.

This clean-up project will take place on Friday, April 11. It will be the first time the Restore the Beach effort will be in the remote community of Stehekin. Ten volunteers will be given passage to Stehekin to collect trash that has accumulated over the years.

Restore the Beach is a great time for volunteers to get out of the house and walk the beaches before the lake fills from snow runoff. In addition, volunteers will be helping Keep Lake Chelan Blue.

**Scan this QR code to donate to the important research being conducted by the Lake Chelan Research Institure.**

Miss Lake Chelan 2025

by Richard Uhlhorn

**2024 Miss Lake Chelan’s Chloe Desgroseillier crowns the 2025 Miss Lake Chelan Daniella Ochoa Bernal at a small ceremony held at the Lake Chelan District Office.**

Congratulations to Daniella Ochoa, 2025 Miss Lake Chelan and her runner-up Miss Alexa Padilla.

The Miss Lake Chelan Scholarship Program began years ago and attracted numerous young junior high school girls to compete for a variety of scholarships. Over the years, the program diminished and almost disappeared. However, through the efforts of Lake Chelan Schools Director of Teaching and Learning, Ms. Tiffany Viall and her compatriot Jacquelynn Dalton, a local dance school owner, Miss Lake Chelan is being resurrected.

**Tiffany Viall and Jacquelynn Dalton have taken on the task of resurrecting**
**the Miss Lake Chelan Program** .

The scholarship program is designed to attract outstanding high school students who demonstrate excellence in all areas of their lives. Judging criteria focuses on scholastic achievements, community service, character, personality, creativity and intrapersonal skills.

This year’s event was held at the Lake Chelan School District’s meeting room and only parents and siblings were in attendance.

The girls are judged on each candidate’s speech (28%); an impromptu question (15%) and 57% when the candidates were interviewed by the panel of judges for 30 minutes. The judges were looking for each candidates presentation, clarity of expression, creativity and interpersonal communication skills.

This year’s judges were Andrea Gaven, owner of Corazon Core in Chelan, Debbie Edinger, a local entrepreneur working toward opening the Blu Lago Winery with her husband, Jim, and Alysha Ottrix, a former high fashion model who has moved to Chelan where she is busy with her own candle business.

**This year’s judges included** Debbie Edinger, Alysha Ottrix and Andrea Gavin.

Over the next year, royalty will be representing the Lake Chelan community at various community events and festivals.

The candidates:

Miss Alexa Padilla is a 16 year old junior at Lake Chelan High School with a passion for both academics and extracurricular activities. She is an active member of the Future Business Leaders of America and has participated in Chelan Project for three years. She is also active with concert and pep bands and the highly regarded marching band. She has also been a cheerleader.

She is involved with community activities and enjoys volunteering. Alexa is the third of four children and loved running with her older brother and enjoys supporting her younger brother at his sporting events.

Miss Daniela Ochoa Bernal moved to Chelan two years ago from the Tri-Cities. She comes from a music loving family of five.

Music is a central part of her life. She is a drummer for the jazz, pep and concert bands as well as her church.

Daniela enjoys engaging with people of all ages and is actively involved in school and community. She is an officer for Todos Unites and the Art Club. She is also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America and Future Farmers of America where she participates in Public Speaking on Orchard Safety. She is also a member of the high school tennis team.

Crowning:

2024 Miss Lake Chelan’s Chloe Desgroseillier was on hand to crown this year’s Miss Lake Chelan and told the assembled parents and siblings how much she enjoyed representing Chelan last year and wished the ladies well in representing the community.

She then crowned Daniela as Chelan’s 2025 Miss Lake Chelan and Alexa as her princess.

**Alexa Padilla and Daniella Ochoa Bernal will represent Chelan as its Miss Lake Chelan Royalty in 2025.**

Both Tiffany and Jacquelynn are looking forward to guiding and helping the ladies through their yearly commitments and are excited to look forward to expanding the Miss Lake Chelan Program back to its former self.

Chamber contract, River recreation, Card rooms all discussed at council meeting

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chamber contract discussion:
Two major issues were discussed at the Chelan City Council meeting on Tuesday, March 25. The meeting was presented over ZOOM because of ongoing construction work in council chambers.

Last year, Mayor McCardle appointed a committee to rewrite a contract between the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commere and the city. For a number of years, there has been little to no public accountability by the chamber on how it spends the $700,000 allocated from lodging funds collected at local motels, resorts and AirBnbs.

City Administrator Wade Farris opened the discussion on Tuesday stating that Chelan’s economy depends on tourism. “Without the tourism dollars we would have a hard time maintaining our parks, said Farris. He stated that the city was in the process of restructuring the Chamber’s contract and turned the discussion over to Finance Director Jackie Tupling to go over the details.

Tupling stated that the committee is looking at a one year nine month contract with the Chamber starting in April and ending December 31, 2026.

The criteria the Chamber will have to abide by is regular reporting monthly with a performance report each December on marketing results. “They will have to report what they are spending their money on monthly,” said Tupling.

Mayor McCardle thanked the committee for their work on the issue. It will be coming forward for more detailed discussion on Tuesday, April 8^th’s City Workshop.

Card Rooms:
Community Development Director John Ajax told the council that a number of residents have been inquiring about the potential to establish a card room in the city. “In 1999 this was a hot topic,” said Ajax.

**Some local residents are asking the city to allow a card room in the city limits.**

Councilman Bob Goedde remarked that there are about 10 people who want to play. “What they want to do is recreation… some will sit all day long and play.”

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth stated that it would be a social card room with up to 15 tables and if allowed, subject to issues we apply. “There would be restrictions in place to keep people from becoming a nuisance.”

Hollingsworth was in line with Goedde, but Sgt. Rob Huddleston has reservations. Huddleston said that card rooms or casinos tend to attract a certain element. “The casino generates plenty of calls for the sheriff.” Huddleston said the department went undercover for one day and made nine drug related arrests. Goedde replied that he didn’t think a card room would develop those kinds of issues.

Councilman Jon Higgins stated that a card room would have the potential for bringing in a group of people to specifically play cards. “I don’t think it is a bad thing. With this group (the one’s requesting) in particular I don’t see a problem.”

Hollingsworth stated that a card room established in the city would have to be licensed by another agency who would enforce the rules and restrictions of operation.

It was suggested that the City of Wenatchee’s rooms be researched.

City Attorney Quentin Batjer stated that zoning would be an issue and that it would be regulated at a state level.

Hollingsworth said, “I would support giving it a try. I understand the Sheriff’s position and if it created problems, we could shut it down.”

Mayor McCardle said she would like to see community input on the issue. Councilman Mark Eriks, who comes from a law enforcement background, said he sides with Huddleston and that gambling brings its own kind of issues.

Hollingsworth added that he would be interested in community input and Goedde felt that everyone was exaggerating the issues.

Chelan River resolution:
During the community input period at the council meeting, members of the Water Front Access Group requested that the council adopt a letter of support for their proposed project that would have floating docks installed on the river side of Woodin Avenue Bridge and at the current PUD dock on the lakeside.

“It is a simple request,” said Ron Foster. Greg Peterson, another member of the group said, “We are only asking for a letter of support.” Peterson remarked that it was a proposal for an enhanced water front that would allow boaters access to the downtown commercial area.

The council discussed the river and a proposed resolution to cover activities on the river. Currently, the river can be used by motorized watercraft and non-motorized paddleboards, kayaks and swimmers.

Mayor McCardle told the council that the city is in a partnership with the PUD. “We have had a meeting with the Campbells and their group. There has been a lot of discussion around additional docking locations,” said McCardle.

There are also discussions with the PUD on landscape improvements, upgrading the current bathrooms and other opportunities at Riverwalk Park.

Councilman Brad Chitty says he has concerns about swimmers out in the waterway mixing with motorized water craft. Councilman Mark Eriks remarked that he supports prioritizing the river for non-motorized traffic.

The river already is designated as a No Wake Zone and has watercraft transiting from the PUD launch to the lake and back. Sgt. Huddleston has concerns about opening up the river to more watercraft. “Our patrol boats can’t access the river because of the bridge,” he said. “The river is a great place for recreational use.” He stated that rental boats with renters unfamiliar with boat operations accessing the river is a major concern for him.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth said, “I fully support expanding the docks at Woodin Avenue. He agrees with Sgt. Huddleston and said, “Citizens spend a lot of time at Riverwalk recreating. He added that he can’t support adding docks for motorized boats in the river.

“We need to look at safety and define a channel for boats transitioning out or in the river,” said Hollingsworth. Councilman Jon Higgins added that swimmers and boats do not mix. “It is not a good,” said Higgins. He also supports additional docks at the end of East Woodin and would support a new dock at Emerson St. for paddleboarders and kayak ingress and egress. “Safety is a huge issue,” added Higgins.

Councilman Terry Sanders stated that a lot of work has been down by the Waterfront Access Group but that safety is a priority. Councilman Bob Goedde stated that the river is a PUD right of way. Mayor McCardle replied that the PUD has been very clear with these issues.

No action was taken at the council meeting, but will be discussed in detail at the next Council Workshop on April 8 which begins a 5:15 p.m.