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.

Lakeside Park residents demand city to take action on parking and overcrowding in the community

by Richard Uhlhorn

Anytime you walk into Chelan’s council chambers and it is full of people, you know something is up. Tuesday night’s council meeting had a number of Lakeside residents on hand to speak during the “Citizen Comments” period. Their concerns, of course, was Lakeside Park overcrowding, parking, safety issues and a request for some resolution to the problems.

**Lakeside Park and community has become an overcrowding issue with its residents.**

Lakeside Park overcrowding and parking along other issues has reached a boiling point with Lakeside residents and they were at Tuesday evening’s City Council meeting in force.

Twelve residents signed up to voice their concerns over the lack of any enforcement at the park. “All day long people were desperately looking for parking. Cars all day long,” stated Tammy Haig. “There was a feeling of tension in the air. At one point, I thought something might explode.”

Haig asked if the city was going to create a baseline with the Lakeside Trail and street ends in hopes that it might disperse recreation. “It (July 4) was a very intense day.”

Stan Morse remarked that visitors were parking across the street from his house leaving no room for emergency vehicles to get by in case of fire. “My hillside is ripe for wildfire. We live in a one road in and one road out of town with 2,000 to 3,000 people.”

Another resident, Janet, said she didn’t feel comfortable taking her granddaughter to the park. “Lakeside Park has been overcrowded since 2020,” she stated. “People start arriving at 5 a.m. Vehicles are going round and round all day long. I counted 107 vehicles per hour.”

She added that she is asking for the city to limit capacity at the park. “Visitors are also at risk.”

Another resident requested discourse immediately with the city to see what the resolution to the issues might be.

Barry De Paoli told the council that he has lived in Lakeside for 22 years. “We have a town of 4,700 versus 5,500 visiting Lakeside on a weekend. Imagine what it looks like, 2,500 to 3,500 people per day.” De Paoli said the issue is at a breaking point. He mentioned overuse of alcohol, poor signage, and zero enforcement. “Residents can no longer sit back and watch the problem.

“We are asking to be included in the process going forward. A meeting in October with the Mayor and others. We need a healthy balance. I know we can achieve a positive outcome.

Other comments mirrored those above and several asked if requiring reservations to get into the park might be a solution. It was also stated that the city needs to pay for monitoring the situation and enforcing the parking.

**Don Morse Park might provide some relief for Lakeside residents. It’s much larger and can handle more traffic, but is also busy during the summer months.**

Our Valley Our Future update:
Steve Maher was on hand at the city council meeting to give an update and summary of the outreach results from the Lake Chelan Vision Project.

He provided survey results and feedback gathered since June, 2023 during individual and group listening sessions.

“We had an excellent response,” said Maher. 550 responses were gathered between June and August which included eight listening sessions with 142 people participating and 10 or 11 interviews with stakeholders. “We struggled to get younger folks to participate,” said Maher.

Some results:
Housing was the number one issue by far stated Maher. “Families have to move away because of housing. It’s the biggest challenge,”

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The rapid growth is one of the biggest challenges. There were calls to manage growth better. There is a desire to maintain the smalltown feel. The respondents remarked that the valley was going away from growing apples to growing grapes and housing.

Increasing traffic and traffic congestion was another issue along with Short Term Rentals adding to the traffic congestion.

The positive things is the new hospital and Wal Mart according to some.

Wildfire and smoke was another issue on the respondents minds.

Maher stated that the next step will be developing community values from what was gathered and would be delivered by the first week in October. “Things are going really, really well,” Maher said.

This information will serve as the foundation for the core values framework in the 2026 Comprehensive Plan update, which is currently in its early stages.

City 2025 Legislative Agendas:
East Chelan Reservoir Project:
The city is seeking $7 million from the State t complete the design and construction of the East Chelan Reservoir Project.

Current funding sources include a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) program initiated by the City. Another $9 million is making its way through the Senate in Washington D.C. after passing through Congress. These funds would come from the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) if approved by the Senate.

Regional Transportation Study – $$??:
The city is seeking increased state funding to its regional transportation MPO, so the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council can conduct a transportation study to solve critical safety issues.

With over 650,000 tourists visiting the valley each year, the regional transportation system experiences localized failure. Chelan is the center of all transportation in the valley.

Funding would be used in partnership with the CDTC, Chelan County, the Colville Confederated Tribe, WSDOT and the community of Chelan to conduct a regional transportation plan to better evaluate interconnectedness in the Lake Chelan Valley.

Downtown Revitalization – $3 million:
The city and the Historic Downtown Chelan Assn. is seeking $3 million to invest in construction of Phase 1 of the downtown revitalization project which will upgrade failing infrastructure, enhance the downtown business core and create welcoming public spaces.

Northshore Pathway – $2.8 million
The Northshore trail would solve critical safety issues for pedestrians and cyclists along the lakeshore connecting Manson and Chelan.

Other top issues:
Housing
Environmental sustainability
Planning and infrastructure
Fiscal sustainability.

Transportation Improvement Program Survey Findings:
“What are we going to do about it,” asked Communications Director Chad Coltman. Traffic congestion was the big issue respondents felt the city needs to address. Seventy two percent of the respondents would like to see the Woodin Avenue Bridge returned to two way traffic in hopes that it would alleviate downtown congestion and open a secondary evacuation route.

**Seventy two percent of Chelan’s residents who responded to a survey requested that the Woodin Avenue Bridge be returned to two-way traffic.**

The other option was to reverse the direction on the bridge to move traffic out of town. My opinion: I would like to see the traffic on the bridge reversed for an actual traffic study done during the high season to ascertain if it would actually help relieve traffic congestion on Johnson Avenue and Sanders Street to the light.

Public Works Director Jake Youngren said, “Regarding the return to a two-way bridge we will invest some time and effort to what that (process) looks like.” Mayor McCardle replied that hard cost numbers need to be assessed.

Councilman Bob Goedde has been a proponent of making the bridge two-way and reiterated his desire to see it returned. Youngren replied that the city has to be careful.

Councilman Brad Chitty stated that it was a hot topic and suggested that taking the foot traffic off the bridge might be an option. “There are other options out there.

Mayor McCardle stated that the most respected traffic consultants in the nation have provided actual traffic data for May through August.

Residents responding to the survey and attending the transportation meeting also want to see better walking/biking paths on both the south shore (in the works for construction in 2025) and north shore to ensure pedestrian safety.

Other issues that the public would like to see include:

Dedicated Parking areas
Better walking and biking paths
Improving intersections
Enhancing public transportation options
Safer access to schools

Mayor McCardle stated that the city has the tools to move forward and have identified which projects to move forward with in the next two years.

HR/Communications:
Chad Coltman remarked that offers are out on the three major job opportunities within the city and that he is excited about the pool of talent that wants to work with the city.

Mayor/Council comments:
Jon Higgens warned the council and staff that when “You step on toes and go in a different direction, people will stop engaging.”

Terry Sanders said the city has a good start on the issues. “Huge thank you to the Lakeside residents. I’m looking forward to common sense solutions”

Mayor McCardle talked about the valley’s tourism impact study which addresses the many impacts tourism has on the community. She also remarked on how much work it takes to run the city. Mentioned the upcoming Transportation Benefit District that is on the ballot in November and raises the sales tax a mere .03% (or 30 cents on every $100 spent on taxable goods. She wants the community to know that the city council is responsible for spending taxpayer dollars.

The next council meeting is on October 8. The community is welcome to attend.

Fire & Rescue still busy with fire

by Richard Uhlhorn

Fire and Fire Commission
It has been a summer of living with wildfire. Chelan Fire and Rescue has been exceedingly busy putting out fire starts, fires and helping on the Pioneer Fire with its boat and a wildland truck on State mobilization to Stehekin.

**Retardant being dropped on ridgeline during the Stayman Flats Fire in August.**

**Water drops on the Stayman Flats Fire.**

At its commission meeting on Wednesday, September 18, Assistant Chief Shaun Sherman shared a CBS video from California where a Chelan Fire and Rescue crew including Chief Brandon Asher are on scene with a wildland rig to help with the ongoing fire issue in California.

State mobilization has helped fill the department’s coffers. Chief Asher remarked several weeks ago that Chelan Fire and Rescue has made $200,000+ on various state mobilizations, particularly on the Pioneer Fire.

Both Tim Sullivan and Russ Jones were busy running the Fire and Rescue boat on the Pioneer Fire. Sullivan said that most of his time was spent training and certifying members of the department. Sherman reported to the commission that a lot of people were certified to operate the boat.

“The department has recorded a huge amount of overtime, but it was all on state mob,” said Sheman.

Administrative Report:
Sherman reported that the department is seeking to hire a Fire Risk Coordinator through grant funding.

He also reported that the department is still in the process of upgrading its Wildfire Protection Plan.

Sherman said Entiat was scrapping its ladder truck. “We are looking into purchasing it and using the parts for repair on our ladder truck if necessary. It’s scrap value is $4,000 and if we offered $500 over that we could restore it.”

Sherman also reported that the department is looking at purchasing a side-by-side and that there is a pre-built unit with everything on it the department needs for $39,000. A trailer is also available for an additional $4,000.

Commissioner Russ Jones stated that these units are useful for quick access to fire starts and accidents. Sherman replied that they have become more and more versatile. “We would use it all the time.” Commissioner Mark Donnell said they should put a requisition for one in the 2025 budget, but Commissioner Karyl Oules said she would hate to see the one available disappear. Sherman said that there was money in the current budget.

Donnell stated that these machines can roll over pretty easily. Jones asked Sherman how wide the unit was. Sherman replied 53 inches. “Both the Forest Service and DNR are using their platforms constantly. They are just another tool.”

Ryan Petersen has asked the fire department to burn the old Apple Cup building down as a training exercise.

Lake Chelan has the highest concentration of DDT in the Nation

Apple growers in the Lake Chelan Valley applied 80,000 kilograms of DDT to their orchards from the 40s to 70s. It is now leaching into the lake from drains, groundwater and streams.

by Richard Uhlhorn

DDT LOADING STUDY:
Clay Patmont, Anchor QEA, LLC, told the Watershed Planning Committee that Lake Chelan still has the highest concentration of DDT in the nation.

DDT (dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane), developed as the first of the modern synthetic insecticides in the 1940s, was used extensively in Lake Chelan Valley orchards from the 1940s to 70s. An estimated 80,000 kilograms (140,800 ibs.) of DDT was applied to some 12,000 acres over the years. “There was a lot of DDT applied,” said Patmont.

The Toxics Control Demonstration study in 2010 and 2021 found no DDT levels declining. The study sampled lake trout for DDT levels which was used to determine the level of DDT in the lake.

Sources of this contamination comes from ongoing leaching of the material in orchard soils to the lake from orchard drains, groundwater and creek drainages.

Patmont stated that natural recovery would not achieve risk reduction goals for at least 100 years, but directing drainages through wetlands (Dry Lake) could substantially reduce DDT loading by 70 to 95 percent.

With a $1.3 million dollar grant from the Department of Ecology, the plan is to 1. – characterize current DDT loading into the lake in 2025; construct a one to two acre prototype wetland in 2026; monitor the wetland’s effectiveness in 2027 and 2028; and if successful; expand wetland treatments in the entire basin where it was applied.

Quagga/Zebra Mussel concerns:
“It has never been more important for people to stay alert,” said Stephen Lesky. This comment came during a report on Quagga mussels being detected in the Columbia River Basin and the potential of this invasive species being introduced in Lake Chelan.

Multiple occurrences have been noted in the Twin Falls, Idaho area where 375 miles of river dumps into the Columbia River.

Quagga and Zebra mussels are species that can cause millions of dollar’s worth of damage if allowed to attach and grow in water passage ways, irrigation canals, dams and fish hatcheries. The economic impact is estimated at $100 million per year.

The Washington State Fish and Wildlife Service has five primary boat inspection stations for vessels crossing into the state. “We are trying to protect Washington waters,” said Bush.

Currently the state is free of quagga mussels. “When we find an occurrence there will be a rapid response.”

Stephen Lesky, manager of Lake Chelan’s boat inspection program, said, “We are seeing an increase on boats on Lake Chelan.” The Lake Chelan Boat Inspection Program is in its second year on a grant from the National Park Service. “People appreciate what we are doing with the program.”

**The economic risk of quagga or zebra mussels entering Washington waters is huge.**

“We are excited about what you are doing,” said Bush.

Bush described another major concern with zebra mussels that are showing up in moss balls being sold to pet stores. “There are 22 wholesalers that have received contaminated products in Washington. Ultimately, we know it is an ongoing problem.”

Fish and Wildlife has received $1.8 million in State funding and another $1.83 million in Federal funding to combat the potential influx of invasive species to Washington waterways. The WDFW Response Team has met with 27 retailers and are taking significant steps to stop the importation of zebra mussels in moss balls to pet stores. “We are planning for the worst case scenario.”

Water Quality – Phil Long

**Phil Long – Lake Chelan Research Institute**

“We had a busy summer,” said Long. “Things look fairly normal.” However there is ongoing concern with the algae growth on rocks and docks in the near shore areas of the Wapato Basin. The Lake Chelan Research Institute is hoping to identify the different species that are present.

**Phil Long captured this photo of periphyton growing in the Wapato Basin.**

Long stated that the Institute is in the second year of a three year study funded by the PUD. “This is not what you want growing on our shores and docks,” said Long.

Water rights:
Ecology continues to work with RH2 Engineers on water right applications and reported that seven more property owners have received their certificates. “We are moving forward.”

Round Table:

**Mike Kaputa – Chelan County Resources Department director.**

Fishery Forum… PUD will give an update in December

NPS is conducting temperature monitoring and creel surveys.

Mike Kaputa reported that the committee should have a report on the reintroduction of bull trout December. A draft manuscript has been circulated for peer review amongst the committee members.

The next meeting will be in December.

Grizzly’s – STRs – Post Fire – Non-Profits – Incorporation. All on Manson Community Council agenda last night.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Grizzly bear meeting tonight:
Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gering told attendees at Tuesday evening’s Manson Community Council meeting that Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Chelan County is hosting a “Living with Bears” meeting at Chelan Community Center.

“There will be several guests to help us out with the next steps if reintroduction of grizzly bears happens,” said Gering. Guest speaker Tina Jo Bradley, Chair of the Montana Conflict Reduction Consortium and Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Front Ranchlands Group, will be on hand to talk about living with grizzly bears.

Representatives from the National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife will also be on hand to explain how the reintroduction will go forward and how they arrived at the decision to put grizzly bears into the North Cascades ecosystem.

“People can share their concerns, but it’s already been decided,” stated Gering. The last sighting of a grizzly in the North Cascades was 1996.

Many people opposed to the reintroduction of grizzly’s say that if they wanted to be there, they would be there.

“Most people don’t support the effort,” explained Gering who added that the timeline has been M

This meeting should be of interest to anyone in the community that is concerned with an apex predator being introduced in the neighborhood. The big question is exactly where they will be released, but I’m sure Pacific Crest Trail users will be concerned and perhaps Stehekin residents

Manson Community Forum:
The next Manson Community Forum is scheduled for October 15, beginning at 6 p.m. at Northshore Bible Church on Wapato Parkway. Manson school and Library representatives have already indicated that they will attend. “The Chelan/Douglas County Transportation Council will also be in attendance,” said Kari Sorenson-Krause. She expects other agencies and organizations to join.

Community Collaboration meeting:
A collaboration meeting between the Manson Chamber of Commerce and the council has tentatively been scheduled for 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 9 at 9 a.m. The purpose is to explored potential changes that could help the community and businesses. More information on this meeting will follow.

501 (C) 3
Councilman Mike Kirk reported on the steps for the council to become a 501 (C) 3 non-profit organization that would open up a number of opportunities for the council apply for grants and raise funding. He explained that the council needs to write bylaws as required by the federal government, provide a Tax Payer No. and an address. “Chris (Willoughby) has offered his address as the official address until we can get a Post Office Box,” said Kirk. “All council members will have to sign.”

Incorporation study:
Kirk reported on the efforts to have an incorporation study conducted for Manson. “Some studies have been paid for by (representative) counties and others by the State Department of Commerce,” said Kirk. Gering replied that she would like to know how other counties have paid for incorporation studies. She asked Kirk to find out which counties have paid for studies and she would find out how they did it.

Kirk reported that the State Legislature would have to pass a resolution for the Department of Commerce to pay for a study which has cost $190,000 in the past. “We would like to kick it off in January,” said Kirk.

The study would help determine the pros and cons to incorporation.

He also suggested that the council invite the new elected officials to the December meeting. “By then we will know who will be our new county commissioner,” he said.

Totem Pole road project:
Gering told the council that she didn’t have any good news on the county’s Totem Pole Road project. “It is still happening,” said Gering. “We are having trouble with funding. What was a $4 to $5 million project is now estimated at $9 million.”

The current plan stated Gering is to do the stormwater portion from Wapato Way to Green Avenue with Phase II up to the school in the early fall of next year. “We will start in 2026 while the county continues to find funding.”

Roses Lake contamination:
Gering also reported that there is a bacteria toxin in Roses Lake and the recommendation is for small children or pets to stay out of that lake. Whatever this toxin is, it apparently disappears in winter. She said a sample is being sent to Ecology and that Mike Kaputa, Natural Resources director is following up on this report. He did not mention it at the Watershed Planning Unit meeting earlier in the week.

Gering also reported that the county was conducting a homeless housing survey to try an figure out where it can get information.

Post Fire Meeting:
Gering said that the commissioners will be holding a post Pioneer Fire meeting with the National Park Service, Forest Service and DNR to air issues with the management of the fire. “We also are inviting Senators Cantwell and Murray, Representative Schier and Hilliary Franz. The sheriff will also be in attendance. No date has been set yet.

Short Term Rental issues:
Change to the current codes in both the county and the City of Chelan are in front of their respective planning commissions.

Gering said that the county planning commission is asking why the STR code needs changing and what the problems are. “We will get answers to those questions to the planning commission next Tuesday at 10:15,” said Gering. It will be a ZOOM meeting for those wanting to attend.

Gering added that if you are operating without a permit, you are done. She said lodging taxes are down this year. “I think a lot of people are renting without a permit and not paying taxes.”

The county has received numerous calls from angry residents over how the STR renters are abusing the neighborhoods. This includes parking, loud parties, garbage and host of other things.

Kirk asked if the county was comparing current STR rentals with COVID. Gering replied that the county was going back 20 years.

Flint Hartwig, a candidate for Gering’s commission seat, was present at the meeting. He said after COVID things completely changed in the STR market. He also stated that the housing market is drying up. “After COVID everybody went to Mexico or Europe,” he said, adding, “the market is moving.”

Gering said that over the last two years, the county has received 170 complaints. There is a 24-hour complaint line on the County’s website – 509-293-4577.

Marcus Smith, an orchardist, said that people come to the valley for the open spaces. “If we don’t do something, it (agriculture) is going away.”

The next meeting will be the second COMMUNITY FORUM at North Shore Bible Church’s “Sowers Hall on October 15 beginning at 6 p.m.

72% of the public want Woodin Avenue Bridge turned back to two-way

by Richard Uhlhorn

While 600+ people took advantage of the City’s Transportation Survey, only an estimated 40 residents took the time to attend the Transportation Public meeting on Thursday evening, September 12. Despite the lack of attendance, the meeting was well received by those who joined in.

SEVENTY TWO PERCENT of those who answered the survey want the Woodin Avenue Bridge back to two-way traffic followed by Traffic Congestion, Pedestrian Safety, the Lakeside neighborhood parking issue during the peak summer season and Parking availability.

Most survey respondents feel that turning the bridge back to two-way traffic or just reversed so traffic can flow out of town would help alleviate much of the summertime traffic congestion that has been clogging up Johnson Avenue and Sanders Street to the stoplight. “We definitely heard throughout the survey what can we do about congestion,” said Communications Director Chad Coltman.

**The City’s new communications director Chad Coltman told the audience at last Thursday’s Transportation meeting that a big part of his job is to how the city can make the community better.**

It is thought that it would also help the congestion on Hwy. 97A by the Middle/High School.

However, according to Public Works, the potential cost of turning the bridge back to two-way would cost upwards of $8 million. Reversing the flow was estimated to cost $1.2 million.

I asked Public Works Director Jake Youngren how they came up with those numbers? Youngren replied that the were from the hip and not based on engineering study of the issue. It should also be noted that a traffic survey of the bridge stated that reversal wouldn’t have that much affect overall on traffic congestion.

**Public Works Director Jake Youngren explained how his department works.**

When the Woodin Avenue Bridge was reworked to its current status, the cost was $3.19 million with the city putting in $1.56 million for the one-way conversion and another $800,000 on structural rehabilitation and $830,000 on waterline replacement under the bridge from grant funding.

Other issues that ranked high in the survey included Pedestrian Safety, the Lakeside Park neighborhood parking issue, and Parking availability in the community.

Public Works education facts:
Chelan’s Public Works department has $24 million capital infrastructure projects on their STIP (Six Year Traffic Improvement Plan). In 2024 the department is working with $1,501,486 to take care the city’s 42 miles of paved roads. This includes Road Maintenance – Line Striping – Weed Control – Street Cleaning – Alley Maintenance – Traffic Signs – Storm Drains – Snow and Ice Control – Sidewalk Repair – Sidewalk Cleaning – Street Light Repair

Seventy five percent of Sales Tax Revenues goes to Public Works. Another five percent is from gas taxes.

Only $12 ($9 to public works) out of every $100 of property taxes collected comes to the city. “It’s not a large amount going to streets,” said Youngren.

TBD (Tax Benefit District)
This November, the city is asking its voters for a 0.03% sales tax increase ($.30 more on every $100 spent) to the current sales tax. The extra funds can only be used in the newly created Tax Benefit District. It is estimated that this increase in sales tax would raise approximately $1 million annually. This stable funding source is considered essential for maintaining Chelan’s transportation system.

“TBD allows for long term investment in our city’s infrastructure,” said Mayor McCardle “Passage of the TBD opens the grant door.”

**Mayor Erin McCardle explained the upcoming request for a sales tax increase to help fund Chelan’s infrastructure.**

Jake explained that both Hwy 97A and 150 are State highways and the state has total control between the fog lines. Anything outside the fog lines falls to the city for its infrastructure, i.e. sewer/water/storm. “We have responsibility beyond the fog line for sewer and stormwater maintenance, but the DOT has to approve any work along the highway.”

**Attendees at the Transportation meeting had a chance to select projects they felt should be a priority for the city to pursue.**

Other potential projects of interest:
The Northshore Pathway from Manson to Chelan was of interest to a number of people responding to the survey. Multi-Modal Pathways in the region are now under the Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council. There will be public meetings in the near future to discuss the Northshore Pathway.

A Bypass Route has been discussed to help relieve traffic congestion coming from Manson. Currently all traffic flows through Chelan which has helped to create traffic congestion within the city.

**Development in Manson has added to Chelan’s transportation issues. What used to be a community surrounded by orchards is now a community with multiple residential developents.**

The Bypass Route proposal has been renamed an Evacuation Route due to potential wildfire danger in the community of Manson. This proposed project would probably cost billions of dollars to make happen, but it is a project that should be looked at seriously.

Question and Answer period:
One attendee asked how park revenues are used. Mayor McCardle replied that all revenues from park operations go back into funding the park’s system. “We are one of the few parks in the state that is totally self -funded.”

Another person asked what the city’s relationship is with Manson? “That’s a good question,” replied McCardle. “We need a larger transportation plan that takes in the entire area,” she added. “Everyone comes through Chelan.”

Text Any Questions to (509) 449-3278

City is asking citizens to help priortize transportation issues

by Richard Uhlhorn

The City of Chelan is holding a public meeting Thursday evening beginning at 6 p.m. at Chelan High School’s Performing Arts Center. The city will be reviewing the findings from its Transportation Survey; discussing its six year transportation plan and allowing residents to “vote with their dollars” in a fun interactive exercise.

**Mayor McCardle is asking residents to attend Thursday’s transportation meeting at Chelan High School beginning at 6 p.m.**

“This is an important open house,” said Mayor Erin McCardle. “It will give the community a chance to tell us what to prioritize.”

Chelan has numerous traffic and transportation issues. The city is asking residents and stakeholders to attend Thursday, September 12 meeting to help decide what transportation projects need prioritization.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to attend and share their input and priorities on the future of transportation in the community.

Citizens will be asked to vote on the November 2024 ballot on the newly formed Transportation Benefit District which is also asking for a .3% increase in sales tax (8.4% to 8.7%) to help fund the districts transportation projects.

The Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) will be presented to City Council for adoption in early 2025. Only projects identified on the STIP are eligible for grants or TBD funding.

This meeting will allow residents to present what their priorities are regarding Chelan’s transportation issues including roadways, public transportation, pedestrian pathways, and the Woodin Avenue Bridge.

Resident Input will be officially recorded and carefully considered in drafting the STIP. By participating, residents are helping to shape a transportation plan that reflects the needs, priorities and aspirations of the Lake Chelan community. We encourage all residents, business owners, and stakeholders to take part in this important meeting

Proposal for Ag-Tourism code changes to allow for STRs

by Richard Uhlhorn

“We are trying to preserve farm-lands and keep the area rural,” Chelan Planning Director John Ajax told a Chelan City Council Workshop on Tuesday, September 3

**John Ajax – Community Development Director**

Ajax and the Chelan Planning Commission have been struggling to come up with a change to the City’s existing Short Term Rental Code that would help keep the 400 acres of existing farmland in agriculture and maybe help create new agriculture.

**Preserving agriculture in Chelan’s Special Use Districts to help keep the rural feel and cultural heritage is high on Chelan’s list of projects.**

The change would provide options for property owners and growers to keep agriculture in place while supplementing their income with Short Term Rentals in Chelan’s Special Use District’s (SUD).

SUDs are designed to support and enhance agricultural operations; allow low impact educational and commercial uses for tourists that complements agriculture while providing an opportunity for lower density residential housing developments.

Proposed changes in the code would provide property owners and growers one STR on a minimum 2.5 acre lot with 1.25 acres dedicated to agriculture. The code’s criteria would require $1,000 profit after two years of operation.

Property owners would be allowed a single family home and one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) which can be attached or detached and can be up to 1,200 sq. ft. Both can be used as STRs.

This code change, if adopted would enhance agriculture tourism and promote small scale farming which would hopefully help preserve farms and potentially develop future farmers. It would also remove the Homestay Unit provisions of the code.

The proposal, if adopted, would help maintain a rural landscape and support the City’s goals of trying to preserve ag land and the fast disappearing rural landscape. It is hoped that keeping 1.25 acres in agriculture would help maintain Chelan’s agricultural roots and scenic open spaces while giving the land owner an opportunity to supplement the property owner’s income.

**Much of the orchard land that used to exist in Chelan’s Special Use Districts has already disappeared.**

Discussion:
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth noted that farmers are struggling with increased costs, regulations and low revenue returns. “I would like to see the revenues that STR’s bring in.” Hollingsworth said some incentives need to be built into the code.

Mayor McCardle remarked, “What incentives do we have… we don’t have kids taking over the farms.” Hollingsworth replied that vacation rentals might be incentive enough.

Ajax said, “It’s tough finding that balance when land is going for $310,000 per acre. It’s very hard when an orchard doesn’t make a profit.” Hollingsworth replied that he thinks the City is on the right track.

Conclusion:
If the code revisions are adopted, will they help keep the “Cultural Agriculture Heritage” alive in the Chelan Special Use Districts or will farmers make the hard decisions to tear the orchards out and sell their property at a premium price? Only time will tell.

Chelan chamber topic of discussion at Chelan workshop

by Richard Uhlhorn

Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce discussion:

Mayor Erin McCardle stated in her introduction to a discussion of the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce that there were a number of baseless rumors spreading on-line concerning the Chamber. “If you are sharing information, please make sure it is accurate” said McCardle.

McCardle handed out MRSC rules on Lodging Tax funds and how they may be used. Chelan collects 5% lodging tax; 2% cent is a basic lodging tax that the City uses for capital projects while an additional 3% is collected as a bed tax. These funds are used for tourism marketing, operation of special events and festivals associated with attracting tourists.

In addition to marketing, these funds can also be used for operations and capital expenditures of tourism-related facilities owned or operated by a municipality.

McCardle went on to inform the Council that the Chamber is a non-profit (501 (c) 3) organization that is in the business of helping sustain the business community in Chelan. She stated stated that if council has any questions regarding the Chamber they should reach out to the nine member Chamber board.

Executive Director Michael Steele told the council that the Chamber is a membership run organization with a nine member board which he named.

He talked about this year’s downturn in sales tax and bed tax revenues. “Our money is much smaller this year,” said Steele. “The County is down substantially.”

“We take seriously our role. We are the envy of other cities,” stated Steele. He added that the Chamber has spent zero dollars on marketing from May through September. “It’s been 15 years since we’ve advertised during the high season.”

Steele went on to say the challenge is attracting tourists in the fall, winter and spring, but also said that Winterfest helps the community’s resort/motel complex with 40 to 60 percent occupancy.

McCardle provided the council with four questions to consider:

1. How does the City view the role of the Chamber and its representation of small business?

2. What is the role of the City in supporting tourism and tourism activities?

3. Does the City see other opportunities for economic development?

4. What are the positive and negative effects of tourism on local community life and what needs addressing?

She asked for council direction on the Chamber and to bring back a contract for the October budget hearings. “Tourism is the economic driver for the community,” she said.

Councilman Brad Chitty said, “It’s not so much as what the Chamber is doing, but what we can do together.” McCardle replied that the main part is to not get rid of tourism. She added that the community has issues at the Parks and with traffic.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth also noted staffing at the parks, the overcrowded weekends, the garbage generated and the traffic that needs to be addressed. Councilman Goedde said, “We do not have a parking problem, we have a signage problem.” Hollingsworth replied that the City has paid from $40,000 to $100,000 on signage in the wayfinding program.

McCardle asked for two councilmen to be added to the Chamber Contract Team which includes Terry Sanders, Wade Farris, Jackie Tupling and Paul Horne. Mark Ericks and Jon Higgins joined the team which will meet over the next several weeks and bring back contract language to be considered.

If anyone has questions regarding the Chamber and its operations, they are encouraged to contact Mike Steele or a Chamber Board Member.

Residents not happy with traffic situation at Trow/Emerson

b Richard Uhlhorn

Tuesday night’s Chelan City Council meeting was a rather mundane affair with only three items to consider on the agenda, but the Citizen Comments session was not mundane at all.

**A car approaches Trow Avenue from Emerson Street… an intersection residents are concerned about and made their concerns heard at Tuesday’s City Council meeting.**

Residents living on Trow Avenue were out in force to address what they see as an increasingly dangerous traffic situation at the intersection of where Trow meets Emerson Street next to Riverwalk Park.

Joe Fialla who lives adjacent to the Riverwalk Park pathway on Trow said in his opening remarks that the crowning blow for him was when a car ended up in his yard, destroying a dogwood tree and bird bath. “People come around that corner at 50 miles per hour,” said Fialla.

Drivers are using Emerson Street as a bypass to the traffic backup on Johnson and Sanders at the traffic light.

Joe Patrick said the area is becoming more congested. He stated that the city needs to address the problem to slow traffic down or even make the street and avenue one-way. “There are E-Bikes, motorbikes, school children and paddleboarders on this street. It is an accident waiting to happen.

Debra Crew suggested a few speed bumps to slow traffic down.

Rich Thompson said it was a good thing that people are using Riverwalk Park but added, “Someone is going to get killed.” His garbage cans have been knocked over by cars and stated that Trow has no sidewalks. “We get a lot of pedestrians, bikes , walkers, fire trucks and EMS ambulances on the street.” His wife added that there is no dividing line on the street either.

The issue will be looked into by Public Works.

Motion Considerations:

City Council approved a Master Agreement for professional services with J-U-B Engineering for Airport Consulting Services.
“J-U-B has done a great job for us,” said Wade Farris. “We received no other bids.”
Council also approved the expenditure of $100,000 to refurbish the Sheriff’s Marine 2 boat.
Sgt. Rob Huddleston remarked that the motor on Marine 1 quit and it will cost $50,000 to replace. Farris stated that the city will fund the $100,000 out of Tourism dollars. Huddleston, obviously happy, stated that 84% of the people contacted on the lake are from out of town with a high concentration of rental vessels
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if the $100,000 expenditure met the use of tourism dollars criteria. Finance director Jacki Tupling replied that it was appropriate use of these dollars as long as it related to tourism.
Sgt. Huddleston told the council that Lake Chelan has the highest concentration of boater recreation in the state. “This year we’ve made the most contacts we have ever made,” said Huddleston. McCardle asked if the city has followed the correct process? Tupling replied that they have.
Councilman Terry Sanders asked Huddleston if there was any effort to put together a capital reserve for these kinds of needs. Huddleston replied that Sheriff Morrison is working hard on these issues and is trying to find funding to replace a lot of outdated equipment within the department.

GMA update:
Community Development Director John Ajax informed council that the City is required to look at Climate Change resilience in its 2026 GMA updates.

Ajax explained that the city would be eligible for a grant and was teaming up with Chelan County. A consultant will be hired to help secure a $100,000 grant for this effort.

Administrative reports:
HR/Communications Director Chad Coltman stated that the city has qualified candidates for all the city positions that are open including the Assistant Director for the Parks Department. The city continues to try and find a code enforcement officer and Coltman will provide more information later in the month.

Coltman said that a meeting on Transportation issues will be held at the Performing Arts Center at Chelan High School on September 11. The big issue, of course, is what to do about the old bridge and whether or not to change it back to two-way or reverse the direction to help alleviate the current traffic situation.

Public Works Director Jake Youngren said he had no new on rebuilding and/or fixing the recycling issue. “I have no new news on the center,” said Youngren.

Jackie Tupling said there would be a budget workshop on October 10.

Mayor/Council comments:
Terry Sanders reported that the Chamber has created a mockup on the potential for boat in waterfront at Riverwalk Park to help create more access to downtown Chelan. “This would be a joint venture with the city and PUD.”

Jon Higgins said he walks Emerson Avenue to the park quite a bit and recognizes the street issue at the intersection of Trow and Emerson.

Tim Hollingsworth also said he walks that route also and stated that there is way more traffic than there was 20 years ago.j

Mayor McCardle said she had talked with Representative Kim Schier and that Schier has no concerns regarding the funding request from Congress. She also said that $300,000 of state funding was approved to match Chelan’s for public infrastructure. McCardle also said the Tribal Council wants to be involved in the Lakeside Trail project.

She and Bob Goedde both attended the Tri-Commission meeting and that the Port will be spending $100 million on projects, but none of that funding will hit Chelan. She also said the Sports Complex/Aquatic Center in the Wenatchee area would be adding 2% sales tax hike to help pay for it. “It will be up to us to decide if we want to be involved.”

She thanked the rapid response by Chelan Fire and Rescue and the aerial attack that stopped the Stayman Flats fire. “It was a different outcome from 2015,” said McCardle.

The crosswalk at Bradley Street is complete and school children will only have to cross from and to the Community center once, not twice, however, McCardle said, “We don’t want semi’s using Bradley.” Semi’s have been using Bradley as a bypass through Chelan for a number of years. The solution is a difficult one, but another route would be necessary.

Airport news:
Farris reported that the airport had 633 movements during July/August and were being paid $450 per day by the Forest Service and the Incident Team for a total of $39,700 dollars.

Chelan has busy fire month in July

by Richard Uhlhorn

Busy fire month:
Chelan Fire and Rescue had an extremely busy July, responding to eight brush fires and seven other fires and accidents. The responded to two separate State Mobilization call outs which included the Pioneer Fire in Stehekin and the Black Canyon/Reach fire in Yakima.

July’s biggest fire was the destruction of the Recycle Center on July 24.

**Chief Brandon Asher reported to the commissioners that August was proving to be above normal in fire related calls.**

Chief Brandon Asher reported to the commissioners that August is also far above normal so far. However, he was surprised that on-water call numbers are way down. There was also wildfire start on Chelan Butte July 4 which the department immediately squashed. “We were super aggressive on that fire and were lucky that there was no wind.”

The department sent a wildland fire truck to Stehekin and the rescue boat was also put into action for many days with Captain Russ Jones working night shifts. As of August 20, Jones was still in Stehekin and attended the commission meeting via Zoom and the department’s Starlink account allowing communications from uplake.

Four firefighters, two from Chelan and two from Manson mobilized to Stehekin.

On August 20, Chelan Fire was called to a brush fire off Stayman Flats road. It quickly became a 3 Alarm fire with wind driving it up-slope into Downey Canyon and up to the ridgeline above Hawk’s Meadow and over.

**A retardant plane lays down retardant on the north slope of Little Butte.**

Commissioner Mark Donnell said he was overwhelmed by the quick response. At one point the evacuation level went to Level 3. The aerial attack was quick and overwhelming with scooper planes and DC-10s dropping copious amounts of water and retardant to stop the advance into the Lake Chelan Valley.

**Two scooper planes dump water on the fire to cool it down.**

The Northwest Team took the fire over and managed it until it was contained. Chelan residents and visitors had quite a show to watch. Russ Jones, before heading back to Stehekin with the fire and rescue boat, helped the Sheriff’s Department keep boaters away from the lane the scooper planes were using to pick up water.

When completed the Stayman Flats fire burned 3,450 acres within a space of approximately 7 hours.

Assistant Chief Shaun Sherman stated that District 7 and 5 have had excellent training. “We are working well together.”

Rumor: There is a rumor that the first phase of the Weidner Apartment Complex has begun.

There has been no real new forthcoming regarding the TIF, but I informed them that the $9 million requested from the U.S. Congress for the project has passed out of the House and is now in the Senate’s hands.

Insurance woes:

Mark Donnell said he went to a NW. Insurance Council meeting and that it was “pretty interesting on homeowners insurance” issues. He reported that one homeowner saw his homeowners insurance go from $3,000 per year to$10,000 because their home was over 10 miles from a fire station. This is a huge issue throughout the State. “I don’t think it is going to get any better.”

During commissioner comments, Karyl Oules said, “Your guys are doing a killer job. Thanks for all the firefighters.”

Russ Jones added, “I think the community is feeling pretty good about our fire department right now.” Donnell added that everyone should remember these times.

Karyl Oules brought up the potential purchase of a Side by Side vehicle for the department.
Jones replied that with paragliders dropping like flies a side by side would be able to get to them quickly. Donnell added that a side by side could put four people on a situation really quick.

I brought up the issue of communications with local media so we can get the word out to the public about what is happening, especially when the second and third alarm siren goes off. Donnell agreed that the Department needs to consider how to do this.

The good news for the week was the evacuation level reduced to Level 1 in Stehekin which will allow the Valley to accept visitors.