All Things Lake Chelan

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.

Manson Council considering non-profit status and incorporation study

by Richard Uhlhorn

501 (C) ¾ Non-Profit status:
Manson Community Council is considering applying for 501(C) 3/4 status with the IRS. This would give the council an opportunity to apply for grants. It would also give them the ability to go after some county money and make the council more sustainable.

Over the years, the council has been made up of elected community individuals with no authority to dictate what happens in the community. They have just been able to recommend actions they would like county officials to consider.

Councilmen Mike Kirk and Chris Willoughby are working together to iron out all the details.

**Councilman Mike Kirk looks over his notes on**
**non-profit issue.**

Incorporation:
Vice Chair Chris Willoughby said, “A lot of people are interested in incorporation and a lot of people are on the fence.”

**Vice Chairman Chris Willoughby says there are many community members interested in incorporation.**

Over the years, the council has explored the possibility of incorporation. Legally, they can only incorporate within the current Urban Growth Boundary. “You have to have sewer in place,” said Willoughby. Only after incorporation would they be able to expand the boundaries of the UGA.

Willoughby is interested in putting the incorporation idea to the community. Councilman Mike Kirk stated that he would support that if the study was only a study.

Chairwomen Kari Sorenson-Krause said that her fear was the cost for a City Hall, planning department etal.

Bob Goedde said, “Why reinvent the wheel. You just contract out the services.”

Gearing told the council she would check to see if any Economic Development dollars was available.

It was noted that the last incorporation of a community in Washington was around 20 years ago.

Short Term Rentals:
Gearing stated that the Planning Commission would entertain a board recommendation that there be no cap on STRs. “It doesn’t mean it will happen,” she said. She added that there would be public hearings, comments and testimonies. “So there is going to be a lot of discussion.”

Kirk asked why the county would recommend that the STR code be amended to a ‘No Cap’ status. Gearing replied that people have not been able to operate. She mentioned that it was an issue in Leavenworth. “Just because the board has made the suggestion doesn’t mean that it will come to pass.”

Complaints are handled by the Sheriff’s Department’s code enforcement officers. “Just send an address if you have to file a complaint,” said Gearing

**Chairwoman Kari Sorenson-Krause has been pushing for better STR regulations and code enforcement.**

STR clients have created a number of complaints from residents next to them. Noise and late night parties are the usual complaints. Sorenson-Krause asked if complaints should be called into the STR –24 hour hotline? (509-293-4577). Gearing replied that RiverCom could also be called. Gearing said she would bring up the issues at the board level and with the Sheriff.

Krause then asked it Gearing can follow up on STRs that are operating without a license. Gearing replied, “Email me the addresses.”

Pioneer Fire closure:
Gearing said she was traveling to Stehekin with the Sheriff. “We are planning a post fire meeting with Senator Murray’s office, Representative Schier’s office, the DNR and Park Service.”

The fire has cost over $70 million and complaints have been made that no water was deployed for several weeks on the fire. Some angry people are accusing the fire teams of letting the fire burn without any serious effort to control or put it out.

Willoughby asked that Lands Commissioner Hillary Franz (DNR) also be invited to any public meeting.

Chelan County Public Meeting:
Chelan County will host its quarterly meeting on Wednesday, September 18, at the Lake Chelan Community Center.

Community Forum:
The council will hold its second Community Forum on Tuesday October 15. This forum will also include the Manson School District representatives and the library.

Bears:
Gearing brought up the ongoing Grizzly bear re-introduction into the North Cascades. She mentioned a grizzly bear expert from Montana who would come to the County and speak about the some of the problems with grizzly’s and how they live with them.

“She is going to be really helpful for us,” said Gearing. She then mentioned that the reintroduction is a done deal under the current administration.

Casino:
“We met with the tribal council and they said it was on hold indefinitely.” Goedde also stated that the board members who toured Chelan last week also said it is on hold indefinitely.

East Chelan Water project in Senates hands

by Richard Uhlhorn

It was a busy City Council meeting Tuesday, August 13 and several issues of interest were presented.

House moves $9 million request to the Senate:
After the official agenda was complete, Mayor Erin McCardle announced during Mayor/Council comments that the $9 million dollar bill for the East Chelan Water/Reservoir Project had passed out of the House and onto the Senate for approval.

This funding request, if approved by the Senate, will be a great relief to the Junior Taxing Districts that have had a heart attack over the TIF (Tax Increment Financing) proposal that would help pay for the project.

2024 Sheriff’s update:
Sheriff Mike Morrison gave a presentation on the 2023 annual report and told the council that the department conducted 15,799 hours of patrol within the City limits in 2023. So far in 2024, the deputies have conducted 7,523 hours of patrol through June under the City/Sheriff contract and another 188 hours of foot patrol.

He mentioned bike patrols and said, “I don’t know if you bikes are even in working order.” To instigate a bike patrol, however, the deputies would be required to take ‘bike school certification.’ “We have not been providing bike hours.”

“When I took office, we had one marine patrol officer and we currently have four,” said Morrison.

The department’s Behavioral Health Unit responded to 840 referrals in Chelan alone in 2023.

“Overall the agency has done pretty well,” said Morrison.”We are one of the top producing agencies in the state.”

The department had 200 hours of overtime in July and Morrison lauded the help from the Washington State Patrol. “We have been pretty successful at meeting the needs of our contract cities.”

Councilwoman Sheri Deitrich asked Morrison where the foot patrols are taking place. Morrison replied that they have mostly been in the downtown corridor. “I know they are trying to make the effort to get out there.”

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth brought up the bridge jumping issue and said it is getting dangerous. “The level of activity is growing,” said Hollingsworth who admitted that putting a deputy there full time was not an option.

Mayor McCardle thanked Morrison and stated that the traffic enforcement was outstanding. “We will work out the situation at Lakeside Park for a longer term,” said McCardle. She promised that the issues would be discussed during the City’s strategic planning.

Morrison added that the Sheriff’s Department is getting pulled in a lot of different directions.

Marine 2 funding request:
Sgt. Rob Huddleston started his request with a recent bridge jumping story. One of his Marine Patrol deputies confronted a teenager standing on the old bridge railing and was told to get off. The kid told the deputy to F-Off, then jumped and swam over to the Campbell’s dock. When the deputy tried to find him the kid took off running. “I don’t know where the lack of respect comes from,” said Huddleston.

Huddleston once again requested monetary help in refurbishing the department’s Marine 2 boat. The total cost of refurbishing the vessel is approximately $156,000 to make it like new.

“It would cost $400,000 to replace that boat,” said Huddleston. The refurbishment would bring Marine 2 up to new condition including two new 200 hp Yamaha outboards. The end of October is the kill date on the marine companies $156,000 refurbishing offer.

**The Sheriff’s Department responded to the City’s request to have more presence on the lake and the department responded by putting four marine patrol deputies to work.**

Huddleston said the boat primarily works in the lower basin. “We contact a lot of tourists and historically that is within the city limits.”

Huddleston requested that the City provide $100,000 towards the work and said the County would pick up the rest of the cost.

Councilman Bob Goedde asked if there were some grants that could be applied for. Huddleston replied that there are not many out there for that purpose.

Councilman Mark Ericks asked if the department couldn’t incorporate some of that capital replacement into the contract. Sheriff Morrison replied that that was a reasonable request and the challenge would be the county commission.

City Administrator Wade Farris stated that the City would look into finding the funding. Hollingsworth stated that the vessel was important to unincorporated areas also.

Public Works:
The department is working with a robust GIS platform to develop locations within the city where Americans with Disability Act () sidewalk transitions are needed.

City Engineer Travis Denham stated that a public survey was conducted with the community to find out where they felt ADA access needs to be.

Farris remarked that the City has been out of State ADA compliance for a long, long time.

Chelan Valley Housing Trust MOU:
Jake Youngren, public works director, said they were working on a Memorandum of Understanding between the Housing Trust and City for the Anderson Road project. Hollingsworth said, “I want to make sure the City is committed to building that sewer line.” Mayor McCardle stated that the City was committed to get that sewer line built, but not necessarily with ARPA funds.

Mayor/Council comments:
HR/Communications Director Chad Coltman said the recent community survey came up with 600 suggestions for the city to consider.

He also reported that the AgTourism campaign would be finished this week.

He stated that the city has received applications for the Assistant Parks Director and the Chelan Airport Manager positions and that interviews will begin next week. “We are continuing to work on finding a Community Development Director.”

Jake Youngren stated that it is a challenge to keep the waste management operation going. “Insurance is working with us and we are soliciting services for (recycle) design. We hope to have a planning contract this fall.”

John Ajax stated that planning department is looking at two grant funding opportunities that have a climate change element to them.

Wade Farris stated that the city has had a pretty successful season so far.

Tim Hollingsworth said that the traffic study is complete and that “everyone wants the bridge returned to two-way traffic. The devil is in the details.”

Brad Chitty said he’s please that there is more community outreach on city issues.

Terry Sanders stated that the Johnson Avenue/Bradley Street crossing project is being worked on and it will be good that students will only have to cross one street instead of two between the community gym and MOE. Sanders would also like to see funding for the Sheriff’s Marine 2 boat.

Construction workers are close to finishing the Johnson Avenue/Bradley Street crosswalk that will allow MOE students to only cross the road from the Community Center to the school one time instead of twice, blocking traffic.

Mayor McCardle reported that a number of Colville Tribe board members were visiting Chelan on Wednesday for a tour of several projects including the Community Center where they enjoyed an Apple Cup lunch.

**Don’t forget to take the Transportation Survey. It is located on the City’s Website.**

Bridge jumping concerns an added topic at Chelan workshop

**Need a physical therapist… call Lauri**

by Richard Uhlhorn

Bridge Jumping:
Bridge jumping wasn’t on Tuesday’s workshop agenda but was brought up during the final comment period at the City of Chelan Workshop.

Bridge jumping has been a right of passage for many local kids, and now it has become a major concern as bridge jumpers include tourists and parents taking photos of their youngsters jumping. The City is looking for a way to shut it down before someone is seriously injured or even killed.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth who walks across the bridge frequently brought the topic up. “It’s becoming a free for all on the old bridge,” said Hollingsworth. “Somehow we need to come down hard on it.”

Jumping from the Woodin Avenue Bridge has become a ‘Right of Passage’ for many of the kids who defy the law. Signage clearly states that no bridge jumping is allowed, but even parents are encouraging the children to jump while taking photos. There is a $500.00 fine if an individual is ticketed, but the Sheriff’s deputies don’t have the time to monitor this activity.

What began as six to eight local kids jumping has morphed into a dangerous situation where people are spread almost halfway across the bridge.

**A j;umper does a flip off the west side of the Woodin Avenue Bridge.**

The concern, of course, is that someone is going to jump and land on a boat or other watercraft passing under the structure, seriously injuring or killing someone.

Mayor McCardle asked the Council for some helpful ideas on how to address the issue.

Parking enforcement:
Another issue facing Chelan and in particular, Lakeside Park is the lack of any parking enforcement. The city has had no luck in attracting an individual to fill that summertime position since the last parking enforcement officer left early in the year.

People are taking up parking spaces for well over the three hour limit in downtown and all day at Lakeside Park.

Recycle Center:
Public Works Director Jake Youngren reported that a lot of discussion has ensued since the Recycle Center burned down. “I don’t have much to report on what is happening,” said Youngren. He added that the department is looking to select a consulting team to help explore options to continue to recycle.

**The City is looking into a variety of alternatives for the fire destroyed recycling center, but will continue to pick up recyclable materials.**

The recycle truck will continue to pick up recycling material while the city looks for an alternative. Also, the 911 Glass Recycling unit was severely damaged in the fire and the Rotary is looking into that issue.

City Clerk Peri Galluccci stated that an insurance adjuster and an investigator are working with the department.

Water and Sewer Rate Fee Study:
Youngren said that the latest rate study for water and sewer has an infinite number of scenarios. He said that Waterville went from a $50 per month charge to $250 per month in one fell swoop. “We are trying to avoid that.”

Currently, residents (a family of four) are allowed 7,000 gallons per month which, according to Youngren is pretty generous.

Mark Ericks asked about residents who are just on Social Security. Bob Goedde replied that there is a senior level bracket.

**Water and Sewer Rate Study project manager Brooke Tacia of FCS Group updated the Council on the study.**

The study, conducted by Project Manager Brooke Tacia of FCS Group, centered around significant changes since the last study in 2018. These changes included increased inflation and delay of large capital projects for both water and sewer treatment plants.

Upcoming revenue requirements include operations and maintenance, debt service and capital costs.

The study is developing a rate plan to balance the city’s financial needs and to minimize customer impacts. The study period covers 2025 to 2029 using the 2024 budget as a baseline.

From 2024 to 2037 the city has $57.4 million in capital projects.

Lakeside Trail update:
City engineer Travis Denham updated the council on the Lakeside Trail between downtown and Lakeside Park. “We are in the permitting process with WSDOT right now,” explained Denham.

The planning phase will be 60 percent complete by the end of August, and the biggest development on the corridor is a proposed speed limit change from 30 mph to 25 mph from the Boat Company to the high school. The planners need to get approval from the State Traffic Engineer. “We understand that people will drive at what they feel comfortable with,” said DOT’s David Kieninger

Two proposed inline bus stops just south of the Boat Company raised some concerns about blocking traffic and the potential for rear end accidents. “It could cause additional congestion. There is a lot going on there,” said Kieninger.

The third issue discussed was the buffer zone landscaping alternatives. Denham stated that the vertical element was being discussed to give a sense of safety to trail users. Hollingsworth thought that the low density alternative was the best. Similar to what’s in place on the trail down to town from the roundabout.

Bob Goedde said, “Let’s not get to crazy building guard rails.” McCardle felt there should be a little more than the low density plantings.

The Lakeside trail project will hopefully begin construction next spring.

Clear Gov:
Finance Director Jackie Tuppling gave an overview of the city’s new website section that is being built with Artificial Intelligence. “This is user friendly way to see the city’s budget expenditures,” she said. “It shows everything and how it is spent.” The system will be available to the public.