by Richard Uhlhorn

Transportation Benefit Districts:
The City of Chelan held a workshop on February 6, to educate its new council members on TBDs (Transportation Benefit Districts).

The City is considering going to the voters to form a TBD and increase its sales tax by 0.3% which would raise additional funds for its transportation improvements such as roads, sidewalk construction, maintenance, and operations. These funds can not be used for non-transportation purposes.

Once established and the City Council assumes board responsibilities, they can vote to either charge a local vehicle licensing fee or establish a local councilmatic sales tax of 0.1% (non-voter approved) or up to 0.3% by voter approval.

The council had an active discussion on the issue.

Mayor Erin McCardle began the discussion asking how the Council gets through the required public information piece of the ballot measure.

Community Development Director John Ajax stated that the large influx of tourists contribute the most money to sales taxes. “All of them go shopping in Chelan,” said Ajax.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth said, “I fully believe we should go to the voters.” He wanted to make sure the entire council was on board with that request. Councilman Mark Ericks agreed that the City should go for the 0.3% sales tax increase.

Ajax reiterated, “We are asking people to implement a sales tax increase.”

Councilman Bob Goedde remarked that there is a benefit of what the tax increase does.

The schedule towards the ballot measure follows:

• 2/24/24 – Recruitment of “For” and “Against” Committees
• Development of a talent bank application
• Develop clear committee responsibilities and timelines by 3/2/24
  
  
• 4/8/24 – Advertise opening of committees and solicit engagement from community
  
  
• 5/14/24 – Appoint members of each committee

From that point the City will launch a project website: a FAQ, Information, Outreach Calendar and then execute the outreach calendar by April 8. Along with monitoring the community’s concerns and misconceptions, the website will be updated to address those issues by April 8.

On June 24 through August 1, the committee will evaluate public support for the Council to vote on which direction the City will go.

By September there will be an Outreach Push to the community up to election day on November 4.

GENERAL TBD INFORMATION:

As of December 2022 there were 111 established TBDs in Washington; 34 of which are located in eastern Washington; 15 implemented a 0.2% voter approved sales tax. The State Legislature approved TBD sales tax authority from 0.2% to 0.3% with renewals of up to 10 years with voter approval.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Bluewater Terrace’s development application issues will come to fruition in the next five to seven days as Andy Kottkamp, Chelan County Hearing Examiner, reviews all of the material he has been provided from the City Staff, Developer and the concerned public.

At a hearing on Thursday morning, Kottkamp remarked that over 50 written comments on the proposed development had been received. He informed the crowded council chambers that his decision would be final and conclusive. The decision he makes can be appealed within 21 days of his decision.

Bluewater Terrace has created a number of concerns in the Community. The proposal is for a resort style winery/tasting room and vineyard with wine production on site including 20 homestay units and an event center for up to 120 people.

The proposal is for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) under the guise of the City’s agritourism code. The ag tourism code was initially developed so that working farms could have a homestay on site to add to the farms sustainability.

Bluewater Terrace has no agricultural use at this time. The plan is to circumvent that issue by building a winery and tasting room with production facilities. One of the questions is whether or not wineries, producing or not, are considered agriculture.

During his staff report, John Ajax, community development director, stated that staff had reviewed the CUP review criteria and said, “The applicant is proposing new agriculture on this site. They are providing vineyard and a production winery as an agri-business.”

Issues with the proposal have been forthcoming via written testimony for months. One of the most prevalent is access to the highway for which the applicant (Tim McDonald) has proposed moving the existing road farther east and build it to City street standards. This, according to his representative, Adam Haynie, will increase safety at the intersection of Hwy. 150 and Bluewater Road (the name they will call the new road).

The Haynie stated that the private access currently in use to serve nine residential properties is a private matter since the City doesn’t recognize Lenore Road as a city owned road. “We will coordinate with them,” said Haynie

Another issue that the community is concerned with is the addition of 20 homestay units (STRs) on the property. Haynie, stated buildout for the resort will take 10 years, also stated that the property is no longer feasible to use as an orchard. He also said that the income from the winery must be more than the homestay.

Kottkamp asked Haynie who long it would take for the vineyard plantings to produce wine grapes? Haynie deferred to McDonald who said it would take three years for the vineyard to produce wine grapes and that production facility would also need to purchase grapes from outside the area.

Kottkamp also asked how the 20 homestay units would support the winery? Haynie replied that the presentations on how wine is produced.

Public Comments:

Mike Cooney was mayor when the property was annexed into the city with idea that it would be built out as a residential neighborhood. He remarked that the move from a single family residential development to an ag-tourism resort was responsible. “Think about that,” Cooney said.

Brian Patterson said the proposed development was inappropriate for 20 homestay units. Stating that the development would not reach full capacity for the next five years, Patterson wondered why it was even being talked about at this stage. “It might support one or two homestay units,” said Patterson.

He had also written a 15 page comment for his testimony outlining all of the issue he sees with the development application.

Kari Sorenson, Manson business owner, stated that she has been a STR and Long Term rental owner and remarked that the applicant’s estimated use of STRs at the development was very understated. “We need to figure out what we are looking at,” she said. Haynie estimated homestays at three and one-half weeks. Sorenson said it was more like four months based on her rentals in Manson. “At $600 a night average,” she stated.

Julie McCoy said she was very concerned about the poor municipal code on agritourism. “I feel this is a very poor municipal code,” she said. She added that homestays would be the primary profit center. “Ag-tourism use does not support even one home stay. The applicant is hard pressed regarding primary income. It is the tail wagging the dog.”

After the public hearing was closed, Kottkamp stated that he was not taking the testimony lightly. “There are issues that need to be resolved,” he said. “I appreciate all comments and the lack of emotion,” stated Kottkamp.

He said he would apply the findings of fact and make his decision as it applies to the law.

Kottkamp told the audience to pay attention to the City and Planning Commission to stay informed. “You all add a degree of legitimacy to the process.

By Richard Uhlhorn

Manson Community Council Meeting Agenda
 | January 16, 2024
Manson Parks Department @ 6 pm

This meeting will be available on Zoom. If you can’t make it to the actual meeting, Zoom in:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89306676637

Meeting ID: 893 0667 6637•

There are several issues on the agenda of interest to the Manson community. The newest member of the council is proposing that a Community Survey be conducted and the council is asking for community input and delivery methods to reach the community. In the past, surveys have been delivered via Chelan County PUD bills.

The proposed Northshore Pathway has generated a lot of interest and while it’s a little early to be discussing ideas until a consultant has been hired to professionally look at the route, it certainly doesn’t hurt to get the communities concerns. The County will be reaching out in February or March with a forum to discuss the proposed pathway.

This project will be a collaboration between Chelan County and the City of Chelan.

On Thursday, January 18, Chelan County Hearing Examiner will hold a public hearing on the Bluewater Terrace development. There are a number of issues surrounding this development that are of concern to the Manson Community even though it is a City of Chelan development.

The meeting begins at 6 p.m. at the Manson Parks Conference Room.

 CALL TO ORDER Kari Sorensen | Cindy Smith | Chris Willoughby | Pam Calhoun | Michael Kirk •
 FLAG SALUTE •
TREASURER’S REPORT •
APPROVAL OF MINUTES November 2023 & December 2023

NEW BUSINESS:
1. Board appointment. (MOTION)
2. Nominations & voting for 2024 MCC Board positions. (MOTIONS)
3. Banking – Revisitation of signatories & address for statements. (MOTION)
4. Proposed “Community Survey” (Michael Kirk). (Delivery method? Mail? Email? Questions to ask?)
5. Proposal by Chelan County for around $40 million “North Shore Pathway” bike/walking path between Chelan & Manson: * Ideas on how to re-route & alleviate pinch point at Rocky Point & cabanas along the lake. * Location options for agreed upon upcoming community forum in Feb or March with County.
6. Chelan County discussing bringing one-way streets to Manson to help with parking issues. Thoughts? (Why don’t we suggest that Chelan County buy Manson School District’s half of Leifler Field to assist with District’s budgetary crisis?)
7. Brian Patterson to give update on Bluewater Terrace’s proposed project of 20 short term rentals (40 cars), winery, spa (cars cars) & event center for 120 attendees (cars) between Chelan & Manson at the long existing school bus turnaround just the Chelan side of Rocky Point. THIS VOLUME OF TRAFFIC WILL VASTLY AFFECT TRAFFIC ALONG HIGHWAY 150 AND WILL ADDITIONALLY SLOW TRAVEL BETWEEN CHELAN & MANSON.

This final hearing for this project is scheduled with the Hearing Examiner on Thursday January 18th at 10 am at Chelan City Hall.

PLEASE BE AT THIS HEARING. A SHOW OF COMMUNITY INTEREST IS VERY IMPORTANT!
The City of Chelan’s Planning Department has issued a recommendation of approval for this project, but final approval must come from the Hearing Examiner.

Also, there is still time to comment on this project. Address your comments to: “Andy Kottkamp, Hearing Examiner” and email them directly to John Ajax at: jajax@cityofchelan.us.

PUBLIC COMMENT | GOOD OF THE ORDER MEETING ADJOURNED

NEXT MEETING: February 20, 2024 @ 6:00 PM @ Manson Parks Department.

by Richard Uhlhorn

After hearing from eight City Council applicants, sitting councilmembers went into executive session to determine which applicant would be best to fill Mayor Erin McCardle’s vacant council seat.

After 30 minutes of deliberation, the Council returned and named ex-Mayor Bob Goedde as their choice to fill McCardle’s seat. Goedde, who has served the community for close to 30 years as a councilman and mayor, was the obvious choice because experience in municipal affairs and relationships with organizations and agencies.

It was obvious for those waiting to hear the council’s choice that other candidates were also being considered. Initially, the executive session was supposed to last 15 minutes, but got extended twice.

Goedde, who has been deeply involved in a number of ongoing city projects as the mayor, will give the new council some added experience and will be a welcome addition to the ongoing issues. “I want to assist Erin,” said Goedde. “There are a lot of things going on.”

He stated that he wants to work closely with the council and said he is not there to be a second mayor. “I’ve got two more years and then I’m done,” said Goedde.

Goedde was among the eight candidates, all of whom were quality applicants wishing to give back to the community they love.

Each applicant was given the opportunity to introduce themselves and answer a series of five questions which were:

1. What motivated you to apply?
2. What would be your three top priorities?
3. Should tourism be increased?
4. How would you address affordable housing?
5. Do you think the City should pay for downtown improvements?

Each candidate expressed their love of the community and their desire to give back.

Infrastructure, transportation issues, affordable housing, development, economic development and addressing the needs of Chelan residents was a thread through the answers.

Shane Collins remarked that affordable housing was the largest issue facing Chelan. When asked about tourism, Collins stated that there are a lot of ways tourism dollars could be spent.

Minda Gogal remarked that getting a handle on tourism and the need for infrastructure upgrades was high on her list of priorities. “We need to have a vision to find a balance with tourism,” said Gogal. She also stated that it is the City’s responsibility to fund downtown improvements.

Todd Higley would like to see more citizen feedback on issues facing the community and would like to see the tourism issues calmed down.

John Olson, who lost his seat on the council when he ran for mayor said he was still interested in in contributing to the council with his four years of experience. “I understand the issues and the great deal of work that needs to be done.” Housing, infrastructure and transportation were on top of his list of priorities.

Mary Signorelli said that the City’s water issues, airport expansion and affordable housing were the top priorities. “The City needs to get behind infrastructure issues,” said Signorelli. She also said the downtown Chelan should be a place that the community is proud of. She used Manson and its beautiful Christmas decorations as an example of what needs to be done. “We need a place we can all be proud of,” She said.

After Goedde’s appointment was announced, Mayor McCardle thanked all of the applicants and said that open positions in the City were coming up and hoped that the candidates would apply.

IN OTHER BUSINESS:

Rate & Fee Structure for Chelan Parks:

Parks Director Paul Horne got a little push back from Council on his proposed parking fee increase for local residents from Councilman Tim Hollingsworth. The proposed rate increase was from $25 per year to $35 per year. Hollingsworth said, “It does not bring significant revenue to the parks and it’s going to come off wrong with the residents. Personally I would like to see it remain at $25.” Councilman Terry Sanders agreed with Hollingsworth.

For non-Chelan Residents living in the Valley, the fee increased to $45 per year.

Councilman Mark Ericks was concerned that Parks was double charging those who pay a moorage fee for parking. “I would like to see no parking fees to those who pay a moorage fee,” said Ericks.

Lynette Grandy, a Chelan resident, spoke to the proposed increases in the Park’s AAU programs. She wondered why Parks wanted to increase fees to resident tax payers. “Families with more than one child could cost up to $200. AAU has far reaching benefits to the community,” she said.

Horne replied that AAU cards have gone up to $20 from $17 and that the Parks Department doesn’t make money off of AAU. “We are not opposed to keeping rates as low as we can,” said Horne. “We still offer incredible value.” He added that the new rate proposals are an effort to balance the Park’s budget.

Golfers will see an increase in greens fees from $38 to $44 in the off-season and $59 to $70 in the peak season. “Our fees offer an incredible value,” said Horne. “We have a pretty good sense of where we fit in the market.”

Single annual passes went from $900 to $975; Family annual passes from $1,500 to $1,600; Single Twilight passes from $500 to $550; Family Twilight passes from $700 to $800.

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS:

General Sewer Plan update:

Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the Council that the last sewer plan was updated in 2008 and needed to be updated again. “We asked Ecology for approval of the document and we did receive their approval letter on December 13.” Youngren said he now needs the Council to approve the plan which is over 400 pages. He introduced Eric Smith, RH2’s engineer to present an update.

Eric  told the Council that RH2 Engineering went over the plan and that it anticipates a 30 percent increase in population over the next 20 years. “You have a rather complex collection system,” he said.

According to Smith the treatment plant is getting closer to the 85 percent threshold when it will require planning and expansion. “We are not seeing that yet,” said Smith.

The City has surveyed all of its manholes and the mainline on Hwy. 150 is in need of replacement. “We are securing the funding for that project.”

Youngren added that the City has long term agreements in place with the Lake Chelan Reclamation District and South Shore Sewer District. “They are substantial funding partners,” he said.

Hollingsworth asked if the sewer lines could be replaced in sections. Smith replied that the City will have to maintain flow in service.

In addition to the aging sewer lines, the lift station on the north side of the old Woodin Avenue Bridge needs to be upgraded. “It is in a real critical location,” said Smith. Youngren added that design is comint to the Council in the next several months for approval. “There are many challenges that we are facing that still exist,” stated Youngren.

Smith also said the City would have to look at the sewer plant’s biological treatment system in the next five years.

Most of the above infrastructure upgrades are in the Capital Improvement Plans for action within the next six years.

Council Priorities:

City Administrator Wade Farris brought up the subject of the Council’s priorities. It was getting late into the meeting and Hollingsworth asked if the Council needed to go over it or hold off. Farris said, “Yes we do.”

Farris then reminded the Council that the City hired a federal lobbyist to look into federal help with the East Chelan water project. He also mentioned that the City is looking to Representative Mike Steele for a state appropriation for the project.

Mayor McCardle added that the East Water project is moving forward and the City still doesn’t have funding for it. “These are things we can’t kick down the road,” said McCardle.

Another issue is City Hall. Farris stated that several months ago, the City hired an individual to help deal with problems in the aging building. “He found some serious issues,” said Farris.

Youngren announced that the City has a grant to plan the stormwater system with a projection of stormwater construction two to three years in the future.

He also mentioned the Northshore Trail which he admitted wasn’t a perfect fit for the City’s priorities, but that funding is potentially available.

The Imagine Downtown is winding down its planning and the City is looking for funding from both the Feds and State to begin construction on the downtown improvements in the next one to three years.

Youngren stated that funding was available for Community ADA access and is currently in the planning phase with construction soon based on State funding sources.

Council Committee Assignments:

Council committee assignments not filled in at the earlier workshop were completed at this Council meeting. Shari Dietrich will liaise with Cascada Conservation District and the Chelan Planning Commission which she served on for five years. Councilman Brad Chitty will sit in as an alternate when Dietrich is not available.

Councilman Bob Goedde will liaise with the Port of Chelan and Douglas County, a position he held when he was the Mayor.

McCardle will liaise with Chelan County PUD.

2024 Council Committee Liaison Assignment Selection – AB AB 2024-001A (civicweb.net)

Mayor/Council comments:

It was announced that the Bluewater Terrace development would be heard by the Hearing Examiner on January 18 at 10 a.m. in Council Chambers.

Everyone on the Council thanked those that applied for McCardle’s position. Goedde said, “I’m glad to be back. It will give me the opportunity to help move issues I worked on forward.” Goedde has met with and promoted the East Chelan Water Project with Representative Schrier and will continue to work with her and McCardle to secure federal funding for the project.

McCardle encouraged all of the Council applicants to consider running for council positions and to apply for other positions within the City like the Planning Commission (one empty seat) and the Parks Board.

City meeting information:

City Council meets every second and fourth Tuesday in chambers beginning at 6 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend.

by Richard Uhlhorn

At its December 19th board meeting and after a post telephone conversation with CEO Aaron Edwards, All Things Lake Chelan learned about some of the issues and progress being made by the hospital.

Chelan Health has gone through a rough financial period over the past three to four years, but is currently on the rebound to financial health. Following is a report on the latest board meeting.

Board addition:
The first order of business was to swear in Len England as the newest member of the commission.

Bond Rating
The board was told that the hospital’s bond rating has been moved from negative to stable based on its current financial picture. CEO Edwards stated that the hospital has $9.9 million dollars in cash on hand which is way up from the $3.3 million last year. “We are doing a little better,” said Edwards.

The hospital grossed $5.3 million in November with a projected total of $52 million gross for the 2023 year.

November financials came in with a $107,000 loss which according to CFO Brant Truman is a massive improvement. “We continue to move forward.” Contracturals are up. According to Edwards, the hospital has contracts with insurance companies with whom the hospital negotiates prices for the year. A $600,000 Medicare adjustment will show up in the contracturals. “It is essentially a weird business,” said Edwards.

OB Services:
One of the big issues is the sustainability of its OB situation. With only eight to nine births a month it is difficult to keep OB’s on staff fulltime. “Nursing to date’s projected loss is $700,000,” stated Edwards. “It’s hard to keep up. We had 97 births last year.” He would like to grow that service line.

Director of Nursing, Rhianna Montgomery said, “If I lose one more nurse, we will be in a staffing crisis. OB nurses just want to be OB nurses.” She also stated that the nurses the hospital does have are very dedicated to the hospital’s mission.

The hospital has a nurse in training at Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane, but Montgomery said, “I need somebody now.” Truman remarked that a number of OB services across the nation have had to shut down.

The board unanimously agreed to entering a contract for an OB nurse at $243,000 per year.

Edwards stated that if it weren’t for the EMS Levy, EMS would also be a losing function. “We have gone to the legislature and argued that low volume hospitals should receive a special designation for EMT’s to medically assist in the hospital,” said Edwards. Both the House and Senate have bills addressing this issue (HB1907-2023-24 and SB5940).

Facilities:
The hospital is moving forward with its Highland Campus behind the new hospital. When built, it will house EMS and administration. “Our relationship with John Ajax (Community Development Director) has been very positive. There have been no surprises and no expectations we can’t meet. The permit is the next step,” reported Edwards.

The Hospital Board meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. in the new hospital’s Bragg conference room.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The City of Chelan moved into a new era of governance last night, Tuesday, January 2, when Erin McCardle and three new councilmen plus Mark Ericks were sworn in.

Mayor McCardle and the council assumed their seats and McCardle immediately got to the business of the Mayor Pro-Tem position. “Usually the most senior member of the council is selected as Mayor Pro Tem,” stated McCardle. “Tim Hollingsworth is the most senior.” Councilman Mark Ericks made the motion to approve Hollingsworth and the council voted for the motion.

Once the three new councilmembers: Terry Sanders, Brad Chitty and Jon Higgins were seated the workshop went into its business of the day.

Aviation Fuel Tax diversion:
First on the agenda was the “Diversion of Aviation Fuel Taxes” and the request for the city to join the coalition suing the State for diverting fuel taxes to other state uses. The amount of money diverted according to City Administrator Wade Farris amounts to an estimated $21 million per year that is under FAA rules supposed to be for aeronautical purposes only. “It turns out they’ve been doing other things,” said Farris.

Apparently whe00n called on this issue, the Airport authorities received no response from the state so the Chelan/Douglas Regional Port Authority decided to go through legal proceedings to help the coalition to rectify the issue.

“They are asking the City for S1,000,” said Farris. “They may come back for more. It is something we want to get going as soon as possible.”

Farris reported that the Port of Chelan County is giving $7,500.00 to the effort with Sea-Tac providing $25,000.00 and Spokane $10,000.00.

The Council approved a $1,000 contribution to the effort.

Council Liaison Positions:
Every year Council members are asked which liaison positions they would like to assume. McCardle began the discussion with the Council based on a spreadsheet they were provided.

Council members indicate their interest to liaise with the following agencies:

Cascadia Conservation District; Chelan County Sheriff’s Department Oversight Committee; CC Solid Waste Council; CC Fire District 7; Chelan Valley Housing Trust; Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council; Emergency Management Program; Historic Downtown Chelan Association; Lake Chelan Arts Council; Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce Board; Lake Chelan Research Institute; Lake Chelan Watershed Planning Unit; LEOFF Retirement Board; Link Transit Board; NCW Economic Development District; Parks Board; Planning Commission; Port of Chelan County; Public Facilities District; Chelan County PUD; and the Lake Chelan School District. What should be added is a person to liaise with the Hospital District.

“We have had good representation at the Port and it is definitely important.”

Tim Hollingsworth said he would continue to serve the Watershed Planning Unit and the Public Facilities District (Town Toyota). Referring to the Watershed Planning Unit, Hollingsworth stated that John Olson had been attending the meetings this past year. “It is an important group dealing with water rights and lake quality,” said Hollingsworth.

Hollingsworth also said it was important to stay engaged with the Chelan/Douglas County Housing District. “Having a voice at the regional level is important.”

Terry Sanders stated he was interested in serving as a liaison with the Parks Board and the Chamber of Commerce. Mark Ericks indicated that he would like to continue on the Sheriff’s Oversight Committee. He comes with a lot of law enforcement background.

Jon Higgins indicated he was interested in serving as a liaison with the Fire District and the School District. Brad Chitty is interested in serving on the Parks Board also.

Tim Hollingsworth added that he would continue as the City’s liaison with Town Toyota Center.

The Council will digest the information they have and address the final liaisons at the next Council meeting on January 9.

Mayor McCardle has created a “real” simple reporting sheet for City Liaisons to report on their positions at Council’s second meeting of the month.

Open Council Seat:

McCardle’s council seat is currently open. Interested applicants had until January 2 to apply for the position. According to Farris, the City has received eight applications. The Council will hear each applicants reason for wanting to fill the seat at the January 9 council meeting. The sitting Council will retire in executive session to determine who will take over McCardle’s old seat.

Council 2024 Priorities:

Farris reported on Council priorities for 2024 which include the East Water Project (TIF) and the City’s efforts to seek State and Federal funding to help pay for that project which hopefully will diminish the Junior Taxing District’s contributions.

The City has retained a Federal Lobbyist to help with the funding issue on a federal level. The City’s grant writer/funding consultant will work the State for other funding options.

Number two on the list of priorities is Affordable Housing. “We need to take advantage of the legislative appropriations for the State,” said Farris. A legislative priority list will be presented at the January 26^th Council meeting.

Farris said the priority list will be narrowed down to three to five  projects that will have a major impact on the community.

Public Works agenda:

Public Works Director Jake Youngren gave a quick synopsis of the department’s $4.8 million in projects under contract. He also remarked that Storm Water is an interesting issue with the City. “We don’t have enough allocations for storm water, but have applied for a $250,000 grant from the Department of Ecology (DOE) to address storm water,” said Youngren.

He also brought up the proposed Northshore Pathway and how Chelan has the most favorable chance of securing federal funding for that project. He mentioned the ongoing Imagine Downtown project with the HDCA which is pegged at $4 million to bring to fruition.

Parks:

Paul Horne reported that the Parks Department is looking at bringing the RV Park up to today’s standards. He also mentioned the Athletic Fields and the proposed community park project along with the Golf Course irrigation project. “There are long term plans to finance these projects,” said Horne.

Housekeeping:

City Clerk Peri Gallucci told the new councilmembers that she would be setting up secure emails for them.

Mayor McCardle thanked everyone for participating in the workshop and adjourned the meeting.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Manson Community Council’s meeting on Tuesday, December 19, hosted Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gearing and Mike Kaputa, director of Chelan County Natural Resources department. They requested an opportunity to present the possibility of obtaining funding to build the North Shore Pathway from Manson to Chelan.

Background:

This project was conceived as a priority for the Lake Chelan Trails Association approximately 30 years ago after the Association completed its 3.5 year effort to write a Comprehensive Trails Plan for the Valley.

The Association hired Jennifer Olson (JAO Consultants) to write a feasibility study along the Manson highway. (https://chelannorthshoretrail.com) It was, and is still planned as a multimodal trail separated from the highway.

The effort was supplemented with contributions from the City of Chelan ($10,000) and Chelan County’s Paths and Trails Fund ($30,000). The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) gave the Association a $225,000 ALEA grant to begin the project in 1995.

This grant, while welcomed, carried a 100% match and the Association was not ready to begin, so it returned the grant for the DNR’s other requests for ALEA funding.

In 2002, when Chelan County PUD was relicensing the Chelan Hydroelectric Project, Jennifer Olson, speaking for a coalition of eight Lake Chelan community and business groups (Lake Chelan Legacy Group), outlined an $11.25 Million Dollar request for funds to build four recreation projects as a part of their recreation obligations under the new license.

The request was for the PUD to create an endowment fund for these projects. The Northshore Pathway was a part of that request and the requested amount was about half of the estimated construction cost with the remaining funds coming from other public sources, private donations, and interest earnings from the proposed endowment fund.

Ultimately, the PUD turned down the proposal and the Northshore Pathway went into the hibernation.

Fast Forward:

Kaputa told the Council and audience that funding has been provided to the Chelan/Douglas County Transportation Council. The County is interested in exploring the proposed pathway’s potential development and is willing to seek a transportation consultant to provide a pathway alignment.

“What’s the best way for a consultant to reach Manson,” asked Kaputa. It was suggested that several open houses through the Community Council  and Manson Parks would be the best way to connect with the community.

The idea of constructing a multimodal pathway separated from the highway brought up a number of questions from the council and community members.

Kari Sorenson brought up the obvious choke point at Rocky Point and the potential difficulties of the cabanas on the east side of Rocky Point. Mike O’Neal, a resident on the Chelan side of Rocky Point and also a cabana owner said he would be concerned about trail being right against the cabana properties. He went on to say he would be concerned about safety on Hwy 150.

Mayor Bob Goedde remarked that a lot of leg work has already been accomplished which puts the Northshore Pathway at the top of the list for potential funding of the $40 million allocated for multimodal trail systems.

Chris Willoughby suggested that the route could be up and around Rocky Point. Gearing also mentioned that after it was built there was the need for someone to operate and maintain the trail.

With one road into and out of Manson, the corridor would have a number of issues to overcome along the waterfront.

Kaputa said the County was looking to hire a consultant in February to begin the design and cost estimate. He also stated that the County would need to place someone as the point of contact throughout the process.

With the Northshore Pathway’s corridor passing through both County, City and DOT right a way, it should be a collaborative effort between Chelan and Manson.

In other business:

Mike Kirk was sworn in to the council to replace John Frolker who resigned in October. Chris Willoughby agreed to stay on the Council to replace outgoing Cindy Smith . “I’ll do another round I guess,” said Willoughby.

Short Term Rentals:

Brian Patterson reported on upcoming changes to the current STR code. One change that will affect STRs is that the owner has to be on-site. Parking is another issue that will be addressed.

Sorenson said that for every bedroom a parking space should be required. Gearing remarked that the code changes will include not parking on right-of-ways. “We will change the code to address boat trailers also,” she said. “Parking has become a huge problem.”

Manson Community Council meets every third Tuesday in the Manson Parks Building beginning at 6 p.m.

By Richard Uhlhorn

Water quantity and availabilty:

As promised at the prior Lake Chelan Watershed meeting in October, Andrea Reyes gave a quick update on water supply in the Lake Chelan Valley at the December 13 meeting.

Future water availability has been somewhat of a concern in the Valley, but currently, water availability is not a real concern. “We are trying to meet and talk about what it might look like in the future for those applications we can’t process,” said Reyes.

The Department of Ecology has been in the process of permitting water rights since a 2019 partnership with Chelan County’s Natural Resources Department when the Lake Chelan Coordinated Cost Reimbursement Program began. They have just finished up with Batch 3. “We are currently working on Batch 4,” she said. “We are waiting for the final permits.” So far 33 permits have been granted and/or are being permitted.

There are two options available to secure a water right. Under Option 1, Ecology has a consultant who investigates and processes the paperwork. The applicant pays a fee for the Consultant’s work. Option 2 is a Domestic Use Permit that can be processed through a program at Chelan County and is less expensive.

Of the 65,000 acre feet the PUD has provided, 5,258 acre feet remain. When the process reaches the City of Chelan’s request for 3,800 acre feet, the remaining acre feet left in the current reserve would drop to 1,269 acre feet available.

Farther down the line, the Lake Chelan Reclamation District (LCRD) has applied for 2040 acre feet for irrigation, frost and heat protection purposes which if granted would drop the availability to (779.88) acre feet making any remaining applications unable to be permitted.

Ecology and it’s consultant are permitting one batch per year. After Batch 4, there are 22 more batches to be processed before the water runs into a deficit.

Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gearing asked Mike Kaputa, Chelan County Natural Resources Director, if the Casino is outside the agreement with Ecology. Kaputa replied that they would be with the Reclamation District.

Another question asked was whether or not the PUD might release more water for use when Ecology reaches the reserve limit. Reyes replied that Ecology has a meeting with the PUD in March.

At some point, there will not be enough water available for future development. Chelan County augmented available water with a 1,000 acre feet purchase from Bear Mountain Water District which is being used for the domestic program.

In a separate conversation on December 18 with Rod Anderson, LCRD manager, he stated that the District has a huge water right on the irrigation side. He also said that the District is in the process of trying to buy out the Bureau of Reclamation contract.

“This would give us a lot more flexibilty,” said Anderson. “It would make ourselves whole again.” Eliminating the District from the Bureau would allow them to be more efficient. “It is our intention to maximize our use. We have a January meeting with Ecology in January to state our case,” Anderson said.

Anderson also said that the District is open to water banking with the County. “We are hoping Ecology will work with us.”

The Reclamation District is exempt from “use it or lose it”, but Anderson said they could potentially lose water, so the District has put water into a water trust.

From the report by Reyes and the fact that it takes a year to process a water rights batch, it will be at least two years before water availability will be a major concern.

Water Quality:

Lake Chelan Research Institute’s director, Phil Long, shifted gears from his normal water quality report and presented bathymetric data collected by the U.S. Geological Survey.

He showed the graphics of the lake where the bathymetric data was collected using modern sub-bottom profiling equipment. The USGS spent three weeks recording the bathymetry of the lake bottom with the exception of lower Wapato Basin because it was too shallow.

The profiles showed scarps, sediment fans from tributaries and areas where underwater slides have taken place.

An interesting fact from the survey removed Lake Chelan from its classification of being the third deepest lake in the U.S. by 442 meters (1,436.5 feet deep). “You lost some of your standing,” said Long.

They also collected core samples from the bottom and are working on them at their laboratory.

Water Clarity:

The lake’s circulation behaves differently at different time of the year. Long said visibility was bad in November, but clarity at Lakeside Park at one point was the clearest than it has ever been according to Long.

Chelan County PUD is providing $90,000 per year to study near shore growth. One lakeshore homeowner stated that the underwater rocks are so slippery his grandkids can’t stand on them.

Long said there is now talk about constructing a sewerline to 25 Mile Creek. Geese are still considered one of the major polluters on the lake. “There are more water fowl on the lake now than ever before,” said Long.

AIS Program:

Lisa Dowling and Steve Lesky updated the group on the AIS Program. “There is a high level of concerns,” said Dowling. “The public is in favor of us ramping up our efforts and are largely in favor of watercraft inspections at Lake Chelan.”

City Councilman John Olson asked if the water craft and hydroplanes that come to the lake for events are inspected? Steve replied that generally these boats are kept in spotless condition and are pretty low on the radar.

Over the summer weekends when the boat inspections were being accomplished, the crew inspected 1,412 watercraft and noted 3,758 watercraft entering the lake. “There is only a certain number of boats that can be inspected without backing up boats at the launches,” said Lesky.

In other news:

Kaputa said that the department has submitted a grant application to the Bureau of Reclamation for $100,000 per year for a period of three years. “We won’t hear if we got it for 10 to 11 months,” said Kaputa.

The funds would be used for water supply issues, water quality research and all the other things going on in the lake. The Forest Service would supply planning support.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Grant Awards:
It has been a long time coming, but the City has been successful in pulling down a series of grants that will effect the pedestrian safety. Jake Youngren, public works director, updated the City Council on Grant Funding Awards at its final Council meeting on Tuesday, December 12.

“We’ve got great news about new grants,” said Youngren. We’ve had success on the grant front.”

The first grant was awarded to Chelan by the Washington State Department of Transportation on June 23. This grant, worth $3, 001,931 is for planning and construction of the Lakeside Trail from Water Street in Lakeside to W. Woodin Avenue at the bridge.

In association with this grant, the Transportation Improvement Board awarded another $500,000 for the Lakeside Trail project. “We had a $750,000 match for the $3 million dollar grant. These funds through property taxes lowers our match to $250,000,” explained Youngren.

The Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council awarded Chelan $709,092 through the Federal Transportation Alternative Fund for the Sanders Street Pedestrian Improvement Project.

The Transportation Improvement Board awarded Chelan $100,000 through the Small City Arterial Program for the above referenced project. “Everyone of these grants are extremely important,” said Youngren.

The TIB also awarded $162,000 for the Bradley Street Resin Bonded Stone Surfacing Pilot Project and crosswalks and ADA Ramp Improvements on Bradley Street. These funds are from the TIB’s discretionary funds and will pay 90 percent of the project costs.

Youngren added that the TIB is great to work with and the City continues to build a great working relationship with them.

The total amount of grants awarded to the City for these projects is $4,519,342.

Public Hearing on establishment of Transportation Benefit District:
Community Development Director John Ajax introduced an ordinance for the establishment of a Transportation Benefit District bound by the City Limits.

The approval of Ordinance 2023-1618 does not authorize any funding for the TIB which, while approved unanimously by the Council after no public comment on the issue was forthcoming, does not authorize any funding.

Future funding will probably involve a ballot measure and approval by the voters of the City. It has been recommended that that the City’s sales tax be raised by .03 percent. It is also noted that an estimated 75 percent of this new tax would be paid by tourists and visitors.

“This would help fund serious infrastructure projects that are currently being funded by grants and property taxes,” said Ajax.

The three criteria considered by Council included the following:

1.       Establishment of the TIB Boundaries;

2.       Establishing which projects would be financed by the TIB; and

3.       Providing notice to hold a public hearing on January 23, 2024

Zoning Amendment to allow surplus public property to be sold to private buyers:
City Council after hearing from Community Development Director John Ajax about the Zoning Code Amendment before them that would allow the Chelan Hospital sell the old hospital property to a private buyer, unanimously approved the proposed ordinance.

This approval was based on a recommendation from the Planning Commission who held a public hearing on November 15. This hearing included one written comment from Lynette Grandy and a testimony in favor of the proposal by Aaron Edwards, CEO of Lake Chelan Hospital, who appeared at the Planning Commission meeting.

Grandy, who also spoke at the Council meeting is concerned that the amendment includes the downtown Public Districts. She asked if the downtown Public Districts shouldn’t be a part of the upcoming Chelan Comprehensive Planning process, and also asked why this amendment couldn’t be done on a Case-by-Case basis. Grandy then asked the Council to exclude the downtown Public District.

Apparently, the Lookout is interested in purchasing the old hospital property for business and real estate purposes.

Councilman Peter Jamtgaard stated that he didn’t have a problem with that specific piece because he considers it the exception rather than the rule. “I do support the hospital.”

John Oatey, COO of Chelan Health, that as a Public Hospital District there are stringent constrictions on leasing the hospital. “The operation is a burden to us if we are not using it for health purposes,” he said. “It is critical to our mission to sell. I’m very thankful you guys are going to consider this (amendment).”

Councilwoman Erin McCardle stated that she understood the urgency of the hospital to surplus the old building. Councilman John Olson remarked that refurbishing the building was going to be expensive.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth remarked that the Planning Commission worked hard on the amendment. “There is certainly room in our code to harmonize things. I see no reason not to approve this ordinance amendment.”

Motion considerations:
City Administrator Wade Farris said that the City has come to a point where it needs a lobbyist at the federal level to work with staff to secure Federal Funding. He introduced John Culton, a lobbyist with Desimone Consulting LLC out of Seattle.

Culton explained that he is the eastern Washington arm of Desimone and thanked the Council for the opportunity to represent the City in Washington D.C. “I live in Spokane and worked for Senator Murray for 12 years.” He is currently working within 12 different counties in Eastern Washington.

“There are a lot of construction needs,” said Culton. “It’s been a lot of fun helping these entities. There are certainly a lot of federal opportunities out there.”

His retainer is $5,000 per month and stated that securing earmark funding takes upwards of seven to eight months. “I will do a status check whenever you want,” said Culton.

Hollingsworth asked if the City has a list of projects? Farris replied that the East Chelan Water Project is at the top of the list. “My only concern is the ability of the federal government to do anything,” added Hollingsworth.

In other business:
Other motion considerations were general City/Council approvals of both the Airport and City Budgets amongst other mundane motions that all passed unanimously. These agenda items can be found on the City’s Website under the button “Council”.

Mayor/Council comments:
The Mayor/Council/Staff comments mainly gave thanks to outgoing Mayor Bob Goedde for his service to the community over the years. Shari Dietrich said it has been a privilege and honor to work under him. Hollingsworth, Jamtgaard and Baker all agreed. Mark Ericks thanked Bob, Chris and Jamtgaard for their service to the community.

Forgotten in the thank you department for departing council members, John Olson stated that he appreciated his time on the council. He told the new council members sitting in the audience that they had a lot of work to do. “I’ve been known for my dissent up here on some issues… if you have something to say, say it!” he quipped.

Mayor-Elect McCardle stated it has been rewarding working with the council members. “There have been a lot of controversial issues,” she said. McCardle added that Goedde has left the City in wonderful shape. “This City is very well run.”

McCardle’s council seat is the only seat remaining to be filled. Interested individuals need to fill out an application by January 2 and the Council will interview the applicants at its workshop on January 2 after which the appointment will be made at the January 9 council meeting.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The City of Chelan held two meetings (December 5 and 6) to update the progress J.U.B. Engineers has made on the proposed Chelan Airport expansion project slated to commence construction in 2027 upon approvals by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

J.U.B is in the process of conducting an Environmental Assessment (EA). Currently the existing airport has a number of safety issues that need correction. A draft EA is expected to be completed by the summer of 2024 with a final delivered in the Fall. The Draft EA will be sent out to the general public with a 30-day comment period.

The FAA has already approved expanding the airport runway to 4,400 feet and when 116 acres of land is acquired an FAA grant totaling $24 million dollars would be available. The State would add $500,000 and both the Chelan and Port of Chelan County would added another $500,000 split between them.

“We will hold an Open House to hopefully select an airport (expansion) design of 3,500 feet or 4,400 feet,” Mark Napier – J.U.B. Engineers, told a large audience of property owners and hanger owners surrounding the airport. “There is enough traffic to justify a 4,400 foot long runway,” he added.

The acquisition of property will take place after a determination of value has been accomplished by a certified appraiser. His/her work will be checked by another appraiser after which offers and negotiations with property owners will commence.

The expansion, when concluded, will allow larger aircraft like 10 person Cessna Citations to land at the Chelan Airport. This could lead to more business, recreational and medical flights using the airport.

One person remarked that adding 115 flights to Chelan for the $24 million expansion “was not a whole lot of bang for our buck.”

The economic impacts are also in question at this early stage. At the Tuesday, December 5, City Workshop, Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if there was or will be a cost-benefit analysis conducted? Wade Farris – city administrator replied that the expansion would impact tourism and it was time to look into the future. Councilman John Olson added that if the Colville Confederated Tribes go forward with their plans to build a 400 to 500 unit Hotel/Casino in Manson, it would definitely increase air traffic.

Teresa Ferrell-Pascoe remarked that it was a lot of money. “It is not going to benefit everyone in the Valley,” she said. Another property owner added that people have concerns on how these decisions are made. “I would like to be informed. That’s not too much to ask.”

One of the orchardists stated that farmers don’t look at land, “We look 20 years down the road.” He then suggested that they rezone the property to commercial so they can recover some of their losses from the expansion.

Trent Moyers, director of airports from Pangborn stated that the FAA has its own environmental team to help the project move forward.

Hollingsworth asked the big question for the community. “How valuable is our airport to our community.”

It’s a question that will be answered down the road when the draft EA is finished this coming summer and J.U.B Engineers holds an Open House on the subject of expansion for the entire community to weigh in.