by Richard Uhlhorn

The Imagine Downtown Chelan project received a major push forward at Chelan’s Tuesday City Council meeting.

Public Works Director Jake Youngren brought forth a series of configuration options for the beautification of the downtown core.

“I want to advance to the design phase so I can start building construction documents,” said Youngren.

Mayor Elect Erin McCardle stated that the parking of semi-trucks in the middle of Woodin Avenue is against the City Code. “It’s something tat goes against our City Code, but we allow it,” she said. However, the City Code regarding Parking does allow double parking for a period of 15 minutes to offload supplies for restaurants. The primary reason, for allowing semi’s to park in the middle of Woodin to offload is because of the difficulty of maneuvering in the alleys.

Each configuration presented below was discussed individually.

Configuration Selection No. 1: I move to advance the Imagine Downtown Project design with (12’, 14’, or 16’) foot wide sidewalks.
One of the biggest issues of the project was the widening of Woodin Avenue’s sidewalks. Peter Jamtgaard suggested that the project should consider widening to 13 versus 14 or 16 feet. “I don’t see that reflected here,” he said. “Rather than voting on it, I would like to see drawings.”

Youngren remarked that the City had set up exhibits downtown and received a lot of feedback. “I am open to the Council’s guidance on this,” he stated. Jamtgaard replied that the 16′ should be thrown out and the 13′ width he suggested would be enough. “Maybe we don’t have to go to 14′”

Consultant Tom Beckwith remarked that with semi’s parking to offload there was currently 10.1′ on both sides for cars to pass and if widened to 14′ there would still be enough room for cars to pass on either side of a semi even if the trailer’s are widened to 9 feet.

The other issue with widening the sidewalks is the storm drainage system. “The mainline runs down the center of the avenue with laterals coming from the sidewalk area. There will be some potential challenges with that.

Tim Hollingsworth said the City needs to look at ways “We can run trucks in the alleys” Beckwith replied that the main challenge of doing that was with the beverage trucks. “It didn’t seem feasible.” Youngren also stated that every business had been contacted.

The Council passed a motion to increase the width of the sidewalks to 14 feet.

Configuration Selection No. 2: I move to advance the Imagine Downtown Project design with (45 or 60) degree angle parking angles.
After some discussion concerning the angle of parking, the Council decided to leave well enough alone to see how it works out.

Configuration Selection No. 3: I move to advance the Imagine Downtown Project design with (9’, 9.5’, or 10’) wide parking stalls.
The Council supported the 9’5″ configuration as the most efficient for both cars and pickups.

Configuration Selection No. 4: I move to (include or exclude) a crosswalk on the 200 block of Woodin Avenue in the design of the Imagine Downtown Project.

The crosswalk question apparently didn’t get much traction in the questionnaire and the Council scratched it from consideration.

Configuration Selection No. 5: I move to (include or exclude) the proposed public parking lot improvements on the north side of the 100 block of Woodin Avenue in the design of the Imagine Downtown Project.
Beckwith feels that 60º parking angles in both the North and South parking lots is the best use of the space. “They need sidewalks to there is some kind of definition.” Youngren added that he needed to know whether or not to include sidewalks.

Mayor Bob Goedde remarked that Chelan doesn’t have a parking problem. Signage pointing to parking would help with that issue.. Beckwith replied that if the parking lots were more attractive and accommodating it would help.

Amiee Sheridan agreed that there is plenty of parking, but getting people to use the parking and get them downtown is an issue.

Jamtgaard added that making the entrance to the north parking lot off Columbia might get more people using the lot. He also suggested meters to encourage people to seek off street parking.

Configuration Selection No. 6: I move to (include or exclude) new restrooms and common space improvements adjacent to Columbia Street North of Woodin Avenue in the design of the Imagine Downtown Project.

Beckwith said that Public Restrooms are important and suggested that the restrooms at the old Chamber building were not family friendly and not considered safe. He has suggested that the City consider putting in unisex cells. “This would make a big improvement downtown.”

Beckwith stated that a lot of design work can be done with the parking lots. The Council approved the design work on the parking lots.

Configuration Selection No. 7: I move to (include or exclude) the proposed public parking lot improvements on the south side of the 200 block of Woodin Avenue in the design of the Imagine Downtown Project.

See No 5!

Vehicle/Trailer Plate Search:
James Hayter – Chelan Parks, brought forth a motion to authorize the Mayor to finalize and execute the Washington State Department of Licensing Use and Disclosure Agreement for Contracted Vehicle/Trailer Plate Search.

The purpose of this Agreement is for Department of Licensing (DOL) to establish the terms and conditions upon which it will grant Licensee with limited access and use of DOL’s Contracted Plate Search (CPS) system.

According to Hayter, the Parks Department has a number of issues trying to locate owners of vehicles and boat trailers for a variety of reasons. The DOL agreement would allow the Parks Department access to the search system to determine ownership.

Hayter said that without the agreement in place there is no way to determine ownership of vehicles in the RV Park that are parked in the wrong stalls and or trailers in the Marina Parking Lot.

Council approved the motion.

TIF Amendment:

Community Development Director John Ajax put forward an amendment to change Ordinance 0223-1607 establishing the East Chelan Tax Increment Area. The Council unanimously passed the motion to develop a detailed mitigation agreements with Emergency Services and Fire Department with a review before the end of 2024.

Asked if he wanted to make a comment on the TIF issue, Fire Chief Brandon Asher remarked that he had just returned from a Fire Chiefs conference and said, “The conference was packed with chiefs and lawyers. Everywhere they were talking about TIFs (Tax Increment Financing).

Currently Chelan is one of only a few government agencies considering TIFs and it has raised numerous questions by Junior Taxing District’s around the State.

Asher stated that at the State Fire Chief’ Conference, discussions were about mitigation and not enough ground rules.. “We need to come up with a good plan,” said Asher.

Hospital Commission Chair Mary Murphy was sitting quietly in the back of the chambers taking it all in.

Ajax ended the discussion saying, “So what we are doing is kicking the can down the street.”

Mayor Council comments:

Shari Dietrich was pleased that the truck delivery code was changed for the downtown area.

The rest of the Council members passed on making comments… highly unusual.

Mayor Goedde announced that $15 million will be spent upgrading the Transfer Station.

Jackie Tuppling said she had met with the Historic Downtown Chelan Association and both agreed to continue taking the B&O credit that the City can receive. “We still have $39,000 available and our share is $9,700 this year.” She asked the Council to continue the program. Aimee Sheridan, executive director of the HDCA thanked her and the Council.

John Ajax reported that Chelan County Hearing Examiner Andrew Kottkamp denied Campbell Lodges request for a Parking Variance which in essence has shut down the 16 unit Town Home Project above Riverwalk Park until further notice.

by Richard Uhlhorn

City Administrator Wade Farris introduced Richard Castro (Facilities Specialist) who has been hired to help with City facilities. Farris said they had several quality candidates but that Castro, who was already working at Public Works was the best pick for the job.

Budget Hearing:

Chelan Finance Director Jackie Tupling reported to City Council during Tuesday evening’s Public Hearing on the final budget that it was $25,169,460. She stated that it was $2+ million less than 2023. Council will ratify the 2024 budget at its meeting on December 12.

She stated that costs were up across the board including Liability Insurance. The City will be adding one new position; a Code Enforcement Officer. This position will be filled by a retired and certified law enforcement officer.

Councilman John Olson asked when that position will be filled and City Administrator replied that there isn’t a definite timeline, but hopes by the time the tourist season begins.

Sheriff Mike Morrison also commented that a final contract has not been completed and that those involved have been going back and forth on what the contract will look like. “We need to get back to the prosecutors and commissioners,” said Morrison. “We do have a candidate,” he added.

Olson then brought up the Feral Cat Project who have asked the City for $5,000+ to help. “They are not a 501 (c)3,” said Olson who added that the Chelan Senior Center is taking the project under it umbrella. “There is a lot of interest in that project.”

The project traps feral cats and then has them neutered before returning them to their habitat. An unaltered female with a lifespan of 2-8 years can become pregnant as early as four to five months old and produce 2 to 3 litters each year during her life span. Without spay/neuter programs for feral cats each female can produce up to 200 kittens during her lifetime.

Sheriff’s update:

Sheriff Mike Morrison was on hand to give an update on the Sheriff’s Department. He started his presentation on the County wide Marine Patrol program that was on probation but is now off. “I want to see our program grow,” said Morrison. “Lake Chelan is our primary focus.”

Regarding Traffic Enforcement, Morrison stated that the department doesn’t have the staffing it needs and has been operating with three deputies. Despite being understaffed, the department made 4,048 traffic stops so far in 2023, which is more than has ever been made in the County.

The Sheriff’s Department is the only agency that does not have body cameras. “We are working hard at getting them and have applied for a $100,000 grant for technology upgrades.” Those upgrades will include a $10,000 drone system.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if the department would do more foot patrols and whether or not foot patrols are practical or useful. He mentioned the bridge jumping issue.

Morrison replied that he would like to see more foot patrols to build relationships with the community. “I believe it is important to get out there.”

by Richard Uhlhorn

John Ajax – Community Development Director:

At the end of the Chelan County Hearing Examiner’s Public Hearing considering the Shoreline Development Permit (SSDP2022-02) and the Variance (VAR2022-04 ) applications submitted by the Campbell’s for a 16 unit Townhome at 300 W. Okanogan above Riverwalk Park, Community Development Director John Ajax remarked that all issues brought up in the hearing would be looked at carefully.

“It is important that we do have the public involved and important there is public participation,” Ajax stated.

Andrew Kottkamp – ChelanCounty Hearing Examiner:

The packed house hearing was conducted by Hearing Examiner Andrew Kottkamp who said, “There are a large amount of the public here. I’m limiting comments to two minutes per person. This is not a question/answer period,” stated Kottkamp. “When you have an emotional issue on the table it is necessary to be respectful and quiet.”

Kottkamp went on to say that his decision is final, but the public has a right to appeal his decision on the Shoreline Development Permit application to the Shoreline Hearings Board.

He then opened the hearing to Community Development Director John Ajax who stated that he has gone over the applications and that the applications for the residential development does comply with City Codes.

John Ajax report to Kottkamp:

“The staff is recommending approval of this application,” said Ajax.

Developer’s agent:

Charlie Underwood, the developer’s agent thanked the staff for their efforts in considering the applications. He noted that there are various concerns about overflow parking and that the developer is working with staff and the Public Works Department for off project parking.

Public Comments:

Twelve residents addressed the Hearing Examiner about their concerns over this development. There were also a number of letters the Planning Department received regarding the development. Many of those letters raised a number of concerns about the development’s impact, not only on the neighborhood, but transportation issues, parking issues, environmental issues and shoreline impact issues.

Mike Cooney was the first resident to speak and stated that he purchased his 100 year old home in what he called a true neighborhood. Cooney added that the development would impact the value of their property.

David Foruria said that Campbell’s bent a lot of rules to get what they wanted. His concern is the number of vehicles that would impact the area. “They need to contain parking on their property.” He also said that people were always speeding on 3rd Street and would like to see speed bumps installed.

Steven Easley was concerned about the traffic impacts on the old bridge, high school and the additional impact to an already busy Hwy. 97A. “I would like to at least open up 1st Street to Woodin Avenue and make it a two way street,” said Easley.

Mary Signorelli stated that public safety concerns have not been adequately addressed.

Kate Foruria called the neighborhood the last historic neighborhood in the City. “I’m not against progress and development,” she said, but noted her concerns about increased traffic and parking issues along with aging infrastructure.

Chris Baker told the Hearing Examiner that he was not speaking to support or deny private property rights. “The developers are working within the law,” said Baker. “They are playing by the rules set forth… the codes need updating.”

Bob Kohn, a retired housing contractor said, “This project is grossly overwhelming with parking issues.” He added that the project does not fit the property and called it pure greed on the developer’s part. “Don’t let them do this,” he exclaimed.

Tim Hollingsworth stated that his home of 26 years is directly across from the proposed project. “I don’t oppose best use of property within the law…zoning is a classic example of settled low density neighborhood.” He added that the project will have a negative impact on the use of the park.

After the public comments, Kottkamp told the audience that he would render a decision on the applications within 10 days. “I will look at all the issues very carefully,” Kottkamp stated. He mentioned the criteria regarding the Shoreline Permit as of some concern.

The Campbell’s and their agent have done everything they can do by the law and codes of the City. If granted the permits to move forward, the project will definitely have an impact on the neighborhood and surrounding area, but if all I’s have been dotted and T’s crossed and the project meets the City Codes, the project most likely will be given a green light.

Updates when the Hearing Examiner makes his decision will be posted.

b Richard Uhlhorn

John Ajax, community development director, told the Chelan City Council that the City hasn’t reached an agreement with either the Fire District or EMS (hospital) on the Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) proposal that will provide secure water delivery for years to come in what is being called East Chelan.

The infrastructure proposed to be constructed would include a water transfer system from the City limits on the west side to the east end of the City at Apple Blossom Center and down toward the fruit warehouses. It will also include a one million gallon reservoir.

The Junior Taxing Districts are concerned about the loss of property tax funds potentially derived from new construction within the TIF area which only represents two percent of each taxing district’s area.

“We have presented an alternative proposal to the Fire Department but are now recommending to continue negotiations,” said Ajax.

The third option was passed by the Council and stated:

“I move to continue negotiations with Chelan County Fire District 7 and EMS throughout 2024 to allow additional time to evaluate the potential impacts of service levels within the Tax Increment Area (TIA).

The City, of course, hopes to find alternative funding sources through legislative bodies including Federal funding for the project.

Councilman Chris Baker asked if Chelan was still the only City proposing a TIF program. Ajax replied that another City that has a TIA that is much bigger than Chelan.

Ajax added that a plan was in place, but no funds were available to begin.

In other business:

The City held a public hearing at the beginning of the meeting on the 2024 Property Tax Levy. Finance Director informed the Council that a one percent passage as allowed by law would increase the City’s Property tax to $1,866,471.17 or an increase of $86,945.52.

Most of the property tax revenues go to the Public Works Department.

The Council approved three motions before them:

An extension agreement to extend the  Social Media Management Services with Chelan Social from $40 per hour to $45 per hour.

A Task Authorization to RH2 Engineering for the West Woodin Avenue and Center Street Pedestrian Crossing design and a professional services agreement with SCJ Alliance for the Lakeside Trail Design

City Engineer Travis Denham told the Council that SCJ would be working on design and permitting along with holding two public meetings regarding the Lakeside Trail corridor planning. The design work will cost $338,996.

Mayor/Council comments:

Peter Jamtgaard said he appreciates the work that Mike Steele has accomplished as Chamber Director.

Tim Hollingsworth attended an RCO meeting and remarked that the Northshore Pathway from Manson to Chelan was still in the works. “There is considerable money out there to build that,” said Hollingsworth. “It would get the pedestrians and bicyclists out of the traffic lanes and increase safety.”

Erin McCardle said she had attended a Washington State Tourism Conference in Yakima and stated that she learned a lot about creating a set of community values and how to measure that success.

McCardle also said that the Mayor race was still not certified. “The Mayor and I have a great relationship and I’ve learned a lot from Bob,” said McCardle. (At this writing it appears that McCardle will become Mayor Elect.).

Goedde said the percentage break between the two probably wouldn’t change and McCardle would take his place as Mayor. “I hope you have a good time.”

City Engineer Travis Denham reported to the Council that Public Works has installed a new pump at the Darnell Pump Station. “It was a big job getting a big piece of equipment installed,” he said.

Wade Farris said he and Bob attended the ICC meeting. “It was my first time and and it was worthwhile. There were some good ideas on how to fund water projects.”

by Richard Uhlhorn

Once again, the Chelan City Council has bowed to the Lake Chelan Chamber’s request that it extend its $700,000 funding for one more year as the Council tries to come to terms with a new contract, not to mention that the committed selected to write a new contract only met twice this past year.

The Council voted 5-2 to extend the contract negotiations for another year, giving the Chamber another run at attracting visitors to the valley with no accountability of how they actually spend the money they use.

During Council discussion on the topic, Councilwoman (Mayor Elect) Erin McCardle in answer to a written statement entered into the record by Councilman John Olson that the Chamber delivers a written report every month to the Finance Department. “The Chamber submits a line item every month of dollars spent,” she said, then added that if the Council members don’t access that report, it is their fault.

City Administrator Wade Farris remarked that an extension was needed “to make sure we get everything right.”

Councilman Chris Baker asked Farris what the sticking points were to make an extension necessary. Farris replied that there were no real sticking points.

Olson, who had proposed earlier in the year at a City workshop that perhaps the Chamber could give up $400,000 of its requested $700,000 for use on Tourism related infrastructure. Chamber Director Mike Steele shot back to Olson’s request that it wasn’t the Chambers responsibility to provide for infrastructure… it is the City’s.

At issue with many residents and others is the influx of visitors during the summer months that overcrowd the community creating traffic jams and other limitations for residents like access to the lake.

Olson wrote, A year ago, the Counci agreed enough with my concerns that a 5-yeare renewal request from the Chamber was tabled and a 1-year extension was instituted with an agreement to renegotiate a new contract and a negotiating committee was formed; that committee had one meeting without any consensus and no follow up. (It should be noted here that Olson was a part of the committee). Now the Council is offered antoher 1-year extension, more of “just kicking the can down the road.” The Chamber has never fulfilled their obligations under Paragraph 5 of the Funding Agreement Chamber Reporting Requirements. The Council has never seen a report. These funds have never seen an audit in many years.

(Editor’s note: A number of years ago, the Chamber, at the request of the City, was audited by the State which found a number of discrepancies in its use of Lodging tax revenues)

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked what the Lodging tax revenues were last year? Finance Director Jackie Tupling replied that she didn’t have those numbers in front of her. Hollingsworth remarked that there was a $2.7 million dollar balance. “I would like to see negotiations move forward.”

Steele gave a short history of the tax and said that nothing the Chamber does is related to infrastructure. “It is the clear responsibility of the City.”

Steele went on to say that transparency is very important and that the funds are a part of Chelan’s economy and is a business driver. “Our goal is to continue the conversation,” said Steele. “What kind of report is needed.”

Councilman Peter Jamtgaard reiterated that an extension was granted last year to write a new contract. (The Chambers old 5-year contract ended on December 31, 2022). “I’m in support of John’s comments. I don’t like kicking the can down the road.”

Councilman Mark Ericks (also a committee member) remarked that with the new proposal for another extension gave the committee good reason to work hard at crafting a new contract. “There needs to be more interaction between the Council and Chamber,” said Ericks. He added that he didn’t disagree with the comments on infrastructure. “‘m a big proponent of fixing infrastructure. I also recognize, as a resident, that the nature of the tourist industry has changed. I applaud the Chamber’s efforts of promoting family events.” He also remarked that it was the Chamber’s duty to do the right type of advertising and said he supports the extension.

Steele stated that he has enjoyed and appreciated working with the City and also appreciates the City Council. “I too want to get the contract right.”

Mayor Goedde remarked that a tremendous amount of money has been raised through the 3% lodging tax but that it isn’t a none way street. “I would like to see a breakout like Leavenworth has,” said Goedde. (Several months ago, the Mayor was in possession of an expenditure report by the Leavenworth Chamber that detailed exactly where each and every penny was spent.) “It’s a no brainer,” stated Goedde.

Hollingsworth added that he would like to see a comprehensive plan on how to use that money. “We need to leverage that wealth.”

Jamtgaard remarked that hates waiting until the last minute to address these issues.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan City Council was given an introduction to Transportation Benefit Districts (TBD) at a Wednesday, November 8 workshop with the expressed outcome for the Council to understand the process to move forward.

A Transportation Benefit District provides a City of County a funding source to be used only for Street and Sidewalk Improvements. “The funds are dedicated,” City Administrator Wade Farris said. “They cannot be spent on anything other than streets or sidewalks by law.”

Instigating a TBD takes approximately a year to accomplish and requires a board to be formed of council members, generally with the Mayor overseeing the process without a vote. This board must figure out how to fund the process.

Once the Council has agreed to move forward in establishing a TBD, a Public Hearing is required after which the full council votes on the process.

The Council will eventually decide on how funds will be raised which could include:

• A Vehicle License tab fee up to $20. “That is not a good idea for funding,” said Farris.
• A .01% or .03% raise of the sales tax. “This is the most likely path forward,” said Farris.

A .03% addition to the Sales Tax would raise approximately $1 million dollars per year. The additional tax is spread out with 75% of sales tax being generated by tourists and visitors to the District.

Once the fund is established, Farris stated that it could be used as a match for street and sidewalk grants from agencies. “It would have a positive impact and since it is sales tax driven, tourists would also be paying their share,” said Farris.

“We could get it in place this year,” Farris said. He added that over the next year public hearings on the measure would be held after which it would be placed on the election ballot. “We would wait until the November 2024 election to get the largest turnout,” Farris said. “Then (if passed by the voters) we could start collecting in 2025.”

TBDs:

Any City or County may form a TBD by ordinance after a Public Hearing. The City must specify the boundaries of the district to be formed and may not change those boundaries without further public hearings.

An established TBD must be governed by members of that jurisdiction’s legislative body.

Since TBDs have been allowed, voters have approved the vast majority of all proposed sales and use taxes. Leavenworth and Wenatchee have approved TBDs.

A municipality is required to submit financial reports to the State Auditors Office on a yearly basis.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The City of Chelan Planning Department has five priorities which Community Development Director John Ajax laid out for the City Council and staff. Those priorities are:

• LongRange Planning
• Long-term Financial Sustainability and seeking funding for the Tax Increment Area (TIA).
• Zoning Code Updates
• Affordable Housing Implementation
• Departmental Growth and Efficiency Improvements

Ajax was elevated to the position of Community Development Director when Craig Gildroy passed away suddenly. Ajax admits to being on a large learning curve and while overwhelmed at times, he has done a credible job of leading the department into the future.

LongRange Planning:

“We are really going to look at our Comprehensive Plan and the dynamics of what is going on,” said Ajax. The Comp. Plan updates are scheduled for completion by 2026. When completed it will hopefully guide the City’ growth and development for 20 years.

Affordable housing:

The department plays a crucial role in the future of the City. It is where contractors and residents apply for permits. “We are receiving a lot of sales tax money from construction projects,” said Ajax. However, according to the City’s Finance Director Jackie Tuppling, the economic outlook is not good. “Building permits are down,” she says. “Less people are buying now.”

Financial stability:

The department under Ajax will be seeking sustainability by exploring alternative funding mechanisms. Some of those alternatives include opions such as an affordablie housing sales tx or the establishment of a transportation benefit district (TBD) to diversify revenue sources. The department will also evaluate development impact fees.

With over 40 percent of real estate sales being second homes, the department is committed to implementing the Housing Action Plan and will work with a variety of stakeholders, developers and non-profit organizations. “The second home issue has a huge impact on rentals,” said Ajax.

The department’s goal is to look at all affordable housing options and hopefully improve access to housing for all residents.

New home construction relies on available land and resources. There are a number of developments planned for the future.

Tax Benefit Area (and financing):

The TIF (Tax Increment Financing) program has raised many questions from the Junior Taxing Districts, i.e. Chelan Fire and Rescue and Lake Chelan Health. The City is working with these and other junior taxing districts to find common ground. The TBA (Tax Benefit Area) takes in most of East Chelan and when the TIF program begins, new construction sales taxes within that area will go to the City to help fund the proposed water improvement project that includes a one million gallon reservoir.

The Planning Department and City administration will explore other funding mechanisms to hopefully take the pressure off the Junior Taxing Districts. These funding (grant and low-interest loans) appropriations would help reduce the burden of debt service for public improvements.

Zoning Code Updates:

The department is proposing to prioritize short-term and long-term improvements in its Zoning Code. These updates would be used to address emerging challenges, and hopefully enhance the effectiveness of zoning regulations. Public input will be sought throughout the process.

A few of these updates will include an adaptive re-use of Public Buildings (old Hospital) and revising Downtown Code Uses, such as single-family and height restrictions.

Long range updates include GMA requirements in the Comprehensive Plan. These changes could include allowing two accessory dwellings per residential lot.

Planning Department growth and efficiency:

Ongoing training and education of department staff will be a priority to help improve its efficiency. Ajax would also like to see internal processes streamlined to help the department’s customer service and better serve the needs of the community.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The City of Chelan held its annual Retreat at the Chelan Golf Course Clubhouse in early October to give City Council the State of the City by directors of each department and to identify and prioritize issue and find solutions.

Wade Farris, city administrator opened the meeting with an overview of the retreat’s objectives, which are to add diversity, economic stability, developing a growth plan, build the economy on the shoulder seasons, and quality of life for its residents.

Objectives for 2024 include more lake access and docks along with explaining the benefit tourists bring to the community.

The City should pursue the development of retirement condominiums along with more tourist accommodations.

In the next 10 years, Chelan’s greatest challenge will be land use practices. One objective is to make Chelan a thriving year round economy. The preservation of Lake Chelan is also of utmost importance over the next 10 years.

I’m going to take each department day by day instead of writing a long and extensive article on the Retreat. So the next five days each department will be covered in depth so the reader can better understand the issues each City Department faces in the coming years.

Office of the City Clerk:

The City Clerk’s Department, operates under City Clerk Peri Gallucci. Gallucci, has earned the designation of Master Municipal Clerk (MMC), which is awarded by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC), Inc.

IIMC grants the MMC designation only to those municipal clerks who complete demanding education requirements; and who have a record of significant contributions to their local government, their community and state.

The International Institute of Municipal Clerks, founded in 1947, has 14,000 members throughout the United States, Canada and 15 other countries, and the mission of this global non-profit corporation is to enhance the education opportunities and professional development of its diverse membership.

Her department continues to develop automated workflows, staff training/certifications, the new website/public portal, public records requests and records management.

Gallucci told the Council and other departments that the more documents she can get on line, “the better.” Gallucci has been working on tuning the workflow in the office since 2017. “With Cailey (Couch) on board we’ve made real progress,” said Gallucci. Couch serves as assistant City Clerk.

Public record requests have been a huge drain on the office and its finances. Mayor Goedde remarked that the municipality has lost a lot of money responding to records requests.

The Clerks office is digitizing all public records so the public can access their questions on the City’s website. This is a long process, but will alleviate staff’s time and efforts to find public records for requests from the public.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked how different departments deal with these requests. Gallucci gave an example of the new portal on the website for records requests. “If you type in Chelan Hills, everything to do with Chelan Hills will come up in the Central Depository.” Finance Director Jackie Tuppling added that if the City has the record, it has to provide it to the requestor.

Councilman Mark Ericks remarked that in his experience, 20% of requests are just picking a fight with the government and the other 80% are legitimately looking for information. “It’s a problem… it’s always a fight, but it is what it is,” he said.

Next up – Community Development and Planning.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Dan Crandall, Lake Chelan Arts Council, presented the latest plans for Tsilly – The Lake Dragon sculpture being offered as the newest sculpture for the community. He said the council is seeking an exciting location for the sculpture to be placed where people gather.

Currently the Council is looking at next May for the casting in Oregon. The sculpture is designed by artist Jerry McKellar and the Arts Council as raised through donations, $33,813 with $12,575 remaining which the Arts Council is requesting from the City.

That decision will come later during the budget hearing.

Most of the City Council’s agenda on Tuesday evening was taken up with contract renewals.

Library – This is a continuing contract that will run from January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026 at $4.00 per sq. ft. based on 7,335 sq. feet. and from January 1, 2027 through December 31, 2029 at $4.25 per sq. ft.

Councilman John Olson remarked that North Central Washington has a wonderful library system and the Council unanimously approved the new contract. (Shari Dietrich and Erin McCardle were not in attendance. Peter Jamtgaard was on ZOOM).

Prosecution Services – City Attorney Quentin Batjer presented a new prosecution agreement for consideration by the Council. Batjer explained that the contract used to be based on a fixed yearly fee, but that the Prosecutor wanted to change the fee structure to a per case issue, i.e $275.00 last year. They wanted to up it to $300.00 this year. “We had fewer cases this year,” said Batjer. “We had 110 cases last year which was fewer than the 200 cases the year before.” The cost this coming year based on 110 cases would be $33,000.

Tim Hollingsworth asked how much time is spent on cases. Batjer replied that it would depend on the type of case being tried. “If it’s a misdemeanor case, probably not that much, but if it’s a DUI, it might be more intensive timewise.”

John Olson asked how much it has cost since 2004 when Chelan lost its court. Batjer said that up to 2020, the City was paying a flat fee of $60,000. “We are paying less than half of that now.” If the trend goes up, the court would get more money based on the per case issue.

The council unanimously approved the County Prosecution Services Agreement for 2024.

Record keeping amendment for Consultant – City Clerk Peri Gallucci told the council that MG Consulting Services would be coming back during the first week of November to continue the efforts to digitize public records on an hourly basis. No questions were asked by the Council and they approved the amendment to the contract.

Fire hydrant contract for ParksMaintenanceBuilding – Parks Director Paul Horne presented a contract by KRCI LLC to install a 365 linear foot eight inch waterline to connect the new Maintenance building to fire hydrants to the nearest waterline using a hot tap method to avoid losing downstream loss of water service during the connection work.

Mayor Goedde asked if the nearest connection was across Hwy 150. Horne replied that it was. The Council approved the work which will be funded with money budgeted for the new building.

DOE cost reimbursements – Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the Council that the City of Chelan sits pretty favorably with water rights. The City of Chelan currently has a water right application no. S4-32847 in the DOE queue to be processed as part of the CCRB (Coordinated Cost Reimbursement Program).

The City’s water right application is requesting 0.34 cubic feet per second (CFS) from Lake Chelan for irrigation with a total annual quantity up to 45 acre feet per year. The fee associated with processing this application as part of the CCRB is $7,535.

Youngren added that the City also has a much larger application making its way up the list. That application is a request for 3,800 acre feet of water, which if grant by the DOE would eliminate applications below that application. In addition, the Lake Chelan Reclamation District and Chelan County also have water right applications in.

Council approved this motion unanimously.

TIF Update – Community Development Director John Ajax updated the Council on negotiations with Chelan County Fire District No. 7.

The District proposed a plan wherein it would collect $1,570.00 per call within the TIF area over 35 calls which has been the three year average. Ajax stated that the City has some concerns with that proposal and has drafted an alternative proposal for the fire department to consider. This alternative proposal is aligned more closely with population growth  within the TIA from new construction.

The alternative mitigation would begin after the first multi-family project is completed and achieves a 95% occupancy rate. Additionally, the second part of the City’s alternative proposal states that the monetary mitigation payment would begin when the call volume within the TIA exceeds 10 percent of the total call volume of the Fire District.

Ajax stated that the original proposal from the Fire Department would have the City paying beyond its control.

Ajax said the City is waiting on a reply to the alternative proposal. City Administrator Wade Farris added that the City is looking for other funding alternatives to the TIF from Congressional appropriations also.

Chris Baker brought up the point that a call out could be for an issue the Fire Department doesn’t have to be there or is not directly involved or actually participating in the EMS call. Ajax replied that such a call could be a simple false alarm and that First Responders are required to respond by state law. Farris added that it is complicated.

John Olson asked how the mitigation with the Hospital was going. Ajax replied that EMS is run by the hospital so that is currently where that is.

Mayor/Council comments:

Peter Jamtgaard said he likes the Tsilly Lake Dragon because it fits the community.

John Olson thanked CFO Jackie Tuppling for providing a comprehensive list with notes on the gifting of public funds. “The numbers exceed $1.2 million (including another $700,000 to the Chamber who are still working without a contract). The following link will take the interested party to the funding requests.

blob:https://outlook.live.com/517950dd-8f3b-4b91-b91b-2dcfb567ae15

Mayor Goedde said he has attended a Mayor Association meeting attended by over 60 Mayors from around Washington. His other activities have included a Chelan County forum on tourism and LINK transit.

Goedde talked about the potential of using the 20 acre Beebe property currently owned by the County for affordable housing; constructing an EV Charging Station at the end of Emerson Street across from Riverwalk Park, two floating walkways; one at the dock to the pavilion and another west of the third Finger. “When I approached the PUD on these they had no objections, so we have consensus with the PUD.

Chris Baker asked how long a floating walkway is. Goedde replied that it depends on the area. Goedde said he plans on sending the idea to staff to see what they think.

Jackie Tuppling told the Council that the City now has a facilities specialist on board who will be looking at all of the City’s properties.

John Ajax said that October 31 is a deadline for a $100,000 grant for preparation of the GMA Comprehensive Plan update has been extended to June 30, 2024.

Wade Farris remarked that the new facilities specialist should have been in place 10 years ago.

Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan Fire and Rescue held its monthly commissioner meeting on 10/18/23. Chief Brandon Asher reported that the financials of the district are under budget for the year so far.

The District responded to 92 calls of which several were cardiac arrests. “It took 15 shocks on one individual to bring him back,” said Asher. “He is now recovering.”

Asher reported that a TIF meeting was held with the City and that another meeting is scheduled for October 24.

Asher also reported that Doug Jones is the new RiverCom director. The new radio system was demoded and it didn’t work as expected. Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman said, “It only worked when we had line of sight.”

Last week was the last week the annual seasonal firefighters were on duty. “We can’t thank them enough,” said Asher. “They helped our tax payers and one of them received a provisional job offer at another fire district.”

Sherman asked the commissioners if the district can improve the incentive pay for volunteers to make it more palpable to them. Asher added that was the current plan to get volunteers in for drills.

Brush 71 was sold for $110,000 which helps the district pay off a refurbished Type 3 truck that is expected to be on line in November. The District will receive one of its new engines on January 29. “The second one is not started yet,” said Asher. The manufacturer has agreed to pay the $15,000 shipping costs. The delays, according to Asher has been COVID. “They have had 37 factory workers out.”

The district is paying $748,000 for each of the new wildland fire engines. “They would cost $900,000 now.

Sherman reported that he is processing a new application at the PIO level. “That will be a big help,” he said. He added that the Volunteer Academy is shifting back to Wenatchee and that Mark Donnell is participating.

After the meeting, Asher stated that his phone is ringing off the hook from other fire organizations regarding the Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) program. “We are getting calls from other agencies about TIFs. They have hundred’s of questions.”

Asher added that the City has the District’s TIF proposal and said they would reply with a counter proposal.