by Richard Uhlhorn

SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE
Wednesday, March 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Deanna Walters – Chelan County Planner
John Ajax – Chelan City Planner
Discussion about current and future growth
in the County and City

Fire Chief report:
Chelan Fire and Rescue responded to 83 calls in December, most of which were EMS calls. “The average calls for December is 56,” said Chief Brandon Asher. “We are getting busier.”

In 2022 the District and EMS responded to 1081 calls. In December, Chelan Fire had on CPR Save on December 30, and multiple calls for snow/water damage including a lot of broken water pipes, sprinkler leaks and roofs that caved in. “The Grandview is still under fire watch,” stated Asher.

Administratively, the staff are getting its policies in one location for easy access. Asher told the commissioners that the 2023 Contract negotiations were coming up and that the district would be using comparables for the talks.

After the last day of the EMT class coming up, the district will be fully staffed. “We are working on a volunteer to work in a coordinator position. “This person on staff will help us out with recruitment,” said Asher.

Asher told the commissioners that they were working on regional job opportunities and seasonal hires.

Assistant Chief report:
Assistant Chief Shaun Sherman reported that one volunteer has dropped out but that the district is taking on up to two more volunteers. “We have five or so going to the Fire Academy and three that are still in the EMT class,” said Sherman. There is also an automobile extraction class being conducted.

The commissioners and staff agreed on a March 1 meeting with Chelan County Assessor/Interim County Planner, Deanna Walters and City Development Director John Ajax to talk to the district about current growth and future growth trends from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. “We are hoping to look 10 years down the road.”

Commissioner comments:
Russ Jones stated that some of the district’s volunteers are taking on more duties. Assistant Chief Sherman replied that the District is conducting a quartermaster program to help build out the Marine Program. Volunteer firefighters John Steiner and Ben Simmons want to help.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Meeting Notice

Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gearing will host a meeting on Thursday, January 26, in the Chelan Fire and Rescue meeting room (232 E. Wapato Avenue) in Chelan. She will be joined by ChelanCounty’s new sheriff Mike Morrison, ChelanCountyRegional JusticeCenter director Chris Sharp and Behavioral Health Unit manager Ana Johnson to discuss County updates and answer questions

Pam Calhoun and Chris Willoughby were sworn into positions on the Manson Community Council on Tuesday evening, January 17, after which annual elections took place with Kari Sorenson retaining the chair for another year.

Calhoun is new to the council and accepted the nomination as secretary. John Frokler became the new treasurer.

Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gearing made a surprise visit to the council meeting and remarked that the County passed a new 2023 budget. “It was a difficult decision,” she said.

Short Term Rentals:

Gearing reported that 67 home owners did not re-apply for Short Term Rental (STR) status for 2023. “Most likely they are from Leavenworth to Manson,” said Gearing.

The reasons why so many past STR businesses declined to renew their permits is in question, but the owners are either tired of the hassles, are moving to their second homes permanently or for some unknown reason.

Fourteen STR renewals were late and claimed hardship for the reason their applications were late. What the County considers a hardship is a problem. Frokler asked if they had plenty of time to get their applications in? Gearing replied that there was plenty of time to reapply. “Anyone who applied over the time limit was denied,” said Gearing.

Sorenson asked Gering if there was a list of permitted STRs. Gearing thought so, and Sorenson asked if she could obtain a copy. Manson resident Brian Patterson stated that a current list would provide the community a list of who was permitted. There are STRs that operate that are not permitted.

Gearing stated that the County should be working towards having the list on its website. “Let me find out more details,” she said. “We knew we were going to have procedural issues.” There are currently 700+ approved STRs in the county. “If we just had a list, it would make it so much easier,” stated Sorenson. Gearing replied that it needs to be made public.

Manson Incorporation feasibility:

Manson resident Mike Kirk remarked that the area is booming and asked if there was a possibility of Manson incorporating. Willoughby replied that a feasibility study was conducted in the 90s and again in 2008 and it was determined that incorporation was not feasible at that point.

“We are now at a point where it could change,” said Willoughby. “We would need a public meeting to explore the idea,” stated Willoughby. Frokler added that the Council needs to get the word out so the Council would know what the public thinks. “There is a lot of work if you want to incorporate.” Gearing stated that a public meeting might be good.

Calhoun said that there would be a need for a list of pros and cons to incorporation. Kirk stated that some residents would like to be annexed into the City of Chelan. Gearing replied that, “A lot of people moved to Manson because it wasn’t a city.”

Chelan City Councilman John Olson said that the City was going after a $300,000 grant to study the feasibility of purchasing Chelan Butte and wondered if there would be funds available to conduct a incorporation feasibility in Manson.

Frokler suggested that the Council have an open forum with the public. “If the citizens want to go forward, then we could go after money.”

Driftwood and Grizzly Bears:

Gearing reported that the County Commissioners were working on the issues of removing driftwood from the Lake and keeping the introduction of Grizzly bears out of the North Cascades.

Driftwood has become a safety issue for recreational boaters on the lake and the commission is seeking ways of legally removing the wood.

The County and many residents were totally against the introduction of Grizzly bears into the North Cascades Ecosystem several years ago, but the National Park Service has brought up the issue again and gathered public input up to December 14, 2022.

For more information on this issue, visit the North Cascades National Park Service website: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/​NCEGrizzly.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan Butte acquisition:

City Administrator Wade Ferris stated that before the City approves a resolution to help support purchase the 875 acres of Chelan Butte property that is owned by Golden Gate Ventures (and is currently under a two year hold by a new developer), the City will want to determine any environmental and other issues concerning the property.

The Council approved the City becoming a co-applicant for a Local Community Project request for $300,000 from the 2023 Washington State Capital Budget for a planning grant to the Trust for Public Land (TPL) to study issues pertaining to the preservation of the 875 acres on Chelan Butte, options for land acquisition funding, land uses, ownership structure, development and maintenance costs, etc.

This grant would include extensive community engagement and a final report before the City makes a decision to approve a resolution to partner on the purchase.

Erin McCardle asked if there was any matching funds or other financial implications associated with the $300,000 grant? Brian Patterson replied that it was a capital appropriation and no other costs would be associated with the grant.

Boyd Road Property acquisition:

Ferris stated that City staff is in the process of confirming the price of the five acres with the County, the County’s terms, and if there are any issues that would preclude development of the property.

The other issue is confirming that the City can fit the $120,000 purchase price into the budget. Council approved staff to negotiate with the County.

Once all the issues are positively confirmed, staff will present an offer and then a contract for Council approval.

Golf Course Irrigation project:

An analysis of the Lake Chelan Golf Course’s current irrigation system by Mears Design Group found that the system is well below current efficiency standards for golf course irrigation needs

The consultant recommended designing a new irrigation system prioritizing the following elements:

1. Replace irrigation mainline and lateral piping.

2. Incorporate new efficient irrigation sprinkler heads with single head control.

3. Incorporate isolation valves throughout the course system.

4. Incorporate new pump stations with wet wells.

5. Incorporate a central control communication to pump systems.

This recommended course of action was approved by Council via the 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Program.

Council authorized the Mayor to accept and approve the extended Professional Services Agreement with Mears Design Group to design a new irrigation system based on consultant recommendations.

Golf and Recreation Rate adjustments:

This issue was addressed in an earlier article, but Paul Horne told the Council that the new adjustments would help bring the rates charged at the golf course closer to market rates.

With regards to the adjustments to the Youth Recreation rates, Horne explained that the City isn’t making any profit off these rates, but adjusting them so the Parks Department breaks even on costs associated with AAU and other youth recreation issues.

Steve Thornton consulting agreement:

The Council authorized Mayor Goedde to finalize and execute a consultant agreement with Thornton to provide his experience and expertise when needed by the City’s new Finance Director, Jackie Tupling while she learns the nuances of the position.

Thornton will be retained for $1,000 per month and when consulting, paid $80 per hour for one year or less as needed.

Mayor/Council Comments:

Tim Hollingsworth attended a meeting of the Town Toyota board where funding for a feasibility of the proposed Regional Recreation Center was discussed. Hollingsworth stated that the Port of Chelan County is trying to pass a new Taxing District that would involve all the North Central Washington cities.

Hollingsworth, who voted no on the issue, said that it was approved by the Board 5-2. “I voted against not paying for another taxing district,” said Hollingsworth. “I’m keeping an open mind, but I didn’t feel it was appropriate.”

John Olson reported that the Downtown Revitalization Committee has hired Beckworth Consulting to continue work on the revitalization project.

He also reported that he, Ferris and Goedde visited a micro house village in Kitsap County where the County has purchased 60 pallet homes for $15,000 each. These little units have two cots and a shelf at the end for some storage, but no bathroom facility or kitchen. “They are very expensive and manufactured in a factory,” said Olson.

Chris Baker gave a shout out the Parks Department and Nordic Ski Club for grooming  cross-country ski trails at the golf course. (The Nordic Club has groomed for classic and skate styles at the course).

Mayor Goedde made a visit to Oliver, BC and reported that Oliver’s mayor would like to reopen the Sister City designation. “It was stopped during the pandemic, but I like the idea,” said Goedde.

He also reported on SJR 8201-22 that amends the State Constitution to allow the legislature to convene a special session upon an affirmative vote of three-fifths of its members.

Goedde also mentioned that if residents have a storm drain that is not working to call Public Works (509-682-8030) and report it so it can be cleaned out to work properly.

Wade Ferris introduced Sgt. Rob Huddleston as the City’s new department head. Huddleston, who had been assigned other duties within the department over the last five years said, “I’m excited to be back up here. A lot of stuff has changed.” He said he will be tackling the continuing parking issues and also reported that Sheriff Morrison is committed to increasing marine patrols on the lake. ‘It is high on his list,” said Huddleston.

Jake Youngren, public works director, reported that the Chelan/Douglas County Transportation Council is helping the City find different projects that can be funded. “They have a new Trails Leadership Committee,” said Youngren. “There are some federal programs out there with money.”

Youngren is looking at the Northshore Pathway as a potential priority for that committee and said the pathway would cost in the neighborhood of $50 million to construct. “I’ll let your know. I am appreciative of this committee being put together.” Mayor Goedde added that there are some heavy hitters in that committee.

Paul Horne said there was a big pile of Christmas trees for Winterfest at the park, but are looking for more.

Jackie Tupling reported that the airport is being audited and that the annual report is due in May.

Luis Gonzalez, sitting in for Community Development Director John Ajax reported that business was rather slow with all the snow.

There are plans to move the Planning Department into an area of the Sheriff’s space and Gonzalez said an RFP was going out for design bids on the space.

Wade Ferris said, “Officially as of today we’ve had two months of snow.

He also told the Council that the City was taking steps to remove vehicles that have been illegally parked. “We will concentrate initially on those cars that are not licensed and get them off the streets.”

The next Council meeting will be on January 24 at 6 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Annalisa Noble, T-O Engineering, walked Chelan City Council members and staff through the City’s 2023 Legislative priorities, a 2023 Funding opportunity schedule, a Funding matrix and a list of 2023 CIP Proposed priorities.

“By the end of this workshop I want the council to let me know what to focus on,” Noble said.

 She brought forth the 2023 Legislative Priorities for Chelan which included:

1. Traffic and Pedestrian Safety – this issue includes well marked cross-walks on Woodin and Saunders between the bridge and Woodin, as well as in front of Chelan’s schools.
   Constructing roundabouts at busy intersections at Saunders & Johnson, Woodin & Saunders to improve traffic flow.
   Upgrading sidewalks and crossings to meet ADA requirements
2. Support Chelan’s Youth – search for funding that supports opportunities for young people to engage in outdoor activities; skate park, pump track, basketball courts, ice rink, support for community center under construction.
3. Affordable Housing – funding is needed for more flexible control over housing needs:
   Broaden eligibility requirements; legislation which gives local jurisdictions more control including land donations and use of local tax revenues;
   Use a housing affordability index instead of median income for funding eligibility;
   More local control of building and panning codes to make it easier to construct dormitories and short term rentals for additional worker housing availability.
4. Lake Chelan – Funding to support Lake Chelan projects:
   Increased and improved waterfront access;
   Enhanced safety on the lake including more marine patrol and buoys.
   Water quality monitoring.

Councilwoman Erin McCardle would like to see actionable projects put together. “We want to get together and hoping at some point we will have actionable projects in 2023.”

Chelan has an opportunity to apply for a number of grants over the next year for a variety of projects in all categories. The federal government is funding state agencies at high levels.

Water/Wastewater Projects:

Noble told the Council that water/wastewater projects have a lot of potential for grants and loans. “A lot is available right now. That’s where the money is.”

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth brought up the need for stormwater and flood control assistance. City Administrator Wade Ferris mentioned the flood situation in Chelan Hills. “We need to see if there are grants available for stormwater.” Noble stated that she would give the Council an extra overview of stormwater grant availability. Hollingsworth said the issue needs to be added to the CIP (Capital Improvements Projects) and that a proposal needs to be put together.

Transportation Projects:

In August, the Transportation Improvement Board will be considering grant applications for small cities. Noble recommended that the City apply annually for transportation projects. The City is interested in pedestrian safety projects that could include several roundabouts in town.

Another project high on the list for grant funding will be the Lakeside Trail from downtown to Lakeside Park. “A lot of our parks and recreation could be considered in economic development,” said Hollingsworth. “We need eyes on the Lakeside Trail.” Public Works Director Jake Youngren said that the trail should be on CIP list to get funded.

The completion of the trail could be funded through a combination of grants from the Recreation & Conservation Office, the Transportation Improvement Board and Washington State Department of Transportation.

Chelan Youth:

Projects like a new Skate Park and Pump Track are on the horizon for funding through the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) and Chelan is eligible for grant funds.

There is differing views on the eventual skate park location. A public meeting of parents and skaters prefer Don Morse Park as the location, but several council members would like to see it constructed in South Chelan.

Other projects serving Chelan’s youth could be basketball and pickleball courts and City support of the Community Center which is currently under construction.

The skate park/pump track is estimated to cost $1.5 million and could be constructed in 2025.

Affordable Housing:

Noble told the Council that there are not a lot of vehicles for funding affordable housing currently, but that there is apparently $4 billion for Affordable Housing in the federal budget. “I don’t know what that means right now,” said Noble.

Lake Chelan:
One of the largest demands by residents and the public at large is better access to the lake. There are a number of street end locations designated, but the cost to preparing them is high and the time to turn the wish list into reality takes time.

Another issue on the lake is more safety measures such as better marine patrol and buoy placements to keep personal watercraft away from the shoreline.

Funding is also needed for the Lake Chelan Research Institute to continue lake quality research and to find solutions to the emerging near shore issues including the removal of milfoil and pond weed infestation.

Over the next months, Annalisa Noble will be working closely with the Chelan City Council and City staff to develop a funding strategy for 2023.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan’s Tuesday workshop began with a standing room only crowd attending to hear the Chelan Butte acquisition discussion. Most of the crowd attending the session were from Chelan or the Lake Chelan Valley, but were proponents of the successful Wenatchee Foothill’s Project.

City Administrator Wade Ferris opened the meeting explaining that public comment is not allowed at the City’s workshops.

The primary discussion topic of the Butte acquisition was a proffered Resolution of the City Council commitment to preserve areas of Chelan Butte for public access and use.

This resolution seeks the City as a co-applicant for a Local Community Project request for $300,000 from the 2023 Washington State Capital Budget for a planning grant to the Trust for Public Land (TPL) to study issues pertaining tot he preservation of Chelan Butte, including options for land acquisition funding, land uses, ownership structure, and development and maintenance costs.

TPL’s planning process would include extensive community engagement and a final report summarizing its findings.

Wenatchee’s Park Director, David Erickson, gave a presentation to the Council and staff about the process the City of Wenatchee and its citizens went through to acquire, with the help of TPL, the land for its Foothill’s project. “This actually began in 1909,” said Erickson who added, “hopefully your project will not take that long.”

In the late 90’s the citizens of Wenatchee asked the City to look at grants for the Foothills. The first grant came from the National Park Service and the Saddle Rock area was adopted in 2006. A community strategy document was prepared. “It was the community that came together,” said Erickson. The plan was adopted by Chelan County, Port of Chelan County and the City of Wenatchee.

Erickson told the Council that thousands and thousands of people helped make the Foothills Project a success. Saddlerock, the Lower Castle Rock Nature Area, Foothills Natural Area, Saddlerock Gateway, Foothills Regional Recreation Area and the Sage Hills Gateway are just a few of the successful projects undertaken with the help of TPL and the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust.

Erickson stated that the process includes land acquisition, development and then, operations and maintenance. “It’s a long process which has taken us 20 years.”

Mayor Bob Goedde asked Erickson what the operational costs were for the 1,800 acres. Erickson replied that he couldn’t give actual numbers, but that there was a City Crew that helped with maintenance and operations.

Goedde replied that the Chelan residents cannot afford to maintain a system. “I’m concerned about the cost of operations,” said Goedde.

The City has included $500,000 in its 2023-2027 Capital Improvements Program toward the purchase of up to 875 acres of Butte lands owned by Golden Gate Ventures of Salt Lake City, UT.

Chelan Basin Conservancy has been the lead organization to move this process to its current status. Councilman Tim Hollingsworth stated that there are potential partners woh would work with the City including the Lake Chelan Trails Alliance.

Councilman Chris Baker asked how long the $500,000 was good for and was told up to five years. Councilman John Olson said that the Saddle Rock trailhead has all 50 slots full of users on any given day. Hollingsworth added that, if acquired, the Butte property would become a regional facility.

Potential partners include the City, Trust for Public Land, Chelan Basin Conservancy, Lake Chelan Trails Alliance and the Chelan-Douglas Land Trust.

The resolution for the City to be involved in the Butte acquisition will be up for further discussion and potential City commitment to provide the necessary actions to preserve the areas of Chelan Butte for public use.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chief’s Report:

According to Chief Brandon Asher, Chelan Fire and Rescue’s financial is 95% of where “we should be.” He reported that the district is still expecting $16,500 in State Mobilization funds to come in.

The district responded to 103 calls in November against an average of 59 calls. Seventeen of the month’s calls were for Advanced Life Support transport.

Fire related calls included a car fire on November 9, a vehicle over the side of 97A on November 27 and a Couch Fire on November 28. “We had a decent response for the roll over on the 27th,” said Asher.

Asher reported that the district was still waiting on the City’s fire inspection plans.

The new firefighters graduating from the academy in Wenatchee received high praise from the staff and received two of the three awards handed out.

The district has received new chainsaws for urban/wildfire use to replace their aging old saws.

The district will be releasing its first newsletter in January. It will be sent out to residents residing within the district boundaries.

On the operation front, the district will have better radio reception based on RiverCom’s upgrades. “This will definitely help us in the upper Lake Chelan Valley,” said Asher. “Hopefully, we will have increased radio reception.”

Asher also reported that the Forest Service is no longer interested in renting space at Station 74. “They’ve apparently worked out their situation at their current location.”

Manson District 5 is moving forward with their training facility. Commissioner Phil Moller asked Asher to reach out to District 5’s fire chief Arnold Baker. “Ask him to attend one of our commission meetings to outline what they are doing,” said Moller.

The district is seeking to purchase an International chassis in 2024. “We asked to be ut on the list,” said Asher. The cost is estimated to be $126,000 with an additional $80,000 to convert the unit into a fire truck.

Assistant Chief’s report:

Shaun Sherman reported that two firefighters are coming back to the district ant that Chelan Fire hasn’t lost anybody.

2023 Budget:

Chelan Fire and Rescue will begin the year with $1,241,052.01 cash on hand. Projected tax revenues for 2023 is $3,648,016.85 for a total revenue stream of $4,899,068.86.

The District’s General Reserve Investment fund is at $269,300.00. The Capital Fund is at $874,424.00 and the Capital “Equipment” Investment fund is at $270,077.00. Outstanding Non Voted Bond issues is $95,300.01. Revolving Petty Cash is $3,500.00

The full 2023 budget can be attained from the District by calling Carol Kibler at 509-682- 4476.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Water rights:

“If they want to process that application, anyone below them would have no water,” stated DOE’s Candis Graff regarding water quantity in the Lake Chelan basin. “It has dwindled to a critical point.”

The City of Chelan Public Works department has a water right application in for 3,800 acre feet which if applied and approved would stop the processing of any water right application below that request.

Marcie Clement, Chelan County PUD, told Graff that she would like to meet with her regarding the remaining acreage available.

Mike Kaputa, Chelan County Natural Resources director, stated that there needs to be a recalculation or re-estimation of water availability. “How many more applicants are there on Lake Chelan?” Kaputa asked. Graff replied approximately 13.

“Is there some sort of re-calculation,” asked Kaputa. Graff replied that the remaining amount surprised her. Clement stated that there is a reserve set aside with the Department of Ecology. “There are three of us – the City, County and PUD that need to find time to get together with us.” Kaputa added that the Lake Chelan Reclamation District needs to be added at some point to the discussions.

Andy Dunn, RH2 Enginnering, said that future demand was projected out 70 years. Regarding water right applications, Dunn stated that just because there is an application requesting large amounts of water doesn’t mean that the applicant would be issued that amount. “That’s a big number on an application but not necessarily coming out of the reserve.”

If the City and/or other agency were to request a large amount of remaining water rights, and it was approved by the DOE, the remaining applicants, i.e. developers and others would be out of luck unless they could find a water right to purchase from a current water right holder.

Water quality:

“We are trying to understand why we are getting more algae growth,” reported Phil Long, director of the Lake Chelan Research Institute.

The near shore ecology in the lower Wapato Basin has changed drastically since 2014 despite an increase in water clarity and normal oxygen levels. “Very few lakes have this stability,” sail Long. However, Long remarked that there is an emerging threat worldwide with algae growth and algae blooms. Long is planning to survey various locations on the lake where algae growth is prevalent.

One of the major issues on the lake this past year is the increasing population of water fowl; geese and ducks. Long reported that Campbell’s, the Lookout, Lakeside Lodges & Suites and Wapato Point have helped fund potential remedies to the water fowl issue.

Geese in particular, deposit large quantities of poop on docks and lawns which get either washed off or swept off into the lake which adds to the “green grass/green bottom” issue. Long said, “Tom Gormley at Lakeside Lodges & Suites said the problem is pretty daunting.” Wapato Point, being a part of the Colville Confederated Tribes land have a water fowl management plan that includes legal hunting.

Long stated that on Lake Washington, goose feces are swept into bags and disposed of.

Stormwater management:

Long brought up stormwater issues and said hydrocarbons were entering the lake from parking lots. “We need some infrastructure funding to help filtrate these systems,” stated Long.

“A long skinny lake makes it challenging.”

Keep it Blue:

Lisa Dowling, a water resources specialist with the Chelan County Water Resources department, reported that mobile voluntary watercraft inspections will be available this coming year on weekends and during water related events like the Hydrofest.

If a watercraft is found to have invasive species on it, a decontamination unit will be brought in to decontaminate the vessel before it is allowed to launch into Lake Chelan.

Driftwood is becoming another public safety issue on the lake. “It is not a new issue,” said Dowling. “It is a potential risk to public safety.”

Long replied that on Flathead Lake, driftwood was not allowed to be removed. “You would have a fight on your hands,” he said. “I appreciate the public safety aspect.” Long went on to remark that driftwood on the shoreline helps with keeping shoreline erosion down.

Back story: After the 70’s wildfire on Lake Chelan, the PUD entered into a contract with my company, International Marine Divers, to remove the massive amounts of debris that flooded the lake creating a huge public safety issue for recreational boaters. We hired a group of college kids for the summer and they effectively remove tons of driftwood, large and small from the shores of Lake Chelan. It was piled up at Old Mill Bay and eventually burned by the PUD.

Updates:

Long reported that the Research Institute is focused on other ways to find funding that is available now, not in the future.

Kaputa reported that the fish tissue sampling report is due to be released in 2023. The tissue sampling of Lake Trout is to determine the amount of DDT and other toxins are present in the fishes flesh. Long replied that Mysis shrimp are also high in DDT concentrations.

Marcie Clement reported that the Fishery Forum consisting of representatives from the National Park Service, Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife and the PUD have been working on the 2023 fishery work plan which should be released in February or March.

Acting Chelan District Ranger, Paul Willard reported that the District is not proposing any new projects in 2023 but is still working on the Phase II Holden Mine remediation proposal. “We are developing options for the second phase.”

Willard was asked how the settlement negotiations were going on the Holden Mine remediation. Willard replied that the District was waiting to meet with Rio Tinto. “We have nothing definitive at this time.”

This coming summer, Willard stated that the District will be working on shovel ready projects like fuel breaks just up lake on the north and south shores. “We will be taking public comment on these projects in the next several months.

For more information on how you can keep Lake Chelan pristine go to www.keepitbluelakechelan.com and volunteer your time

by Richard Uhlhorn

Lake Chelan’s near shore ecology is changing, and not in a good way. The bottom is turning green with invasive plants and algae. To find out more about this environmental change, an estimated 35 residents attended a public forum on Wednesday, December 14, at the Chelan Fire Hall. The forum was hosted by the “Keep it Blue” program with an emphasis on Invasive Species.

The final message of the meeting was that it takes a big village to protect Lake Chelan. This forum outlined the emerging issues in near shore lake quality with the increase in Eurasian Milfoil, pond weed and algae growth.

According to a recent study of the near shore environment, invasive plants have covered 520 acres of the bottom in Wapato Basin with some showing up in the Lucerne Basin.

In comparison, Phil Long, executive director of the Lake Chelan Research Institute, reported that in 2014 there was only 12.1 acres of milfoil and Curlyleaf Pondweed in lower basin.

“A long, skinny lake creates a lot of challenges,” said Long. During the summer months, the Institute hired Lake Defense Force for a 3.5 day test run of DASH (diver assisted suction harvesting) off Key Bay and Minneapolis Beach to remove milfoil and pondweed. The test was paid for by private money.

The dive crew removed 900 pounds of invasive weeds, but it was estimated to cost close to a $9,9 million to eradicate the invasive plants from the lower basin using the DASH system.

How did the Wapato Basin go from only 12.1 acres of invasive plants to 520 acres in seven years?

There are many contributing factors, but the primary factor could be recreational boats from other areas bringing in the plants. Long noted that invasive plant growth on the bottom was heavier underneath off shore boat tie-ups.

Another factor is waterfowl poop from geese and ducks. It was learned that Wapato Point has a waterfowl management program including hunting. That, unfortunately, would be a problem off Indian land. Years ago it was tried at Lakeside, but the public outcry was enough to stop the practice.

Fishing Guide Joe Heinlen (an ex-employee of Washington State Fish & Wildlife) has alleged that fish hatchery plants in Lake Chelan could be adding invasive plant life to the lake. “They are the only agency I know of putting non-Lake Chelan water into the lake.”

The solution to the invasive plant issue is selective harvesting using the DASH program or, as suggested to the Research Institute, have a community beach clean-up (weeding) of the plants when the lake is down.

Chelan City Councilman Peter Jamtgaard suggested using bulldozers on the beach to remove the plants when the lake is down, but that could be another expensive exercise, one the Department of Ecology might not approve of.

In the past, cold winter weather has helped the problem by freezing the invasive plants out. With this season’s unusually cold weather, that might be natures solution to the issue.

The algae issue is gaining concern amongst lake residents. “The public is highly concerned,” said Long. “We are hearing it more and more.”

The contributing factors of the algae growth on the shoreline, pilings and docks can definitely be attributed to waterfowl. Goose leavings has become such a big problem that Campbell’s Resort, Lakeside Lodges & Resort, The Lookout and Wapato Point have put up funding to find a solution to the waterfowl poop that covers their swimming docks.

The other factor contributing to the algae issue is lakeside home owners over fertilizing their lawns which helps to keep their lawns green but also contributes to the greening of the underwater shoreline.

This coming year, a new boat inspection program will begin on Lake Chelan. The program will utilize a mobile cleaning/inspection unit on weekends and during water based events that bring watercraft to the lake from other areas.There will also be a CD3 Waterless Wash Stations located in the area.

All of the major boat launches will have inspections this coming boating season. Locals who use the lake, but don’t take their watercraft to other bodies of water, will be given a pass after one inspection. Neighborhood Inspection Parties are planned for locals.

The big fear is the potential introduction of Quadra and Zebra mussels to the lake. If introduced to the lake, these invasive species could cost up to $600 million to eradicate.

Fortunately, the State of Washington has recognized the potential problem and now has boat inspection stations at all major entries to the State from the east, south, west and north. They even have dogs trained to sniff out invasive species on watercraft.

“Public involvement is important to make this all work,” said Lisa Dowling, a natural resource specialist with Chelan County. She is also the lead proponent for the Keep It Blue program (keepitbluelakechelan.com). The Keep It Blue website has a lot of information concerning the health of Lake Chelan and the efforts to keep the lake pristine.

The Lake Chelan Research Institute will continue to monitor lake quality with an emphasis on near shore issues in the coming year.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Tuesday’s City Council meeting was mostly year-end clean-up and adoption of the amended 2022 budget and Council adoption of the new 2023 budget amongst other professional service agreements with engineers.

Important motion considerations:

Two items stood out from the year ending meeting:

• The Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce Lodging Tax Extension.
  The Chamber was given its requested $700,000 for marketing next year, but the Council will meet early next year to discuss the next steps in reigning in the Chamber with a new contract (their current contract ends December 31) that will have a much broader oversight function. Expenditure of Lodging Tax dollars will also be on the table.
• Community Development Director, John Ajax, requested that an ordinance to amend the Apple Blossom Center Development Agreement be prepared by the City Attorney for consideration at a future date.
  
  Councilwoman Erin McCardle stated that she would like to see one full calendar year’s impact on the community after the first phase is constructed. Councilman Tim Hollingsworth would like to see the construction costs of affordable units.
  
  Ajax stated that 5% of the units (35 units of the proposed 720 units) will be 80% or less of the medium income. “It needs to be a fair and thought through number,” Ajax said.
• The Park’s Department has hired Grette Associates for permitting services for its Park Street Road End project, but said that the possibility of permitting all of the street end parcels may not happen.

Chelan Arts Council:

Dan Crandall, president of the Chelan Arts Council, presented a new outdoor art proposal being developed by Jerry McKellar for Chelan’s outdoor art gallery.

This sculpture is a large bronze caricature of Tsilly, the Lake Dragon, which is based on a lot of native history of a creature living deep in Lake Chelan. Tsilly has gained notoriety as a local children’s “Find Tsilly” adventure in downtown Chelan. Authore John Fahey has written a children’s book about the legend of Tsilly.

Crandall told the Council that McKellar has said this sculpture is his favorite and most exciting sculpture he has made in his career. It measures 7′ high X 7.5′ long. “We got excited about working with Jerry on this project,” said Crandall. “It would be up to the City where it is located.

Mayor/Council comments:

Shari Dietrich remarked that she is excited about the Tsilly project.

Tim Hollingsworth stated that it was important to remember that the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce does a lot for the community. “I’m looking forward to our discussions.

Hollingsworth also mentioned Senator Hawkins proposed regional aquatic center and said the Council should keep an open mind on the proposal, but it may or may not have a benefit for the Chelan Community. He deferred to Mayor Goedde who is against Chelan having anything to do with the proposal.

Peter Jamtgaard said it would be “great to have a lot more input to spending that money,” in reference to the Chamber’s marketing efforts.

Erin McCardle said she appreciated the transparency being exhibited by Community Development Director John Ajax with respect to the Apple Blossom Development Agreement.

She also mentioned that from 2012 to 2022, the Valley’s tourism impact has grown 447% from the Chamber’s marketing efforts.

McCardle said she is looking forward to the January 3 City Workshop that will consider the new lodging tax contract with the Chamber, the Butte acquisition efforts, Annalisa Noble’s priority and funding strategies and Dave Erickson’s presentation on Wenatchee’s Foothills expansion.

John Olson thanked the staff for all they do and stated that the City is looking at upwards of $60 million in Capital Improvement Expenditures and other projects over the next five years

Mayor Goedde thanked the staff and council for their hard work. He also stated that Senator Hawkin’s proposal for a regional aquatic center wouldn’t help Chelan. “This isn’t going to help us,” said Goedde.

Goedde said the City of Wenatchee is going to do a $300,000 study on the proposal. “We have our own aquatic center,” said Goedde.

Wade Ferris told the Council and staff that this was CFO Steve Thornton’s last official meeting. “Of all the financial officers I have worked with over the years, Steve is in the top one or two I’ve worked with.”

Ferris went on to say that the 2023 budget has set up the City for a long, long time.

Jake Youngren echoed Ferris’ view and said Thornton has done incredible work.

Paul Horne added that he also appreciated Thornton’s work.

John Ajax said he has been incredibly gracious and professional in his work with the Planning department.

Thornton told the staff and council he appreciated all the kind words.

Ferris then pointed out the work City Clerk Peri Gallucci and her staff have done. “Without Peri and her staff, we would look foolish a lot of the time.”

City Council and staff will reconvene on Tuesday, January 3, to begin the new year discussing a number of issues facing the City in 2023. Workshops begin at 4 p.m. and can go as late as 8 p.m.

“There is a lot of funding out there,” Annalisa Noble told the City Council at the December 6 City Workshop. “It is a once in a generation level of funding we have never seen before.”

Noble, who has been retained by the City as a consulting grant writer and funding strategist, made a presentation at the workshop regarding the multitude of City projects that require outside funding or partial funding.

“Chelan needs to take advantage of it. We are getting a lot of money in Washington State,” said Noble who described the City challenges as 1. – Funding Climate; 2. – Funding Strategy; and 3. – Funding Schedule.

Legislatively, the City has Affordable Housing, Lake Chelan, Chelan Youth, and Traffic and Pedestrian Safety on its list of projects.

There are 23 Priority Projects on its 2023-2027 Capital Improvements Priority list including, but not limited to; Parks Improvements, Recreation Upgrades, Community Development and Infrastructure Improvements.

“You’ve got a lot going on,” said Noble. “However, I was surprised to see wastewater and the water system at the end of your priority list. I thought that was interesting.”

Councilwoman Erin McCardle replied that the list was not the City’s priorities, but a list of projects that need prioritization. “The importance of having you here is that we haven’t prioritized that list. “We hope you can guide us.”

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth added that a number of projects are being funded through the City’s Enterprise Fund. Noble replied that all of the projects listed are great and that all of them would receive funding from different sources at different times

She added that the City is going to need new or improved infrastructure to keep up with the growth.

Councilman John Olson said that at a recent Associated Cities Convention, that there were between 40 and 500 agency personnel from different communities across the state who were getting the same message about all the funding that would be available. “What kind of competition are we facing?”

Noble replied, “You (already) have a grant writer to help you,” said Noble. She added that most of those represented were not organized and that Chelan was ready to go.

“I need to know what grants and loans you are eligible for,” said Noble. “Also a combination of both while avoiding debt.”

Olson asked about matching funds for grants and Noble replied that she worked “very upfront” regarding matches to grants so the City knows where it would stand.

She also remarked that federal money comes with federal requirements. “What are their requirements and how often do they require reports.”

“I love working with small communities,” said Noble. “I’m ready to help you guys.”

The City and Noble will be working together in early January to prioritize its projects and figure out what grants, and/or loans it will apply for.