by Richard Uhlhorn

The City of Chelan City Council tied up and finished its 2021 business at last week’s year ending Council meeting. The meeting ended on a note of thanks to outgoing Dr. Ty Witt who has served one term, but chose not to run for two because he is getting married and moving out of Chelan to Manson.

Planning Commissioner Sheri Dietrich will be taking over Witt’s seat on the Council.

All council members thanked him for his service. Erin McCardle said, “A big thank you to Ty. I very much appreciated working with you. You will be missed.”

Servando Robledo seconded McCardle’s praise saying it has been great working with him. Mayor Bob Goedde stated he appreciated Witt’s insight in city issues.

When all were through wishing Witt well, he stated that the Council and Staff were all great to work with. He explained that he came to the council with no experience and no specific agenda but water quality, preservation of open spaces, trails, housing, and the glass pulverizer. “I would like to say a special thanks to Ray Dobbs who taught me alot about bridge building.”

City Administrator Wade Ferris told Witt in closing that he has made a difference.

2021 ending business:

The Council unanimously approved both the 2022 Chelan Airport budget and the City’s $23,488,389 2022 budget. The only comment after several months of work putting it together came from Councilman John Olson who objected to the $700,000 requested by the Chamber of Commerce for marketing to promote Chelan. “This is when we can’t even accommodate the tourists we have,” he stated. However, he also stated that he appreciates the work the Chamber does and the work State Representative Mike Steele does for the region.

Tony Mears, an irrigation designer with Mears Design Group gave an update presentation of his Lake Chelan Golf Course Irrigation Study. His conclusion was that the course’s current irrigation system is “pretty deficient.” He stated that there were a number of factors leading to his conclusion including including pipe size, sprinkler heads, and irrigation phasing that is not consistent. “You need to keep (irrigation) consistent, especially on large turf areas. The goal is efficiency whether it is water or power.”

The golf course irrigation system was initially installed in 1968 with upgrades in the early 90s. “You are well past your life expectancy on the system,” he said. There are leaks in the main line and the ponds resulting in lost water which needs to be taken care of.

John Olson stated that funding was set-up in 2023. Parks Director Paul Horne said that was correct and that it will cost $25,000 for a design of a new system. It will cost $250,000 in 2023 to begin the upgrades and in 2025 it will be completed for a total cost of $2.6 to $2.8 million dollars. “It (golf course) is a great asset,” said Horne.

This is the recommendations in order of priority:

            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.

ChelanBay (Three Fingers development):

The Council approved the final plat for the Chelan Bay development on the Three Fingers. They also approved the Chelan Bay Final Plat Maintenance Agreement which give the City an easement for pedestrian ingress and egress to Lake Chelan, a walking and biking trail along the frontage of the plat, a park, public parking areas and for other recreational purposes. This easement is for the benefit of the public.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth said the City needs to make sure “we are not approving this stuff when issues remain.”

Planning Director Craig Gildroy said there were a number of conditions set down including the construction of the Lakeside Trail on the easement and a swim area on the west side of the property that is open to the public.

Downtown Alley Project:

The council approved a MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) with Resource Environmental LLC (RELLC) which is under contract with Chevron to address and remediate petroleum product contamination from the “Chelan Chevron Site.”

Public Works Director Jake Youngren said that the MOU is advantageous to the City and that RELLC will cooperate on the execution of the downtown alley project if petroleum contamination is encountered. “We are embarking on a project that has risk. If we do encounter petroleum contamination, it will be the responsibility of Chevron and won’t burden the City.”

Youngren said, “We will mostly be excavating in the same trench line that currently exists, only six inches deeper.” City Attorney Quentin Batjer added that typically the polluter pays for cleanup efforts.

The Council also authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute all applicable Temporary Construction Easements for the Downtown Water and Sewer Utility Project.

This project will require entering some private property to complete and staff felt it prudent to develop a general Temporary Construction Easement which would be used to execute with each property owner that may be affected by the project.

Other motion considerations approved by council:

1. – Davis Arneil Law Firm 2022 City Attorney Services Agreement.

2. – Kottkamp, Yedinak and Esworth, PLLC Legal Services Agreement for Indigent Criminal Defendents. Batjer explained that the State Constitution requires that the City have a public defender. Councilman Ty Witt said it was interesting that the taxpayers pay to prosecute and defend these people.

3. – Chelan Public Library Elevator Maintenance Agreement with Inland Elevator.

4. – RH2 Engineering General Services Agreement Renewal.

5. – Chelan Traffic Improvements Project Change Order. Because of a worldwide supply chain issue with pavement markings, Specialized Pavement Marking, Inc. (SPM) has not been able to secure the material for the pavement marking project at Johnson and Sanders. The decision was made by staff, contractor and SCJ Alliance to wait until Spring 2022 to complete the project.

6. – Council authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute the Legacy Ridge Stormwater Maintenance Agreement.

The next meeting of the City Council will be a workshop on Tuesday, January 4 beginning at 4 p.m.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chief contract for Brandon Asher
Chelan County Fire District No.7 (Chelan Fire and Rescue) commissioners have approved Brandon Asher’s contract as the new fire chief. Chief Mark Donnell is retiring at the end of the year, but will remain on board as needed.

Asher sought a five-year contract. Asher, who was on a Zoom call from vacation told the Commissioners (chairman Phil Moller was absent), “My intention is to be here more than five years.” He stated that the contract is no different than the one for Chief Donnell and Lemon. “I took out the 3% cost of living increase to negotiate based on performance. It is a good contract.”

Commissioners Karyl Oules and Russ Jones approved the new 2022 budget, but Oules said she wanted whatever additional funding (windfall) comes in from taxes collected be put in a separate line item in the budget.

The administration had already put $250,000 towards apparatus, but Oules argued that she wanted simplicity with regards to the extra funds the District will receive. Chief Donnell replied that the District will not know how much extra funds will be available until April.

Oules stated that she didn’t understand why a line item couldn’t be established for those funds and then appropriated and approved by the commissioners when needed. “I’m looking for simplicity,” she said. Donnell replied that he didn’t know how to make it simpler.

Oules said that her constituents are worried that once the new funding comes in, the District will start spending it. Jones replied that they were just adding to the apparatus fund. “We’ve been called thieves,” retorted Oules. “I want to satisfy those people.” Jones replied for tracking purposes that would be simple. “If needed, the board can approve.”

With that issue decided, the commissioners went on to the issue of hiring an Assistant Chief. “We are looking to the board for direction,” said Donnell. “the staff recommends hiring an assistant chief.” Donnell went on to say that not filling the position doesn’t change the work load and reiterated that it would increase overtime. “Eliminating an assistant chief doesn’t make sense.”

Oules said she wanted to table the discussion until Phil Moller was available to help discuss it. Jones replied that the position has been in the budget for months. If the position is filled by a duty officer instead of an exempt (salaried) position, it will result in a lot of overtime. “I’d like to get on with this,” he said.

Oules said she wasn’t comfortable making a decision on the assistant position without all three commissioners available.

Donnell said they needed to make a decision before January 1 and would they like to meet before than in a special meeting to continue the discussion.

The commissioners set Wednesday, December 23 at 3 p.m. in hopes that Moller would be healthy enough to attend.

Fire District/City MOU

Donnell reported that he met with the City the prior week and an agreement between the two has gone to the attorney for a draft. “It will be before the City Council next month, so it is moving forward. It has been a long process.” He added that it wasn’t a perfect agreement, but one that can be modified later.

New Lateral Hire

Chief Donnell introduced Brandon Fogelson as a lateral hire. Fogelson is a firefighter/paramedic. He stated he is looking forward to serving the community.

Feasibility of combining EMS services with Fire Department

A letter sent to both Manson Fire District No. 5 and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) asking for a meeting to explore the feasibility of combining services will not be addressed until the Hospital board has an opportunity to discuss with its EMS director Ray Eickmeyer at its January board meeting.

Oules said the biggest question she gets from constituents is why the Fire District goes out on every EMS call.

Commissioner comments

Oules didn’t have any comments. “I think I’ve said enough,” she said.

Jones thanked the 20 or so people who came to the meeting. “Hopefully we were entertaining,” said Jones. However, he added that it was extremely important for the public to attend the meetings instead of the garbage on social media. “We want your input,” stated Jones.

The commission will meet at 3 p.m. Wednesday, December 23, to discuss the Assistant Chief position.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Near shore Lake Chelan water quality is in trouble!

Phil Long, director of the Lake Chelan Research Institute, presented a “State of the Lake” report to the Lake Chelan Watershed Planning Unit (LCWPU) at its quarterly meeting on Wednesday, December 8.

The littoral zone of the lake is showing definite degradation with an increase of algae growth and a 20% spread of Eurasian Milfoil along the lake shore. No one living on the lake and/or using the lake for recreation wants to see what has been considered a uncontaminated water body degraded with algae, milfoil and invasive species.

“Our challenge, of course, is what has happened in the last seven years,” Long told the LCWPU members attending the meeting. LCWPU director Mike Kaputa asked if there is a way to change the emerging conditions. Long replied that utilizing Diver Assisted Suction Harvesting (DASH) could help the situation. Divers utilizing airlifts can potentially remove Asian mussels and milfoil. “This has the potential to turn back the clock,” said Long. Clay Patmont, a partner with Anchor QEA, an environmental, engineering consulting company in Seattle, agreed with Long. “We have an opportunity here,” said Patmont. Long said, “We need to Keep it Blue… Not make it Green.”

The biggest issue, of course, is funding. With a priority of working on near shore water quality, the Institute is looking to raise $40,000 beyond the $50,000 they receive from the City of Chelan – $20,000 per year; Chelan County – $10,000 per year; Lake Chelan Reclamation District – $10,000 per year; and $5,000 each from Chelan County PUD and Cascadia Conservation.

Efforts to Keep It Blue is currently under funded. If raised, the $40,000 would help get the DASH program underway. Private funding has been received from a few concerned citizens.

Lisa Dowling, a natural resources specialist with Chelan County, stated that the 2022 goal is to reduce the lake’s risk for getting invasive species introduced through a public outreach program and community meetings. “We will shift our focus to stakeholder meetings,” she said. There will also be a public survey.

This coming year, a mobile boat inspection unit will up and running on the lake with a grant for one year of staffing every weekend. “There will also be neighborhood inspections parties,” said Dowling.

The program will have one decontamination unit located in the Valley through a partnership with the National Park Service and the Lake Chelan Reclamation District.

Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) also has a decontamination unit in Ephrata if needed.

One of Washington State’s biggest concerns is the potential introduction of Zebra or Quagga mussels coming into the state from other states that have them.

Eric Anderson, WDFW’s aquatic invasive species enforcement manager, presented the state’s efforts of keeping invasive species from entering Washington on watercraft and trailers. Anderson reported that Washington State has the strongest statutes in the Western United States.

Currently, mandatory watercraft inspections are being conducted at major entry points to the State including Spokane to the east, Pasco to the south and Cle Elum to the west. These inspection stations operate seven days a week from April to the end of October. They are permanently funded.

Anderson shared the inspection numbers with the Watershed Unit. In 2017, at the beginning of the program, they inspected 9,054 vessels and in 2019 that had increased to 32,735. There are plans in the works to add inspection stations in Oroville, Goldendale and Bellingham.

The inspection crews also have “Wonder Dogs” that are trained to sniff out mussels. In Spokane alone, 26,939 watercraft were inspected with 38 watercraft carrying mussels. “If they (boaters) don’t want to be inspected, we can mandate that or charge them criminally,” said Anderson. “We have to inspect thousands to catch a few.”

With 31 different routes into the state, Washington is relying on other states like Idaho which has a robust water inspection program to track boats. “We also network with Canada. We’ve had great success and a lot of support,” he added. “Boats are getting a lot cleaner as we go along.”

The program was passed in the State Legislature with bipartisan support. “We told them you can spend $5 million now or $500 million or $1 trillion to eradicate invasive mussels later.”

For information on how you can help, visit https://www.keepitbluelakechelan.org and check out the various programs.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Guild B presented the Hospital Commission with a check for $5,000. Pam James , Guild B representative said, “I wish it could be more.” Chairwoman Mary Murphy replied that in the hospital’s book, the Guild are heroines. “It is so appreciated,” said Murphy.

CHAIR REPORT:

Murphy publicly announced her gratitude to the administration, staff and all levels of the Lake Chelan Health organization. “You’ve been through a lot of challenges at a time when change is the normal in health care.”

STRATEGIC PLAN

Cheryl Cornwell and Shawn Ottley reported

Shawn said the substance of the plan hasn’t changed substantially. “I will have a Dashboard with metrics for the next meeting.” However, Cornwell stated that she needs time to polish the plan. “I don’t know if it will be available by the next meeting.”

Jeremy Jaech would like to see good measurable tactics. The commissioners all stated that it was a good start.

Murphy remarked that it was something to aspire too. Community… using EMS, Chelan Valley Hope and TLC amongst other organizations for the betterment of community health and wellness.

CEO SEARCH

Reviewing a lot of applications including some who currently work at the hospital. “that’s exciting,” said Murphy. Remarked that one candidate is coming for a site visit in December..

NEW BUSINESS

Mary Signorelli brought up a letter sent to the Commission regarding a request to set up a meeting between Chelan Fire and Rescue and the Hospital concerning the potential of merging EMS with the Fire Department. “Are we going to talk about that,” she asked. Murphy said the letter came in after the agenda was set. “Let’s get all of our information together and ask Ray to give us a presentation at the next meeting.”

(Chelan Fire and Rescue has been interested in meeting with the EMS, the hospital and Manson Fire District #5 to explore the feasibility of combining services.)

FINANCIAL REPORT

CFO Cheryl Cornwell presented the 2022 budget which the Commissioners approved Resolution 2021-11 without objection. Commissioner Jeremy Jaech stated that he appreciated the budget process and the budget workshop. Murphy said, “They say the budget is where the rubber hits the road.”

In addition, Cornwell went through the hospital’s Gross Patient Service Revenues

• Inpatient revenues                                                         $   544,758
• Out Patient revenues                                                     $2,158,976
                                      Deduction                                ($1,305,665)
• Net Patient revenues                                                     $1,398,068
• Other Revenues                                                            $   456,963
• TOTAL                                                                        $1,855,031

Cornwell stated that COVID continues to hamper the hospital. “We are still feeling the impact of COVID,” she said. Jaech asked where specifically COVID  is affecting hospital services. Cornwell replied that the lack of elective surgeries was a big one, people putting off visits and being underpaid for swing bed stays. Jaech asked if there were staffing issues to which Cornwell said no.

The hospital had 388 Emergency Room visits in October; Performed 26 procedures (no surgeries); Performed 808 Imaging services; 2,874 Lab Tests; 447 Rehabilitation services; 128 EMS calls; 442 Clinic visits; 138 Specialty services; and 304 Express Clinic visits.

FACILITIES REPORT

Mary Signorelli reported that the committee discussed the proposals of the three evaluations of the Heritage Heights property. She said it would be discussed in executive session with the rest of the board after which she thought action might be brought forward after the session.

The new Hospital construction project is on budget and schedule. “They are covering up the roof so they can work inside interiors during the winter,” said Signorelli.

QUALITY CONTROL

Quality Director Shawn Ottley reported that in 2022 they will be focused on work plans. “We are working with the departments on what they need to work on,” sais Ottley

He said they would be streamlining practices in 2022 and helping departments to maximize their quality components.

by Richard Uhhorn

Brent Morrison, president of Crystal View Estates Homeowners Association took the time to address City Council during the decision to authorize finalization of Legacy Ridge’s Phase 2.

Morrison wasn’t on hand to deny the request by Legacy Ridge, but to remark about the increasing traffic issues within the shared intersection with Crystal View Estates and Legacy Ridge, along with SR150 traffic.

Phase 2 of the Legacy Ridge development consists of 33 single family residential lots and three open space tracks. Final Phase 2 approval was brought to the Council by the city’s Planning Department.  

Morrison told the Council that Phase 1 which uses Crystal View Drive for access has become a race track. “We need some mitigation to address traffic, speed limits and parking issues,” said Morrison. “We are nervous abuot traffic issues within our sub-division.”

He stated he was disappointed that a left-hand turn lane hasn’t been constructed on Hwy. 150 for traffic coming east from Manson. Morrison remarked that with all the development in Manson and the potential for further development up hill from both Legacy Ridge and Crystal View will create more traffic problems. “Once you start… where do you stop,” he asked.

He would like to see a flashing light, left turn lights and more reduced speed limits on Hwy. 150.

Legacy Ridge is required to improve the SR150/Crystal View Drive Intersection in Phase 3 which could include a left hand turn lane. Morrison remarked that a roundabout would work better at the intersection. “It’s just a matter of time before someone is killed.”

On a broader issue, Morrison asked how the City/County Planning Departments are enhancing the quality of life. “There are no hiking or walking trails in the development plans. What is your development going to do to enhance the quality of life,” said Morrison.

Councilman Ty Witt remarked that the Parks Department is working on a recreation plan that includes the Northshore Pathway construction.

Councilman Peter Jamtgaard asked if it was possible to put sunset clauses on permits. Craig Gildroy said it was. Morrison added that it was supposed to be a six to seven year development that has extended to 15 or 16 years already. Councilman Tim Hollingsworth remarked that the Hearing Examiner has signed off on the motion.

Councilman Chris Baker said developers have an advantage. “They massively scrap the hillsides off without giving something back like hiking paths.” He added that the Lookout gives $1,000 per sale back to the City on every sale. “No one else does. None of them, and it is a shame.”

Council unanimously approved the final plat approval.

IN OTHER BUSINESS:

Chelan Parks Director Paul Horne reported to Council that the 12 Tribes Colville Casino has made a donation of $5,554.56 to the Chelan Department of Parks and Recreation.

Casino General Manager Scott Ward recommended the donation through their Change for Charities program to help benefit children in the community.

Horne told the Council that he appreciates the donation and would like the funds be allocated to playground equipment at Lakeside Park.

In other Parks news, Horne asked the Council to approve a professional services agreement with Reiss-Landreau Research Inc. (RLR). RLR is a cultural resources management consulting company that will conduct a thorough Archeological Survey at Lakeside Park.

The survey is a requirement that the Park needs accomplished to be eligible to receive a $500,000 grant from the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund for the Lakeside Redevelopment Project which they are close to receiving. The grant would be managed by the National Parks Service.

The Lakeside Parks project failed to be awarded in 2018, falling just short of the 10 applications approved. “We re-applied in 2020,” said Horne. He added that the Federal Government changed the guidelines and it has taken a year for the agencies to get back up to speed.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The HDCA’s Downtown Revitalization Project hit a major speed bump at the Tuesday, November 23 City Council meeting. Prior to a motion consideration to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City and HDCA a Special Presentation was on the evening’s agenda to hear more Citizen comments.

Organized and put on the agenda by Councilman John Olson, a number of business and building owners came to the meeting and made a series of remarks that were not in support of the current revitalization plan.

The proposed MOU would outline specific roles and responsibilities between the City and HDCA. Because the proposed revitalization project is on City property, the City would end up being the contracting agency and owner of the project.

The HDCA project is aimed at providing a roadmap for future downtown upgrades that retain the downtown historic ambiance while enhancing its future viability and relevance.

Larry Hibbard, owner of the Ruby Theater told the council that he has concerns about the plan. His concerns was the plan to widen sidewalks, install up to five or more crosswalks which would, in effect, reduce the number of parking stalls by up to 10 percent. “Where are we headed,” he asked. “I think downtown Chelan is working very well.”

His other concern was the sustainability of keeping the Ruby open during a major downtown construction project. “We were closed with no income for 71 weeks because of the pandemic. It will take years to recover and the Ruby cannot afford or survive a major construction project.”

Tom Campbell, Campbell’s Resort, remarked that the revitalization project is a hot button, issue with downtown business owner and while he said he loves the energy, he added “Everyone needs to take an objective look at the project.”

David Weldy, building owner, remarked that the downtown was deteriorating and mentioned the City owned, old PUD parking lot as an example.

Garth Donald, Stormy Mountain Brewing owner, was the only individual who spoke for moving ahead with the MOU. He feels that wider sidewalks would contribute to the community’s quality of life. “It’s really important that we make the downtown better for both residents and visitors,” said Donald.

Once the special presentation by business owners was over, HDCA board president Steve Clark addressed the Council. He said the HDCA plan is a broad concept for the enhancement of the community. “It is focused on the community wishes,” he stated.

“We are providing the Council with a concept. It’s at a stage where detailed design would occur,” said Clark. He encouraged the Council to approve the development of a Memorandum of Understanding between the City and HDCA.

Councilmembers opened up for discussion with Ty Witt stating that an MOU was not committing to the project. He also feels that the City needs continued public input.

Servando Robledo remarked that there are a lot of concerns about the proposed package.

Clark replied that it is only the design phase. “What we are suggesting is that ore attention be spent on pedestrian traffic.”

Peter Jamtgaard said, “I think the plan needs a lot more work.” Tim Hollingsworth stated that there was a lot to like in the plan, but said he was not ready to move forward given the difference of opinions. “Let’s keep it moving,” he said. His concern was the fact that many business and building owners are at odds with the plan.

“I would like some of the folks like Campbell’s and others sit down and take the time to have a better dialogue,” said Hollingsworth.

John Olson agreed with Hollingsworth that the plan needs to ferment a bit. “There is a large gap… discord. I still hear (complaints) on the bridge modification. I suggest that this be tabled.” Witt agreed.

City Administrator Wade Ferris told the Council that the purpose of the MOU is to come up with some kind of concept in the next phases. “They have to be approved by the Council. You are not approving a plan to rip up sidewalks.”

Hollingsworth replied that the MOU outlines specific duties. “I don’t think we have a broad consensus (to move forward),” he said. Robledo replied that if the Council doesn’t move forward, they won’t know when it will back again.

Mayor Goedde said, “I can’t vote on this, but I’m not signing this.. the Mayor Pro Tem can.”

No motion to move forward was offered and City Attorney Quentin Batjar said if a motion doesn’t advance that it would die. Olson suggested tabling the motion until next year and this was approved by the Council.

Since Erin McCardle has resigned her position as executive director of the HDCA effective on December 31, it will be up to the board to find a new director and to address concerns with the plan.

by Richard Uhlhorn

CITY-FIRE DEPARTMENT AGREEMENT FOR FIRE SERVICES:

The agreement for Fire Services with the City of Chelan has been in the works for four to five years and Chelan Fire would like to get an agreement in place before next year’s Fire Department’s WRSB Insurance Rating evaluation.

“It’s been four to five years we have been trying to get an agreement with the City of Chelan,” said Commissioner Russ Jones. “I’m a little worried. We have to have it in place and we’ve gone through several (city) administrators on this. I think we need to draw a line in the sand.”

Chief Mark Donnell said he could get on the City Council’s agenda on December 14 to discuss the importance of reaching an agreement.

The agreement would include giving the Fire District maintenance issues like making sure the City’s fire hydrants are in working order. Currently fire hydrant maintenance is a City responsibility.

ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF POSITION:

A heated discussion ensued on whether or not the Department should replace Brandon Asher’s Assistant Chief position when he officially takes over the Chief’s position when Mark Donnell retires at the end of December.

Phil Moller, board chair, stated that he didn’t think the Department needed an Assistant Chief, but instead designating a career fire fighter as the Assistant Chief. Brandon Asher argued that hundred’s of hours have been spent by him and Chief Donnell in the Chief’s and Assistant Chief’s position.

Elevating a career firefighter to that position would mean any extra hours worked beyond shift work would create lots of overtime. “That person has to be very functional,” said Asher. “He would be integrated with everything. I can’t work 365 days a year and he would fill in when I’m gone. We need to have that flexibility.

Russ Jones asked Moller if it was the title associated with the position? Karyl Oules said to Asher, “I hear what you are saying, but I need to look at this more.” Jones added that the job description and how they want it titled.

Chief Donnell chimed in and said that if it was a Captain upgraded to Assistant Chief, the Department was in essence opening the position to Union bargaining. “Overtime would become an issue,” said Donnell. “It is an administrative position along with field work. I believe the job description has been updated.”

Donnell added that next year there would be another $500 million available for Safer Grants and that the Department would be putting in for another grant. “It is an integral position.”

Jones said, “I guess I didn’t see any issues with it. I personally don’t have a comment on it.” Moller reiterated his position by saying, “I just don’t feel we need that guy right now. We don’t need to do it tomorrow.”

Asher replied, “It is a huge need for two people. You are constantly on call. One person cannot do that work.”

Jones remarked that from a numbers standpoint, the Commission had time to look at the position.

AIRPORT LEASE:

The District has been on a year to year lease with the City for its fire station at the Chelan Airport. Asher stated that there is no increase in the $2,739 per year lease. “It is a 20 year lease with no increase price and it includes water.”

REVENUE:

Asher told the Commission that the Department received $89,155 from the existing Safer Grant which ends this year, another $9,000 in State Mob money from 2020, and that another $96,000 is expected from 2021 State Mob revenues.

CALLS FOR SERVICE:

The department responded to 67 calls for service in October which is down from an average of 74. This month, so far, there have been a total of 51 Calls for Service, eight of which were Advanced Life Support calls, 20 were Basic Life Support and 23 were No Transport calls.

Five hundred eighty one calls for service have been answered this year.

FIRE:

The department responded to two brush fires and a Structure fire on Markeson Street that was a total loss. “When the residents left, they left the front door open which created a path for the fire which started in the back of the house,” said Asher who was on scene within three minutes of the call out. The nearest fire hydrant was 350 feet away which forced Asher to use some residents to help try to suppress the fire. “That’s not what we want to do,” said Asher.

The Department will conduct a training fire on Saturday beginning at 8 a.m. at 221 Nixon Street.

FIRE ASSOCIATION:

Association president Dan Crandall reported that the Association brought in $263.00 in revenue in October and spent $872.00. The current bank balance is $30,895.00.

Crandall notified the Commission and Administration that he is stepping down as President of the Fire Association on December 31. A new president will be nominated by the board at that time. “I will be staying on as an executive committee member,” said Crandall.

Crandall reported that both the Parade Truck and Marine 71 have been decked out with Christmas lights.

There will be a Holiday Social for the Fire Department on Tuesday, November 30 at 6 p.m. at Laylas.

by Richard Uhlhorn

HDCA REVITALIZATION:

City Council members heard a presentation to update the council on the Historic Downtown Chelan Association’s (HDCA) revitalization efforts.

Steve Clark, a HDCA board member, told the Council that they know there are things that need to be fixed, rehabilitated and addressed.

The HDCA and City are partnering to advance the City’s Comprehensive Plan initiatives, identified Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) projects, and the Downtown Master Plan initiatives.

Dan Ireland from SCJ Alliance told the council that the project is staying consistent with the HDCA’s Main Street Program to increase economic vitality, keep view corridors and connections between amenities. “People are spending more time downtown,” said ? “There have been a lot of changes over the years. Pubic outreach is very important.”

The Public Survey conducted earlier this year had 1,600 responses from a broad cross section of residents.

The wish list includes more food trucks, lighting and wider sidewalks. “Walk-ability is a big issue here,” said Ireland “What people wanted to see was an expansion of sidewalks. They want a more walkable downtown.”

Outdoor dining options was also high on the list along with the quality of life in the downtown corridors.

Mayor Bob Goedde may be the only City official who doesn’t want to see Chelan change. He would prefer the downtown area remain the same as it has been since 1965. “Let’s take it to the Post Office and see what residents say,” said Goedde. “There are a lot of questions to answer.”

John Olson stated that everyone in town is aware of traffic changes and the unintended consequences.

AIRPORT:

City Administrator Wade Ferris said the next step in the proposed Airport revisions is for the Council to approve the Airport Layout Plan which has been reviewed by all FAA divisions with no further comments.

When the documents are all approved by all parties, the next step is conducting an Environmental Assessment.

Erin McCardle asked what the time of the EA was and Ferris replied there was no estimate on timing. He added that easements needed to be acquired and property purchased for the extension of the runway that will accommodate larger aircraft including business jets.

The costs will be borne by both the City and the Port of Chelan County as owners of the airport.

Mayor Goedde stated that everything is coming up and that there is a possibility to do everything in one stroke. The City is waiting on funding for a water line to the airport which, when it happens will change the entire area.

Tim Hollingsworth asked by the City was spending money on the airport. “We haven’t seen the economic impact.” Mayor Goedde replied that people are coming back and forth. “This needs to happen.” Ferris added that the project would also bring the airport up to FAA standards.

MOTION CONSIDERATIONS:

The Council authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute the 2022 – 2024 agreement for animal control with the Wenatchee Valley Humane Society.

Council also authorized the Mayor to finalize the City’s agreement for Prosecution Services.

Council authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute an amendment of the No. 1 Water System Plan which will incorporate waterlines to the airport.

The Council also authorized the Mayor to finalize and execute and agreement with RH2 Engineers for investigating undergrounding dry utilities during construction of the downtown alley utility project.

Rate and Fee changes:

For residential properties that have a Accessory Dwelling Unit on the property, the City will not add an additional charge in addition to that of the primary residence and no additional sanitation charges will be applied beyond that of the primary residence.

Parks Director Paul Horne told the Council that there would be an overall seven percent increase on parking with an all day rate of $30 with residential day passes going from $10 to $20.

The Fall Season rates at the Lakeshore RV park from Labor Day through September 30 will be charged as follows:

                        2022 – RV, $54 – Tent, $40

                        2023 – RV, $62 – Tent, $46

                        2024 – RV, $74 – Tent, $53

Winter monthly rates from October 1 to April are as follows:

                        2022 – $798; 2023 – $910; and 2024 – $1039

Hollingsworth said there had been a lot of discussion regarding the RV Park and Ty Witt added that $1000.00 a month for a RV spot was too much. “It seems like a lot of money for a family in need of a place to pay.”

Horne replied that the Parks Department was trying to attract a good balance of families that need a place to rent.

by Richard Uhlhorn

We just got an update on how the levy rate works. As I thought we can levy at a rate below $1.10 and the County will only collect what we actually levy.

Chelan Fire and Rescue held a budget hearing on Wednesday, November 3, to discuss and receive feedback on the proposed 2022 and beyond budget.

UPDATE

The Commission can choose to lower the Levy from $1.10 per thousand in valuation and the County will only collect that amount from the property owners instead of what was reported at the November 3 Budget Meeting.

Assistant Chief Brandon Asher thanked everyone who worked to get the Levy Lid Lift passed. “We appreciated all of the hard work you did,” said Asher. “Luckily we are going over the budget we wanted to present.”

Commissioner Oules remarked that perhaps the District wouldn’t need the $1.10 per $1,000 tax based on the new October 20, 2021 Chelan County Assessor’s Preliminary Values for 2022 which came in at $3,506,519.00 and includes property valuations and new construction.

Under the current valuations, the District expects to bring in $3,506,519.00 in tax revenue and another $10,000 in other revenue (with State Mobilizations this is usually more).

The levy passage will allow the District to hire three more career firefighters which would mean that three personnel are at the Station 24/7. They would also bring on three seasonal firefighters instead of two. “That gives us a lot of advantages,” said Asher.

The levy also will allow the District to put $250,000 in it Apparatus Replacement fund. This is important since much of the moving equipment is approaching its end of life cycle. Trucks will be able to be updated with the passage.

Asher also reported a new expense that wasn’t considered in the budget initially. “The roof is going to have to be replaced,” he said. The cost is estimated at $125,000.

Fire Chief Mark Donnell stated that the proposed budget is a very conservative estimate. “With variations in the economy, it can go up or down,” he said. Inflation is a big concern. “We have to account for that.”

Donnell is also apprehensive about the commissioners electing to lower the $1.10 amount to be collected to $1.01. “If we do take less, the county still would collect the $1.10. That money is going to be collected.”

Russ Jones asked if it was possible for the commissioners to lower the amount collected for the District and not have the County collect the $1.10. Donnell replied that, to his knowledge, the County would still collect the $1.10 which would stay in the bank. “What a screwy system,” said Jones. “I don’t disagree,” said Donnell.

It was pointed out that a decision on the amount collected didn’t need to be made at this hearing. Oules suggested taking the excess and putting it into a holding position.

Resident Tim Sullivan told the Commission to take the full $1.10 and use it. “There is a lot you can do with that money,” he said. Ron Simmons, a retired chief and committee member, stated that as a public process the committee thought through a lot of things. “Career firefighters are an expense, but three more people would give the District 24/7 coverage. That’s very important and gives the District a better staffing model.”

The next budget hearing will be on Wednesday, November 10, beginning at 5 p.m. The public is invited to attend in person and/or by ZOOM. Chelan County Assessor Deanna Walters will attend the meeting via ZOOM to explain the how tax collection in the County will work.

by Richard Uhlhorn

City Administrator Farris presented the American Rescue Plan, Transportation Benefit Districts and Tax Increment Funding information to Council at the Strategic Retreat on September 25, 2021. Due to time constraints, it was decided to continue the discussion at a Regular Council meeting.

Ferris gave the Council an update on the potential of the city creating a Transportation Benefit District (TBD). “It is another source of funding for transportation projects,” said Ferris. “Something this community needs is sidewalks,” he added.

He explained that there are two ways the City could raise money within a TBD. The first is to apply a fee to car tabs without voter approval starting at $20 and increasing up to $40 after the $20 fee has been in effect for 24 months and then up to $50 after the $40 fee has been in effect for 24 months.

Any license fees over these amounts, up to a maximum of $100 must be approved by a simple majority of voters. “I don’t think our constituents would be happy with this,” he added.

The other common funding source fot TBDs is a sales and use tax up to 0.2% which must be approved by a simple majority of voters. “The impact of this method is a lot less,” said Ferris. “Visitors would also help pay and it would be hardly noticeable.”

The only downside to a 0.2% sales tax is voter resistance to a new tax. To make it happen, it would require a public hearing to establish a boundary, which would be the city limits.

A governing board would be established with city council. The sales tax method would only stay in place for 10 years. “It could not stay in place (after 10 years) without public approval,” stated Ferris.

Councilman Chris Baker remarked that the a fire levy and school levy are already in front of or will be in front of the public.

Councilman Peter Jamtgaard added that the City would need to more specific with its plans instead of just adding another tax. Councilman John Olson said, “Let’s see what has happened in other communities. It would be nice to hear about it.”

Councilwoman Erin McCardle asked, “Where is that funding going. What are we adding to the mix that we can’t do today?”

Jamtgaard added that it would be nice to see photos and examples of projects. “It is hard for people to visualize projects.”

Ferris said he would move forward with getting answers to the questions and try to get the measure on the ballot in 2022.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth add that it would be good for these funds if the City had something to sell to the public.

Ferris suggested forming the District and then deciding what to do. Councilman Ty Witt stated that he personally sees this as a hard sell. “Fifty percent of the voters are not going to benefit from this. Why would they vote for sidewalks not in their neighborhood?”

Mayor Goedde remarked that the 0.2% Toyota Tax has a Sunset Clause. Witt said he had a meeting on Thursday and would check on that.

Public Works:

Due to the pending demolition of the existing Public Works Department’s Administrative Facility the City Council has approved a temporary office rental to maintain operations.

The plan is to rent 1000 square feet at the Chelan Business Center for $1,300 a month. “This will buy us time until the new building is finished,” said Public Works Director Jake Youngren. The Council approved the rental,

FINANCE:

Residents will soon be able to set-up payments to the City through Invoice Cloud (a partner with Vision Utility Billing) providing customers to have online access to their account information. This promotes E-Billing (paperless billing) and enables customers to pay bills using a wide variety of methods including credit cards, Online Bank Direct -ACH payment from customer bank to the City – Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, PayPal, autopay, pay by text, e-checks and others as they become available.

Customer use of invoice cloud will be voluntary and require action on the customers part to set up an account or pay as a visitor. Customers wishing to receive a paper invoice and pay by check or other means as is currently done will be able to continue doing so.

The City currently issues 2,900 bills / month. Of these 1,150 are direct debit payments, 200 online credit card payments, and 150 bank issue checks per month.

1. Savings in postage, copier costs, and staff time.

2. Invoice Cloud is integrated with Vision Utility Billing. Customers will have online access to account information, and customer payments through Invoice Cloud will be deposited to the City bank account and payment information posted to customer accounts electronically.

3. Customers who sign up for e-billing will receive invoices and reminders by text or email, as well as electronic flyers.

4. Customers will be able to pay their utility bills when they want, and to use the payment method of their choosing.

5. Credit card acceptance at City Hall using a “kiosk” approach.

6. Landlords will have the ability to set up their account, and grant access to tenants (when the tenant is responsible for the utility bill).

7. Features Cloud Store which provides a shopping cart ability to pay more than one invoice per process and Cloud Payment allows integration with third party systems to accept payments for non-invoiced items (perhaps, parking or permits, or perhaps program enrollments).

8. The City would hold no bank or credit card information, and PCI compliance will be the responsibility of InvoiceCloud.

Costs – City:

1. $100 per month ($1,200 per year) access fee – maintenance, support, upgrades, and access to the system for the City and customers.

2. $.40 per paperless invoice issued (current postage cost is $.53 per invoice plus envelope, plus handling). Customer Costs 1. 2.95% per transaction for credit cards with a minimum of $1.95. Current card charges are 2.5% with a $2.00 minimum charge.

3. E-Check Fee $1.95. Current charge is $1.50 3. ACH Autopay – $.95 per transaction

4. Online Bank Direct $.20 per per check (would replace direct debit. Online Bank Direct will allow e-billing, which does not support direct debit))

5. Credit Card or ACH rejects (NSF) – $15 (in addition to City $25 NSF fee)

Parks Branding:

Parks Director Paul Horne told the Council that the branding project being proposed was not going off in left field in answer to the City’s Way Finding efforts. “The Chamber has done well with branding. We had four firms and this group (Arnett Muldrow) specializes in this kind of work,” said Horne.

The plan is to stay consistent with the current branding efforts. Cost of the project is $11,000 with $4,000 held in contingencies. Horne reported that the design team will work closely with the HDCA and Chamber of Commerce to insure the branding efforts will complement other branding efforts.

McCardle said she was excited to see how those various projects are tied together. “It will elevate the awareness of what we have in this valley.”

Olson asked if the PUD parks were included because visitors don’t know the difference. Horne said the PUD parks were not a part of the project.

The council authorized the Mayor to execute and finalize the contract with Arnett Muldrow & Associates.

Mayor/Council comments:

Hollingsworth remarked that a letter received from downtown businesses showing a rift between businesses over potential work in the alley between Columbia and Emerson Streets. “I hope they can bring some consensus with the downtown businesses,” he said. “It they want real support, they need to come up unified and bury the hatchet. There has to be a solution there.”

Public Works Director Jake Youngren said the issues are something public works is completely aware of. “We will do what we can to provide sanitation during construction,” he said. He said the game plan was to bring in a 20-yard garbage container and a 10-yard recycle container using the old Chamber parking lot.

John Olson was not happy with the Chamber requesting $800,000 next year to solicit more visitors. “We obviously are failing to adequately serve the visitors that we already have.” He stated that the Chamber reported 2 million annual visitors to Chelan.

Olson also remarked that Chelan’s infrastructure hasn’t changed significantly since he was a child 70 years ago. “We have a failing infrastructure already, as we discussed tonight, and there are thousands of housing units being developed right now”

Olson also stated that he attended the Keep It Blue campaign meeting at the Boat Club last week and said there are some issues on the lake that we should all be aware of.

Mayor Goedde announced that LINK will be developing new routes throughout the valley.

Ferris said the Airport management will begin clocking the number of landings and takeoffs at the Chelan Airport, which is important information when going after grants.

Mayor Goedde added that a commercial airline wants to use the airport twice a day. He also stated it was important to get water flow to the airport so it could develop.

The next Council meeting will be held on November 9 beginning at 6 p.m.