by Richard Uhlhorn

“We are concerned that this is going
to be the spark that ignites that.”
Dr. Butler

Laura Schmidt, Columbia Valley Community Health and a member of the Leadership Response Team updated the team with a serious concern. Her concern is that the packing sheds are not requiring social distancing for their workers. They apparently are also transporting workers in buses to Wal-Mart for grocery shopping. “They are utilizing vans and buses packed with workers multiple times a week,” she said. She added that Manson growers said they were going to shut down, but are still up and running. “That’s kind of my big concern right now,” said Schmidt.

Mike Steele, Chamber Director replied to her concern. “They don’t have a way of social distancing. They don’t have the resources to act appropriately.” He also said the health department has been in contact with the sheds.

Chelan/Douglas County Health District released the number of positive test in the county and two of those were from Chelan, and one of those two individuals allegedly works at a local packing plant. “As far as our community, these are big hot spots,” said Schmidt. Dr. Butler stated that the positive “we have is an employee of a packing shed. We are concerned that this is going to be the spark that ignites that. It is appropriate that we follow through.”

Getting the word of the seriousness of this crisis in Spanish was also discussed. “We need to come up with a plan for the community.” Some grocery stores are limiting how many people are allowed in and Schmidt wondered if Wal-Mart had looked at that policy.

“How can we work with the packing sheds to keep them (workers) safe,” asked Schmidt. Barry Kling of the Chelan/Douglas County Health District said that it may be simple enough to have a conversation with them. “I think it might make sense to take a crack at that, unless you have already done that.” He went on to say that they should try to get voluntary compliance

Wade Ferris, Chelan City Administrator said that the City had a complaint about Gebbers Farms. Mayor Goedde said, “If it is still going on, we need to remind them.

Schmidt said, “They are still required by the Governor to follow the order. It doesn’t mean they don’t have to act in a responsible way.”

EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer said that the valley is holding steady. “Most tests have come back negative,” Eickmeyer. “Our people are doing a good job. We are working on follow-ups on patients.”

Eickmeyer stated that they have enough surgical masks to get them to July 1st. He said there is a lot of misinformation about masks. He added that even surgical masks doesn’t protect. “The only good thing about homemade masks is that they offer some protection. There are so many variables,” he said. Material used is one of them. “We know that a mask from a manufacturer is better than nothing.”

Dr. Butler said the individual that returned positive on Thursday is not hospitalized, but is in home quarantine.

Sgt. Kent Sisson, Emergency Management, stated that they have a lot going on at Chelan County Sheriff’s Office.

“The National Guard has arrived at the Toyota Center and will be going out to other communities. The Guard will be helping with supplies and logistics.

“We’ve been putting out a lot of small fires,” said Sisson. He stated that there is redundancy on ordering medical supplies. “The Department of Health is reaching out individually (to facilities) and it has created a Firestorm. Why are we being asked twice.”

Rich Magneson added that he is in the process of writing an email to DOH to try and streamline the process. “We will keep you posted on that.”

Sisson added that was just one of things they are trying to get clarification of. The Emergency Management operation is also helping CDCH get personnel from Wenatchee Valley College to help out. “These are individuals with medical or EMT experience and are willing to help out,” said Sisson.

Dr. Butler said that CVCH can test about 20 people per day and that Confluence Health has begun testing again also.

Fire Chief Mark Donnell asked what the turnaround time is. Butler replied that nothing comes back within 48 hours. “It is difficult to get testing.” CVCH is collaborating with the hospital which also had the ability to test. “They run their tests through Quest Diagnostics and it takes four or five days for the results.”

Kling added that better tests are on the way and thinks there will be quicker results. “We think we are at a point where we will see a spike. There is lots going on with community outreach education. What you are doing up there (Chelan) is good and it is really helpful.”

Chelan Ranger Kari Grover-Wier asked about a steep climb to the peak. “When do you guys think this will peak,” she asked. Kling replied that he would rather see a lower flatter curve to a peak than a rapid peak in cases. “I am really hoping it will take longer. My crystal ball hasn’t been very clear lately.” He feels that it will be a couple of weeks before they will know.

Kari Weir said that the Wenatchee/Okanogan National Forest has closed its campgrounds, snoparks, and trailheads. “We are trying to avoid a concentration of people,” said Weir. “The Forest is not closed.” The District has delayed seasonal employees until the end of April and is conducting no prescribed burning.

Erin McCardle, HCDA executive director, said that a number of business owners were on a call with Employment Security on Wednesday afternoon. “It was very informative,” said McCardle. The downtown businesses were trying to figure out how to take out a small business loan and the unemployment picture. “That’s what Mike (Steele) and I have been focused on.”

Debbie Conwell, Manson Chamber of Commerce, said it is hard for business owners. “We are reaching the (peak) season quickly. They want to know when they can start advertising.”

Schmidt asked about a list of businesses offering takeout. McCardle mentioned the Lake Chelan Chamber’s Virtual page (www.lakechelan.com/virtual) and Lake Chelan Now’s page (https://lakechelannow.com/coronavirus-updates/social-distancing/).

Mayor Goedde informed the team that he would be meeting with Wal-Mart on Friday to make sure of social spacing is being enforced.

City Administrator stated that the City is working with a skeleton crew, but that Public works would be doing some striping because of the lack of downtown traffic.

Fire Chief Arnold Baker said the Manson Fire District is just holding on tight and keeping all services available to the community.

The next Leadership Response Team meeting will take place next Thursday, April 9, beginning at 1 p.m.

 

 

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan City Council held its Tuesday night meeting on-line streaming the audio. Council members were at home while the essential staff, Mayor, City Administrator and City Attorney were in Council Chambers for this meeting.

The Council had a number of Corona Virus issues to cover including the following:

• A Deferred Utility Payments Policy;
• A policy for funding for certain Community Agencies during the pandemic
• A Rate and Fee Resolution to waive cancellation fees at the RV Park during the crisis;
• A policy on the Payment of Employee Wages and Benefits during the pandemic.
• A policy on Telecommuting during the crisis; and
• A policy relating to the Washington Paid Family & Medical Leave Act.

Of interest to residents, the proposed policy on deferring utility payments during the crisis had a number of council questions after Finance Director Steve Thornton explained the policy to them. He told the council that the policy would eliminate late penalties and that that City would not disconnect any water, sewer or sanitation services during this period.

Thornton went on to say that at the end of the crisis, residents would be offered a payment plan to catch up with their utility charges. City customers would have up to five months to catch up.

Councilwoman Erin McCardle said she was concerned. “A large part of our community is out of work,” said McCardle. “This would not be the only bill they have to pay. We haven’t given them any rebound time.”

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth said he had the same concerns. “The utility bill would be one of the smaller bills they would have to pay, but I tend to agree with Erin,” said Hollingsworth. He also feels that the City is giving customers a pretty good deal. Councilman Ty Witt added that with the proposed payment period the customers are getting a pretty good deal. The Council passed the ordinance unanimously.

The next item on the agenda was a policy for emergency funding for community agencies like the Food Bank, Thrive and others who are already vetted by the City and being funded.

Thornton said the resolution was designed and written to provide the Mayor and City Administrator the authority to fund these agencies when they need it. “It is a pathway for agencies on our budget to get funded,” said Thornton. Thornton stated that there would be a requirement to have some reporting at the end of the crisis to see how the money was used.

McCardle asked if this policy extends beyond the end of the emergency timeframe? City Attorney Quentin Batjer replied that if was only emergency funding during the current crisis and is limited in its scope. Councilman Peter Jamtgaard said, “Once the emergency is over doesn’t mean that people are going back to work immediately.” He wanted to see this funding policy extend for 90 days out.

Councilman Ray Dobbs the council would be the ones to decide to extend the funding period. “When the President or Govenor says its over doesn’t mean its over for us.” Batjer replied that it would ultimately come back to the Council. This Resolution was passed unanimously.

The Parks Department offered a Rate and Fee Amended Resolution to waive cancellation fees and offer those people canceling the opportunity to re-schedule their visit to Chelan. “Customer loyalty has been earned over time,” said Paul Horne, the City’s new Park Director. Dobbs wanted to see the $5 credit card charge also waived. It was also passed unanimously.

There were other items on the Agenda that were passed by the Council. They can be seen on the City’s Civic Portal.

Mayor/Council Comments:

 John Olsen – “I just want to say that the senior group has been hit hard with COVID-19 issue.” The Senior Center has shut down, but is still delivering meals to seniors. Olsen said that the ReRun Store is a major funder of the Senior Center. “I think we are good for four to five months,” said Olsen.

Erin McCardle remarked that a weekly meeting was taking place on Thursday afternoons at 5:15 on ZOOM with all the agencies dedicated to helping the community and county get through this crisis. “Our business community is feeling very nervous,” she said. “The latest proclamation by the Governor has had a major impact on our business community.”

Ray Dobbs said that the buzz this past weekend has been about short term rentals. “People are advertising on Facebook that their rentals are Coronavirus free. I think the City needs to do something… somehow we need to see it (rentals) stopped.”

McCardle replied that the Govenor’s proclamation was very specific about that people were to stay at home and stay healthy. Batjer stated that he doesn’t see short term rentals as essential and that renting them could be construed as a gross misdemeanor, but that by contrast, the City has no enforcement available except for its code enforcer. “If we regulate STRs it wouldn’t do anything about rentals outside of the City.” Dobbs added that the Chamber and community needs to prohibit any marketing or advertising for Short Term Rentals. McCardle said the Chamber has stopped all of its Spring marketing.

Councilman Ty Witt added that the City has all the contact information for Short Term Rental owners and that the City should communicate to them. “Make some kind of threat that we could notify the authorities.” Dobbs asked if the City could revoke their business licenses. Batjer said that would have to come from the County.

Wade Ferris said the City has been working on what the Sheriff’s Department can do. Mayor Bob Goedde said he had been in communication with Chelan County Commissioner Doug England and the he said the County was working on the issue.

Tim Hollingsworth stated that Town Toyota Center has been taking a big hit, but taking the time to do some maintenance and helping warehouse some of the food items for Chelan and Douglas County’s foodbanks. “They have become a focal point of the crisis.”

Ty Witt said he wanted to make a quick comment on health issues and the communities ability to handle them. “Today we have only six positives, but we know it is coming. We are all eventually going to be exposed.”

Dr. Witt also said he is worried that by stopping normal procedures at the hospitals and clinics who already work on tight margins, that it could force the closure of up to three hospitals in the area. “If we can’t start doing our normal surgeries and right now we aren’t doing any surgeries,” said Witt. That could lead to hospitals not being able to cover payroll. “The only thing that is going to help this is some real money,” said Witt. “We need some funds that are taking the place of the workloads we are missing.”

Mayor Goedde stated that rural hospitals seem to be ignored. Goedde alsos said he is glad everyone is on board. “We are in this together. It is a good start.”

Ferris told the Council that he has been extremely impressed with all the hard work by staff and the council.

One other issue that came up was the City Parks. Paul Horne said that the plan was to keep the Chelan Parks open. “Keeping our parks open is critical,” said Horne. “People walk their dogs in front of the Parks office all the time.” He also said the Lakeshore RV Park and Golf Course are closed.

McCardle said she totally agrees with open spaces being open but is concerned with kids gathering to play basketball in the Park. “The PUD has started cordoning off their playground,” said McCardle. “We think about that all the time,” said Horne. “We are taking steps that entail larger signage and better signage.”

Hopefully the signage and staff walkthroughs of the recreational areas will help discourage groups gathering to play ball or skateboad at the skate park.

The meeting ended with Ferris stating that the upcoming Workshop is cancelled and the next Council meeting is up in the air at this time.

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan County Fire District No. 7 held its annual Chelan Fire and Rescue Recognition Awards banquet recently. Following are the staff and firefighters who were honored.

Fire Chief Mark Donnell recognized the following members for their contributions to the department and community.

• Firefighter Laura Cross – As one of our newest members of Chelan Fire & Rescue this individual taken the personal commitment to be the best that they can be by stepping up as a firefighter on South Lakeshore.  She has continually sought out additional training, started to master operation of apparatus assigned to ST-75, and has helped out at many of our social events making a positive impact within our community.
• Firefighter Chrys Fine – Chrys has done a tremendous job as “Sparky” in promoting fire safety and education throughout the County. She has made a trememdous effort in getting Sparky into as many events as possible throughout the year and is always a hit with kids and other mascots.
• Lieutenant Taylor Rains – Lt. Rains has been at the helm of our public education program for the past year and has made a tremendous effort in keeping us connected to the community. As the junior lieutenant in our organization, he has been an ardent supporter of training for career and volunteer members alike and daily demonstrates the spirit of our mission.
• Chelan Firefighters Association & Auxiliary – The Firefighters Association has been the benevolent arm of Chelan Fire & Rescue and our huge supporter to our community in their time of need. Under the guidance of Dan Crandall and Anne Brautovich-Clark, the Association and Auxiliary have successfully raised significant funds that directly benefit the Fire District and members of our community. This organization truly represents the heart and spirit of the fire service.

Commissioner Russ Jones recognized the following individual for the 2019 Commissioners Award. This award recognizes a member of Chelan Fire & Rescue or a member of the community or community group or business that has significantly contributed to the Fire District’s mission of protecting lives and property.

• Chrys “Sparky” Fine

Assistant Chief Brandon Asher recognized Support Services Robert Takagi for the 2019 Chief Timothy Lemon Memorial Award. This award recognizes the member of Chelan Fire and Rescue who displays the spirit of commitment, compassion, and courage in their daily contributions for the organization. It was created in memory of Fire Chief Tim Lemon who saw the best in every member, was always there to listen to your story, held us steady throughout his span as Chelan 7’s Fire Chief, and would always greet you with a big hug.

Chief Donnell gave the 2019 Chief’s Company Award to the entire membership of Chelan Fire & Rescue for all of their hard work and dedication over the last year. It is given to members of the organization based on their merits and skills during emergency responses and their contributions to the organization and community as well.

This year’s award recognizes members who held strong through a year of many challenges facing many obstacles and receiving many accolades along the way. These members held steadfast to the Mission of protecting the lives and property of the community through emergency response, training, and education. They contributed time, energy, and resources unselfishly to keep the community safe throughout the year.

• Chief Donnell said, “I cannot thank these members enough for the support that they have given of themselves for this orgaization and I am eternally grateful for the support that they have given me this past year.”The 2019 Chief’s Company Award goes to the Membership of Chelan Fire & Rescue for all of its hard work and dedication for the past year.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The City of Chelan held a special meeting on Monday, March 16, for council members and city staff to hear a webinar on Managing the Impact of COVID-19 in the City.

Special spacing was set up at the Monday, March 16, Special City Council/Staff Meeting on the COVID-19 crisis.

The City released a memorandum for City of Chelan customers to consider when interacting on City business during the COVID-19 crisis.

To our valued City of Chelan customers. We appreciate the trust you place in the City of Chelan, including our commitment to safeguard your health and safety as you interact with us. That’s why we want to share the steps we are taking in response to COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.

As always, our priority is to protect our customers and employees as we perform our dally business. In the current environment we are following guidance from health experts and elected officials at the state and local levels to stop the spread of germs and reduce risk. Here are some of the actions we have taken to date:

• First, we are encouraging customers who may be planning a visit to the offices of the City of Chelan to reconsider and avoid making the trip. The City of Chelan website provide a number of tools and resources and you can always connect with us by telephone at (509) 682-4037.
• Keep in mind that it isn’t necessary to meet with us in person to pay your bill. The ability to pay your utility bill online in addition you may also pay your utility bill by phone through Point & Pay by calling 1-866-706-6609.
• There are drop boxes conveniently located In front of City Hall and in the alley behind City Hall. • Ifyoudo visit the City of Chelan, you’llfind that we are practicing social distancing and minimizing personal contact (avoiding handshakes, for example). Also, we are frequently disinfecting common areas, workspaces and meeting facilities.
• Public works will continue maintaining services such as water, sewer and garbage & recycling.
• Planning and Building asks that the public call or email and limit in office visits unless absolutely necessary.
• Building will perform all new construction inspections; however, occupied structure inspections will be done on a case by case basis. If your inspection is within an occupied building, please email or call us about your inspection at 682-8017.
• Parks Department transactions can be conducted by phone at (509) 682-8023. The office is open for business, but we do ask that people come in only if necessary.

These are uncertain times for our state, our country and the world. We fully understand that customers will be apprehensive about several things, including your essential utility services.

Thank you for your patience as we respond to the changing nature of this event. And if you have questions for City of Chelan, be sure to contact us. For information on COVID-19, please visit the Washington State Department of Health website at: https://www.doh.wa.gov/

City Administrator Wade Ferris imparted information to the Council members on what the City was doing to prepare its staff and departments for COVID-19 issues.

The Mayor, Council and Administration discussed Legislative Body Meetings which cannot be 100% remote because of the open meeting clause that says the public must be allowed the opportunity to attend. “This does not address the situation we are in now,” said Wade Ferris, city administrator. “There is no question about it… it will be a real challenge to hold a public meeting remotely. We are exploring ways to do this.”

The other option open to the City is to decide if it is necessary to even hold a meeting. “Can it be postponed,” asked Ferris. The other option is to minimize the agenda items. In all instances the City must comply with Social Distancing for the meeting site.

Another option would be to provide the public to listen by telephone, computer or live streaming.

The City will be deciding on a remote location in case Council Chambers become compromised.

Ferris commented that the City is currently operating at Level I which allows visitors to enter City Hall, but if the situation warrants, the City will move to a Level II where the offices would be locked down and residents would have to conduct business by telephone or email.

It was related to the Council that the City does have the capability to accept payments by credit card, however with restaurants and other businesses shut down potentially creating a severe impact on hourly wage people, the City is looking for a way to waive certain monthly payments for a time. “There are people out there that live on a margin,” said Ferris.

Councilmember Ray Dobbs asked if payments would be deferred or forgiven. Ferris replied that they would only be deferred. “The City has to be careful about gifting.”

Dobbs said that the City has to look at making life easier for people. McCardle said, “There has to be a structure around that.” Olsen stated it was important to help somehow, particularly this time of year. “This could last well into summer,” he said.

The City is planning with the Fire Department, Sheriff’s Department and other agencies involved in working on the crisis.

Mayor Goedde said, “If it all ends quicker, these measures are all worth the effort.”

Health, School and City officials participated in a panel discussion about the emerging COVID-19 Virus situation in the Lake Chelan Valley which was hosted by Lake Chelan Now.

By Richard Uhlhorn

Barry DePaoli said that closure of the Lake Chelan Schools was imminent at a round table of health and other agency officials yesterday morning. I don’t think he knew how immediate that order would come down from the Governor who has effectively told the State School System that K-12 schools would shout down on Tuesday, March 17 until Sunday, April 26.

Chelan School Superintendent Barry DePaoli stated that a
school closure was imminent. Later in the day the closure was
announced to begin on Tuesday, March 17.

Today, the School District is encouraging students to attend school on Monday, March 16, so the District Staff can prepare them for instructional opportunities that will follow in the next six weeks. (Say Current: http://www.chelanschool.org). “We are looking at how to serve students,” said DePaoli. “It will be a challenge on how to (continue) to educate our children.”

Barry DePaoli encourages parents to get their children to school on Monday, March 16, so they can be prepared for the upcoming closure.

DePaoli’s biggest concern is anxiety amongst children. “We are going to get through this.” He is in touch with superintendents around the valley.

Manson School Superintendent Matt Charlton stated that his District is in the planning stages for a shutdown.

Also on board was Matt Charlton, Manson Superintendent. “How do we talk to students about this?” Charlton said the Manson District will probably concentrate on a literacy emphasis during any shutdown. “We have a group working on the shutdown.”

Both district students have laptops that can be used at home. DePaoli’s concern is how to instruct those students who don’t have internet conductivity at home.

The other issue being discussed within the districts is how they can support breakfast and lunch meals. “These are the only quality meal some of these students get,” said Charlton

Charlton also said that Manson is seeing an influx of west side families with second homes coming in and added that one family has already requested that his athlete be allowed to train with the Manson track athletes. “That’s a new dynamic,” said Charlton.

Mayor Bob Goedde stated that the City is planning on
|keeping essential services running.

Mayor Goedde assured that panel that the City is concentrating on keeping essential services running. “Those people will have backup if necessary,” said Goedde. The City is also discussing the possibilities of shutting doors at the Planning Office and Public Works.

Hospital CEO George Rohrich believes there will be an outbreak in the Valley.

George Rohrich told the panel that the hospital believes that there will be an outbreak in the valley. “We are beginning to discourage access to patients and will restrict access from friends and families who want to visit,” he said. He also said the hospital wants to insure that visitors are healthy before they come into the hospital.

EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer said every effort was being made to make sure EMS serves the public while keeping
first responders from the fire department and EMS safe.

Ray Eickmeyer – EMS Director said he was in constant contact with the hospital’s partners. “We are talking about what’s going on and are opening new ways to communicate.”

Procedures have changed for EMS in order to protect first responders from the Fire Department and EMS. “We need to be on the same page.”

CVCH Administrator Mary Louise Jones stated that an incident command center was being set up to manage their daily operations during this crisis.

Mary Louise Jones – CVCH administrator, said they were setting up an incident command center to manage their daily operations. “We are very proactive. If you have symptoms, please call and we will decide whether or not you can stay home or come in.”

Maria Sirois, LCCH Quality Control Officer stated that the hospital is expecting to test more people in the next several weeks. Two have already been tested and were found to be negative.

Points that should be taken seriously include keeping surfaces, door knobs and other frequently touched surfaces wiped down. Don’t frequent places where there are a lot of people gathered and try to maintain at least six feet space. Stay at home if possible.

Hospital CEO George Rohrich said, “Personally, I would say the virus is here. The Department of Health is trying to slow down the infection rate and let science and technology catch up.” He sees that happening in the near future and hopes people can respect both sides of the issue.

Mayor Goedde stated that the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce should put out information for visitors because that is where they would go for information.

The SeniorCenter will be delivering meals Monday through Thursday. If you request a meal, that request has to be in before 9:30 a.m.

The City of Chelan will be holding a special council meeting at 2 p.m. in Council Chambers to participate in a Covid-19 Webinar sponsored by the Municipal Research and Services Center (MRSC) with Council discussion to follow. Action may be taken.

FOR MORE AND UP TO DATE INFORMATION:

https://cityofchelan.us/

http://www.chelanschools.org/

https://lakechelancommunityhospital.com/lake-chelan-clinic/clinic-home/

http://cdhd.wa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020-01-COVID19-Public-Health-Advisory-Eng.pdf

by Richard Uhlhorn

COVID-19 or better known as the Coronavirus has now been classified by the World Health Organization as a pandemic. “We have called every day for countries to take urgent and aggressive action,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

In Washington, Governor Inslee is banning large gatherings of 250 or more people in the Seattle Metro Area in an attempt to stop the spread of Coronavirus. It is not expected to include work places or school closures, however major sporting events are affected and are trying to make plans for the spring sports season.

The Lake Chelan School District along with other school districts in the area have shut down all indoor activities including:

 Athletic and extracurricular indoor practices and competitions

 Parent-teacher conferences (scheduled for March 16-21)

– Schools will communicate alternative meeting and conferencing plans with parents

 All non-school organized indoor activities and gatherings

 Public meetings scheduled in school facilities

 Public events and functions (dances, plays, concerts, festivals)

 Afters Program and Family Night scheduled for March 11 th

 Community user groups (youth sports organizations, churches, non-profits)

Tuesday evening’s Chelan City Council Meeting addressed the COVID-19 crisis. City Administrator Wade Ferris told the Council that the City was looking at quite a few things regarding local actions that have already been taken. “It is changing hourly,” said Ferris. “We have to be proactive,” he added.

Chelan Administrator Wade Ferris took the City Council through the COVID-19 pandemic at last night’s City Council meeting.

This includes starting with the City’s employees and their contact with the public. “Our employees have a lot of contact with people,” said Ferris. “We have to protect our employees.” A part of that protection will include the janitorial service wiping down all counters and other locations.

“The worst case would be closing down City Hall.” Ferris added that it was important to see who the essential employees are. “Regardless of what happens, we will keep the water flowing.”

If ordered to stay home, employees will continue to be paid. There was also a discussion regarding the possibility of retaining public access through virtual meetings that could include On-Line Streaming. “We need to comply with the Open Public laws,” said City Attorney Quentin Batjer. Puyallup lawmakers have already moved town halls to telephone.

“We will coordinate with Chelan County, but that doesn’t mean we have to follow their lead,” said Ferris.

Councilman Peter Jamtgaard.

Councilman Peter Jamtgaard asked if there was discretionary funding the City can use? Finance Director Steve Thornton replied that all of the departments have operating budgets and that there is $150,000 available. “We would come back after the fact with a budget amendment,” said Thornton.

Ferris also said that Mayor Bob Goedde has been working with the school district on Emergency Declarations.

He also said that it was important for information to flow whether it is good or bad. “Our goal is that whatever we put out is accurate. How we get that out is important.” He mentioned the local media outlets. “We will use every source we can think about. This is really important,” said Ferris. “It is critical that we make the right decisions.”

Councilman John Olsen reported that Chelan’s Senior Center would be closed down beginning Wednesday, March 11.

Councilman John Olsen said that the Chelan Senior Center has been closed down as of Wednesday morning.

Councilwoman Erin McCardle asked about the information out of the Chelan/Douglas County Health District. Ferris said the City would follow their advice.

Councilman Dr. Ty Witt added his perspective on the virus.

Councilman Dr. Ty Witt weighed in and remarked that regular influenza kills more people and said, “What I like about this exercise is that we will learn to wash our hands. New virus’ come up all the time. I just wish it wasn’t so prominent.”

Jamtgaard stated that people are booking vacations where they can drive instead of flying, which could mean that Chelan will continue to be busy this summer. “I was talking to Tom Gormley at Lakeside Lodges and he said he has never had so many bookings this early.”

At this time there has not been any positive cases reported reported in the Lake Chelan Valley, but our local medical personnel apparently believe there are people who would test positive.

It is obvious to everyone that this pandemic is going to continue to affect our lives in the Chelan Valley in some negative ways, however, as most people are saying, “It is better to be safe than sorry.”

As of Wednesday morning, 120,000 people worldwide have been infected and that number is growing hourly. It is important to remember that the Coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as a fever and cough. Older adults and people with existing health problems are the ones at risk of more severe illness including pneumonia.

According to Robert Redfield, the head of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention this pandemic is going to get worse as the days wear on.

by Richard Uhlhorn

“This was the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make,” said Brett LaMar about Lake Chelan Building Supply’s sale to TAL Holdings LLC. LaMar was approached three years ago, but Brett backed off. When TAL LLC looked into building a facility out at Apple Blossom Center, Brett became more serious about his own personal estate and his family’s stake. “How am I going to do this,” asked LaMar.

Brett LaMar has reached an business agreement with TAL Holdings LLC of Vancouver, Washington for TAL to take over ownership of the business, leaving Brett as the manager with the business name remaining.

TAL approached Brett again and after a long and arduous negotiation, Brett and TAL agreed in concept. “The negotiations took quite awhile,” LaMar said. Once the employees were covered and other issues surrounding the sale agreed to, the acquisition went forward.

One of Brett’s biggest concerns was his employees. “They are my next layer of family,” he said. LaMar also doesn’t see a whole ton of difference except for Marson and Marson moving its operations to the LCBS Chelan location.

The LaMar family kept its property in the deal. TAL only purchased the business interest. TAL has a nine store chain of retail building material centers in Oregon and Washington. Lake Chelan Building Supply will begin operations as a part of the TAL family of companies on March 30.

Brett will remain as LCBS’s manager and is on the board of TAL. “We’ve tried really hard to be a member of the community,” said LaMar. “My door is wide open if any customer has concerns or a question. We are an open book,” stated Brett.

Brett posed with his son Bryson at a Manson High School baseball game. Brett is one of the assistant coaches and has been very active in the community.

The Backstory:

 TAL Holdings LLC is a Vancouver, Washington Company and shares the same basic business principles of building honest, fair and ethical relationships with its customers. TAL CEO M. David Dittmer said, “We are excited to join forces with Lake Chelan Building Supply.”

TAL currently operates a branch in the Chelan market under the Marson and Marson brand; but the Marson and Marson location in Chelan was not adequate to support the business potential in the market. “The opportunity to join forces with Lake ChelanBuilding Supply presented itself and the rest is history,” said Dittmer.

Marson and Marson, another TAL Holdings company will move its operations to Lake Chelan Building Supply’s Chelan location as a part of the business deal between the three companies.

Over the next few months, the Marson and Marson location will close with employees and product transferred to the LCBS Chelan location.  At that time, TAL will continue to operate under the Lake Chelan Building Supply brand. “I am pleased that TAL has decided to honor the legacy of my parents and Lake Chelan Building Supply by continuing to operate under our company name.”

“Lake Chelan Building Supply has a strong employee group. Their years of experience in our industry, coupled with the expertise of the Marson and Marson team in Chelan, make us the place to go for building solutions for both the consumer and the contractor,” stated Dittmer.

Dittmer stated that, “This acquisition is the right addition to our company. We have an opportunity to strengthen our market share in greater Lake Chelan with the addition of LCBS. We are anxious to expand our footprint in this growing market.”

Lake Chelan Building Supply was founded by Edd and Sharon LaMar in 1979 on the simple but important moto; “Where Customers Become Friends.”

One of Brett’s recreational pursuits is to join Lake Chelan Mountain Bikers group rides with his wife Beverly.

About TAL Holdings LLC:  TAL Holdings has 4 operating divisions: 1) Tum-A-Lum Lumber, founded in 1906, serving the Hood River, The Dalles, and Pendleton markets in Oregon, 2) Marson and Marson Lumber, founded in 1955, serving the Leavenworth, Wenatchee, Chelan and Cle Elum markets of Washington, 3) Browne’s Home

Center, founded in 1947, serving the San Juan Islands of Washington and 4) Gerretsen Building Supply serving the Roseburg, Oregon market.  All four divisions provide contractors and homeowners with a wide assortment of building material products and services.

http://www.TALHoldingsLLC.co

by Richard Uhlhorn

Evie Hirschberger, a Chelan resident, once again addressed Chelan City Council regarding high density developments and her concerns that the development (Holiday Hills) in her neighborhood is zoned for multi-family dwellings that would allow monthly rentals. “Keep in mind those of us who have built houses in Chelan,” said Hirschberger. “Why are we not looking at other communities in how they have addressed these issues.”

Evie Hirschberger continues to address City Council concerning developments and development standards.

Hirschberger went on to comment how important municipal codes are for protecting neighborhoods. “If the codes don’t protect neighborhoods, we have failed,” she stated.

Mayor Bob Goedde told Hirschberger that there might be a position opening up on the Planning Commission. Hirschberger replied that if the codes aren’t protecting neighborhoods, they need to be made stronger.

A special presentation was made by J-U-B Engineers Steve Marshall on the companies Master Plan for the airport. He stated that more large airplanes would want to use Chelan Airport for charter operations from the metro areas. However, he said if a pilot determines that the runway is too short or won’t handle his aircraft landing at Chelan, he will make the obvious decision to fly on to Wenatchee or another airport that will handled his aircraft.

Steve Marshall of J-U-B Engineers presented an update on the
Chelan Airport Master Plan

Marshall reported that there are currently 160 operations at the airport. Mayor Goedde asked if the runway is stong enough to handle larger aircraft. Marshall stated that it was more about runway width than strength. Councilman Peter Jamtgaard asked if Chelan has the runway length and Marshall said that all airplanes are different. “Some need more runway.”

Peri Gallucci is working on a Cat Spay/Neuter Clinic on Wednesday, April 1, in Manson at Dr. Kathyeryn Kraemer’s Lakeland Veterinary Clinic. “This is the first community clinic we are hosting,” said Gallucci.

 

If you have a pet that needs to be neutered, the cost is only $25.00. However, if it is a feral cat, the cost is only $10. “There are many benefits to spaying,” said Gallucci. “It can increase their life span three to five years.”

City Clerk Peri Gallucci described an upcoming Spay and Neuter on April 1 in Manson at low cost for people who might not have the money to otherwise spay their pet cat. It also offers lower spaying costs for feral cats.

The Wenatchee Valley Humane Society is taking donations to help individuals who can’t afford the service. So far, $350 has been donated. If you make a donation, make sure you tell the Humane Society person that the donation is for the Manson Clinic. To make an appointment, call the Humane Society at 509-662-9577.

Mayor Goedde read a World Spay Day Proclamation.

Motion Considerations:

 The Washington State Department of Commerce has offered a $30,000 grant to the City of Chelan to perform a Housing Action Plan.

The City’s Planning Commission has been working on alternative housing type standards as a way of meeting the City’s housing needs based only on the Comprehensive Plan.

The $30,000 Action Plan is a first step towards adopting new forms of housing regulations. Drafting of this plan will include a Housing Steering Committee and public input. “We want to get public input to answer basic questions. This is a chance to look at our housing needs,” said Planning Department Director Craig Gildroy.

The Council unanimously authorized the Mayor to execute the agreement with the Department of Commerce.

The Council also unanimously approved a contract with Berk Consulting to write the Housing Action Plan. “They did all the anlysis for us in 2017,” said Gildroy. The Housing Action Plan will build on the 2017 Comprehensive Plan Housing and Economic Development Elements, and look at existing conditions and trends to develop a long term housing strategy within the City, not just for affordable housing but all housing needs.

Public Works brought a Professional Services Agreement forward to the Council in the amount of $43,613 for S&B Inc. for software integrations services for the Water Treatment Plant Valve and Instrumentation Project.

This Project replaces flowmeters, valves, and actuators that will require software design to integrate into the operations of the treatment facility.

The Project was budgeted at $1,187,800, but ended up $422,478 less than the estimate for a total of $618,536. The funds for the project will come from the City’s Water Capital Fund. Public Works Director Jake Youngren said it’s nice to have a project come in under the estimated cost. “It’s nice to win sometimes.”

The Council unanimously approved the Professional Services Agreement iwth S&B Inc.

Youngren also brought forward a budgeted project to conduct a Sanitation Rate Study this year. The proposal was to authorize Mayor Goedde to finalize and execute an agreement with Bell and Associates for this study at a cost of $11,290.

There will be a City Workshop on Tuesday, March 3, beginning at 4 p.m. Today’s topics include the following topics:

• Information Board Discussion (Mayor Goedde)
• Short Term Rental License Discussion (Planning Director Gildroy
• Rate & Fee Resolution Amendments for Building and Planning (Gildroy)
• Special Event Fees Discussion (Staff)
• 2020 Proposed Budget Amendments (Finance Director Steve Thornton.

The next regularly scheduled Council meeting is on March 10 beginning at 6 p.m.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Lake Chelan Community Hospital Emergency Medical Services held its annual EMS Awards Banquet at the Senior Center on Friday evening, February 28.

EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer

EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer thanked everyone for coming and said the banquet was dedicated to Alan Anderson who served the community for many years as an EMT before he passed.

After showing a video reviewing the Service’s 2019, Paramedic Kurt Middleton told the assembled crowd, “Our EMS crews are awesome. They provide the best care they can.” He lauded the leadership and said the Eickmeyer is a tremendous leader of the team.

Paramedic Kurt Middleton

In 2019, the EMS personnel underwent 136 hours of individual training, paid 236 visits to patients, responded to 1679 emergencies and attended and helped with 173 community events.

The current Service was begun in 1972 by Greta Griffiths along with other local residents and was called the Lake Chelan Valley Ambulance Service. “Today, we are in our 48th year,” said Ray Eickmeyer. “2019 was a good year and our ambulances traveled 53,000 miles.”

“We know we are providing the best care to our patients,” continued Eickmeyer. “We continue to lead the nation in critical care and only two counties in the State equal our service.”

A video interview with Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Cline was shown. Jerry suffered a cardiac arrest in 2019 and EMS crews and Fire District 7 personnel were on the scene in seven minutes. “Without our team, we would not of brought him (Jerry) back,” said Eickmeyer.

The following individuals were recognized at banquet.

First year pins were given to Paramedics TJ Bishop, Brian Dice, Jonah Dobbs and Natalie Renick. EMTs receiving first year pins included Jonathon Mendoza, Samantha Rains and Liliia Veremchuk. Greg Moser and Mark Schramm also received first year pins as paratransit drivers.

Paramedic Johnny Rebel received a five year pin, Paramedic Kurt Middleton received a 10 year pin and Paramedic Jim Gilden received a 25 year pin.

Paramedics Craig Vivian, Mistaya Johnston and Brandon Fogelson along with EMTs John Steiner and Linda Nunez all received Save Pins for cardiac arrest saves throughout 2019.

LCCH CEO George Rohrich

LCCH’s new CEO George Rohrich presented the 2019 Administrator’s Award for “Dedication and Service” to EMT Jared Eygabroad who was unable to attend the banquet. “These EMT’s are the best in the State,” said Rohrich. Eygabroad has taken on the job of the EMS Social Media.

Fire Chief Arnold Baker (left) and Dr. Ty Witt (right) received the 2019 Edward J. Armbruster Award for their respective organizations.

The 2019 Edward J. Armbruster Award was handed out by Kurt Middleton to both the Manson Fire Department and Chelan Rotary. Fire Chief Arnold Baker accepted the award for District 5 and Ty Witt accepted for the Rotary.

The Chelan Rotary has been installing wheelchair ramps for EMS patients that need them. Witt said, “We are humbled and honored to be able to help.”

Eickmeyer presented the “Director’s Award” to Paramedic Brandon Fogelson. “There are many in this room that deserve this award,” said Eickmeyer. “Brandon has gone beyond the call of duty this year.”

The 2019 Personnel of the Year given to “Outstanding Individuals Chosen by their Peers” went to EMT Cendie Dietrich, Rachel McCall, Richard Vincent, Mistaya Johnston and Lindsey Stone “These individuals all work well under pressure.”

After the awards were handed out, Eickmeyer stated that the EMS team does hard things. “We are helping others with health issues. We are in the one percent of the nation. When a person is in need, we need to own it. We save lives,” said Eickmeyer. He went on to say that the team’s work in non-emergency needs is just as important to the community. “We will do the right thing, no matter how hard it is.”

He thanked the community for its support. “Without the community, we would not be here.”

by Richard Uhlhorn

The hospital had to open its board room up to accommodate the estimated crowd of concerned residents that attended Tuesday’s meeting.

As expected the Lake Chelan Community Hospital Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to delay the new hospital construction project for six months while the hospital struggles to build its volume and revenue to a sustainable level so it could reliably pay the mortgage of approximately $100,000 per month.

CEO  George Rohrich stated to the well attended meeting (approximately 40 residents) that the hospital has the funds to build the new hospital, but not the funds to pay the debt service. “I want to reassure the commission that all of the funds from the levies and bond are in the County treasury and every penny is accounted for.”

CEO George Rohrich

CFO Mike Ellis

Rohrich and Chief Financial Officer Mike Ellis contacted the USDA to find out if a pause in the project is even possible and reported that it is. “The period that our financing is guaranteed for is five years from the issuance,” said Rohrich. “It was issued on September 2018 so we have five years from then before we have to ask for an extension.”

They also went to the hospital’s contracted design and delivery team and asked them to project the expenses if they delayed with no changes or minor changes. The cost of pausing the project for six months to a year would add between $187,000 to $199,000. With minor changes that cost would escalate to $1.18 million to $1.2 million dollars. A one year delay with major changes would cost an additional $2.27 million to $2.27 million dollars. “It was a good research effort by our design and delivery team,” said Rohrich.

Board Chair Phyllis Gleasman

Board Chair Phyllis Gleasman asked, “So if we do a six to 12 month pause, it’s going to add that cost of $187,000? Rohrich replied that the amount would be added to the $44.5 million.

Commissioner Jordana LaPorte called for a delay in construction of the new hospital until the hospital was on better financial ground.

Jordana LaPorte asked if the hospital was reduced another 10,000 square feet, it would obviously bring the costs down. Chief Finance Officer Mike Ellis said, “We don’t have the money to change it, so we aren’t even discussing it.”

Craig Shelby explained to the board how much it might cost if the hospital is delayed.

The contractor’s representative, Craig Shelby remarked that a year’s pause would increase construction costs four percent based on inflation for materials. He also said that requesting subcontract bids would be best accomplished in January because it is winter. “It is hard to speculate,” he stated.

Rohrich remarked that the consultants the hospital is contracting for could help the facility quickly turn the financial corner so it can afford the $100,000 per month for debt payments.

CFO Mike Ellis said, “I have an abundance of prudence. I believe it would be a wise decision to delay, not a full year, but enough time to prepare for a very big project. My advice is that it would be wise to delay up to six months.”

LaPorte stated that the hospital needs to see an actual improvement of the cash flow prior to taking on the debt service. “If our cash flow doesn’t improve, we can’t pay for it. I am not in favor of stopping, but I am in favor of pausing at this time.”

Mary Signorelli said she wasn’t ready to make a decision on delaying the construction. “We are having a discussion, right. It is not a rush” Fred Miller agreed with LaPorte.

Mary Murphy stated that if you can’t write a check and if there is nothing in your savings account it would be foolish to move forward. “I feel compelled with public dollars to be responsible with these dollars. We have no assurances,” she said.

Commissioner Mary Murphy

Murphy went on the remark that with the changes in the health care industry all rural hospitals were having a hard time. She doesn’t see the hospital recapturing and filling the beds that the hospital had five to six years ago. “What I see is a movement toward outpatient services. If there is a pause, addressing the right size of the facility that is going to take us 10 years into the future is important, so I have concerns.”

Rohrich said that the hospital will be at a higher risk if it doesn’t get help. He reiterated that the money is protected and can only be used to build the new facility. “The patients will receive the same care tomorrow as they received today, and in a year they will receive it in a more beautiful facility.”

The motion to pause construction and design for six months and then re-evaluate where the financial situation is was passed unanimously.

In other business:

At its last meeting in January, EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer told the board that the services levy was expiring at the end of the year and they needed to prepare to run a new levy to continue EMS services in the Valley.

EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer requested that the board consider a proposal for a new replacement levy in August with an 8 cent per $1,000 increase
to $.39 cents per thousand for a 10 year period.

“We have not changed our staffing, but we have a few things that are concerning,” said Eickmeyer. “We have one ambulance that is 26 years old and we can’t even buy parts for it anymore. It’s not something I’m comfortable with.”

Eickmeyer stated that EMS is fiscally conservative and wants to increase the levy amount by eight cents to 39 cents per thousand of assessed value. “There is no other agency in the State that I can find that is less than 50 cents per thousand. I think I am the least expensive agency in the whole State of Washington,” said Eickmeyer.

With four ambulances that are 26, 20, 14 and 10 years old and will eventually have to be replaced, Eickmeyer said, “Four ambulances is not cheap.” Gleasman asked how much an ambulance costs. Eickmeyer replied, “$200,000.”

“We’ve put a lot of money into serving the community. The current funding we have now pays for the complete service, but we just don’t have money left over to replace capital equipment,” Eickmeyer told the board.Rohrich added that the biggest change to ambulance services is inside the box (ambulance). “It used to be pretty straight forward. It’s all digital now and it doesn’t take long for it to become obsolete. We can’t be cheap about this… we must have a quality service.”

A resolution to put forward a new levy will be brought to the board at its next meeting.

At the beginning of the meeting the Lake Chelan Health and Wellness Foundation presented the board with a check for $67,384 to cover the first year of the Studer Group Leadership Training.

The Lake Chelan Health and Wellness Foundation presented the Hospital with a $67,384 check to cover the first year of Studer Group’s Leadership Training Program

The Board unanimously passed a new Business Plan for 2020 based on the six pillars that were developed at a strategic retreat in 2018. Rohrich developed a new format for the plan that includes items he hopes will make the hospital better.

The Board discussed the proposal by QHR (Quorum Health Resources) to help improve their financial situation and look at compliance issues. “What we expect is that they will show us the way to achieve the best results,” said Rohrich. “We are already making progress.” He said the key is that the hospital can achieve these things but that it might take longer.

“We would like to achieve profitability tomorrow, but that’s talking silly,” stated Rohrich. “It’s going to take awhile to get this boat turned around.”

Public Comments:

At the beginning of the meeting, Jim Wall asked if there was a plan in place to deal with Corona virus in the community. Eichmeyer replied that the EMS is following the State of Washington Department of Health for updates with what is going on. He also remarked that the department has N95 Masks (antiviral masks) available for every person in the community if necessary.

Dr. Ty Witt commented at the end of the meeting and applauded the board’s decision to pause the hospital construction, but went on to say that he had put his heart and soul into getting the bond passed.

However, Witt had some harsh words to say about the financial state of the hospital and laid blame on past CEO Steve Patonai for not working on quality or patient satisfaction, but trying to be in the top 10 percent in the State of Washington. “We lost five wonderful providers,” said Witt. His concern is that the hospital could lose its supporters and noted that there are a number of naysayers out there. “It looks like we are heading in that direction.”

The next board meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 24 at 1:30 p.m. in the Hospital’s board room.