RECENT POSTS

• Cougar Creek Fire is at 30,000 acresAugust 15, 2018
• City workshop explores upcoming issuesAugust 11, 2018
• Fire Commission refuses to approve levy lid lift resolution after public meetingAugust 7, 2018
• Special meeting tonight at Chelan 7 to discuss fire district staffing levelsAugust 6, 2018

by Richard Uhlhorn

The LCCH Board, administrative staff and several doctors listen to Consultant Jody Carona talk about the process of determining a vision for the
hospital at a retreat in Pateros.

Last Wednesday and Thursday, the Lake Chelan Board of Commissioners, administrative staff and several doctors held a retreat in Pateros to discuss the future of the Lake Chelan Hospital. After a long day on Wednesday going over mundane hospital business, the group met on Thursday to work through a process to develop a new vision for the hospital.

Consultant Jody Carona, a principal at Seattle’s Health Facilities & Development, kept the group on track throughout the day. Each participant initially had 15 minutes to explain what their specific vision is for the future of the hospital.

The Strategic Initiatives for the Board, Administration and Staff were:

• Develop a family practice residency program for the Lake Chelan Valley in collaboration with the University of Washington and Columbia Valley Community Health
• Attract and retain high quality medical staff in the community
• Collaborate with the Hospital Foundation and regional partners to offer health and wellness programs

The stated Mission of the Hospital is to:

“Provide patient centered, quality healthcare with compassion and respect”

Without fail, the board and doctors all envisioned a facility that was quality driven, compassionate and empathy driven. “I would like to see a successful, compassionate care center that is financially viable with a large reserve fund,” said Jordana LaPorte. “I envison a hospital that people want to come to whether they live in our district or not.”

Jordana LaPort – Hospital Commissioner

Mary Signorelli remarked that there is a lot of healing to do in the larger community as the hospital moves forward. “We need to rebuild trust… get outside of our comfort level and spend time doing what we are doing right now,” said Signorelli. “We need to find what is working and what is not.”

Board Chairman Mary Signorelli

“I think we are a vial part of this community,” said Signorelli. “It is important that as a board we are the face of this community.”

Dr. Ty Witt chimed in and said, “The community can do without the hospital, but it can’t do without the doctors’ clinic. The clinic is the foundation of what happens.” Dr. Witt stated that the reimbursement model has really changed and that is why the clinic is so important to the hospital’s success. “If we don’t perform, we don’t get paid,” he said. “You are the board of commissioners of the hospital and the clinic.”

Dr. Ty Witt

“ I don’t want to see a bad reputation,” said Witt. “Every citizen that walks in has to know that our mission is to take care of them.”

Commissioner Phyliss Gleasman

Pylliss Gleasman stated that the hospital is now a medical campus with Columbia Valley Community Health as a part of that campus. “We need to go forward as a medical campus. We have to be sure our services are pertinent to our demographics,” said Gleasman. Fred Miller added patients need to be service with privacy and dignity.

Dr. Keri Bergeson

Dr. Keri Bergeson, Columbia Valley Community Health, said she would like to see the Univesity of Washington as a partner with residents coming in and working at the hospital and Columbia Health. “It would be a wonderful network,” she said.

Commissioner Mary Murphy

Mary Murphy stated that the hospital is going to affiliate. “I want to see more services that are people focused,” she said. Murphy added that the services must be of the highest quality. However, she worries about the hospital being able to afford the equipment needed for that high quality service. “I want the community to come through the (hospitals) door and it is the right door. Every door is the right door. Let’s make ourselves unique. Let’s not try to expand access… let’s be good at what we do.” Murphy added that the hospital needs a solid business plan.

Dr. Tobe Hartberg

Dr. Tobe Harberg said the main goal of the hospital is to have good access for primary care. “We need to take care of the residents in our Valley,” said Harberg. “We need to provide better access.” He added that he felt partnerships are very important.

Dr. Harberg is afraid that once the new facility is built, the hospital will outgrow it.

Signorelli asked Carona where the group was headed with all this information. “We are going through steps to get to a vision,”replied Carona. “I know this is messy.” Signorelli stated she would like to see a 10 year vision. Carona said, “It’s a lot of work… let’s let it flow.”

Interim CEO Steve Patonai

CEO Steve Patonai chimed in and said, “I see we are struggling a bit. I get a sense of what we are going to look like 10 years from now, but this is really abstract.”

At that point Carona put up a list of potential outcomes from the day that included:

• Developing a primary care center with multiple access points and minimal wait periods;
• A community hospital with higher quality and providing specialty services;
• Develop partnerships and alliances to:
  – Provide services beyond the hospital’s scope
  2. – To realize efficiencies and improve contracts
• – Accelerate needed investments, infuse capital, enhance quality and provide brand.
• Provide otreach for wellness education.
• Become a top hospital on quality and finance
• Have reserves in place to withstand changing (medical) environment.

After Carona shared the above list, Signorelli said, “I feel really good about this. I feel like it’s coming together. Patonai added that the list gives a little structure. “Let’s work within the framework,” said Patonai.

Dr. Bergeson stated that she is excited about the potential partnership with CVCH.

Signorelli finished by saying that she was pleased with all the input during the session and was looking forward to using the input as a guide. “I was pretty delighted to have doctors here to give a different perspective,” said Signorelli. “I think we are moving in the right direction. Everyone has the same goals, but different processes to getting there.”

Chief Financial Officer Vicki Bodle

Vicki Bodle felt the session was encouraging. LaPorte said she had learned a lot and Brad Hankins, COO, told the board that he had really enjoyed the entire process.

Chief Operations Officer Brad Hankins

Interim CEO Steve Patonai added that he felt they had enough information to move forward with a vision for the future. “I wanted to see how the board approached the vision for the hospital. I also wanted the doctors to be involved.”

“We have more work to do,” said Signorelli during a telephone conversation on Wednesday evening. “We are hoping to have another workshop.” The next workshop which will take place in the next six weeks will hopefully give the administration and staff the direction they need to build the strategies and vision for the hospital going forward.

• City workshop explores upcoming issuesAugust 11, 2018
• Fire Commission refuses to approve levy lid lift resolution after public meetingAugust 7, 2018
• Special meeting tonight at Chelan 7 to discuss fire district staffing levelsAugust 6, 2018
• COUGAR CREEK FIRE COMMAND NOW UNDER CALIFORNIA INCIDENT TEAM 5August 4, 2018
  

  

  

  

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Cougar Creek Fire has grown to 31,062 acres, but the 1225 personnel assigned to this fire have it 28 percent contained.

A public meeting was held at the Performing Arts Center last night for those residents and visitors who are interested and/or concerned about the fire activity.

Chelan District Ranger Kari Grover-Weir took the time out of a public meeting at the Performing Arts Center to report on the Cougar Creek Fire at the Chelan City Council meeting on Tuesday evening.

Kari Grover-Weir, Chelan Ranger, visited the Chelan City Council meeting last night and reported that the fire is almost to Ardenvoir. “It’s burning on the east side of the Entiat River and we are really concerned about that,” she said. Crews have been putting in hand lines to hold the fire line.

She also told the Council that the smoke “unfortunately, is going to be with us for awhile.” She stated that the smoke isn’t just from the Cougar Creek fire, but from fires all around the region and into California.

Grover-Weir also told the Council that Incident Team 5 has put a Level I evacuation notice on Navarre Coulee and First Creek as a safety measure. This is not an evacuation notice and is only to let people know that they should prepare in case the fire blows up and evacuation is inevitable.

Asked if the Team has long range spotters on line in case of a high wind event, Grover-Weir stated that they were keeping a close eye on fire spotting. “The ash you are seeing in the valley is cool.” Ash was noted floating in the lake on Tuesday.

Incident Team Report –Wednesday – 8/15/18

Burnout operations will continue on the Cougar Creek Fire as long as the weather continues to be moderate. (File Photo ©Richard Uhlhorn – 1994 Tyee Complex)

Yesterday, the Cougar Creek Fire had moderate uphill, flanking and backing runs. The light winds and an inversion continued moderate fire behavior which allowed crews to perform burn out operations to improve the depth on the most vulnerable portions of the fire lines.

This morning’s weather report have winds following upslope/up valley but will become breezy in the afternoon as westerly winds move across the Cascade Crest. These winds will hold through Thursday, especially at the ridge tops. Temperatures will be in the mid-80s to low 90s around the 3,000 foot level.

Today’s planned action includes constructing fire lines when and where appropriate, and can be accomplished safely. Crews will prepare and improve roads, trail systems, dozer scars, and exisiting contingency lines in preparation for burnout operations.

They will perform and hold burn out operations and safely permit to secure the southeast portion of the fire perimeter. They will also be providing structure defense for threatened structures.

Residents and vistors to the Lake Chelan Valley should recognize the health hazards of the continued smoke event that will probably remain in the Valley for several months.

RECENT POSTS

• Fire Commission refuses to approve levy lid lift resolution after public meetingAugust 7, 2018
• Special meeting tonight at Chelan 7 to discuss fire district staffing levelsAugust 6, 2018
• COUGAR CREEK FIRE COMMAND NOW UNDER CALIFORNIA INCIDENT TEAM 5August 4, 2018
• Fire Update for August 2, 2018

by Richard Uhlhorn

On Tuesday, August 7, Chelan City Council held a special workshop to discuss issues facing the City.

Lake Chelan Sewer District:

Public Works Director Jake Youngren reported on the Lake Chelan Sewer District at a City Council workshop on Tuesday, August 7.

Public Works Director Jake Youngren had the first item on the list of issues. He told the Council that the Lake Chelan Sewer District has expressed an interest and voted in favor of a one year extension to its agreement with the City of Chelan Public Works Department for operation of and maintenance to its sewer system.

The Lake Chelan Sewer District (LCSD) was formed in 1956 and has been serving the south shore of Lake Chelan from Minneapolis Beach to its terminus at Lakeside. LCSD currently serves approximately 256 south shore residents and has combined with the Bear Mountain Water District.

LCSD was originally run by Chelan County PUD until they got out of the sewer business and it was turned over to the City.

“It is about four percent of our effluent intake at the plant,” said Youngren who added that it costs in the neighborhood of $65,000 to operate and maintain the system. “Their infrastructure is pretty new,” said Youngren. “Anytime we have an upgrade, they contribute .”

Chelan Finance Director Cheryl Grant added that the City also receives administrative costs from the district.

There is a possibility that LCSD will ask the City to completely take over the system in the future. It is currently a Public Taxing District.

As an operator of the District, the City is responsible for any maintenance issues that arise from the system, but currently the District would be liable to pay for those issues that arise.

Senior Center Parking Lot:

The Senior Center would like to add additional parking.

City Administrator Mike Jackson brought forth a request by the Senior Center for help in expanding parking at the Center on PUD land that is currently not being used.

John Olson, representing the Senior Center, requested that the City look into financially supporting this project several Council meetings ago. Mayor Mike Cooney said, “I don’t think the PUD has any material objection to this.”

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth felt that it would not only benefit the Center but the City Ball Fields also. “My sense is that parking around town is pretty removed from this area. It would be specific to the Senior Center.” Hollingsworth mentioned the parking issues with Chelanman and that this project might alleviate that issue around the neighborhood.

“We are not asking for a freebie,” said Olson who feels that the cost of the additional parking could be shared equally by the Senior Center, City and PUD.

Youngren indicated that he could pull resources off several other Public Works projects and level off the area. “I’ll do a quick look at it. It would cost us the materials, equipment and man hours. We can do it,” he said.

Hollingsworth felt it would be an overall public benefit. Jackson stated that the City would come back to the issue during the final budgetary discussions.

TESLA Charging Stations:

Tesla has approached the City of Chelan about the possibility of installing charging stations in the City. These charging stations would be 480 V 3-Phase stations that could charge a Tesla automobile in 40 to 45 minutes.

Leavenworth is getting 16 Tesla Charging stations. The idea is that these stations would bring business to the City.

The chargers could only be used by Tesla vehicles. “We wouldn’t pay for the infrastructure,” said Jackson. The cost would run around $400,000 for eight stations.

Councilwoman Wendy Isenhart, who has been at the forefront of electric charging stations in Chelan, said, “The PUD can’t give electricity away.”

Hollingsworth suggested that the City could use its 100 foot neighborhood right-of-ways where it would be compatible with the neighborhood.

Jackson said the City would continue to talk with Tesla.

Parking Issues:

Chelan has faced a number of parking issues over the years. Currently there are several issues facing the City.

The old PUD Parking lot that the City purchased several years ago became a pay lot and not the City is looking at removing the Pay Kiosk and putting it out at Lakeside. “I recommend we go back to the way it was, said Karen Sargeant, Parks Director. Mayor Cooney said the pay parking lot isn’t working.

Councilwomen Erin McCardle, Kelly Allen and Councilman Ty Witt
all weighed in the City’s parking issues.

Councilwoman Kelly Allen said that the PUD Lot does attract a lot of employee parking. Isenhart asked why employees couldn’t purchase a Parking Permit. Councilman Ty Witt suggested a pay lot for employees. Sargeant asked what the price would be?

McCardle said it would be nice to have a map of the entire town. She also added that employees making minimum wage would not pay for parking. “Paying for parking when you are making minimum wage isn’t a reality.”

Cooney added that free parking is available right behind City Hall. He feels employees who park on Woodin and move their car every three hours are being inconsiderate. Allen said, “We need more partnerships with our employers.”

McCardle stated that a lot of complaints came in when the City had two hour parking downtown, but those complaints fell off after the three hour parking became the norm. Hollingsworth asked how many places can a person go and get free parking. “It’s a subsidy, but we struggle with managing that.”

The Lakeside Park parking issue also came up. Apparently vehicles are being parked beyond the no parking zone on the highway. It was noted that the Sheriff’s Department is going start ticketing cars that park along the highway.

Hollingsworth also suggested that the City might consider purchasing a van that could run a loop from town to Lakeside on the weekends to help alleviate some of the parking issues at the park. Councilman Ray Dobbs said that the old LINK Trolley that ran for free had five advertisers on it, and that this could be a way to pay for a City shuttle.

Another safety issue that came up are the tourists who are crossing the highway between the Lakeview Drive-In/Chelan Marina Parking Lot to Chelan Market. The City is looking for a passive way to channel people from that area to actual crossing zones.

City Council will meet in regular session on Tuesday, August 14 beginning at 6 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend.

 

RECENT POSTS

• Special meeting tonight at Chelan 7 to discuss fire district staffing levelsAugust 6, 2018
• COUGAR CREEK FIRE COMMAND NOW UNDER CALIFORNIA INCIDENT TEAM 5August 4, 2018
• Fire Update for August 2, 2018August 2, 2018
• City Council considers a number of issuesAugust 2, 2018

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan Fire Hall filled up with both proponents and opponents to re-running the failed April Levy Lid Lift that failed in April

It was a very passion filled meeting last night, Monday, August 6, as proponents and opponents gathered at the Chelan Fire Station to give input as to why or why not to re-run Fire Levy Lid Lift that failed by a 60-40 percent vote of the public in April.

Chelan County Fire District #7 Commission Chairman Russ Jones laid down a few ground rules prior to opening up the meeting to the public in attendance. “There is not a predetermined outcome to this meeting,” Jones told the crowd. Each person who signed up to speak had five or less minutes to do so.

The primary ground rule was to be respectful of everyone’s opinions. Only when some of those in attendance cheered after the first proponent spoke did Jones have to remind them to restrain themselves.

The Commissioners have been under a lot of pressure from District personnel to re-run the levy to save the six fire fighters who will lose their jobs in December when the two year FEMA SAFER Grant runs out.

“What this is about is what staffing the community of Chelan wants for its Fire District,” said Jones. He explained that the ideal situation would be to have four career firefighters at the station 24/7. “That allows for entry into a building that is on fire.” Jones also stated that response time from the Station is obviously faster than someone responding from home.

However, Jones went on to say that even with the 12 career firefighters on board now, that the administration has to fill a lot of shifts with stipend volunteers because of vacations and time off periods. “Presently, about 60 percent of those shifts are being filled by volunteers,” said Jones.

The proponents have been arguing that the loss of these six firefighters will severely impact the public’s safety.

The opponents argue that the District needs to work within their budget and rely on the six remaining career firefighters and volunteers.

The first opponent to re-running the levy was Jeri Dowell, who, at one time was the only paid professional at the fire department when it was all volunteer. Jeri stated she was not in favor of re-running the levy, stating that the voters had already spoken. “We heard from them clearly,” she said. She added that people are getting taxed off their property and asked that the District go back to their budget and work with it.

Mike Stowe, a past volunteer firefighter and officer at Chelan 7, was also in opposition. “The problems we are facing today started several years ago before you were ever on the board,” he told the Commission. “The budget has not been sustainable and, unfortunately, you three are now stuck with the aftermath.” Stowe went on to say that he feels the taxpayers are educated on the situation and cast their votes accordingly.

“The mission should be simple… deliver fire services and support, support medical services. They (fire personnel) don’t need to go on every single medical problem.” Stowe feels strongly that a volunteer fire department needs to be at the heart of delivering fire services to the community. “I have faith in the volunteer system… I think all we need are three or four trained staff and occasional wild land firefighters.”

Dan Crandall, a former volunteer with the department said he has an insider’s view of firefighting. “I looked at my taxes and said ‘Good Grief’, but $25 dollars more a month is well worth it and I would gladly pay it for the safety of my community.” He asked that the commissioners put the levy back on the ballot and hoped that it passes.

Past Fire Commissioner Tom Peters made a strong statement against re-running the levy to retain six firefighters.

Tom Peters, a past commissioner, talked about the hiring of a consultant and getting the advice of a group of citizens to establish a long term strategy and plan for the department. “I, as chairman of the board, was instrumental in selecting an outside consultant to lead this effort,” said Peters. He added that he feels the consultant did a poor job and the product from the Citizens’ advisory group did not provide the department with a strategy for the future “or a solid foundation for building a responsible plan.”

He did agree to allow the levy lid lift on the ballot in April, primarily to hear directly from the community on whether or not they were in favor of supporting six more full time firefighters on an ongoing basis; and, if not, to allow the six SAFER firefighters time to find other employment.

Peters went on to say, that as a citizen, he could not support any levy lid lift that does not represent a balanced, affordable plan that meets the needs of the district. Nor does he believe that the community can afford six additional paid firefighters, the apparatus due for replacement and the improvements needed at the facility.

In conclusion, Peters said, “Let’s give our fire department administration and the board of commissioners the time necessary to build a plan that makes sense and that all the citizens will be best for the community.”

Marsha Holmdahl, a volunteer at the department agreed in part with Peters that the volunteers are not valued, but said that the community is growing and that it doesn’t seem that the community is in support of the district’s efforts.

Larry Peabody, a retired firefighter from Kirkland was a strong proponent for re-running the levy in November.

Larry Peabody, a retired firefighter from the Kirkland who has moved to Chelan and is in support of putting the measure back on the ballot. “In my opinion we are at a crisis point in Chelan in regards to delivery of emergency services… kinda at crossroads,” said Peabody. “Response time by appropriately trained responders are essential to deliver of fire services.”

Peabody went on to say that if this community doesn’t take care of its immediate crisis, lives are going to be lost and property is going to be endangered. “That’s the bottom line,” said Peabody.

Don Dryer, President of the Chelan Hills Homeowner Association stated that the community needs firefighters. “This isn’t 60 years ago… 12 years ago. We need to bring the levy forward,” said Dryer. “This is about the men and women who put their lives on the line. We can’t continue to live in the dark ages. I hope you vote in favor of the levy. It is not a lot of money to save a lot of lives,” he stated.

John Gordon, a past fire commissioner of Chelan Fire 7 asked the current commissioners to look for alternative funding sources outside of running a levy.

John Gordon, a past fire commissioner at Chelan said he is really big on volunteers. “Small towns across the nation are all volunteer driven,” said Gordon. He urged the commissioners to look for alternative funding sources. “Think outside the box… look at a hotel/motel tax… a bed tax,” he suggested. “Charge them (the tourists) a little bit. I encourage you to go that route. People aren’t ready for another levy.”

Ann Clark, a fire association member said she likes Option 4 where additional seasonal firefighters are put on. “Commissioners are responsible to serve the community in a safe way. Change is inevitable.”

Steve Garvich, a volunteer at the department, talked about the number of hours a volunteer needs to be trained and the number of drills (12) per quarter they need to attend to be active. “It is a real commitment,” said Garvich. “To be honest, I’m 65 and 30 percent of us are over 60.” He went on to laud the career firefighters as knowing what they are doing and the fact that they are physically able and have the stamina to do the job. He asked the commissioners to put the levy back on the ballot.

Mark Babcock, another retired firefighter, stated that he was also in favor of putting the levy back on the ballot. “This place is growing… it’s growing a lot. People are looking at Lake Chelan and tourism is also growing.” He went on to say that volunteers have a place in the department and need to be available to support the fulltime firefighters. However, he added that it is impossible for volunteers to get to a situation in time.

“We have to solve this. You have to keep the six firefighters. I don’t see how you can’t,” said Garvich.  His wife, Lisa was also a strong proponent of putting the measure back on the ballot.

Jacklyn Dalton, is probably one of the most passionate residents about retaining the six firefighters said that only half of the registered voters voted in the last election and she felt it was important put the issue back on the ballot.

Robert Watson, a south shore resident told the commission that a lot more thought has to go into the department planning before running any new levy.

Robert Watson said he has great respect for all firefighters, paid and volunteer, but that while Chelan has a huge population in the summer, it is a small town in the winter. “I can’t keep my employees in the winter,” stated Watson. “What do the firefighters do in the winter… no one has an answer. Let’s think this out. I’m all for a strong fire department. I think a little more thought needs to be done here.”

Taylor Rains, a department firefighter said, “People look at this as just six guys. In December we sent people to California to help out,” said Rains. He then encouraged the commissioners to put forth a resolution to put the measure back on the ballot.

Neither Jay Witherbee (left) or Phil Moller (center) seconded a motion by Chairman Russ Jones to put a new levy lid lift on the November ballot to raise the department’s property tax collections from $0.92 cents per thousand to $1.18 per thousand of assessed value.

Commissioner Phil Moller said, “My position has not changed. I think we can accomplish the need with the current budget, so I will have to vote No.”

Commissioner Jay Witherbee said, “Voters have given us a clear direction. We need to look at other options.” He felt that a levy might be possible in 2019, but not this year. Moller replied that he felt the department could retain three of the six, but Witherbee said, “I don’t know that.”

Chairman Russ Jones put forth a resolution to retain three firefighters by putting a levy lid lift on the ballot that would raise the amount the fire department receives from property taxes to $1.18 per $1000 of assessed value. “That would allow us to retain three firefighters and put $150,000 into the apparatus account.” He made the motion and called for a second which didn’t come from either Moller or Witherbee, so the motion failed and the department is back to working out details to live on their current budget.

RECENT POSTS

• COUGAR CREEK FIRE COMMAND NOW UNDER CALIFORNIA INCIDENT TEAM 5August 4, 2018
• Fire Update for August 2, 2018August 2, 2018
• City Council considers a number of issuesAugust 2, 2018
• Fire Commission sets public meeting to hear testimony on District Staffing needs

6 p.m. at Chelan Fire Hall
232 East Wapato
Chelan

By Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan Fire Commissioners – Jay Witerbee, Phil Moller and Russ Jones will gather information from the public at a special meeting tonight at Chelan Fire Hall.

This evening at 6 p.m., Chelan County Fire District 7 commissioners are holding a public meeting to hear from both sides of the argument of whether or not to re-run the ballot measure that voters voted to fail in April.

There has been a concentrated effort by the local firefighters and the district to save the six career positions that are paid through December on a FEMA SAFER Grant.

The District paid $14,000 for a consultant and group of Chelan residents to assess the District and one of the issues was retaining the six firefighters after the grant ran out. The consultant came back from the community and reported that while the community likes the level of service the District provides, it did not want to raise taxes to pay for retaining the six firefighters. by a overwhelming vote of 60-40 percent.

Despite the Consultant’s and his team’s report, the District bowed to the firefighters wishes and ran the issue on the ballot anyway and the voters voted by a overwhelming vote of 60-40 percent against raising taxes. The cost of retaining the six would run $860,000 a year.

Proponents of putting the issue back on the ballot argue that the issue failed because the public wasn’t educated enough to know what they are losing service wise, and that it would be a detriment to the public safety of residents residing in the District.

The opponents are arguing that raising taxes and retaining these six firefighters is not the answer to the District’s issues. They would like to see a more balanced career firefighter/volunteer district with a resident program.

Currently, if these six firefighters are let go after the grant ends, the District still has six fulltime career combat trained firefighters and a number of volunteers who are either combat trained and/or are becoming combat trained giving the District 24/7 coverage.

Russ Jones, chairman of the board would like to see a compromise to the situation and try to retain three of the six firefighters by possibly raising the current levy level from $0.92 cents per assessed value by $0.25 cents or a $1.17 cents per assessed value.

Chairman Russ Jones hopes that tonight’s discourse is respectful.

“I hope we hear from both sides tonight,”  said Jones. “I also want the discourse to be respectful.”

The meeting begins at 6 p.m. upstairs in the conference room at Chelan Fire Hall.

 

• Fire Update for August 2, 2018August 2, 2018
• City Council considers a number of issuesAugust 2, 2018
• Fire Commission sets public meeting to hear testimony on District Staffing needsJuly 30, 2018
• Hospital Board gets updates on hospital operations

Not what Chelan wants to see this year. This image was taken from Chelan of the Tyee Fire as it came over the mountains into the Chelan Valley.
Photo by © Richard Uhlhorn in 1994.

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Cougar Creek Fire 20 miles up the Entiat Valley has grown to approximately 4,224 acres and is now under the management of California’s Interagency Team 5 as of 6 a.m. Saturday morning.

Significant events are active group tree torching, flanking and uphill runs with rates of spread from 200 to1650 feet per hour on short uphill runs.

Uphill runs are common in back country wildfires, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours. The Cougar Creek Fire is burning in the same location as the 1994 Tyee Fire when this image was taken.
© Richard Uhlhorn – 1994 Tyee Fire

© 2018 Richard Uhlhorn

Current weather concerns include the chance of thunderstorms and warmer and drier weather next week.

The projected Incident activity for the next 72 hours is for moderately active fire behavior picking up during the afternoon hours with a slight increase in fire behaviou as the relative humidity values lower down to around 30 percent on the firelines.

Currently there are 531 personnel assigned to this incident.

The fire is moderately active with interior and unburned fuels igniting during afternoon and early evening hours. Crews, engines and helicopters are working around established fire lines to help check further fire spread. Additional crews and helicopters are on order.

• City Council considers a number of issuesAugust 2, 2018
• Fire Commission sets public meeting to hear testimony on District Staffing needsJuly 30, 2018
• Hospital Board gets updates on hospital operationsJuly 27, 2018
• Chelanman 2018 is a huge success

Informational Fire Meeting Monday
August 6 at 6 p.m.
Chelan Fire Hall

Chelan has had a number of fire starts this season. Fortunately, air attack has been immediate and helpful in controlling these fires quickly.

August 2 Fire Related news:

by Richard Uhlhorn

Cougar Creek Fire (Entiat Valley)

The Cougar Creek Fire 25 miles up the Entiat Valley spread on all flanks yesterday, ranging from ¼ mile to 1 mile. It will continue to send smoke into the Lake Chelan Valley for the rest of the summer. The potential exists for significant fire spread and long range spotting when smoke columns develop.

This fire was lightning caused and is burning in old slash, downed trees and forest lands in the Cougar Creek drainage. It is Zero percent contained and the U.S. Forest Service does not expect any containment until September 15.

Currently 321 fire personnel on are assigned to the fire and nine crews are working on it. There are two helicopters and 15 engines deployed to help.

The Chelan Hills (Beebe) Fire in Douglas County had immediate air support for fire agencies fighting this fast moving brush fire. 

Chelan Hills (Beebe) Fire (Douglas County)

The cause of this fire, which began on July 27 by Highway 97, is under investigation. It burned 1842 acres and is expected to be fully contained today, August 2. There were four damaged structures including one lost residence.

Engine crews are patrolling the fire perimeter, extinguishing hotspots and performing rehabilitation tasks in the burned areas and along the fire lines.

Tanker support was instrumental in containing the Chelan Hill’s (Beebe) Fire to an estimated 1800 acres and saving a number of homes in the Farnham Canyon area.

Residents in Farnham Canyon are extremely worried about the potential for mudslides and erosion issues. The roads are all private. Larry Majchrzak, whose home was saved by a retardant drop, called and asked what resources are available to help home owners who find themselves with no vegetation left to hold water.

Cascadia Conservation District is probably the best resource available for people looking for help with conservation issues.

Navarre Coulee Fire

No current information is available.

Arson or Stupid

Sheriff Brian Burnett reported that the Department does not feel at this time that a serial arsonist is at work in the Lake Chelan Valley. “I will get back to you if I hear differently,” said Burnett.

There has been a lot of talk going around about fire starts in the Lake Chelan Valley. A lot of that talk is centered around the potential that a serial arsonist is at work, especially considering that many of the fires have been on the south shore. The Chelan Hills Spring (Beebe) fire is also considered suspicious and is under active investigation.

“I know there has been a lot of talk,” said Fire Chief Arnold Baker from Manson Fire District 5. “We are all thinking about that.” He stated that the 25 Mile Creek Fire had a plausible explanation. “It started in the garbage dump and we think someone put hot charcoal briquettes in the dumpster. Pretty stupid for not putting the fire out,” he said. “The other ones don’t have an explanation. We all have to pay attention. We need the public to pay attention.”

Baker stated that if you see a car pulled over on dry grass, take a picture with your phone. If something develops, at least there is a photo with a license number so the individual can be questioned. “We need the public’s help. Law enforcement and the fire services aren’t going to catch them without the public’s help.”

Sheriff Brian Burnett talked with his staff and said that none of them are feeling like there is a serial arsonist at work. “We had one potential suspect, but after questioning him, he was released.”

The primary thing for Valley residents is to be vigilant and if something is unusual, to report it to the Sheriff’s Department.

Four Fire Boss aircraft helped dump gallons and gallons of water on fire lines on the Chelan Hills (Beebe) Fire. (File Photo from 2016)

Helicopters remain an important fire fighting asset
in the area when fire breaks out.

Northwest Fire Potential continues at a record high

Record level fire danger continues in the Northwest with gusty winds keeping our area at an elevated risk level for development of significant fire.

Wildland fire managers at the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) in Boise Idaho are mobilizing firefighters from Australia and New Zealand. Australia and New Zealand have been good partners with the United States and the last time they were mobilized was during the 2015 Chelan Complex fires.

 

• Hospital Board gets updates on hospital operationsJuly 27, 2018
• Chelanman 2018 is a huge successJuly 23, 2018
• U.S. Open ends… 2019 or 2020 Chelan will host a World Cup Paragliding ChampionshipJuly 17, 2018
• Fire commissioners under fire from outside fire fighter groups

Stone Church wants to move in to the Library’s second floor space.

Chelan Valley Hope needs more space.

Woodin Avenue Bridge project starts in September.

Chelan School to share resource officer with Manson

by Richard Uhlhorn

Tuesday’s July 25 City Council meeting had several items of interest to the general public on the agenda, however, prior to the actual agenda, a number of Chelan residents signed up to talk during the Citizen Comment period.

Chelan Valley Hope and the Food Bank are apparently outgrowing their current space at the old library building and are looking for a larger, more permanent home that they can purchase.

Mayor Mike Cooney told the group that the City would be helping to look for a permanent solution. Jim (last name not noted) stated that they were looking hard for a solution to the space issue. Parking is just one of those space issues. “We have 30 to 40 cars on Saturday mornings.” Cooney replied that “You’ll find your own place.”

John Olson has asked the City, the Parks Department and the PUD to help build mroe parking for the Chelan Senior Center.

John Olson remarked that a parking lot expansion at the Chelan Senior Center would help alleviate the issue. “Last Saturday, during the Chelanman the neighborhood filled up with cars,” said Olson. “If there was a ballgame scheduled it would have been tough.” He encouraged the Council to go back and review the proposal he put forth at the July 10 City Council meeting which asked the City of Chelan, the Parks Department and the PUD to work together to provide the Senior Center more parking.

Olson’s proposal estimated the cost of providing more parking at the Senior Center on PUD property across the street would cost an estimated $87,179.

The Senior Center has had 31 event with parking issues so far in 2018 including donated event space for Town Hall meetings and community fund raisers.

Scott Morris, with the Old Stone Church came before the Council and asked them to consider renting the Chelan Library’s second floor to the church until they can complete building their new church. “It’s going to take several years to build and currently we are over at the MOE gymnasium,” said Morris.

The Chelan School District had been leasing the space, but has abandoned it for another location.

Morris stated that the gymnasium situation has them setting up and tearing down after every service and that they would love to be in a space where they didn’t have to do that. “We would like to be considered..

Mayor Cooney told Morris that the City would be putting out a Request for Proposals and would let them know when that happened. “You will be considered,” said Cooney.

Agenda bills considered:

The City Council had an agenda bill in front of them for a one-half time School Resource Officer to be financially shared between Chelan and Manson School Districts.

Kelly Allen and Erin McCardle are uncomfortable with the proposal to cut a school resource officer to half days and want to hear from the school administration before approving that proposal. Chief of Special Operations, Sgt. Reinfeld answered questions regarding the proposal.

Last year, the City and Chelan School District shared costs to have a full time resource officer on board, but the School Districts and Sheriff’s Department have proposed a new arrangement where a resource officer would split his time between Manson and Chelan. This raised some questions amongst the Council.

Chief of Special Operations, Sgt. Reinfield was at the meeting and told the Council that the 2018/19 school year the resource officer would split his time.

Council woman Kelly Allen asked, “My only concern is whether or not this compromises Chelan schools.” Erin McCardle also raised a concern and said she would like to hear from both Chelan’s Principal and Superintendent. “It would help identify how successful the program has been… I don’t know.” She was concerned about the past relationship with students.

City Manager, Mike Jackson stated that the school resource officer is the primary responsibility of the school district. The new proposal will save the City $11,562 over last year.

City Administrator Mike Jackson told the Council that he hadn’t discussed the school resource officer issue with the school administration.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if this was coming from the School District and Jackson replied that it was. “We haven’t had any conversations with them.”

McCardle reiterated that she would like to have a conversation with the District. “We used to have workshops with the School District,” she stated. “I wonder if they would like to have a school resource officer full time. What’s driving this.”

The Council decided to hold off on passing that agenda bill and Mayor Cooney said he would start a discussion with the school the next day.

Mayor Mike Cooney said he would begin discussions with the school administration before the next council meeting.

The next agenda bill was a bid on sewer lift station improvements which the staff recommended the Council reject based on Gray and Osborne’s recommendation the staff that it be rejected.

The City budgeted $595,000 for the project. Gray & Osborne’s estimate was $627,587.05 and the bidder came in at $1,160,940.02. “It was really high,” said Public Works Director Jake Youngren.

The Council took the recommendation and decided to reject and rebid the project in late 2018 for possible construction in 2019 with, hopefully, a more reasonable bid.

Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the Council that Public Works wanted to go live with its Woodin Avenue Bridge Project website so residents and visitors could be informed.

Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the Council that Public Works was going live with its website for the Woodin Avenue Bridge.”We would like to start communicating with the public,” said Youngren.

Selland Construction has proposed beginning the project on September 4 and working until November 28 on the bridge rehabilitation, water and stormwater utility installation and the landing park.

In 2019, Selland will work from March 4 to May 6 finishing with the one way improvements outside of the bridge footprint.

To check updates on this project, residents and visitors can go to: http://woodinavenuebridgeproject.org.

The next Council meeting is on August 14. The public is encouraged to attend.

• Hospital Board gets updates on hospital operationsJuly 27, 2018
• Chelanman 2018 is a huge successJuly 23, 2018
• U.S. Open ends… 2019 or 2020 Chelan will host a World Cup Paragliding ChampionshipJuly 17, 2018
• Fire commissioners under fire from outside fire fighter groups

Public Meeting set for Monday, August 6 at 6 p.m. at Chelan Fire Hall to hear testimony from the public on re-running the Levy Lid Lift in November.

by Richard Uhlhorn

It has been a busy fire week around the Lake Chelan Valley over the past week with the Chelan Hills Spring fire in Douglas County that burned almost 2,000 acres and the rash of brush fires on the South Shore of Lake Chelan, the latest being the fire in the 25 Mile Creek State Park area.

It has been a very busy week for Chelan Fire & Rescue personnel and other agencies fighting brush fires around the area including the Chelan Hills Spring fire up Farnham Canyon that burned close to 2,000 acres.

It has kept the journalism crowd busy trying to keep up with the news, but there is news outside of the actual fires that needs to be reported.

Last Wednesday, July 25, the Chelan County Fire District 7 Fire Commissioners held a special workshop to discuss future staffing issues.

Fire Chief Tim Lemon gave the commissioners four options to consider during the meeting with a staffing goal of having four personnel on the Initial Response Force to meet the intent of the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) 296-305-05001(1)(a) of two in/two out when engaged in an interior structure fire, and (11) two in/one out for a known rescue operation. “Initial fire fighting operations shall be organized to ensure that at least four members are assembled before interior fire suppression operations are initiated in a hazardous area.”

Up to this meeting, there has been a concentrated effort by concerned residents and union firefighters to retain the six firefighters who will lose their jobs at the district when the SAFER Grant runs out in December.

This issue has created a tough decision making situation for the three commissioners especially since the Levy Lid Lift attempt in April failed to pass. The push has been to put the issue back on the ballot for the November election and the commissioners are faced with dealing with that situation.

Chief Lemon gave the Commissioners five Options to consider at the workshop.

Chief Tim Lemon of Fire District 7 gave his Commissioners five separate options on staffing for 2019 with recommendations.

Option 1 –  Retain the SAFER six career firefighters at a cost of $101,862.37 per individual for a year which would cost the District $611,18.20 in 2019. The option with a new revenue source includes two 24 hour stipend positions at a cost of $141,452.10 for a total of $7522,632.30.

This staffing model is $539,671.49 which is more than the District’s tax revenue and leaves $197,046.07 that would have to be made up from other fire department funding sources.

Assistant Chief Mark Donnell

Lemon reported that the 2019 General Fund surplus or uncommitted revenue is anticipated to be $414.134.13 which would leave $338,496.17 to fully fund the six positions through 2019.

Lemon looked at other revenue stream reductions that could be made including not replacing the Administrative Assistant after she retires saving the District $52,714.69, but he doesn’t recommend not refilling that position. Cut the two 24-hour stipend positions at a cost saving of $141,452.10 and cutting the volunteer points out in 2019 for a cost savings of $75,366.00.

Deputy Chief Asher is being paid through 2012 with a FEMA SAFER Grant to help with volunteer retention and recruitment with Chelan Fire & Rescue, Chelan County Fire District 8 and Douglas County Fire District 4 at no cost to any of those Districts.

The Commissioners asked Lemon to consider cutting the Chief Officers from three to two, but one is staffed through a FEMA SAFER Grant through 2021 at no cost to the District to focus on Vounteer Recruitment and Retention for Chelan Fire and Rescue, Chelan Fire District 8 and Douglas County Fire District 4.

Option 2 – Retain three SAFER Grant Career Firefighters and two 24-hour stipends.

To retain three SAFER Grant firefighters, it will cost the District $305,590.10. This staffing model includes two 24-hour stipend positions at a cost of $141,452.10 for a total cost of $447,042.20 and is $234,081.39 over tax revenue and leaves $6,680.67 in the uncommitted fund reserves.

Option 3 –  Have three 24-hour Volunteer Stipend Positions if the SAFER six are not retained. These individuals would be structural and wildland fire combat qualified and EMT or First Aid certified as a minimum.

The goal of this option is to have depth of personnel to ensure four personnel are on duty even when personnel are off-duty on approved leave. Stipend positions are budgeted at $90 per 12 hour shift and provide the most opportunities for volunteer to participate with the least amount of qualification/certification and restrictions, but the challenge would be to find enough personnel that want to pull full shifts.

The total cost of Option 3 is $212,178.15  which is $782.66 below tax revenue and leaves the District with $319,832.73 of uncommitted funds.

Option 4 –  Hire five Summer-Seasonal and Stipend Positions who are subject to overtime after 40 hours and only work part of the year. These individuals would be required to be fire combat, red card and EMT or FA certified at a cost of $732.94 per week.

These five would provide additional coverage through  the busy months (May, June, July, August, September and October.). This would provide additional personnel during peak call times at a cost of $95,282.07 for the six month period.

To maintain four on duty personnel the District would still need to stipend firefighters to cover evenings throughout the year and days on the off season at an additional coast of $159,278.94.

Total cost of Option 4 is estimated at $235,561.01 which is $41,600.20 over tax revenue and leaves $263,322.25.

Option 5 – Hire three On-Call fire combat qualified, red card, EMT or FA certified personnel as part time employees on an hourly wage and limited to no more than 30 hours per week.

Total cost of this Option would be $424,356.30 which would be $211.396.49 over tax revenue.

Chief Lemon recommended Option 2 and if unable to secure new revenue in 2019, he recommends moving to Option 3 in the foreseeable future.

Commission Chair Russ Jones has called for a public meeting on August 6 to hear both sides of the argument on re-running the Levy Lid Lift in November. 

Commission Chair Russ Jones feels it will be a couple of years before the District can safely run a levy lift. “Our goal is to have four firefighters on 24/7,” said Jones. Commissioner Jay Witherbee said, “We are looking for a sustainable budget.” Chief Lemon said depending on what scenario the District looks at the money taken out of reserves for Option 1 would limit that capacity in 2019.

Lemon also said that there is some money left over from the SAFER Grant that could be used in 2019, but that the District has to let the firefighters know. “They are actually looking at (opportunities) at other Districts,” said Lemon.

Jones stated that an all volunteer department is probably not in the cards. “It isn’t what it was 20 or even 10 years ago.” Jones also remarked that a $.25 cent levy would raise the per thousand rate from the current $.92 cents to $1.17 per thousand in value. “I’m not prepared to go with a levy, but it would be appropriate to hear public testimony on that,” said Jones.

Witherbee said, “I don’t think we can pass a levy… I’m opposed.”

Commissioner Jay Witherbee is against running a levy at this time and said he would vote No, but would be supportive of whatever the board decides.

Jones called for a Monday, August 6, public meeting at 6 p.m. to determine whether or not the commission should vote to run a ballot or not on the November election.

Commissioner Moller stated he would agree to a public meeting to hear their views, but with the caveat that only residents registered in the District be able to comment. Jones said, “I agree… I think we can ask that.”

Witherbee said, “I will still vote NO on a levy lid lift… even if you fill the room you know how its going to go. It’s not going to change anything but I will be supportive of whatever the board decides on.”

Jones added that he would like to hear both sides of the issue… those who are against putting the the levy back on the ballot and those who are for it.

Chief Lemon asked the commission what outcome they expect from the meeting and Jones said, following the public testimony the commission would vote on a resolution.

The Lake Chelan Hospital Board of Directors met in regular session on Tuesday, July 24 to discuss a variety of issues.

The Lake Chelan Hospital held its monthly board meeting on Tuesday, July 24, and had several items of interest to the general public.

First, the board has narrowed its search for a new CEO to two finalists. Mary Signorelli said that each of the two candidates will be interviewed on campus on two different days with the first interview taking place next week on Thursday and Friday, August 2 & 3. The second person of interest will be interviewed the following week on Monday and Tuesday, August 6 & 7. after which the board will make a decision on who to hire. “We are pretty much happy about the two candidates we have,” said Signorelli, the board chairman. “They are very strong candidates. Obviously, we are interviewing the two because we couldn’t decide on one or the other at this point.”

Board member Phyllis Gleasman commented that all the candidate applicants were very quality individuals. “It was a very difficult decision,” she stated.

Interim CEO, Steve Patonai, reported that this year’s Board Retreat will take place on Wednesday and Thursday, August 8 & 9 in Pateros. “The first day will run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and the second day from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.,” he said.

Interim CEO Steve Patonai gave the board an update on the upcoming Hospital Retreat to be held in Pateros on August 8 & 9.

The title of this year’s Board Retreat is “Envisioning the Future – Setting the Path.”

“We will be focusing on the vision for the Lake Chelan Hospital,” said Patonai. He told the board that the final details were still being worked out, but that the first day will be focusing on the background. He said that a speaker from the state level will talk about reimbursements and what is happening state wide in the market place.

The second day Patonai said, “We will focus on developing the vision for the future.”

The board approved the agenda unanimously (Mary Murphy was not present at this meeting).

Patonai gave his CEO report and said that they have had discussions with the USDA over the past couple of weeks. “We are feeling good about it,” said Patonai.”I think we are close.” The USDA loan is going forward and Patonai said that it could be decided on later this week.

The hospital has officially moved its EMS crew out of its space at Fire District 7 and back to the hospital stated Patonai. “Our EMS based crew was sharing space at the Fire District and using some of their space for providing training.”

The decision to move the EMS crew back to the Hospital will save the hospital $41,000. Neither the hospital nor fire district and give space or services for free, so the deal between the hospital and fire district was a lease for $41,000 which would be paid for in-kind by the hospital providing EMT training and performing firefighter physicals.

Signorelli stated that she and Kevin Abel had met with Chief Tim Lemon six to eight months ago, but has not and have not ever had another request for a meeting with Lemon or the District’s Board.

Board Chairman Mary Signorelli stated that no one at the Fire District has requested a meeting with the Hospital Board or Administration regarding EMS.

“No one has requested a meeting with us as a board or as administration to meet with them,” said Signorelli. “I just want that to be cleared up because there has been some miscommunication.”

Assistant Chief Donnell has said at last month’s fire district meeting that he would like to see the emergency services annexed into the Fire District or to at least have a conversation about that.

Donna Strand – Chief Nursing Officer

In other business, Donna Strand, Chief Nursing Officer, gave a report on Quality & Patient Care Services. She discussed the difficulties of moving patients around the ward. “It is a very choreographed dance,” said Strand. She also talked about employee turnover and the Emergency Room Improvement Plan. “We meet with staff every morning for 15 minutes.” she said.

Strand said the Gold Standard for patients coming into and leaving the Emergency Room is 87 minutes. “We’ve already met the 90 percentile of that time,” she said. The time through the door of the ER to seeing a doctor is 12 minutes. “It is hard to get there,” said Strand.

Another problem facing the ER is patients that are not really emergencies. “We get a lot of patients in the ER that are not emergencies,” she said.

Vickie Bodle – Chief Financial Officer

Vickie Bodle gave the board an up to date financial and said the hospital has performed 44 surgeries through June 22^nd.  The Emergency Department has seen 489 people in the month of June. There have been 12 babies born since the first of the year.

She reported that accounts receivables are down $455,000 and they are working hard to bring that up.

After reporting on the current financial status, Bodle turned the podium over to Erik Volk, an accountant with Wipfli –LLP, and assurance accounting and tax consulting firm who conducted and prepared last year’s audit of the hospital.

Eric Volk gave a report on the outstanding 2017 audit.

After his report to the board, Volk told this reporter that the hospital and an outstanding audit. “The staff is very knowledgeable.”

The meeting ended with Signorelli telling the staff that their hard work does not go unnoticed. “We appreciate your hard work,” she said before adjourning the meeting.