Chelan Parks: Chelan has one of the most unique city park systems in the State. It is the only system that is not funded by a tax levy. The park’s funding comes from its own for profit enterprises.
A family enjoying Don Morse Park.
At the last park meeting in June, it was reported that more locals are using the parks and less foreigners (i.e. Canadian) are accessing the system. “Its been a quirky season so far,” said Paul Horne, Park’s Director.
The good news is that overall park operations are up so far this year; golf course -26%, putting course – 7.2%, Marina – 10.8% and RV Park.. The increase at the putting course is due to consistent hours. “We are working with the Chamber to get the word out,” stated Assistant Director Audrey Cooper.
Chelan Golf Course is up in rounds this spring/summer.
Rounds at the Golf Course were also up 16% (3,815 – 18 hole rounds).
Vice Chair of the Parks Advisory Board, Linda Reister requested that someone from the Golf Course provide the board with some kind of report. Chairman Shane Collins added that four times per year should be sufficient. Horne stated that they are busy, but also felt it was a good idea.
The place to rent watercraft.
Enforcement: The department shifted the enforcement group to 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. They had been showing up much earlier, but the new rules have stopped the early morning drop off of BBQs and tents. “Things aren’t happening at Lakeside until 9 a.m.,” said Cooper.
Parking made fast and easy.
Financial sustainability:
At an earlier meeting in April, Horne presented the plan for the Ad Hoc Finance Committee who are charged with determining 3-5 solutions for long term financial sustainability for the park system by July. These solutions will be used when planning for the 2026 budget planning begins.
Shred a wave at Lakeside Surf.
There will not be a Parks Board Advisory Committee meeting in July.
Park board members inspect the parks new barbecue and shelter.
After the meeting the board visited one of the shelters to see the new barbecue in Don Morse Park and also had a chance to inspect the new metal park benches that will be installed at various locations in both Lakeside and Don Morse Parks.
As promised the US Geological Survey finally presented its feasibility study on the re-introduction of bull trout into the Lake Chelan watershed at the Lake Chelan Watershed Planning Unit meeting held on Wednesday, June 18.
Joe Benjamin, USGS representative, told the group that the feasibility study came out of a group participation. He described the process and said the group met once a month for one year but has not made a final decision on the re-introduction.
The group began the process with a demographic model for each of the 12 streams being considered. Environmental conditions were taken into consideration with wildfire and flooding being looked at having an impact.
The group considered adding 30 adults for each of five years adding fish to one stream at a time. “We were focused on adding 30 adults to the system,” said Benjamin. “Some streams don’t perform well.” They looked at Flick Creek, the upper Stehekin and Agnes Creek.
Benjamin stated that the group considers the lower Stehekin River and Bridge Creek better environmentally. “These fish are capable of moving around from Bridge Creek to Stehekin.”
Other considerations include egg survival and fish residing in Lake Chelan. “What could happen. They could make it to the lake, get big and come back and spawn.” The group is also considering a predator discount in Lake Chelan. Predator discount acknowledges that predators consume fish that might otherwise be harvested by humans for profit. This predation represents a “social cost” or lost economic opportunity for the fishery.
Joe Heinlen, a long time fishing guide on Lake Chelan, remarked that there is a healthy king salmon fishery on the lake and that these fish spawn in the Stehekin River. The introduction of bull trout could be devastating to king salmon populations.
Benjamin replied that the group hadn’t taken a look at the recreational opportunities. “We didn’t see an impact but will take a closer look at that.”
Mike Kaputa, Chelan County Natural Resources Director, stated that he would like to see a little context to this issue. “Bull trout are threatened, but reside in other local water systems, but are locally extinct.”
Kaputa mentioned Phil Archibald, who was a fishery biologist with the Entiat Ranger District who was curious about why bull trout disappeared in Lake Chelan. Bull trout was a native species in the Lake Chelan watershed before it disappeared in the late 40s or early 50s. Since that time, the fish has been considered extinct. In addition, the fish populations in the last 75 years has changed in Lake Chelan.
Chinook salmon have flourished in Lake Chelan in recent years. Joe Heinlen, fishing guide and ex-fishery technician with the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife, says these salmon spawn in the lower Stehekin River and would become bull trout food if re-introduced.
Today, the lake sports an extremely healthy recreational fishery. Lake trout, chinook salmon, kokanee, cutthroat and bass are the primary fish in the system. Chinook and kokanee spawn in the Stehekin River.
According to local fishing guides, the re-introduction of bull trout to the tributaries of Lake Chelan would be the death of the healthy recreational fishery currently in place. “Bull trout are the wolf of fresh water,” stated Joe Heinlen, a fishing guide. “They will eat everything!”
“There is a simmering interest in this,” said Kaputa.
The lower Stehekin River is prime spawning ground for both chinook salmon and kokanee. If bull trout were re-introduced to the system, professional fishing guides claim that Lake Chelan and the Stehekin River’s recreational fishery would be damaged.
Benjamin said, “There is no current proposal to re-introduce bull trout. My question… Is there a question?”
The next step according to Benjamin are public meetings. “We are starting that process officially today. We will see how we want to proceed in the future.”
Bull trout: Bull trout was a native species in the Lake Chelan watershed before it disappeared in the late 40s or early 50s. Since that time, the fish has been considered extinct. In addition, the fish populations in the last 75 years has changed in Lake Chelan.
Today, the lake sports an extremely healthy recreational fishery. Lake trout, chinook salmon, kokanee, cutthroat and bass are the primary fish in the system. Chinook and kokanee spawn in the Stehekin River.
According to local fishing guides, the re-introduction of bull trout to the tributaries of Lake Chelan would be the death of the healthy recreational fishery currently in place. “Bull trout are the wolf of fresh water,” stated Joe Heinlen, “They will eat everything!”
“Bull trout and West Slope Cutthroat (native species) co-existed in Lake Chelan until the Bull trout disappeared,” said Heinlen. Heinlen added that since that time, Chinook salmon, Lake trout, Rainbow trout, Kokanee salmon, Small and Large Mouth Bass and other species have been planted in the lake.
“These fish constitute an important sport fishery,” said Heinlen. “An introduction of Bull trout could be devastating to sport fishing in the Valley,” he added. “Taking a chance of destroying a world class fishery is crazy.”
“They (bull trout) will eat a lot of kokanee,” said Heinlen. “They also don’t stay in one spot and that’s got me concerned.” Heinlen did say it would take up to 10 years to get them established.
New District Ranger: Holly Krate, Chelan/Entiat District Ranger, visited with the Chelan City Council on June 10. She explained what the district is doing in preparation for wildfire potential in July, August and September. “We are almost fully staffed,” she said. That staffing includes a hotshot crew and 75 available for fire staffing.
Chelan/Entiat District Ranger Holly Krate replaced Paul Willard and introduced herself to the City Council at its last meeting.
Most of those individuals are engaged in support services, but Krate added that each one carries wildland card. If a fire breaks out, she stated it would have an impact on recreation services.
Mark Ericks remarked that after a couple of years of wildfire up-lake with smoke issues, he would prefer that the fires be put out. “Can you tell us a little bit about fire policy,” Ericks asked. Krate replied that the district will be managing fires aggressively.
“We are prioritizing health and safety,” she said. “There are miles of trails we might not be able to get to this year.”
Tim Hollingsworth asked about up-lake dock facilities and how many are open. Krate replied that there is a new dock at Domke Falls campground. Jon Higgins asked about Safety Harbor and was told it was on the district’s list. “We recognize the importance of that dock,” she said.
Krate has replaced Paul Willard who retired last month. She has worked in Wenatchee over the past 10 years.
Enjoy Lake Chelan with a rental from Shoreline
2025 six-year transportation plan: City Council held a public hearing on passing Resolution 2025-1463 on the six-year Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) required by the State and Federal government to qualify for funding.
Chelan has established a Transportation Benefit District (TBD) which will provide a dependable revenue source to held the Public Works Department financially plan and organize transportation projects. TBD funds can only be used on projects that are included in the six-year STIP.
A total of $32,152,152 has been identified in the STIP over the next six years. These projects include $8 million for the Woodin Avenue Bridge change to two-way traffic requested by a majority of Chelan residents; $3.5 million for a roundabout at the intersection of Woodin and Sanders; and $9 million for the Northshore Pathway.
Changing the Woodin Avenue Bridge back to a two-way thoroughfare is on the City’s six-year transportation plan at an estimated cost of $8 million dollars.
There was no public comment and the Council unanimously approved the resolution.
Grant & Funding progress: Annalise Noble of Noble Strategies LLC has been helping the City secure grant and low cost loan funding for specific projects within the city. Wade Farris remarked that Noble has been helping the city since 2023. “We have a lot of activity this year,” said Farris.
A large part of her work is with the U.S. Army Corp. of Engineers who are holding the $9 million secured from Congress to build a one-million gallon reservoir as a part of the East Chelan Water Project. “We have requested funding for the entire project,” Farris said. That is estimated at $18 million dollars. “Since that request we have been working closely with the Army staff.”
“They really like the project,” said Noble who attended the meeting on Zoom. “We are really hopeful that it works out.” Mayor McCardle remarked that she appreciates all the work Noble has been doing on behalf of the city.
City Administer position: With current city administrator Wade Farris retiring at the end of the October, the search is on for a new administrator to take control of the city’s daily operations. The administrator also provides leadership and support to all city departments and is a key advisor to the mayor.
City Administrator Wade Farris is retiring at the end of October and the City is beginning its hunt for a new administrator.
Council was give a draft of administrator requirements. Farris said, “We got job descriptions from three similar cities. We believe this is a pretty good job description.”
Mayor McCardle said she had pulled other municipal and remarked that the draft city council had in their hands needs “much more detail on this role.”
Normal requirements include a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration with extensive work experience in city administration or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience. The job requires experience managing cross-departmental initiatives, public infrastructure projects and labor relations.
It is preferred that the new administrator has a strong understanding of municipal operations, public budgeting and intergovernmental relations with an ICMA Credentialed Manager certification.
There will be one more detailed look at the qualifications before any decision is made to advertise the position or hire within. Hollingsworth asked where the city will find a new administrator.
In other business: The council unanimously approved SCJ Alliance for a professional services agreement for construction management of the Lakeside Trail Project. In an effort for reduce the financial burden of construction management services, the city will be performing a portion of the construction management tasks with its new Capital Projects Manager who will serve as the primary point of contact for the contractor.
The Chelan Parks department rejected all bids on its Lakeside Park Renovation Project that included restroom and playground renovations, new concrete walkways, beach improvements, landscaping and other park enhancements.
Five contractors attended a pre-bid meeting on May 1. Two bids were received and opened on May 15.
The engineers estimate was $1,516,520. Total bids came in at $1,787,000 which exceeded the project budget. Staff is working with Berger Consultants to revise the project plans and bid documents to lower costs with an attempt to re-advertise the project in July. Construction is planned to begin after Labor Day.
Paul Horne, Parks Director said the Dock Company is working with the department to lower its costs. “We are looking at cutting some of the sidewalk and beach work,” said Horne.
Mayor McCardle recognized Jake Youngren for thinking outside of the box on pushing through the hiring of a Capital Projects Manager. She thanked the council for supporting the new position and said, “That position will cover the cost of her salary.”
Mayor McCardle
The next City Council meeting will be on June 25, beginning at 5:15 p.m. in council chambers.
Turning Manson into an exceptional destination is the goal of Manson’s One Voice Coalition. The coalition held its second community forum on Thursday, June 5 with an estimated 25 in attendance.
An estimated 25 Manson resident attended the Manson One Voice Coalition meeting on June 5.
Dan Eermisser, the coalition’s consultant directed the meeting and said, “People have a lot of different opinions. We are trying to define that ideal and move toward some consensus.”
One Voice Coalition consultant Dan Eermisser.
A part of the ongoing effort is to build a collaborative effort with Chelan. Kim Ustanik remarked that it is important to cooperate and collaborate with the City of Chelan who are also in the throws of defining their future priorities.
Both tourists and residents or a combination of both is considered important. “The front door is tourism… the end game is becoming a resident,” Eermisser said. “I think you have a delightful downtown strip that needs to be highlighted.”
Shoreline Watercraft & Boat Rentals is just one amenity located in Manson Bay.
A part of making the village exceptional will collaboration with 12 Tribes, maintaining a great park system and highlighting the recreational opportunities.
The village prides itself on its natural beauty of the lake and surrounding agricultural lands and mountains. Its strengths include a wide variety of recreational destinations. With world class Wapato Point adding numerous out-of-area visitors to the community throughout the year, Manson becomes a ready made visitor ship attraction.
Pinot grapes growing in the Lake Chelan ValleyA mature Red Delicious apple hanging from a commercial orchard tree.Ripe cherries
Wineries and other agricultural amenities like Manson Grower’s Cider Press, Rootwood Cidery and Rootwood Cidery along with Chelan Valley Farms.
Future opportunities: The coalition is looking at restoring Manson as a stop off location for the Lady of the Lake. Developing a relationship with the City of Chelan and 12 Tribes. Developing agritourism events in the off-season around Manson’s agriculture.
One major effort is to secure a decent share of Lake Chelan’s/Chelan County lodging tax fund. Manson is a major contributor to the County’s lodging tax receipts.
As with any effort, losing momentum and community support could lead to failure by the coalition to realize the opportunities available to make Manson an exceptional destination.
A little history: Manson, the Village on the Bay, didn’t used to be a wine destination and tourism onclave. It used to be a working town with 6,500 acres of world class apples that were exported to world markets, mostly Mexico and the far East.
It had that small town feel with several gas stations, a hardware store, a feed store, a meat storage locker and several store fronts catering to the local community. As kids, we worked in the orchards, thinning, pruning, propping and picking apples during harvest. In those days in the late 50s, there wasn’t much tourism.
Things began to change when Howard S. Wright Construction Co. received a 99 year lease from the Wapato’s to develop Wapato Point into the world class resort it is today. Eventually, the Colville Confederated Tribe added to Manson’s allure with the current casino.
In the late 90s, when the Asian economic crisis hit, banks were hard pressed to give farmers growing loans and many went bankrupt. This opened up land development opportunities.
It was a time when the valley was looking for a new way forward. In 1998, the first grapes were planted and the Kludts were the only apple/cherry producers to buy into the winery idea and opened up the popular Lake Chelan Winery in 2001.
From that point on, Manson changed from a strictly agricultural community to a tourist town at the end of the road. The downtown area of Manson began to change with more tourist type activities.
Fast forward to 2025 and Manson, that Village by the Bay, now attracts visitors and tourists to come and enjoy its wineries and other amenities,along with recreational opportunities.
It is still an apple and cherry producing area but much of the apple producing land has been turned into vineyards or residential developments.
Managing growth is of paramount importance to the Manson community.
The City of Chelan and Manson Community are both in the process of determining how to control their growth but maintain a healthy community through the new tourism economy.
Chelan: Mayor McCardle told her staff and council members at a special meeting on June 4 that tourism is the driving force, not only in Chelan and the Valley, but also Chelan County.
The City of Chelan has held a number of meetings to discuss future priorities.
She attended a meeting with Leavenworth and Wenatchee and said, “It was two hours of providing information on how tourism impacts the region.”
McCardle mentioned the upcoming Lakeside Trail project as a top priority for citizens. The construction will begin the day after the Fourth of July weekend and be completed in October at a cost of $4,159,180.49.
KRCI was the successful bidder on the project. Jake Youngren, Public Works Director stated that the city was able to leverage the WSDOT $2,516,566 contribution to the project with $500,000 from the TIB (Transportation Improvement Board) and $251,688 from LINK Transit. “We will need an additional $640,428,” said Youngren.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren explained the bidding process for the Lakeside Trail Project that will begin in July.
The additional funds could come from the city’s unobligated funds or through an interfund loan from the water fund. “We can wait until the project is done to do an amendment. I am also open to amending the contract now,” stated Youngren.
Tim Hollingsworth remarked that the trail corridor is complicated. “It will connect Slidewaters and the Boat Company,” said Hollingsworth. “It is an amenity a lot of people will take advantage of.”
Mark Ericks remarked that while he would be voting for the project, he was concerned about the budget. Youngren replied that the contract was executed per the plan and KRCI has a contractual obligation to perform the construction at the bid price. Youngren said additional amendments would only be allowed for unforeseen circumstances.
Mayor McCardle asked if the contract could be amended. Youngren said, “No… This is not an open ended contract. KRCI has bought off on the contract. They will be partners with the city. This is not an open-ended thing.”
When complete the Lakeshore Trail will be an incredible move forward to provide residents and visitors alike with a world-class trail system.
The Council voted six to one with Bob Goedde voting Nay on approving the contract.
Strategic Retreat/Stehekin Director’s retreat: The City of Chelan held a strategic retreat at Sunset Marina on April 29 for the sole purpose of setting some City priorities.
Mayor Erin McCardle told the staff and council that the same questions get asked every year. “Tonight, we are setting a clear direction for the staff,” she said. She based the challenge on the City’s core values. “How are we measuring success with what we are doing.”
The staff and council followed up the Strategic Retreat with an overnight director’s retreat in Stehekin to further set City priorities for 2026.
Communications Director Chad Coltman said at the June 4 Special Meeting that the Stehekin brainstorming session looked at what was really possible for the city to do.
The priorities include:
Continue partnership with the HDCA to promote local programming and continue the city’s investments in downtown Chelan.
Create a sub-area trails plan for Apple Blossom Center to downtown.
Look at commercial waterfront possibilities.
Add economic development to the city’s website.
Affordable housing funding opportunities
Growth: The Planning Department is beginning work on the Comprehensive Plan that is due in 2026. The Parks PROs plan is also being worked on.
The City is developing County partnerships, particularly on traffic impacts with a regional transportation study.
Affordable housing: While the City is in partnership with the Chelan Housing Trust and Habitat for Humanity, a new law will allow property owners to allow the construction of two ADUs on lots. The City will look at pre-approved ADU plans for easy permitting.
A part of the Comp. Plan will be to revise the City’s development standards to streamline affordable housing projects.
Recreation opportunities: The City had a desire to provide more diverse recreational opportunities for its residents and visitors.
In order to provide these services for the public, the City Parks is working with and Ad-Hoc group develop fiscal sustainability for its parks system including the golf course, RV park, parks and new developments like the Chelan Gorge Park (formerly called Stinky Field).
Maintaining its existing parks remains a priority. Partnerships are being developed with the Community Center, Boys and Girls Club and other Youth sports groups.
Continue its efforts at opening up more pocket parks for lake access.
In 2026 the City will begin planning for the Apple Blossom Trail that will connect Apple Blossom Center to the downtown area.
The City will also look at leveraging STR fees to help provide better recreational facilities which will include an economic development study.
At last Wednesday’s Chelan Fire and Rescue commissioner meeting, the district received a surprise gift from the Undercover Quilt Club. A group of the membership got together and created a quilt specific to the Chelan’s department.
These ladies in the Undercover Quilt Club made this quilt and gifted to Chelan Fire and Rescue.
Chief Brandon Asher swore in the district’s newest firefighter, Chad Cohen.
Chad Cohen is pinned by Fire Chief Brandon Asher as the District’s newest firefighter.
Commissioner’s reports: Russ Jones reported that the Chelan Fire and Rescue boat has been repaired and is ready for summer service.
Mark Donnell remarked that upcoming increases in taxes will probably impact the Fire district.
Fire Chief report: Chief Brandon Asher reported that the budget is on track and that the district has received the new boat at a cost of $20,000 of which $10,000 for its acquisition was from the Firefighter’s Association. “The money spent on the vessel was for its electronics,” said Asher. The boat was free.”
Windemere Real Estate donated approximately $1,600 to the district from its Shredding Program.
Asher reported that in April alone, the District responded to seven brush fires. The recent May brush fire in Washington Creek was handled quickly. “We got lucky,” Asher remarked at the Saturday Pancake Breakfast. “It got into a bowl and just swirled around. We would have still gotten it if it had escaped.”
The fire season has descended on the area and it is important to inform the community and visitors of the danger. With another hot summer coming, the fuels will be extremely dry.
The department applies for all relevant grants it can and Asher reported that they have a CWDG (Community Wildfire Defense Grant) pending consideration at the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) that would fund the district for five years and amount to $2.5 million dollars.
In addition, another grant application is in for $25,000 for personal fire gear.
RiverCom is currently installing radio equipment on Slide Ridge which will help increase the District’s current radio communications.
Chelan is also updating the old Orondo Fire District response plan which is outdated and will help RiverCom dispatch proper equipment during emergencies.
The WSRB, is company who helps insurance companies, their customers evaluate data for properties to help establish fire insurance premiums. “There is a lot of momentum now to extend the boundaries from five to seven miles,” said Asher.
Volunteer recruitment coordinator: Mark Donnell stated that the districts are looking for a regional coordinator. “We have a better chance at a regional position,” said Donnell.
Ron Simmons added that a training coordinator is an important position which he would like to see continued after the three year grant expires.
Assistant Chief Shaun Sherman remarked that the District subscribes to the MRSC which is a statewide resource providing general legal and policy guidance for local government entities.
The District has a goal to celebrate its 100 year history next April.
The District needs to find out who the contact is at the Forest Service. “They’ve had so much turnover. We need to follow up on who has the position.”
Assistant Fire Chief report: Sherman reported that they would be sitting down with District 5 Chief Arnold Baker to discuss operational planning.
TIF: Russ Jones stated that he won’t be convinced about TIF numbers until he walks through the numbers the City has provided and assesses the increase in property values. Asher replied that the District counterparts around the Northwest are also studying TIF structures.
In other business: The District is considering hiring a second mechanic. “Not sure whether it would be full-time or part-time.” Apparently Chelan EMS has talked about sharing that position for their mechanical needs.
It was a quick City Council meeting on Tuesday, May 27
Dust Control: Of importance to the residents is the alley way Dust Control program that Council approved for the third year in a row. Lyman Dust Control, Inc. will be applying its road binder to all of the alleyways in the community. “It’s a good public relations campaign,” said Tim Hollingsworth.
Citizen comments: Janet, a Lakeside resident and member of the Friends of Lakeside group, thanked the City Council and Parks Board for actions taken to help manage the use of Lakeside Park. “We enjoyed a quiet Memorial Day weekend with only a few instances of non-compliance, most of which were addressed by the security team or after their departure, by Sheriff’s deputies.
On Sunday afternoon of the Memorial Day weekend, Lakeside Park was relatively quiet.
The City and its staff went out of its way this past winter to address a number of concerns that came from overcrowding at Lakeside Park that made living in the community miserable last summer.
Lakeside resident, Janet (last name not recorded) thanked the City and council for all their work at addressing last year’s issues.
She requested that the City extend the security companies hours be increased to cover afternoons and possibly into the evenings.
Barry DePaoli, another Lakeside resident was happy with the new signage and security measures in place at Lakeside Park.
Barry DePaoli, another Lakeside resident, remarked that the new signage is great and the new security measures excellent. “Overall, the weekend was an improvement,” said DePaoli. “Change is always difficult.”
Transit month: Mayor Erin McCardle read a Proclamation Declaring June as “Ride Transit Month”
She thanked LINK for what they have done for transportation issues in the Valley. The CEO encouraged residents to visit LINK’s website for information on its services.
Proclamation
WHEREAS, public transportation plays a vital role in connecting people to jobs, schools, healthcare, and essential services, ensuring that all members of our community have access to opportunity; and
WHEREAS, riding transit helps reduce traffic congestion, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable environment; and
WHEREAS, the Link Transit system is powered by dedicated drivers, operators, maintenance staff, and planners who work tirelessly to keep our community moving safely and efficiently; and
WHEREAS, increasing transit ridership supports economic development, fosters equitable access, and strengthens the social fabric of our neighborhoods; and WHEREAS, the month of June marks the start of summer, a perfect time to encourage residents to try transit for commuting, recreation, and daily travel; and
WHEREAS, “Ride Transit Month” offers an opportunity to celebrate public transit, recognize its benefits, and invite our community to explore new ways of getting around;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Erin McCardle, Mayor of the City of Chelan, do hereby proclaim the month of June 2025 as Ride Transit Month in the City of Chelan, and I encourage all residents, businesses, and visitors to support and participate in this initiative by choosing transit and celebrating its many benefits for our community and our future.
Weekend Sheriff’s Report: Sgt. Rob Huddleston reported that there were 37 incidents over the weekend with six arrests, three DUI’s, and three suspended license issues.
Sgt. Rob Huddleston reported on law enforcement efforts over the weekend.
Out on the water, Huddleston reported that the Marine Patrol conducted 50 vessel inspections and had two assist incidents. “It was a much different weekend from 16 to 20 years ago,” said Huddleston.
Huddleston also thanked the City and council for its contribution to retrofitting Marine II to its current new condition. “We have trained all of our deputies on the vessel’s operation. It is a huge change and it responds so much better.”
After the meeting I asked Sgt. Huddleston about motor vessels using the Chelan River to anchor in when the City specifically wrote an ordinance banning them from the river. Huddleston clarified the issue. “We can’t stop them from using the river. It is a navigable waterway and the State allows them.”
So, the river will remain open to motorized watercraft despite the City’s new ordinance.
Motion Considerations of Note: The Port of Chelan County and City have extended the deadline for a decision on the Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) for the Lake Chelan Airport to July 31. The Port’s board of directors have also agreed to this extension.
The current Lake Chelan Airport JOA expires on September 30, 2025. The extension allows agreed that a notice of non-renewal on or before July 31, 2025 shall result in the termination of the JOA effective September 30,2025.
Administrative Reports: Finance Director Jackie Tupling presented a Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce report for January through May 25, 2025.
So far the Chamber has spent $238,948.70 of its allotted $700,000 of which $398,000 has been spent on advertising the Valley. Another $242,000 went to Chamber wages.
Lakeside Trail report: Travis Denham, PE – Public Works, updated the council on the Lakeside Trail Project. This project is slated to begin on the Monday following the July 4th weekend and completed by October 16, 2025. “We don’t know how much construction is going to cost,” said Dunham.
If it goes over the estimated $4,126,782, Dunham said they might use an interfund loan from the Water Fund. Jackie Tupling remarked that there is money in the budget and that an interfund loan is an option. “There are a lot of bids coming in less than the estimate,” she added.
The multi-use Lakeside Trail will be constructed from the Woodin Avenue Bridge to Lakeside Park. The construction estimate is $3,679,782. The Transportation Improvement Board is contributing $500,000 to the project. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) contribution is $2,516,566, and LINK Transit is contributing $251,686. The City has budgeted $250,000 to the project and will provide additional funding if necessary.
Mayor/Council comments: Terry Sanders said he appreciated the on-going dialogue with the Lakeside residents. He also would like to Public Works to take a serious look at the blind corner coming off the Dan Gordon Bridge. “We need to be proactive on this.”
Jon Higgins said that Memorial Day visitation was down. “We will see what July 4 brings.”
Mayor McCardle thanked the Friends of Lakeside and hopes that everyone has a good and safe summer. She added that it was nice to have a full council in attendance. “It’s going to e a busy two months.”
Public Works Week Next week is National Public Works Week and Mayor Erin McCardle honored Public Works Director Jake Youngren and his staff of 29 employees that keep the city running. “He consistently puts out excellent work,” stated McCardle. McCardle read a proclamation about the celebration that began in 1960 to honor the hard work by public works staff.
Jake Youngren and his staff of 29 keep the City’s infrastructure in good shape.
The Public Works Week begins on May 19 and ends on May 23 when students from the Lake Chelan School District will have a chance to meet with public works staff and see some of the machinery used to keep Chelan’s infrastructure running smoothly.
Council Rules: City Council approved its Rules of Procedure which includes new criteria. Council members will be allowed to miss three meetings unless otherwise approved by the Council.
This decision to change when a council member may be absent has essentially removed Shari Dietrich from her Position No. 7 because she is absent for most of the winter months, but always attends via ZOOM.
Councilman Brad Chitty remarked that if a person is absent, but stays involved via ZOOM should be given some latitude for his/her absences. Jon Higgins agreed with Chitty. Bob Goedde abstained from the vote approving the agenda bill.
Airport Land Acquisition: Tim Ike, JUB Engineers gave a brief report on the proposed land acquisition of the 17 acre Orchard Heights property at the airport. “This is a draft acquisition application,” said Ike. “There will be an update draft with final numbers as soon as the draft is submitted,” he added.
The Chelan Airport will be extended to bring it into compliance with the FAA.
The 17 acres will allow for protection of the airport’s Runway Protection Zone and approach surfaces of the existing runway. The land acquisition is also needed for the proposed runway realignment which will would bring the airport up to current standards.
Currently the financial implications of this acquisition is $1,789,000 of which the Federal Aviation Administration will pay 90% leaving WSDOT and the owners, Chelan and Port each payjng an additional 5%… the city and Port will be responsible for 2.5% each as co-owners.
Councilwoman Sheri Dietrich asked Ike how they arrived at the $1.8 million number? Ike replied that JUB’s estimate was developed from the master plan from similar acquisitions, “particularly the one in Wenatchee” for the Pangborn Airport expansion.
Councilwoman Sheri Dietrich.
Wade Farris, city administrator, said that the $1.8 million estimate is just that. “We don’t go in with an offer (land owners) until we have an appraisal.” Ike replied that if the appraisal comes in higher they will need to revisit the council.
This brought up more questions. Terry Sanders asked if there was a lot of engagement with property owners. Farris replied that a number of engagement meetings were held. Jon Higgins asked if there was a purchase and sales agreement in place. Farris said they are working on that.
Mark Ericks asked about condemnation if necessary. Ike replied, “If it all falls apart we would go for condemnation.”
Grant writer/funding: Annalise Noble has been working on acquiring grants and funding sources for the City of Chelan since 2024 under her Noble Strategies LLC. She is assisting the City with grant and funding applications. She will continue providing services under her existing Master Services Agreement with an amended contract amount of $60,000 from January 1 to December 31, 2025.
Woodin Avenue Bridge: The elephant in the room Tuesday evening was the Woodin Avenue Bridge dilemma. During a city survey, 72% of the respondents wanted to see the bridge reverted to two-way traffic again. That presented a huge, and potentially expensive problem for the City who wants to appease their residents.
Currently, the Woodin Avenue Bridge only allows one-way traffic into Chelan. Residents overwhelmingly want it reverted back to two-way traffic.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren said that the department’s first order of business is to take a hard look at the bridge. “It would be appropriate to have a low end and high end bid.” The department is looking at a 44 foot cross section to get an order of magnitude on “how we want to tackle this.”
The feasibility of reconfiguring the bridge back to accommodate two-way traffic is identified in the city’s Six Year Transportation Improvement Plan.
A prior study developed an assumed cross section consisting of two 11-foot travel lanes, two foot shoulders and two five foot sidewalks for a total of 36 feet.
An updated concept level construction cost estimate is needed to provide an order of magnitude understanding of potential costs.
City staff recommended authorizing KPFF, Inc. Consulting Engineers (KPFF) to prepare this concept-level estimate based on the previously assumed crosssection. The scope of work includes a plan sheet showing the assumed retrofit concept, a memo summarizing key assumptions and the estimating approach, and a detailed construction cost estimate.
KPFF will be required to deliver a draft of their findings within six weeks of receiving notice to proceed. Final deliverables would be submitted two weeks after receiving City comments on the draft.
The work will be billed on a time and material basis not to exceed $10,000. It is the intent that Transportation Benefit District (TBD) revenue will be utilized for this effort.
Council members commented on the motion. Tim Hollingsworth remarked that some hard information was needed. “I think it’s the elephant in the room.”
Mark Ericks stated that pedestrian safety was important and Bob Goedde, one of the main proponents of returning the bridge to two-way traffic said, “We had 10 foot lanes for 90 years without an accident. Ten foot lanes would save a lot of money.”
Youngren told the council that he would do whatever they want. His concern is how current codes would affect the effort.
Summer communication plans: Chad Coltman, communications director, reported that the city was preparing for the Memorial Day weekend crowds with new signs that are easier to understand. “That’s all happening this weekend,” he said. “We are also taking advantage of social media with what we want to get across about the changes in our parks.”
Communications Director Chad Coltman.
The City has also dropped off informative postcards at the local resorts and community organizations have been informed of the changes.
Administrative reports: The City will be holding a community meeting at the PAC to go over the upcoming Comprehensive Plan updates that will be worked on this year.
Coltman also reported that interviews for the upcoming Finance Director position will be held.
Jake Youngren reported that the Lakeside Trail construction was coming up.
Wade Farris reported that the contract for Memorial Day security is in place. “We are also working with law enforcement. He also said that Sgt. Huddleston reported that Marine II will be back on the water.
Mayor/Council: Bob Goedde remarked that the City used to have 100 law enforcement officers in town for Memorial Day and it wasn’t unusual for 1,000 arrests to be made.
Jon Higgins asked about parking enforcement and how that was working out.
Tim Hollingsworth said he was looking forward to the Fourth of July. He also mentioned that the community has a new District Ranger and that the community needs to figure out about ways we can help under the current political situation where so many federal employees have lost their jobs. “At some point we need to talk about the district and what is going on.”
Mayor McCardle remarked that the City needs to have something out in the public for visitors who don’t know about our fire danger.
Last year’s wildfire on Chelan Butte began in Stayman Flats and quickly climbed the Butte. Fortunately, aircraft was available to help control the burn before it got out of hand.
The next City Council meeting is on Tuesday, May 27 beginning at 5:15.
The Ruby Theater held its second presentation on Fire in the Valley featuring Chelan Fire and Rescue Fire Chief Brandon Asher and Fire Commissioner Mark Donnell. This event took place on Thursday evening, May 1 to a crowd estimated at 50 interested residents.
Chief Asher described Chelan Fire and Rescue’s mission that includes responding to structural fires and wildfire incidents in a district that is 125 sq. miles. In addition, the district responds to all EMS calls, automobile accidents including victim extraction, water rescue on the lake, Regional rope rescues and Hazmat situations.
Chief Brandon Asher and Fire Commissioner Mark Donnell presented fire information at the Ruby Theater on May 1.
The district has just hired two new career firefighters to fill out its needs for all situations. It also carries up to 35 volunteers and is always looking to attract more. The largest percentage of volunteers are over the age of 60. While there are a number of younger volunteers Asher said, “It’s hard to attract younger men and women who have jobs and are unable to respond to calls.”
The district responds to more wildfire than it does structural incidents, but its firefighters are trained in both types of firefighting techniques.
Wildfire is the most worrisome event that visits the valley each year. It is rare that the Lake Chelan Valley escapes having a wildfire during the fire season with the exception of small brush fires that are contained quickly.
Asher described the downtown fire siren as a method of letting people know that a second alarm fire or incident is ongoing. “When it goes off, step outside and look around,” said Asher. “We also try to inform the public through KOZI Radio and social media.”
Fire Commissioner Mark Donnell moved to the Valley in 2015 as a retired westside paramedic and firefighter. He quickly signed up as a volunteer and eventually ascended to the position of Fire Chief before retiring.
Donnell presented his story as a Union Valley resident. He shared photos of his Union Valley home prior to preparing it for a wildfire incident to a photo of the work he has accomplished to save it in a wildfire event.
A fire plane dumps water on a section of wildfire in Union Valley in 2022.
In September, 2022, a wildfire started adjacent to the Union Valley road just below his residence. This fire was human caused, probably by a spark from a trailer hitch safety chain dragging on the ground.
Chelan Fire and Rescue’s initial attach crew responded quickly which helped with control, but command was handed over to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). At the time, Asher reported that a unified command was set up quickly. “We had good response on this fire.”
Donnell along with many other residents living in this fire prone area have taken advantage of a program offered by the DNR to make their property defensible.
It wasn’t always like that. Prior to any real defensible space being created in Union Valley a resident in summer of 2001 started a trash burn on his property which got away and ended up burning 46,000 acres on Union Valley.
A fire investigator inspects damage left by the 46,000 acre 2001 human cause fire.
The DNR and residents began working on defensible space and are still at it.
The most recent and devasting fire in the Valley began in 2015, burning 56,000 acres of land before it was contained. This wildfire began as a lightning strike on Chelan Butte. Eventually an afternoon wind picked it up and it roared through the south end of Chelan causing millions in damage to homes and fruit warehouses.
Wildfire has a long history in the Lake Chelan Valley. Most of the lakeshore has been engulfed over the years and many thousands of acres have been consumed.
Last year’s Pioneer Fire was just the latest in a series of large wildfires at a cost of millions to the taxpayer. The Pioneer Fire has been reported to have cost $100 million plus to contain.
The August 1970 lightning fire in the Entiat and Chelan Mountains burned a total of 122,000 acres. This fire can be seen in a documentary narrated by Loren Green, as detailed by HistoryLink.org and YouTube. Chelan residents had to evacuate and were sheltered in an evacuation center, but returned the next day to scenes of devastation.
In 1994, the Tyee Complex, another lightning fire that began in the Entiat drainage burned over 135,000 acres and forced evacuations of resident on the south side of Chelan.
As more and more people move to the area and build homes in the wildland/urban interface, constructing defensible space is an important part of building here. The following link will help you negotiate the ins and outs of working with the DNR.
The Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce has a new and revised contract that will be in effect until December, 2026. The contract was approved by four of the seven person council on Tuesday, April 8. Voting No, was councilman Brad Chitty; abstaining was Jon Higgins; and absent from the meeting was Terry Sanders.
Prior to voting on the motion to approve the new contract, councilmembers had a robust discussion concerning several aspects of the new contract.
“When this discussion started it was for a five-year extension and $700,000 per year,” said Chitty. “It is time to regroup. I propose to keep it at $700,000 for the next two years while we plan.”
Councilman Brad Chitty was the lone councilmember to vote No on the current iteration of the Chamber contract.
At issue was Point 5 a 2 extending for the period through December 31, 2026 where the city would agree to pay the Chamber 20% of the average total city lodging tax collections from the two prior calendar years.
City Administrator Wade Ferris asked about the 20% concept. “What does that 20% look like. Higgins replied that it was a considerable amount of money that would be added to the $700,000 on a yearly basis.
Chitty stated that it was his understanding that the committee would review the $700,000. “I think transparency is important,” he said. Shari Dietrich stated that she supports Chitty’s proposal to keep it at $700,000.
Shari Dietrich agreed with Chitty but ended up voting for the new contract that will end December 2026.
However, Tim Hollingsworth said things had gotten more expensive. “Twenty percent of 2024 is $400,000. We need the resources to provide for people who come here,” he said. “I would like consensus on the board that instead of a minimum of $700,000 we make it a maximum of $750,000 in the two-year contract. That is a modest increase.”
“I understand what you are saying,” said Farris. “There is a reason why we spent so much time to put this together.”
Tim Hollingsworth suggested an amendment to the contract.
Hollingsworth admitted that the council doesn’t know what the chamber is spending money on. “Right now we don’t know and are just second guessing.”
Mayor McCardle replied that the chamber has to report exactly what they are doing (in the new contract). She stated that the city needs to take a look at what is spent. However she said that for every dollar spent, the city gets back $2.5.
Hollingsworth added that it is lodging tax money. “We are not limited to how we spend it.” He then mentioned the Golf course and that the city needs to find a way to make an investment. “We did determine we could use lodging tax money for this.” Hollingsworth stated he would support the contract as it is.
He then suggested an amendment to the motion as follows: “I move to authorize the mayor to finalize and execute the LCCC Lodging Tax Fund Agreement subject to the following changes:
1.- Sec. 5 (c) Remove the words “not fall below” and replace with “not to exceed $750,000.
Final Agreement Change
5c. Minimum Funding Guarantee. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the combined total reimbursement paid to the Chamber for Advertising and Promotion Services and Visitor Information Center Operations shall not exceed $750,000 in any Agreement Year during the term of this Agreement.
Chamber Reporting Requirements.
a. Annual Report: The Chamber shall submit a written annual budget and performance report to the City by January 15th of each calendar year for the upcoming year. The report shall include:
(1) Overall Performance Metrics: i. Lodging Tax collection growth, overall as well as Q1 and Q4; ii. Sales Tax growth, overall as well as Q1 and Q4.
(2) Traditional Marketing Performance Metrics, including but not limited to: i. PR impressions by target audience; ii. Social media engagement by platform iii. Website traffic (e.g., page views, unique visitors); iv. SEO key words and click-thru rates v. Social media engagement (e.g., followers, engagement).
b. Mid-Year Review: A mid-year discussion shall be held during the July Council Workshop of the current calendar year. The review shall include: (1) Review of year-to-date Lodging Tax collections and marketing performance as defined in section 4; (2) Adjustment to Q4 strategies if necessary.
c. Quarterly: during the April, July, October and January workshop, a Chamber representative will provide an update on marketing efforts to City Council.
d. Monthly Expenditure Reports: Payment shall be made following the receipt of a report from the Chamber showing the previous month’s expenditures. The report shall be submitted by the 5th business day of each month and include: (1) Date, vendor, check number, and purpose of each expense; Page 4 of 7 (2) Categorization of expense (e.g., Wages, Supplies & Materials, Marketing, Legal & Prof. Fees, Permits, Utilities, Insurance) (3) The City percentage of each expense. (4) Any other information reasonably requested of the Chamber by the City, provided that the Chamber is permitted adequate time to prepare the information requested.
Public input: John Olson, a past city council member told the council that the City of Chelan is falling behind in its infrastructure needs. He mentioned the burgeoning second home sales, the population, number of retirees and new developments like the Wiedner Apartment
Citizen advocate John Olson reminded the council that the city is falling behind on infrastructure needs despite the growth.
Tourism: Tourism in Chelan and around the world has become a double edged sword. Tourism has surpassed agriculture as the Valley’s number one economic driver.
In 2020, lodging tax receipts hit $1,357,013 which is the year that COVID hit and began to shut down air travel and other vacation locations. The pandemic drove lodging tax receipts up to S2,602,445 and $2,019.330 in 2021 and2022 respectively. Since then, receipts have remained above the $2 million mark.
With the increase in lodging tax receipts (more heads on beds) some unintended consequences arose with overcrowding at Chelan and other Valley public parks. Most notable were major issues of overcrowding at Lakeside Park which resulted in residents forming “Friends of Lakeside’ coalition to bring the overcrowding issue to the City Council.
Last summer, Lakeside Park overflowed with visitors.
This overcrowding issue didn’t just materialize from out- of-town visitors. It also included weekend issues wherein local users of Lakeside would show up at the park early in the morning, set up tent camps for large family gatherings that included loud music, barbeques and potentially illegal consumption of alcohol.
The Friends of Lakeside and the City worked together to change the city’s park rules that will hopefully eliminate most of these issues. To help, new signage, new parking kiosks and $100,000 contract to a company to help enforce those rules.
Don Morse Park also receives its quota of visitors on a hot summer day.
In 2024 there were over five million visitors to North Central Washington. Over 10 million visitor days were recorded with July and August being the busiest months.
“International travel to the United States has plummeted in recent months following President Donald Trump’s return to office, with global tourists increasingly avoiding the country due to fears of detentions, deportations, political rhetoric, and heightened border scrutiny,” Travel and Tour World wrote in a March report.
The steepest drop off in travel to the US comes from Canada. Border crossings fell by 12% in February and 18% in March. Tourism industry losses could exceed $90 billion dollars this year.. If the above reports are true the 2025 tourism season should be calmer with the advent of the current federal administration’s trade wars that will keep Canadians and other international travelers from visiting the Lake Chelan Valley.
All Things Lake Chelan 