Ryan and Erin Petersen plus all of their sponsors and helpers are getting ready for the annual Apple Cup Café turkey dinner from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lake Chelan Community Center.
The Petersen’s have gone through a rough year but continue to give back to the community they are members of.
Apple Cup Cafe owners, Ryan and Erin Petersen.
This year’s dinner will be served out of the Community Center’s banquet room. “There will be plenty of seating,” said Ryan Petersen. They will also deliver turkey dinners to those who can’t make it to the Community Center.
For those who want to enjoy dinner at the center, Petersen says to come to the front door where greeters will guide you to the banquet room. There is also a play area for little kids that will be available.
Vine Coffee owners Holly and Ryan Moody will also be open to serve guests. “It’s going to be weird but kinda cool too,” said Petersen
Preparing for the dinner is also a busy time. When I talked to Ryan, he was at Chelan High School slicing turkeys. “The Culinary Arts Director asked if we wanted to use his kitchen,” said Petersen. “I was able to bake 36 turkeys at a time. At the Eagles I was only able to bake 10 at a time.”
The Eagles was still involved in the preparation of the day by allowing the Petersen’s to keep the frozen turkey breasts in their freezer. “They continue to be a major contributor to this effort.”
The Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the space at the Community Center and Franz Bakery is supplying the dinner rolls.
Of course it couldn’t happen without staff and volunteers. “Our staff is awesome,” Petersen said. Volunteers signed up on-line and that also worked well. “If someone wants to volunteer, just show and we will find a place for them.”
At its last current meeting, city council unanimously agreed to raise its property tax level by one percent as allowed by State law.
The increase represents an increase to $1,926,707 for the 2025 collection year. Resident Linda Sydowski asked if the city had ever considered freezing property tax increases for tow years like Chelan County. Finance director replied that the city is only allowed to raise its property tax rate by one percent per year.
MG Consulting – Records Management: City Clerk Peri Gallucci introduced Megen Gregor who provided the city council with an update on the city’s efforts to digitize its public records and get rid of non-essential paper records. “We are up to speed on retention,” said Gregor.
The staff and Gregor have gone through 400 boxes of records so far, retained 22 boxes as historical keepers. The work has been accomplished with a $40,000 grant from the Washington State Archives organization. The city is going after another grant to continue the work.
“This city is amazing,” said Gregor. “Everyone Is so supportive to help make this happen.”
The city will continue to retain Gregor to assist each department with the organization’s digitization, transfer and disposition of paper and electronic records along with record management training.
Lakeside Park Grant: “We are ready to accept this grant,” said Paul Horne, parks director. The Lakeside Park improvement grant has been in abeyance since 2020 when the rules for these grants changed at the federal level.
Jason Henry, principal with the Berger Partnership presented the major components of the grant which include a New Dock – Park Signage/Kiosks – New Playground – ADA trail enhancements – and Beach enhancements. The grant will also help with a new restroom.
“We are looking at getting into the permitting,” said Henry. The timeframe for this project is to wrap up permitting and Construction Drawings, bid and let the project this winter, with a spring of 2025 construction window of approximately six months.
The city’s match was $600,000 of the $1.4 million project. The RCO added another $100,000 to bring the match to $700,000.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked about the construction timeline. Horne replied that construction will take place starting this spring and running through the summer months, but added, “We have a plan for operating the park during construction.”
Prosecution Services: The council unanimously approved the 2025 Chelan County Prosecution Services Agreement.
This agreement will increase from $275 per case to $300 per case or an estimated cost of $41,400 for the 2025 year. City Attorney Quentin Batjer reported that the new contract amount is roughly equivalent to what the City was paying 10 years ago.
Administrative Reports: City Administrator Wade Farris brought the Wenatchee Valley Humane Society request to the council saying, “How much would it cost us. I don’t think we can afford it.” The Humane Society proposal for the next three years are for contracted costs through 2025 to 2027 as follows:
2025 – S64,600, 2026 – $66,538, and 2027 – $68534.
The interim director explained that the increase were due to inflation and additional safety measures for their animal control officers.
The Feral Cat Project had requested $10,000 from the city, but the staff recommended that the city treat the project as a service contract for the next three years at $5,000 per year. “Because their work covers the entire valley, the $5,000 can cover the work they do in the City.” The funding would come from the City’s General Fund.
The Lake Chelan Chamber Contract was discussed. Farris stated that the contract had been pushed out and requested that another three months were needed to bring the contract issue to a close.
The Chamber has been operating without a new contract for the past two years. The council has extended the old contract until the end of 2024 with the chamber having access to $700,000 each year for marketing purposes. In the past the city has given the chamber five year contracts. However, the chamber has not lived up to the contract criteria of giving specific accountability of how these dollars have been spent and where.
The city has created a Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce committee to review the upcoming Lodging Tax Fund agreement.
In addition to the contract negotiations, the Chamber has requested an additional $150,000 from the City for special events like Winterfest. Farris said the city needs to be more transparent with how these funds are used. Finance Director Jackie Tupling said the $150,000 would be a line item to be paid back in full by December 31. “They also have to provide to council how they are spending that money,” said Tupling.
Questions from the council continued the discussion. Terry Sanders asked how the $150,000 request compared to last year’s expenditure. “It’s hard to maintain.” McCardle replied that Leavenworth spent $1 million on their October Fest event. “It’s not a cheap venture. Tim Hollingsworth asked, “Is that what it costs? I’m curious to why the city will fund it as an event.” He added that it all seemed convoluted.
Hollingsworth went on to say, “What kind of advertising are they actually doing?” He wants to see a detailed report every quarter from the Chamber.
The City Council will be making decisions on the Chamber Lodging Tax Funding Agreement Extension and the Lodging Tax Fun Festival Support Memorandum of Understanding at its Tuesday, November 26 City Council meeting.
TIF (Tax Increment Financing) update: Community Development Director John Ajax stated that the TIF district has gone up in value but that no significant construction has taken place. He also mentioned that the city continues to look for alternative funding sources for the East Chelan Water System project that includes a one million gallon reservoir that would provide secure water to the east Chelan area.
Ajax said the City has one more year after which the Planning Department will bring the issue back
The City continues negotiations with Emergency Service Providers to allow additional time to evaluate the potential impacts on service levels within the Tax Increment Area.
Facility conditions and needs assessment: Chad Coltman, communications director, reported to the council that the City’s Facilities Assessment Project will evaluate and plan improvements to city owned buildings. A Request for Qualifications has been extended so the City can identify a firm to perform the assessments.
Rate and Fee Schedule updates: Wade Farris notified the council that the City updates its rate and fee schedules to conform with inflation.
Both Public Works Director Jake Youngren and Parks Director Paul Horne went over their proposed increases. These increases can be reviewed at the following city web location:
Fire Department Chelan Fire and Rescue wants to add two more career firefighters to their roster. “It doesn’t effect our budget if we were to hire two more firefighters,” Chief Brandon Asher said. He added that the department has more funds expected to come in.
Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman and Fire Chief Brandon Asher requested that the commissioners approve the hiring of two new career firefighters at a cost of $300,000.
Commissioner Russ Jones said he would rather wait one year before adding those firefighters, but both Commissioners Mark Donnell and Karyl Oules stated they would like to see the additional firefighters on staff in 2025. “I would like to see them hired in 2025,” said Donnell. “It’s the cost of doing business.”
Commissioner Russ Jones wanted to delay the hiring until 2026 but both Mark Donnell and Karyl Oules want them to be hired in 2025.
Chief Asher added that they would be able to help the department yearround. Donnell’s argument for the hires was the ability to provide the necessary fire service. “We also need to get them into the Fire Academy,” said Assistant Chief Shaun Sherman. Asher reiterated that the additions would provide service to the community and that it would reduce overtime hours being paid out.
Commissioner Karyl Oules said she would like to see the department move forward with the hiring.
Jones reminded them that a final decision on the budget was not made yet.
Fire chief report:
10/5/24 – Brush fire
10/9/24 – Structure fire in Manson
10/13/24 – Third alarm call for a brush fire in Squlchuck
10/14/24 – Motor vehicle rollover south side of Tunnel
10/19/24 – Brush fire in Manson
Asher reported that the Chelan Fire Protection Plan was still being updated. “It will open up high dollar grant opportunities,” said Asher.
Assistant chief report: Chief Sherman reported that the Apple Cup burn on November 9 had just under 50 people involved. “It was a huge effort.” Sherman and Rayner Baker, Manson’s Training Officer work in conjunction to make sure the effort was successful. He thanked the commissioners for their support.
Forty seven firefighters participated in the Apple Cup training burn on November 11.
Asher remarked that a lot of residents came out to watch the event and Oules said she had talked to a lot of residents watching. “People were really positive,” she said. “It was a winner.”
Sherman recognized Belcher as his Incident Commander during the fire. “He performed admirably in that role,” said Sherman.
The two districts are looking to add a Volunteer Coordinator position. “I’ve had a meeting with Chief Baker and Rayner. We both have needs.” The volunteer coordinator position would open up a better level of training for the two districts.
“My goal is to open the door for what’s going to happen in the next several years,” said Sherman. “The doors not slammed shut with District 5 anymore.”
Firefighters Association: Ron Simmons stated that the association raised $500 for the VFW from the burn. “Right now, we are
Unfinished business: The Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) war between the fire district and city continues to be an issue. “What we are going to need is the ability to handle calls,” said Asher. The most recent mitigation proposal has the fire department amortizing calls to the TIF area for the past 25 years.
Jones asked if the property tax base would go back to the one percent at the end of the TIF. It was noted in the discussion that no one has put a legal challenge to a TIF. “I don’t want to see it get to that point,” said Asher.
The city would like to see the number of calls into the TIF area. “We have no information on this year, but it was about 20 over the past few years.”
At its monthly meeting the Manson Community Council members voted to move forward with securing 501 (c) 3 statue which will allow the council to seek grants and donations.
The council has struggled financially for years and obtaining 501(c) 3 status will be a major move forward. In conjunction with the decision for non-profit status the council also changed its bylaws.
The council currently has two open positions and individuals interested in serving have until November 30 to file applications of interest. The election will be held on Tuesday, December 17. “Currently we have two individuals interested in serving but we haven’t received their packets yet,” said Councilman Mike Kirk.
Councilman Mike Kirk has been working with Vice Chair Chris Willoughby on the possibility of incorporation.
“We also agreed to invite newly elected officials to our December meeting to discuss incorporation and hiring of a consultant,” said Kirk.
Manson community member Brian Patterson reported on a recent County Planning Commission meeting and its discussions regarding Short Term Rentals (STRs). Patterson told the council that a 9% cap on STRs is still in effect within the Manson Urban Growth Boundary and 6% is in effect outside the UGA in the communities zip code.
Currently the Council has three sitting members: Chris Willoughby – Vice Chairman; Pam Calhoun – Secretary; and Mike Kirk.
Ryan Petersen, owner of the Apple Cup Cafe, comforts his Mother Diane Petersen as they watch the final moments of the old Apple Cup building destroyed along with many memories.
Saturday’s controlled burn of the iconic Apple Cup building was a bittersweet day for the Petersen family.
“It was our first home in Chelan,” said a sad Diane Petersen. Larry and Diane purchased the building in 1996 and settled in to becoming restaurant owners, living in an apartment in the back of the building.
Over the years, the Apple Cup Café has served thousands of hungry customers and formed a loyal following, many of whom turned out to watch Chelan Fire and Rescue conduct a training session for firefighters from Chelan, Manson, Orondo, Entiat and Waterville. “It is an important training ground for us,” said Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman.
Lt. Jones- left, Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman, Fire Chief Brandon Asher and Apple Cup owner Ryan Petersen confer during the training exercise.
Chelan Fire Chief Brandon Asher said, “Shawn did an outstanding job conducting this training. He had help from Manson’s Training Officer, Ranor Baker,” stated Baker. Asher said he told Sherman that the operation was all his to conduct.
Firefighters drag charged fire hose into the building while a firefighting team wait their turn at fighting an interior fire..
Firefighters spent several days preparing for the burn, installing over 200 pallets to help. Firefighters went inside and started fires in each of nine areas for training purposes until Sherman handed Ryan Petersen a lit flare to throw into building starting the final burn.
Inside firefighters were confronted with real fire to learn new skills. Photo by Firefighter
As the fire began to rage, firefighters used various water hoses to keep the surrounding area cool and to prevent the fire from spreading beyond the building’s footprint
Ryan Petersen threw the last fire stick into the burning building.
Learning the ins-and-outs of battling structure fires is an important function for firefighters to learn. The Petersen’s donation of the building provided regional districts an actual structure within close proximity to other structures gain knowledge for battling future events.
Over 45 personnel took part in this training exercise.
Ryan Petersen joined the firefighters for an official photograph.
Over 45 personnel were involved in this training and hundred’s of residents turned out to watch the iconic building go down in flames to be resurrected as a new café in approximately one year.
After the burn was completed, the Petersen’s fired up the BBQ and fed all the firefighters and others who wished to eat hamburgers and hotdogs with chips and drinks.
In the meantime, the Apple Cup Café lives at the Lake Chelan Community Center on Bighorn Way. They are open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. serving up customer’s favorite dishes. “We aren’t making any money, but we are keeping staff employed,” said Petersen in an earlier interview.
The Petersen’s also plan on continuing the annual Thanksgiving Day feast they have become famous for. More information on that event will be forthcoming.
Apple Cup Café building burn: A piece of Chelan History will burn to the ground beginning Saturday morning, November 8 and like Phoenix rising, a new Café will rise in its place by late 2025 to early 2026.
The Apple Cup Cafe building will become a major training ground for Chelan and other regional firefighters on Saturday morning, November 8.
The Apple Cup Café has been an iconic stop for residents and travelers since 1957. Renamed from the original Snack Shack, the Apple Cup name is in honor of the Apple Cup Hydroplane Races that took place in Chelan in 1957 to 1960.
The Petersen family have owned the café since 1996 and is now in the hands of Ryan and Erin Petersen.
A March 2024 fire destroyed the back end of the building, but the smoke damage was significant throughout the building. It was determined that rebuilding the original site was not advised, so the Petersen’s hired and architect to design a new building.
“I wanted to go big,” laughed Ryan. “I wanted to seat up to 300 people, but then I came to my senses.” The new building will be similar to the old footprint.
Throughout this week, the building has been prepared for a Chelan Fire and Rescue training fire which will give the district’s and other district firefighters a valuable education in fighting structural fires.
The iconic Apple Cup sign has been removed and will be stored until it can be re-installed when the new building is constructed.
“People only wanted two things saved from the old building site… the mural and sign,” said Ryan. The mural was chopped out of the building in pieces on Wednesday and the sign was taken down on Thursday.
Petersen said the mural will become a series of art pieces for the new building and the sign will be back in its spot when the new building is ready.
Saturday Fire
Chelan Fire and Rescue will be on scene at 7:30 a.m. in preparation for the fire
The first lighting will be around 8:30 a.m. according to Ryan Petersen. The second lighting to finish off the building will be between 10 and 11 a.m.
There will be designated areas to watch and the Apple Cup will offer free/donation hamburgers during the event.
The Washington State Patrol or other designated traffic control will route vehicle traffic around the site.
“I think we will be pretty overwhelmed,” said Petersen
The city invited other non-profit organizations who didn’t make the initial cut for Community Benefit Funds to present their needs for 2025. With benefit funds of $111,000 already allocated for the 2025 budget, these requests, if approved, would be funded out of either the Housing Fund or Tourism dollars.
Currently the city’s housing fund only has $170,000 and the Tourism Fund is at $5 million plus.
Jackie Tupling Chelan Finance Director
When added up, the requests equal $312,320 as follows:
Chelan Valley Feral Cat Project $ 10,000
Chelan Valley Housing Trust $100,000
Heritage Heights $ 16,400
Lake Chelan School District $ 30,000
Lake Chelan Habitat for Humanity $105,920
911 Glass Rescue $ 50,000
Jackie Tupling said that Chelan has received only $15,000 from the State for housing.
Erin McCardle stated that those funds could also be used for capital projects. “It takes a very long time to fill that fund back up. That’s something to think about.”
Tupling stated that the Lookout provides $1,000 for every new home sold to the city’s housing fund.
Feral Cat Project: April Leaf and Wendy Isenhart presented the case for continued funding for the feral cat project. The project has been successful in trapping feral cats and Leaf reported that 286 cats have been helped.
Feral cat director April Leaf and volunteer Wendy Isenhart
The $10,000 requested is $5,000 more than the city granted the project for 2024. The project has received $7,496 in private donations. This year $12,000 has been spent on veterinarian services and another $320 on administrative services. It costs $450 to neuter a male cat and $200 to spay a female cat.
Communications Director Chad Coltman asked how many cats have been helped specifically in Chelan and whether or not Chelan County provides any funding for the project. Leaf replied that the cats are trapped throughout the valley and that the county doesn’t provide any funding.
Housing Trust: Executive Director Scott Meyers of the Chelan Valley Housing Trust stated that the city has provided funding in the past and he wants to see those grants continue. “Our goal is to build homes for wage earners,” said Meyers
Housing Trust executive director Scott Meyers
The request for $100,000 would help support the organization’s operational costs, landscaping costs at Harbor Meadows and $20,000 for its operations budget.
Heritage Heights: Heritage Heights requested $16,400 from the city for WiFi connections, telephone system, purchase of computers and printers and three new wireless access points in the facility.
Heritage Heights Melissa Robbins and the new CEO, Joel.
Melissa Robbins explained that the non-profit has an all-volunteer board. “The city has been a contributor to this project in the past. Our building is old and has bad WiFi. We have a lot of things that are not normal,” said Robbins.
Lake Chelan School District: Superintendent Brad Wilson and the district are requesting $30,000 to improve ballfields and gymnasium surfaces. Wilson remarked that the softball and baseball fields are used for tournaments before Memorial Day and after Labor Day and provide a number of overnight stays by parents and teams.
Chelan School Superintenent Brad Wilson
These programs denote overnight stays; Chelan youth wrestling, youth fastpitch; Kahiau Volleyball Club; baseball; basketball; Babe Ruth baseball and Bachfest. Other programs supported by the district include FC youth soccer; Valleywinds Musicians; Adult pickleball and tennis and Thrive.
Mayor McCardle asked if this request was a one-off request or a recurring one. Wilson replied that if they can get the community fields in shape it would result in a lot less requests from the city. She asked about the gymnasiums and Wilson said the funding would help pay for resurfacing of the Community Gym.
Habitat for Humanity: Michelle Fanton, executive director of Habitat, is requesting $105,920 to continue providing homes for families who qualify. “We have served 17 families with homes. These homes fall within 30% of their incomes,” she said. All prospective families must be from Chelan.
Michelle Fanton – Habitat executive director
The organization is highly dependent on volunteer labor and the funding is also provided by the Habitat store. City funding would help Habitat keep neighborhoods clean and revitalized, expand homeowner education, staff time to develop other sources of funding, help pay for infrastructure reimbursements to offset the costs of development at Pumpkin Lane in Chelan.
911 Glass Rescue: Julie McCoy said the $50,000 requested would help the glass recycling get back into operation by early 2025.
911 Glass Rescue representative Julie McCoy
Mayor McCardle stated that the request might have to wait until the 2026 budget process. McCoy stated that the organization needed to have it considered in the 2025 budget so the program could move forward.
Chelan lost its glass recycling when the recycling center burned down.
Requests: All of the above requests will be discussed and decided on prior to the final budget hearings.
Chris Willoughby, Manson Community Council, opened the October 15 Community Forum telling the 40 attendees that the Council will be looking for several new council members this year. “It is a lot of work for a volunteer position,” said Willoughby.
Chris Willoughby – vice chair of the Manson Community Council introduced the forum’s topics.
Manson School District report: Superintendent Tabitha Mires, told the audience that Manson’s School District face a financial crisis, but have overcome the issue and have now balanced the budget.
Manson School Superintendent Tabitha Mires
She came into the district from Waterville on July 1 and helped balance the budget. Stating that the district’s financial path was not sustainable and the school faced the possibility of state oversight which was unacceptable to her.
The district is working on a five year strategic plan that will keep the financial issues in the positive. “We have a lot of exciting work ahead. We will be reaching out to the community,” she said.
The biggest issue facing the district is declining enrollment because of a lack of affordable housing. “It has a big impact on Manson Schools.”
For Chelan County Commissioner
Northshore Pathway: Riley Shewak from the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council gave a brief overview of the proposed Northshore Pathway from Manson to Chelan.
Riley Shewak – Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council updated Northshore Pathway news.
Shewak stated that the council was in the process of identifying 10 member board to set regional transportation policies. “Think of us as the facilitators,” he said. “We are trying to identify pathways on four different corridors.
The council will be focusing on the pathway from Rocky Point west to Manson. The pathway to the east from Rocky Point will be handled by the City of Chelan.
A recent survey had 250 respondents, but there will be public engagement meetings to explore pathway options which might include alternative routes to get around Rocky Point. “We are early in the process.”
An attendee asked if the County would use eminent domain and was told that eminent domain will not be used.
Another resident asked if there were federal funds available and was told there was.
Northshore Pathway History: The Northshore Pathway was a priority project for the Lake Chelan Trails Association. JAO Consultants, led by Jennifer Olson, prepared a detailed feasibility study that is currently in the hands of Chelan City Public Works and Chelan County’s Natural Resources Department.
Chelan County Public Works report: Eric Pierson, PE, updated the community on ongoing projects. Pierson informed the residents that the Totem Pole Road project was still on the books, but that the estimated cost of $5 million has increased to $8 or $9 million and that the department was seeking the funding to do the project.
“We are hoping to secure a grant from the transportation council,” said Pierson. The project will be done in two phases with the first phase starting in 2026. The County will be holding an open house to give more detail to the public.
Chelan County Engineer Eric Pierson.
Pierson also mentioned a bicycle paths project in hopes of getting residents out of their vehicles. “The roads in Manson are narrow.”
Washington State Department of Transportation: The two representatives from the Wenatchee Department of Transportation didn’t have much to report. They are apparently looking at left hand turn lanes on the Manson highway and other safety concerns between Manson and Chelan.
At the end of the meeting, Willoughby asked those in attendance if they would like to see the forums continue. Everyone replied in the positive. Willoughby said the Manson Community Council was looking at holding three forums a year.
Manson Community Council holds its meetings on the third Tuesday of each month at the Manson Parks Building at 6 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend.
Lakeside Park issues: Barry De Paoli, representing the Lakeside community thanked Mayor McCardle on setting up a meeting with the City and residents on Tuesday, October 15, to discuss Lakeside concerns.
The Lakeside community has been dealing with overcrowding in its neighborhood and the overcrowding at Lakeside Park during the summer months. The community voiced its concerns at a previous City Council meeting, and McCardle promised to take action on the issue.
Public Hearing on Proposed amendments to transportation program: Jake Youngren, public works director, stated the Pubic Works Department is proposing a few amendments to its six year Transportation Improvement Program based on the recent community survey and open house.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren
Seventy-two percent of the community taking the survey want to see the old Woodin Avenue Bridge turned back to two-way traffic. Included in the amendment proposals were neighborhood sidewalk improvements, Lakeside Park access and a parking analysis for additional parking, and a regional transportation plan that includes evacuation routes.
McCardle stated that the amendments include “things we would like to accomplish.” Youngren replied that a consultant would be needed to help with the proposed two-way conversion on the bridge. The consultant would look at traffic issues around the bridge. “They would come back and explain methods.”
Councilman Terry Sanders said he was glad the two-way bridge conversion is on the proposed amendments. Bob Goedde stated that everyone who comes in from the North Shore has to fight traffic. Goedde has been a major proponent for the change ever since it was changed to one-way into town.
Councilman Bob Goedde has been fighting to restore the Woodin Avenue Bridge to two-way traffic ever since it became one way.
Councilman Brad Chitty chimed in and asked about two-way sidewalks on the bridge. “Does it have to be that way.?” Youngren replied that the 2015 study looked at alternatives for two-way traffic and sidewalks.
Councilman Brad Chitty.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth stated there were two conflicts; 2-way conversion or a reversal of traffic over the bridge to out-of-town and the alternatives for pedestrians. “We are talking about significant improvements on the bridge,” said Hollingsworth. “Before we commit, I want to understand the costs and impacts over other intersections.”
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth wants to see a traffic study.
Councilwoman Sheri Dietrich asked Youngren about grants particularly for an evacuation route. Youngren replied that the department continues to look for grants. “The closer you get to construction the better off you are for grant opportunities.”
Councilman Mark Ericks said, “I understand what our citizens want. It is taxpayer dollars. It could drain our ability to do other projects. People should know that. The costs will impact all projects.”
Councilman Mark Ericks
McCardle ended the public hearing saying she respected the dialogue around the issue. “This is a big deal for our community.
Wastewater Treatment Plant performance: The Department of Ecology has given the City of Chelan’s Wastewater Treatment Plant its 2023 Outstanding Performance Award. The City is 1 of 118 communities so awarded. “They don’t just hand it out,” said Mayor McCardle. “It’s a testament to our staff,” she added. She thanked the treatment plant staff for their hard work to maintain compliance with Ecology’s permitting criteria.
Community Benefit Grant Policy: Chad Coltman, communications director, told the council that the city is proposing to create a “little more structure around the Community Benefit Program.” This year the City anticipates $111,250 will be available for grants to community organizations, which is down from the $140,000 available last year.
Communications Director Chad Coltman
Staff recommended a policy to use revenue from Short Term Rental licenses to fund the program. The City charges current STRs $250 to renew and $500 for new STR licenses. In 2024 the City expects approximately 375 renewals and 35 new licenses to be issued.
McCardle noted that the City has 13 applications in hand.
Administration Reports: City Administrator Wade Farris told the council that the city has hired Chris Baker as its new Code Enforcement Officer. Baker is an ex-council member and knows the City well. He started on Wednesday, October 9. “I think he will do a great job for us,” said Farris.
Finance Director reminded the council that it is budget season and that the timeline is posted on the City’s website. City Clerk Peri Gallucci gave a shoutout to Jackie and her staff for all the hard work they are doing.
Mayor/Council comments: Tim Hollingsworth once again brought up the spring Hydroplane event that takes place at Don Morse Park. He mentioned this year’s event taking place on Mother’s Day weekend and that the City should make sure the event is in compliance with the City’s noise ordinance.
Jon Higgins shot back and said, “I actually enjoy the hydro plane races.”
Brad Chitty remarked that the City needs to be careful when it starts picking and choosing what it allows.
Terry Sanders stated that his hope is that the City can find a solution to the Chelan/Manson traffic congestion issues.
McCardle stated that this year’s budget season will be different than those in the past. With less revenues this year from sales taxes (±50% down from 2023) balancing the budget will be an actual balancing act between the various departments.
Airport: Wade Farris said that there were 812 landings/takeoffs from the airport. “It has been busy.” The airport had larger fuel sales also.
The next City Council meeting will be on October 22 beginning at 6 p.m. The public is invited to attend.
Anytime you walk into Chelan’s council chambers and it is full of people, you know something is up. Tuesday night’s council meeting had a number of Lakeside residents on hand to speak during the “Citizen Comments” period. Their concerns, of course, was Lakeside Park overcrowding, parking, safety issues and a request for some resolution to the problems.
Lakeside Park and community has become an overcrowding issue with its residents.
Lakeside Park overcrowding and parking along other issues has reached a boiling point with Lakeside residents and they were at Tuesday evening’s City Council meeting in force.
Twelve residents signed up to voice their concerns over the lack of any enforcement at the park. “All day long people were desperately looking for parking. Cars all day long,” stated Tammy Haig. “There was a feeling of tension in the air. At one point, I thought something might explode.”
Tammy Haig
Haig asked if the city was going to create a baseline with the Lakeside Trail and street ends in hopes that it might disperse recreation. “It (July 4) was a very intense day.”
Stan Morse remarked that visitors were parking across the street from his house leaving no room for emergency vehicles to get by in case of fire. “My hillside is ripe for wildfire. We live in a one road in and one road out of town with 2,000 to 3,000 people.”
Stan Morse
Another resident, Janet, said she didn’t feel comfortable taking her granddaughter to the park. “Lakeside Park has been overcrowded since 2020,” she stated. “People start arriving at 5 a.m. Vehicles are going round and round all day long. I counted 107 vehicles per hour.”
She added that she is asking for the city to limit capacity at the park. “Visitors are also at risk.”
Another resident requested discourse immediately with the city to see what the resolution to the issues might be.
Barry De Paoli told the council that he has lived in Lakeside for 22 years. “We have a town of 4,700 versus 5,500 visiting Lakeside on a weekend. Imagine what it looks like, 2,500 to 3,500 people per day.” De Paoli said the issue is at a breaking point. He mentioned overuse of alcohol, poor signage, and zero enforcement. “Residents can no longer sit back and watch the problem.
Barry De Paoli
“We are asking to be included in the process going forward. A meeting in October with the Mayor and others. We need a healthy balance. I know we can achieve a positive outcome.
Other comments mirrored those above and several asked if requiring reservations to get into the park might be a solution. It was also stated that the city needs to pay for monitoring the situation and enforcing the parking.
Don Morse Park might provide some relief for Lakeside residents. It’s much larger and can handle more traffic, but is also busy during the summer months.
Our Valley Our Future update: Steve Maher was on hand at the city council meeting to give an update and summary of the outreach results from the Lake Chelan Vision Project.
He provided survey results and feedback gathered since June, 2023 during individual and group listening sessions.
“We had an excellent response,” said Maher. 550 responses were gathered between June and August which included eight listening sessions with 142 people participating and 10 or 11 interviews with stakeholders. “We struggled to get younger folks to participate,” said Maher.
Some results: Housing was the number one issue by far stated Maher. “Families have to move away because of housing. It’s the biggest challenge,”
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The rapid growth is one of the biggest challenges. There were calls to manage growth better. There is a desire to maintain the smalltown feel. The respondents remarked that the valley was going away from growing apples to growing grapes and housing.
Increasing traffic and traffic congestion was another issue along with Short Term Rentals adding to the traffic congestion.
The positive things is the new hospital and Wal Mart according to some.
Wildfire and smoke was another issue on the respondents minds.
Maher stated that the next step will be developing community values from what was gathered and would be delivered by the first week in October. “Things are going really, really well,” Maher said.
This information will serve as the foundation for the core values framework in the 2026 Comprehensive Plan update, which is currently in its early stages.
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City 2025 Legislative Agendas: East Chelan Reservoir Project: The city is seeking $7 million from the State t complete the design and construction of the East Chelan Reservoir Project.
Current funding sources include a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) program initiated by the City. Another $9 million is making its way through the Senate in Washington D.C. after passing through Congress. These funds would come from the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) if approved by the Senate.
Regional Transportation Study – $$??: The city is seeking increased state funding to its regional transportation MPO, so the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council can conduct a transportation study to solve critical safety issues.
With over 650,000 tourists visiting the valley each year, the regional transportation system experiences localized failure. Chelan is the center of all transportation in the valley.
Funding would be used in partnership with the CDTC, Chelan County, the Colville Confederated Tribe, WSDOT and the community of Chelan to conduct a regional transportation plan to better evaluate interconnectedness in the Lake Chelan Valley.
Downtown Revitalization – $3 million: The city and the Historic Downtown Chelan Assn. is seeking $3 million to invest in construction of Phase 1 of the downtown revitalization project which will upgrade failing infrastructure, enhance the downtown business core and create welcoming public spaces.
Northshore Pathway – $2.8 million The Northshore trail would solve critical safety issues for pedestrians and cyclists along the lakeshore connecting Manson and Chelan.
Other top issues: Housing
Environmental sustainability
Planning and infrastructure
Fiscal sustainability.
Transportation Improvement Program Survey Findings: “What are we going to do about it,” asked Communications Director Chad Coltman. Traffic congestion was the big issue respondents felt the city needs to address. Seventy two percent of the respondents would like to see the Woodin Avenue Bridge returned to two way traffic in hopes that it would alleviate downtown congestion and open a secondary evacuation route.
Seventy two percent of Chelan’s residents who responded to a survey requested that the Woodin Avenue Bridge be returned to two-way traffic.
The other option was to reverse the direction on the bridge to move traffic out of town. My opinion: I would like to see the traffic on the bridge reversed for an actual traffic study done during the high season to ascertain if it would actually help relieve traffic congestion on Johnson Avenue and Sanders Street to the light.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren said, “Regarding the return to a two-way bridge we will invest some time and effort to what that (process) looks like.” Mayor McCardle replied that hard cost numbers need to be assessed.
Councilman Bob Goedde has been a proponent of making the bridge two-way and reiterated his desire to see it returned. Youngren replied that the city has to be careful.
Councilman Brad Chitty stated that it was a hot topic and suggested that taking the foot traffic off the bridge might be an option. “There are other options out there.
Mayor McCardle stated that the most respected traffic consultants in the nation have provided actual traffic data for May through August.
Residents responding to the survey and attending the transportation meeting also want to see better walking/biking paths on both the south shore (in the works for construction in 2025) and north shore to ensure pedestrian safety.
Other issues that the public would like to see include:
Dedicated Parking areas
Better walking and biking paths
Improving intersections
Enhancing public transportation options
Safer access to schools
Mayor McCardle stated that the city has the tools to move forward and have identified which projects to move forward with in the next two years.
HR/Communications: Chad Coltman remarked that offers are out on the three major job opportunities within the city and that he is excited about the pool of talent that wants to work with the city.
Chad Coltman
Mayor/Council comments: Jon Higgens warned the council and staff that when “You step on toes and go in a different direction, people will stop engaging.”
Terry Sanders said the city has a good start on the issues. “Huge thank you to the Lakeside residents. I’m looking forward to common sense solutions”
Mayor McCardle talked about the valley’s tourism impact study which addresses the many impacts tourism has on the community. She also remarked on how much work it takes to run the city. Mentioned the upcoming Transportation Benefit District that is on the ballot in November and raises the sales tax a mere .03% (or 30 cents on every $100 spent on taxable goods. She wants the community to know that the city council is responsible for spending taxpayer dollars.
The next council meeting is on October 8. The community is welcome to attend.
All Things Lake Chelan 