chelan – Page 4 – All Things Lake Chelan

Non-profits request $312,320 from city

by Richard Uhlhorn

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

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.

Lakeside Park residents demand city to take action on parking and overcrowding in the community

by Richard Uhlhorn

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.”

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.”

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.

“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.

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.

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.

Lake Chelan has the highest concentration of DDT in the Nation

Apple growers in the Lake Chelan Valley applied 80,000 kilograms of DDT to their orchards from the 40s to 70s. It is now leaching into the lake from drains, groundwater and streams.

by Richard Uhlhorn

DDT LOADING STUDY:
Clay Patmont, Anchor QEA, LLC, told the Watershed Planning Committee that Lake Chelan still has the highest concentration of DDT in the nation.

DDT (dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane), developed as the first of the modern synthetic insecticides in the 1940s, was used extensively in Lake Chelan Valley orchards from the 1940s to 70s. An estimated 80,000 kilograms (140,800 ibs.) of DDT was applied to some 12,000 acres over the years. “There was a lot of DDT applied,” said Patmont.

The Toxics Control Demonstration study in 2010 and 2021 found no DDT levels declining. The study sampled lake trout for DDT levels which was used to determine the level of DDT in the lake.

Sources of this contamination comes from ongoing leaching of the material in orchard soils to the lake from orchard drains, groundwater and creek drainages.

Patmont stated that natural recovery would not achieve risk reduction goals for at least 100 years, but directing drainages through wetlands (Dry Lake) could substantially reduce DDT loading by 70 to 95 percent.

With a $1.3 million dollar grant from the Department of Ecology, the plan is to 1. – characterize current DDT loading into the lake in 2025; construct a one to two acre prototype wetland in 2026; monitor the wetland’s effectiveness in 2027 and 2028; and if successful; expand wetland treatments in the entire basin where it was applied.

Quagga/Zebra Mussel concerns:
“It has never been more important for people to stay alert,” said Stephen Lesky. This comment came during a report on Quagga mussels being detected in the Columbia River Basin and the potential of this invasive species being introduced in Lake Chelan.

Multiple occurrences have been noted in the Twin Falls, Idaho area where 375 miles of river dumps into the Columbia River.

Quagga and Zebra mussels are species that can cause millions of dollar’s worth of damage if allowed to attach and grow in water passage ways, irrigation canals, dams and fish hatcheries. The economic impact is estimated at $100 million per year.

The Washington State Fish and Wildlife Service has five primary boat inspection stations for vessels crossing into the state. “We are trying to protect Washington waters,” said Bush.

Currently the state is free of quagga mussels. “When we find an occurrence there will be a rapid response.”

Stephen Lesky, manager of Lake Chelan’s boat inspection program, said, “We are seeing an increase on boats on Lake Chelan.” The Lake Chelan Boat Inspection Program is in its second year on a grant from the National Park Service. “People appreciate what we are doing with the program.”

**The economic risk of quagga or zebra mussels entering Washington waters is huge.**

“We are excited about what you are doing,” said Bush.

Bush described another major concern with zebra mussels that are showing up in moss balls being sold to pet stores. “There are 22 wholesalers that have received contaminated products in Washington. Ultimately, we know it is an ongoing problem.”

Fish and Wildlife has received $1.8 million in State funding and another $1.83 million in Federal funding to combat the potential influx of invasive species to Washington waterways. The WDFW Response Team has met with 27 retailers and are taking significant steps to stop the importation of zebra mussels in moss balls to pet stores. “We are planning for the worst case scenario.”

Water Quality – Phil Long

**Phil Long – Lake Chelan Research Institute**

“We had a busy summer,” said Long. “Things look fairly normal.” However there is ongoing concern with the algae growth on rocks and docks in the near shore areas of the Wapato Basin. The Lake Chelan Research Institute is hoping to identify the different species that are present.

**Phil Long captured this photo of periphyton growing in the Wapato Basin.**

Long stated that the Institute is in the second year of a three year study funded by the PUD. “This is not what you want growing on our shores and docks,” said Long.

Water rights:
Ecology continues to work with RH2 Engineers on water right applications and reported that seven more property owners have received their certificates. “We are moving forward.”

Round Table:

**Mike Kaputa – Chelan County Resources Department director.**

Fishery Forum… PUD will give an update in December

NPS is conducting temperature monitoring and creel surveys.

Mike Kaputa reported that the committee should have a report on the reintroduction of bull trout December. A draft manuscript has been circulated for peer review amongst the committee members.

The next meeting will be in December.

72% of the public want Woodin Avenue Bridge turned back to two-way

by Richard Uhlhorn

While 600+ people took advantage of the City’s Transportation Survey, only an estimated 40 residents took the time to attend the Transportation Public meeting on Thursday evening, September 12. Despite the lack of attendance, the meeting was well received by those who joined in.

SEVENTY TWO PERCENT of those who answered the survey want the Woodin Avenue Bridge back to two-way traffic followed by Traffic Congestion, Pedestrian Safety, the Lakeside neighborhood parking issue during the peak summer season and Parking availability.

Most survey respondents feel that turning the bridge back to two-way traffic or just reversed so traffic can flow out of town would help alleviate much of the summertime traffic congestion that has been clogging up Johnson Avenue and Sanders Street to the stoplight. “We definitely heard throughout the survey what can we do about congestion,” said Communications Director Chad Coltman.

**The City’s new communications director Chad Coltman told the audience at last Thursday’s Transportation meeting that a big part of his job is to how the city can make the community better.**

It is thought that it would also help the congestion on Hwy. 97A by the Middle/High School.

However, according to Public Works, the potential cost of turning the bridge back to two-way would cost upwards of $8 million. Reversing the flow was estimated to cost $1.2 million.

I asked Public Works Director Jake Youngren how they came up with those numbers? Youngren replied that the were from the hip and not based on engineering study of the issue. It should also be noted that a traffic survey of the bridge stated that reversal wouldn’t have that much affect overall on traffic congestion.

**Public Works Director Jake Youngren explained how his department works.**

When the Woodin Avenue Bridge was reworked to its current status, the cost was $3.19 million with the city putting in $1.56 million for the one-way conversion and another $800,000 on structural rehabilitation and $830,000 on waterline replacement under the bridge from grant funding.

Other issues that ranked high in the survey included Pedestrian Safety, the Lakeside Park neighborhood parking issue, and Parking availability in the community.

Public Works education facts:
Chelan’s Public Works department has $24 million capital infrastructure projects on their STIP (Six Year Traffic Improvement Plan). In 2024 the department is working with $1,501,486 to take care the city’s 42 miles of paved roads. This includes Road Maintenance – Line Striping – Weed Control – Street Cleaning – Alley Maintenance – Traffic Signs – Storm Drains – Snow and Ice Control – Sidewalk Repair – Sidewalk Cleaning – Street Light Repair

Seventy five percent of Sales Tax Revenues goes to Public Works. Another five percent is from gas taxes.

Only $12 ($9 to public works) out of every $100 of property taxes collected comes to the city. “It’s not a large amount going to streets,” said Youngren.

TBD (Tax Benefit District)
This November, the city is asking its voters for a 0.03% sales tax increase ($.30 more on every $100 spent) to the current sales tax. The extra funds can only be used in the newly created Tax Benefit District. It is estimated that this increase in sales tax would raise approximately $1 million annually. This stable funding source is considered essential for maintaining Chelan’s transportation system.

“TBD allows for long term investment in our city’s infrastructure,” said Mayor McCardle “Passage of the TBD opens the grant door.”

**Mayor Erin McCardle explained the upcoming request for a sales tax increase to help fund Chelan’s infrastructure.**

Jake explained that both Hwy 97A and 150 are State highways and the state has total control between the fog lines. Anything outside the fog lines falls to the city for its infrastructure, i.e. sewer/water/storm. “We have responsibility beyond the fog line for sewer and stormwater maintenance, but the DOT has to approve any work along the highway.”

**Attendees at the Transportation meeting had a chance to select projects they felt should be a priority for the city to pursue.**

Other potential projects of interest:
The Northshore Pathway from Manson to Chelan was of interest to a number of people responding to the survey. Multi-Modal Pathways in the region are now under the Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council. There will be public meetings in the near future to discuss the Northshore Pathway.

A Bypass Route has been discussed to help relieve traffic congestion coming from Manson. Currently all traffic flows through Chelan which has helped to create traffic congestion within the city.

**Development in Manson has added to Chelan’s transportation issues. What used to be a community surrounded by orchards is now a community with multiple residential developents.**

The Bypass Route proposal has been renamed an Evacuation Route due to potential wildfire danger in the community of Manson. This proposed project would probably cost billions of dollars to make happen, but it is a project that should be looked at seriously.

Question and Answer period:
One attendee asked how park revenues are used. Mayor McCardle replied that all revenues from park operations go back into funding the park’s system. “We are one of the few parks in the state that is totally self -funded.”

Another person asked what the city’s relationship is with Manson? “That’s a good question,” replied McCardle. “We need a larger transportation plan that takes in the entire area,” she added. “Everyone comes through Chelan.”

Text Any Questions to (509) 449-3278

City is asking citizens to help priortize transportation issues

by Richard Uhlhorn

The City of Chelan is holding a public meeting Thursday evening beginning at 6 p.m. at Chelan High School’s Performing Arts Center. The city will be reviewing the findings from its Transportation Survey; discussing its six year transportation plan and allowing residents to “vote with their dollars” in a fun interactive exercise.

**Mayor McCardle is asking residents to attend Thursday’s transportation meeting at Chelan High School beginning at 6 p.m.**

“This is an important open house,” said Mayor Erin McCardle. “It will give the community a chance to tell us what to prioritize.”

Chelan has numerous traffic and transportation issues. The city is asking residents and stakeholders to attend Thursday, September 12 meeting to help decide what transportation projects need prioritization.

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to attend and share their input and priorities on the future of transportation in the community.

Citizens will be asked to vote on the November 2024 ballot on the newly formed Transportation Benefit District which is also asking for a .3% increase in sales tax (8.4% to 8.7%) to help fund the districts transportation projects.

The Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) will be presented to City Council for adoption in early 2025. Only projects identified on the STIP are eligible for grants or TBD funding.

This meeting will allow residents to present what their priorities are regarding Chelan’s transportation issues including roadways, public transportation, pedestrian pathways, and the Woodin Avenue Bridge.

Resident Input will be officially recorded and carefully considered in drafting the STIP. By participating, residents are helping to shape a transportation plan that reflects the needs, priorities and aspirations of the Lake Chelan community. We encourage all residents, business owners, and stakeholders to take part in this important meeting

Bridge jumping concerns an added topic at Chelan workshop

**Need a physical therapist… call Lauri**

by Richard Uhlhorn

Bridge Jumping:
Bridge jumping wasn’t on Tuesday’s workshop agenda but was brought up during the final comment period at the City of Chelan Workshop.

Bridge jumping has been a right of passage for many local kids, and now it has become a major concern as bridge jumpers include tourists and parents taking photos of their youngsters jumping. The City is looking for a way to shut it down before someone is seriously injured or even killed.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth who walks across the bridge frequently brought the topic up. “It’s becoming a free for all on the old bridge,” said Hollingsworth. “Somehow we need to come down hard on it.”

Jumping from the Woodin Avenue Bridge has become a ‘Right of Passage’ for many of the kids who defy the law. Signage clearly states that no bridge jumping is allowed, but even parents are encouraging the children to jump while taking photos. There is a $500.00 fine if an individual is ticketed, but the Sheriff’s deputies don’t have the time to monitor this activity.

What began as six to eight local kids jumping has morphed into a dangerous situation where people are spread almost halfway across the bridge.

**A j;umper does a flip off the west side of the Woodin Avenue Bridge.**

The concern, of course, is that someone is going to jump and land on a boat or other watercraft passing under the structure, seriously injuring or killing someone.

Mayor McCardle asked the Council for some helpful ideas on how to address the issue.

Parking enforcement:
Another issue facing Chelan and in particular, Lakeside Park is the lack of any parking enforcement. The city has had no luck in attracting an individual to fill that summertime position since the last parking enforcement officer left early in the year.

People are taking up parking spaces for well over the three hour limit in downtown and all day at Lakeside Park.

Recycle Center:
Public Works Director Jake Youngren reported that a lot of discussion has ensued since the Recycle Center burned down. “I don’t have much to report on what is happening,” said Youngren. He added that the department is looking to select a consulting team to help explore options to continue to recycle.

**The City is looking into a variety of alternatives for the fire destroyed recycling center, but will continue to pick up recyclable materials.**

The recycle truck will continue to pick up recycling material while the city looks for an alternative. Also, the 911 Glass Recycling unit was severely damaged in the fire and the Rotary is looking into that issue.

City Clerk Peri Galluccci stated that an insurance adjuster and an investigator are working with the department.

Water and Sewer Rate Fee Study:
Youngren said that the latest rate study for water and sewer has an infinite number of scenarios. He said that Waterville went from a $50 per month charge to $250 per month in one fell swoop. “We are trying to avoid that.”

Currently, residents (a family of four) are allowed 7,000 gallons per month which, according to Youngren is pretty generous.

Mark Ericks asked about residents who are just on Social Security. Bob Goedde replied that there is a senior level bracket.

**Water and Sewer Rate Study project manager Brooke Tacia of FCS Group updated the Council on the study.**

The study, conducted by Project Manager Brooke Tacia of FCS Group, centered around significant changes since the last study in 2018. These changes included increased inflation and delay of large capital projects for both water and sewer treatment plants.

Upcoming revenue requirements include operations and maintenance, debt service and capital costs.

The study is developing a rate plan to balance the city’s financial needs and to minimize customer impacts. The study period covers 2025 to 2029 using the 2024 budget as a baseline.

From 2024 to 2037 the city has $57.4 million in capital projects.

Lakeside Trail update:
City engineer Travis Denham updated the council on the Lakeside Trail between downtown and Lakeside Park. “We are in the permitting process with WSDOT right now,” explained Denham.

The planning phase will be 60 percent complete by the end of August, and the biggest development on the corridor is a proposed speed limit change from 30 mph to 25 mph from the Boat Company to the high school. The planners need to get approval from the State Traffic Engineer. “We understand that people will drive at what they feel comfortable with,” said DOT’s David Kieninger

Two proposed inline bus stops just south of the Boat Company raised some concerns about blocking traffic and the potential for rear end accidents. “It could cause additional congestion. There is a lot going on there,” said Kieninger.

The third issue discussed was the buffer zone landscaping alternatives. Denham stated that the vertical element was being discussed to give a sense of safety to trail users. Hollingsworth thought that the low density alternative was the best. Similar to what’s in place on the trail down to town from the roundabout.

Bob Goedde said, “Let’s not get to crazy building guard rails.” McCardle felt there should be a little more than the low density plantings.

The Lakeside trail project will hopefully begin construction next spring.

Clear Gov:
Finance Director Jackie Tuppling gave an overview of the city’s new website section that is being built with Artificial Intelligence. “This is user friendly way to see the city’s budget expenditures,” she said. “It shows everything and how it is spent.” The system will be available to the public.

City of Chelan to ask voters to pass a $.03% addition to its current sales tax rate

by Richard Uhlhorn

There is always a cry from the public about new taxes, but the City of Chelan will be asking Chelan residents within its described Tax Benefit Area (TBD) to add .03% to the local sales tax to help Chelan’s Public Works Department continue working on its six-year transportation program.

Chelan Public Works has approximately $26 million infrastructure projects it needs to work on to keep the city’s roads, streets, water and sewer systems up to date. The good news is the new tax only represents 3 cents added to every dollar a customer spends in the TBD.

If passed, this new tax will bring in approximately $900,000 each year. The good news for the Chelan residents, because it is added to sales tax, is that most of those proceeds will come from visitors to the Valley. City administration estimates that visitors and tourists will contribute 75 percent of that tax.

Funds raised from the TBD can only be spent on infrastructure projects within the TBD defined area which is the City of Chelan.

At the Washington State Transportation Council meeting that took place in Chelan Thursday and Friday, Mayor Erin McCardle’s welcoming presentation included the City’s upcoming TBD. “The TBD opens up opportunity for a revenue source of which 75% will be supported by the visitors,” she said.

Transportation Council’s executive director, Reema Griffith asked McCardle how the funds received would be used. McCardle replied that they would be used to leverage into grants and bond issues.

At the City’s City Council meeting on Tuesday, July 22, the Council approved Resolution No. 2024T-001 to add the TBD to the November Ballot.

Residents will have an opportunity to voice their concerns at a few public meetings and possibly a Community meeting in the near future.

Chelan Fire & Rescue has busy month

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chief Brandon Asher reported that the department responded to 128 calls In June and that July was on a record pace.

“We had multiple fires which really tasked both Chelan and Douglas Counties,” said Asher. “So it was a busy June and we had a lot of help from everyone.”

Asher reported that Mayor McCardle said the meeting in Washington D.C. seeking funds from the Senate didn’t work out but she was hopeful that Representative Schier would secure some funding for the East Chelan Water Project.

Pioneer Fire activity:
Asher said, “We are not an official member of the team, but we are cooperating and helping out where we can.”

The Chelan Fire and Rescue’s Boat 71 is still attached to the Pioneer Fire and is 31 days in. “People are getting comfortable. Starting now, the boat will be working 24 hours a day.” Commissioner Russ Jones is captioning the boat on the night shift this week.

Brush Truck 73 is assigned to a Department of Natural Resources Strike Team. “It’s all local people on the team,” said Asher. The team is helping with structural assessments all around Manson. “We basically have a strike team in town.” Manson is providing one firefighter on Brush Truck No. 73.

Assistant Chief Report:
Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman reported that the department has gained one new volunteer and that over the month of June there were no retention losses.

He also reported that that the department will be holding a training drill next month with Manson at the Chelan location with a dinner afterwards.

**It is super dry out there. Please be careful.**

DISTRICT 3 ELECTION IS IMPORTANT

by Richard Uhlhorn

August primary ballots will be in the mail on July 15. There are two major issues on the District 3 ballot including Chelan County Fire District 5 Replacement Levy and a choice of four candidates to fill the Chelan County Commission seat being vacated by Tiffany Gearing.

The four candidates vying for her seat on the commission include Senator Brad Hawkins; Representative Keith Goehner’s staff assistant, Brandt Cappell; Manson Fire Commissioner Chris Willoughby and Wenatchee developer Flint Hartwig.

Following is a brief description of each candidate and what they feel is the most important priority facing Chelan Count over the next four years.

Brad Hawkins:
“My primary focus, if elected, will be to help diversify the County’s economy,” said Hawkins. He also wants to maintain a balanced budget and mitigate the growing property tax issues. “If we continue to grow and get Malaga (Microsoft development) onto the tax rolls, that should help to moderate some property taxes.”

Hawkins has a long and successful public service record and is currently a Washington State Senator. He is vacating that position to be closer to family. The recent redistricting would have had him constantly on the road.

“My knowledge and relationships (at the state level) will help bring resources to the County,” More information about Hawkins is available at www.bradhawkins.org. He can also be reached at 509.393.3231.

Brandt Cappell:
Cappell, who is currently Representative Keith Goehner’s Legislative Assistant stated that he has been focusing on issues in the Chelan/Manson area. Over the past several months he has attended many Chelan and Manson meetings to learn what issues are foremost”. “I’m trying to get the lay of the land,” he said.

Cappell, if elected plans on opening an office in Chelan to be close to District 3 constituents and the Valley’s emerging issues. He is interested in getting in front of what is happening in the local agriculture industry.

More information is available at www.cappell4commissioner.com. He can also be reached at 509.795.0272.

Chris Willoughby:
Willoughby’s primary focus, if elected, will be the County’s infrastructure. “Our infrastructure is at the center of everything that goes on,” said Willoughby who added that Entiat’s sewer systems is at capacity and will have to stop development. “Leavenworth and Plain also have infrastructure issues as does Manson.”

Willoughby has been involved in Manson and the County’s politics since 1999 when he first served on the Manson Community Council until 2011. He is also the vice-chairman of Fire District 5s board of commissioners where he has served as a firefighter and EMT since 1988 and 2003 respectively.

He claims that he is not a “politician” and does not believe in them. “I am a long time public servant who represents the communities I serve.” He is also the only candidate who lives in the heart of the 3^rd District.

More information is available at https://www.cwilloughby4ccc3.us/

Flint Hartwig
Hartwig is the only candidate running for the 3^rd District position who has no experience in politics. He is a Wenatchee businessman and developer who wants to streamline the County bureaucracy.

His voters pamphlet promise is to make sure the County is only spending money on the essential roles of government.

“I’m good at getting things done,” said Hartwig. His primary focus if elected would be agriculture, tourism and affordable housing. “I want to fight for you,” he added.

More information is available at https://Hartwig for Chelan | Chelan County Commissioner Candidate or at 509.264.8204.

The District 3 Commission seat is an important position for those who live in the Chelan and Manson area. It is incumbent on voters to educate themselves on each candidate running for the position and vote for the one candidate voters will best represent them.

Manson Fire Department Levy request:
Manson Fire District No. 5 will be asking eligible Manson voters to pass a new replacement levy to replace the retiring 10-year levy that currently collects $0.89/1000. The district is asking the voters to pass a $0.75/$1000 which is less than the current rate.

**The smoke plume of the Pioneer Fire 25 miles up lake from Manson.**

Manson Fire District is a successful volunteer department with 40 volunteers, 25 of which are active in both fire fighting and Emergency Services. With only three paid staff, the district is hoping to expand its personnel, offer full-time training for personnel to gain full certifications to meet the needs of the growing Manson Community.

The district is in the process of building a training facility which would be used by all firefighting agencies for training purposes. Fire Chief Arnold Baker reported at a community meeting that other district’s and the Forest Service have contacted him about training and trainee housing at the facility.

The district would also use some of their budget along with grants to replace a 30 year old fire truck along with other equipment needs.

Operational expenses are used for fuel, overall maintenance needs and a hedge against current inflation increases.

Responding to over 100 fire-related calls and 500 Emergency Management calls per year underscores the increasing demand for trained personnel in a growing community.

A levy failure would be disastrous to the district. Budget cuts and reducing volunteers by half would leave Manson without the required safety net for the community.

PLEASE VOTE ON THIS IMPORTANT ELECTION!

Meet the candidates

by Richard Uhlhorn

The Chelan Valley Republican Women held a Republican Candidates Forum Thursday evening, July 11 at Wine Girl Wines featuring all candidates running for elective office on the upcoming August Primary.

**It was a nice crowd of interested voters at the Chelan Valley Republican Women’s Republican Candidate Forum on Thursday, July 11 at Wine Girl Wines**.

The County will be mailing the primary ballots on July 15.

Fire District 5 replacement levy:
Prior to each candidate speaking to the large audience, Arnold Baker, Fire Chief of Manson’s Fire District 5 explained the importance of the upcoming Replacement Levy.

The expiring 10-year levy has been collecting 89 cents per $1,000, but with the tremendous growth and increased property tax revenues in Manson, the amount has dropped to 41 cents/$1000. “We are asking for 75 cents per thousand,” said Baker. “It is a lot of money. I understand that,” said Baker.

He added that Manson has more volunteers than it has ever had. The levy, if passed, would help the district up its training, build a training complex, purchase a new fire truck and move a half-time position to full time.

He initially explained that the district is working with the Incident Management Team to protect Manson from the Pioneer Fire if it actually makes it to the community.

“In 2002 during the Deer Point Fire we protected 60 homes with no losses,” said Baker, who was the fire chief at that point also. “Today there are 160 to 200 homes on the same footprint.”

“The Incident Management Team is doing a very good job and are hoping the contingency lines hold. We hope for the best but are planning for the worst.”

Someone in the audience asked why retardant isn’t being used on the fire. Baker explained that there were environmental reasons and the fact that each drop cost $25,000. “I’m thankful for the suppression efforts taking place for our community.” He finished by encouraging the registered voters to vote for the levy.

Speakers:
Dave Reichert, Republican candidate for Governor was first up to address the attendees. Reichert told the audience that he sees three major issues facing the State.

The Criminal Justice System throughout the State.
Homelessness and the substance abuse and mental illness associated with it.
The Economy and taxes.

Regarding the tax issue, Reichert said the Legislature wanted to raise the property cap from 1% to 3% and that the Legislature tried to put a 15 cent increase on all ammunition sold.

He then brought up the gorilla in the building… the Carbon Gas Tax that is costing vehicle owners up to 50 cents more per gallon. “Inslee could have hit pause on this,” said Reichert. Instead, he said there is a movement to increase the Carbon Gas Tax to 80 or 90% in the coming months.

Reichert also said the State has a $4.1 billion surplus. “Inslee says if we vote No on the increases, there will not be enough money to do all the things that need done.” He also said that $1 billion is missing from Government COVID funding.

He also stated that the Democrats have a tracker on him and are recording everything he says. “We are going to win this race,” Reichert who added, “You need to get out and vote and veto the gas tax bills. We have to get the Democrats to vote for us also.”

Reichert decried the fact that traditionally, only 30 percent of the registered voters actually vote. “We need to get 60 to 80 percent voting.”

Bob Hagglund – Lt. Governor
Hagglund said that the Lt. Governor is the President of the State Legislature. He talked about housing affordability and the causes of homelessness including mental illness. “It is time for a new direction,” said Hagglund. “Event the Seattle liberals are getting it. It’s (state government) is not working.”

Sharon Hanek – State Treasurer
Hanek told the audience that she has been a CPA for 25; years doing taxes and said she wants to take her experience into the State Treasurers office. “I want to review this system,” she said and asked for their vote.

Brian Burnett – running for State Representative Position 1 (Representative Goehner’s seat).
Burnett who has 25 years of experience in law enforcement; 12 years as Chelan County Sheriff, said he has put 3,000 miles on his car visiting District 12 communities. “I have been meeting with amazing people,” said Burnett. “They ask what changes he would make and he replied that constituents need a team that can work as team. “If you don’t get out and vote that is an end game.”

Mike Steele – District 12 Position 2 seeking relection.
Steele mentioned the $20 million he has brought to the district and that as the minority leader he said he was very excited to represent the district.

Serving on the Education Committee, Steele remarked that the state is spending $35 billion on education alone. “I want to give the power back to the parents,” said Steele. “We need to change our focus and are one vote away from the Super Majority.” He added that as the minority they are not even invited into the room.” He stated that it is an interesting job and he is proud to do it.

Chelan County Commission:
There are four candidates for Tiffaney Gearing’s District 3 commission seat. All are qualified to hold the seat and the voters will have to make a hard decision on who they want to represent them for the next four years when Gearing leaves the office.

Brad Hawkins
Hawkins told the audience that he is looking forward to bring his experience to the 3^rd District. His issues he wants to address include the economy of Chelan County, the budget and growing tax burden on property owners, wildfire reduction and the affordable housing situation. He also wants to extend the County’s grant opportunities.

Hawkins is an experienced politician who has served in a multitude of public positions including as a State Representative and State Senator which he is currently.

Brandt Cappell
Cappell told the voters that he comes to this position with a new life perspective. He has had a heart transplant and spent 84 days in the University of Washington ICU. Cappell works for Representative Keith Goehner as his assistant and says he knows how to navigate the issues.

Cappell said he has been attending meetings throughout the 3^rd District to get to know the issues and if elected he would open an office in the Lake Chelan Valley to serve his constituency. He also stated that there is $20 million available to build a new substance abuse clinic and that a new location needs to be found.

Flint Hartwig
Hartwig said, “I’ve never been a politician.” He is a developer and owner of the Rock gym in Wenatchee. He sees a massive problem in affordable housing and sets that as one of his major issues to work on if elected.

Hartwig also wants to address the future of farming and tourism in the district without stepping on any toes. “I have real life experiences I want to bring to the commission,” he stated.

Chris Willoughby
Willoughby, a Manson resident grew up on a farm and is still an apple grower. With orchards being replaced by developments, Willoughby wants to work on balancing the changes. He has been a public servant all his life and is proud to say, “I am not a politician.”

Willoughby says he looks at issues and asks “What is the solution!” Looking for solutions to the many issues facing the district and County is his promise if elected to the seat. Issues he would like to address include infrastructure, affordable housing and tourism. “We have local people who can’t support themselves here and are moving elsewhere.”

As an orchardist, he sees farming becoming almost impossible as a sustainable business. “This (apple industry) was the industry that helped to build Chelan County and it is disappearing.”

“I want to be your voice. Be informed of who you are voting for.”

Judge Alan Blackman was given a few minutes to address the voters and encouraged them to get the vote out.

The next meeting of the Chelan Valley Republican Women will take place at Radiance Winery on August 8 with Candidate Dave Olson – Superintendent of Public Instruction and School Board Member Susie Metzger as guests.