In his opening remarks, Chief Operating Officer Shawn Ottley said, “Our EMS is one of the best Emergency Medical Services in the country.” He honored the department saying their maintaining the highest level of experience is the key to their success.
Chief Operating Officer Shawn Ottley
Lake Chelan EMS is 50 years old and on Monday, September 30, held a groundbreaking ceremony for its long awaited building adjacent to the new Lake Chelan Hospital.
A number of residents and luminaries were in attendance to listen to speakers involved in the project.
Dean Gable – Hill International
Dean Gable – Hill International, will be the acting project manager of the building project. He said he is happy to be working with the talented and creative people assigned to the project. “We are looking forward to a robust new home for EMS,” he said.
Matt Pulick – Graham Construction
Matt Puick – Graham Construction will be the contractor’s senior project manager for the project. “Chelan is a unique community and they have put a lot of trust in EMS. I’m looking forward to bringing this project on-time and on-budget.”
Ellyn Freed – Forte Architects
Architect Ellyn Freed – Forte Architects, is excited to be involved in the growth of the Valley.
Aaron Edwards – LCH CEO
Hospital CEO Aaron Edwards stated that this project was three years in the making. “Ray (Eickmeyer) can remember six different locations spread all over the place. They are now in a two story mobile home.”
Edwards also thanked the city, Erin McCardle and Planning Director John Ajax for shepherding the project through.
Edwards also remarked that Representative Michael Steel secured the vast majority of funding for the project. “This would not have happened if not for Mike Steele.”
Jordanna La Porte – LCH Board Chair
Jordana La Porte, LCH board chair remarked that the new building will be more than a garage. “It will help the hospital be more effective.” She introduced Mike who said there is nothing more special than helping projects at home. Steele is the head of the legislative appropriations committee.
District 12 State Representative Mike Steele
“I’m fortunate enough to have enough influence to make a small difference for people in the community,” said Steele. “I hope this facility will also.”
EMS Director Ray Eickmeyer told those in attendance that he is thankful for all the support the team gets.
The ground is broken. EMS will have a new home in 2026.
The new facility will provide EMS emergency responders with a permanent home that will have shared indoor/outdoor living space, office spaces, sleep rooms and bathrooms for on-shift staff, an ambulance garage and dedicated training areas for staff and community education.
Community education includes CPR, First Aid & AED training, Paramedics program, Paratransit services and Event EMS standby. To inquire about these programs by email at ems@lcch.net or by phone at 509-682-3300.
Transportation Benefit District revenue use: “We are fortunate,” Jake Youngren, public works director, told the council at its Tuesday, August 5, workshop. His comment relates to the Transportation Benefit District that will allow the Public Works Department re-structure how they address capital projects.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren presented a draft framework for allocating close to one million dollars from next year’s Transportation Benefit District to City Council and staff at the city’s August 5 workshop.
Youngren presented a draft framework for allocating TBD revenues to align with the department’s six-year Transportation Plan. Youngren told council that the draft allocations were to get the department’s recommendations to them. “We want to leverage that money,” Youngren said. “If you don’t take care of what you have, you are going to be spending a lot of money.”
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked how much revenue the department already receives from property tax. Youngren replied that it was 75% of property tax revenues.
Youngren wants his draft allocation framework to be a starting point for discussion. Hollingsworth replied that the city needs to prioritize how that funding is used. TBD revenues can only be allocated within the TBD district.
In his draft document Youngren allocated 30-40% of revenues towards Preservation projects like routine maintenance, street overlays, and chip seals. The next highest allocation would be towards Self-funded critical projects without any external sources.
Fifteen to 20% would be allocated to be used as a local match for competitive grants. Five to 10% would be saved as a contingency fund for emergency expenditures or short term debt issuance and another 5-10% would be used to prepare shovel ready projects.
With the TBD Revenue Allocation draft in the hands of the Council to study, a future meeting will be held to discuss these allocations.
2026 Comprehensive Plan update: Community Development Director John Ajax gave an update on the state required comprehensive plan update.
Elements being addressed this year include:
Land Use – According to recent calculations Chelan’s Urban Growth Area will grow by 500 to 2,500 people over the next 20 years. The Land Use element will take into account population growth, housing capacity and zoning consistency. Zoning implements the comprehensive plan by organizing growth throughout the city and county. “We will look at how growth in Manson and the South Shore impact our UGA,” said Ajax.
Housing – The comp. plan will identify current and projected housing needs. The Housing Element will update Chelan’s housing needs assessment. This element will provide goals and policies for affordable housing, housing types, and density.
Transportation – This element will outline transportation infrastructure needs including multi-modal transportation, which includes pedestrian, bicycle and other forms of alternative transportation. One of the largest changes in Chelan’s multi-modal transportation is the advent of electric scooters, one-wheels and electric bicycles This will lead to new standards and the development of future routes.
Capital Facilities/Utilities – With a Water and Sewer Comprehensive Plan already in place, documentation of 20 year capital facilities needs during the upcoming budget process.
Climate Resilience – With climate change already affecting the area with extreme weather, this element will create climate goals and policies.
Parks & Recreation – This element’s purpose is to establish a vision, goals, and strategies for providing high quality parks, open spaces, recreational facilities, and programs that enhance the quality of life for Chelan residents and visitors. in the comp. plan?” Ajax replied that this year’s comp. plan is a major undertaking. “Any suggestions you have are appreciated.”
A Public Hearing on the update will be held in September and the Council will move to adopt the plan on December 8, 2025.
Parks and Recreation Ad Hoc committee update: Chelan’s Park System is the only known park system in the state that is not funded by a tax levy. It is self-funded through its enterprise system that includes the golf course, RV park, City Marina, and putting course.
Chelan’s Lakeshore RV Park is just one of the park systems revenue generators.
An Ad-Hoc committee was set up to develop three to five items to help the park with sustainable funding for park operations and capital investments for 2026 to 2030. The current business model is not sustainable.
Currently, all of the parks enterprises with the exception of the golf course, are making money. The golf course is breaking even. “I think the golf course is the difficult one,” said Hollingsworth.
Finance Director Jackie Tupling remarked that the solution to the golf course issue might be turning it over to a management company. “I see a lot of opportunities,” she said. Bob Goedde remarked that there may be no money in golf, it is still a valuable property and amenity for the community.
Horne said he needs a little more guidance. Brad Chitty brought up the Lodging Tax money. Under new guidelines, lodging tax funds can be used for tourist related projects. “That tourist money being locked up and not being able to move it around is an issue.”
Hollingsworth remarked that the course’s irrigation system needs to be upgraded. “The original plan was to update the irrigation system. What’s the best way for us to maintain a quality golf course… other management, what are the limits of what you are asking?”
Tupling replied that the department needs a long-term solution for the entire parks system. Hollingsworth replied that the council needs to keep an open mind on potential solutions.
“Are Pocket Parks still a priority,” asked Horne. Hollingsworth feels that pocket parks should not be tabled because the residents want water access. The Lakeshore Trail (under construction) will disperse people to water access points and there are some opportunities along that corridor for more water access opportunities.
Current park operations and downtown services are being supported through a combination of public tax dollars and generated revenues of its parking fees and concessions.
One of the other potential solutions is the establishment of a dedicated capital fund for which there is no dedicated source of funds to establish it.
Goedde remarked that one solution could be a park tax levy. Hollinsworth replied that lodging tax revenues are a pretty reliable source of money.
Mayor McCardle remarked at the end of the meeting from ZOOM that the meeting was productive.
With the current park business model not sustainable, alternatives need to be developed and presented to the council before the budget season. Parks Director Paul Horne asked if the council would support a refined financial structure for its current enterprises.
Council granted 501 (c) 3 status: Mike Kirk, Manson Community Council chairman, told those in attendance at the council meeting on Tuesday, July 15, that they have been granted 501 (c) 3 status from the IRS.
Manson Community Council Chairman Mike Kirk
This status is an important juncture for the council who have struggled financially for years with no real ability to secure funding or its continuing operations to serve the Manson community.
With the 501 (c) 3 status the council can now pursue grant opportunities along with other sources of funding for its mission. “We are still in the process of filing with the North Central Washington Foundation,” said Kirk.
Transportation issue: The entire board attended a Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council meeting early in July with the sole purpose of proposing a roundabout at the intersection of Wapato Lake Road and Hwy. 150.
Kirk stated that WSDOT and the transportation council both agreed that the intersection was a good location for a roundabout, but that it doesn’t prioritize high enough traffic statewide for funding through WSDOT’s funding process. However, both WSDOT and the transportation council are working with the Colville Tribal Federal Corporation (CTFC) on its plans for development of a new casino/hotel adjacent to Hwy. 150.
CTFC continues to work on its design for the development including a traffic analysis. “They are trying to find the best solutions,” said Kirk who added that the council is hopeful that its request for a roundabout will eventually become a reality. “Jeff Wilkins believes we have the right approach.”
Both WSDOT and Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council encouraged the Manson Community Council to stay engaged. The council will also stay connected with the tribe as it continues to work towards its development.
Parking issues: Parking in Manson was also discussed. “We need to keep the communication open for more parking in Manson,” said Gerry Ustanik. Kirk mentioned the proposed LINK Park and Ride. Manson Parks is trying to purchase the land held jointly by the school district and parks department. “Manson Parks is short of money,” said Kirk. Chelan City Councilmember Bob Goedde stated that LINK has a lot of money.
Councilmember Gerry Ustanik
One Voice: Three groups make up the One Voice group; Manson Community Council, Manson Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Association.
A Manson resident spoke up and went on a rant regarding the lack of participation by the community in the council’s agendas. “The DOT said they aren’t going to do any work on 150,” she said. “I don’t see any feed back from people who live here.” She added that in the past, the council meetings used to be full of interested community members.
Kirk stated that the lack of participation by the community was partly his fault. She asked how to get the community out. Kirk said, “We have a very, very new council.” He asked for some patience as the council defines itself and moves to a more community oriented
The Council then discussed potential speakers they can invite. Councilwoman Rene Commons suggested that they ask Planning Commissioner Chris Willoughby to speak at a meeting. “What can be done to make this a better process,” she asked.
Councilmember Rene Commons
Other potential speakers include Chelan County Commissioner Brad Hawkins, a PUD representative, Ron Cridlebaugh, Chelan County Economic Services, and Chelan Councilman Bob Goedde suggested inviting Chelan Mayor Erin McCardle. Rene Commons said, “I’m comfortable with having two speakers at a meeting as long as they compliment each other.”
Brian Patterson updated the council on the efforts to conduct an incorporation study. He stated that funding has been turned down and that it will cost an estimated $100,000 to conduct. Now that the Council has 502 (c) 3 status, funding could become available from the State.
Kirk replied that the council was entirely voluntary and no money was available. “The council has come together,” said Kirk. “I’m very proud of it.” It was suggested that representatives be assigned different organizations to attend as liaisons instead of Kirk being the sole member responsible for attending meetings.
Future meeting: A transportation meeting has been tentatively scheduled for August 20 at the Manson Grange Hall.
The City of Chelan and Manson Community are both in the process of determining how to control their growth but maintain a healthy community through the new tourism economy.
Chelan: Mayor McCardle told her staff and council members at a special meeting on June 4 that tourism is the driving force, not only in Chelan and the Valley, but also Chelan County.
The City of Chelan has held a number of meetings to discuss future priorities.
She attended a meeting with Leavenworth and Wenatchee and said, “It was two hours of providing information on how tourism impacts the region.”
McCardle mentioned the upcoming Lakeside Trail project as a top priority for citizens. The construction will begin the day after the Fourth of July weekend and be completed in October at a cost of $4,159,180.49.
KRCI was the successful bidder on the project. Jake Youngren, Public Works Director stated that the city was able to leverage the WSDOT $2,516,566 contribution to the project with $500,000 from the TIB (Transportation Improvement Board) and $251,688 from LINK Transit. “We will need an additional $640,428,” said Youngren.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren explained the bidding process for the Lakeside Trail Project that will begin in July.
The additional funds could come from the city’s unobligated funds or through an interfund loan from the water fund. “We can wait until the project is done to do an amendment. I am also open to amending the contract now,” stated Youngren.
Tim Hollingsworth remarked that the trail corridor is complicated. “It will connect Slidewaters and the Boat Company,” said Hollingsworth. “It is an amenity a lot of people will take advantage of.”
Mark Ericks remarked that while he would be voting for the project, he was concerned about the budget. Youngren replied that the contract was executed per the plan and KRCI has a contractual obligation to perform the construction at the bid price. Youngren said additional amendments would only be allowed for unforeseen circumstances.
Mayor McCardle asked if the contract could be amended. Youngren said, “No… This is not an open ended contract. KRCI has bought off on the contract. They will be partners with the city. This is not an open-ended thing.”
When complete the Lakeshore Trail will be an incredible move forward to provide residents and visitors alike with a world-class trail system.
The Council voted six to one with Bob Goedde voting Nay on approving the contract.
Strategic Retreat/Stehekin Director’s retreat: The City of Chelan held a strategic retreat at Sunset Marina on April 29 for the sole purpose of setting some City priorities.
Mayor Erin McCardle told the staff and council that the same questions get asked every year. “Tonight, we are setting a clear direction for the staff,” she said. She based the challenge on the City’s core values. “How are we measuring success with what we are doing.”
The staff and council followed up the Strategic Retreat with an overnight director’s retreat in Stehekin to further set City priorities for 2026.
Communications Director Chad Coltman said at the June 4 Special Meeting that the Stehekin brainstorming session looked at what was really possible for the city to do.
The priorities include:
Continue partnership with the HDCA to promote local programming and continue the city’s investments in downtown Chelan.
Create a sub-area trails plan for Apple Blossom Center to downtown.
Look at commercial waterfront possibilities.
Add economic development to the city’s website.
Affordable housing funding opportunities
Growth: The Planning Department is beginning work on the Comprehensive Plan that is due in 2026. The Parks PROs plan is also being worked on.
The City is developing County partnerships, particularly on traffic impacts with a regional transportation study.
Affordable housing: While the City is in partnership with the Chelan Housing Trust and Habitat for Humanity, a new law will allow property owners to allow the construction of two ADUs on lots. The City will look at pre-approved ADU plans for easy permitting.
A part of the Comp. Plan will be to revise the City’s development standards to streamline affordable housing projects.
Recreation opportunities: The City had a desire to provide more diverse recreational opportunities for its residents and visitors.
In order to provide these services for the public, the City Parks is working with and Ad-Hoc group develop fiscal sustainability for its parks system including the golf course, RV park, parks and new developments like the Chelan Gorge Park (formerly called Stinky Field).
Maintaining its existing parks remains a priority. Partnerships are being developed with the Community Center, Boys and Girls Club and other Youth sports groups.
Continue its efforts at opening up more pocket parks for lake access.
In 2026 the City will begin planning for the Apple Blossom Trail that will connect Apple Blossom Center to the downtown area.
The City will also look at leveraging STR fees to help provide better recreational facilities which will include an economic development study.
Lake Chelan School District Superintendent Brad Wilson made a special presentation to the City Council on the potential $70 million dollar bond issue that will be presented to the district’s voters in November.
Lake Chelan School Superintendent Brad Wilson
“We are in the pre-bond phase right now,” said Wilson. “There is no official bond issue yet.”
The district has been exploring the process leading to an eventual recommendation for the bond to be issued in November. “Bonds are challenging,” stated Wilson. “They require a 60% approval.” The district has no other bond issues currently.
The district began the process back in October, 2022 with a community/staff listening session and then a student listening session in November 2022.
In February, April, May and September of 2023 and then in March, April and September of 2024, the district worked with an 18 member Facilities Advisory Team to continue the process.
An OSPI grant was used for a study and survey completed by ALSC Architects of Spokane.
New elementary building: The largest portion of the proposed bond issue is the construction of a new elementary building. MOE (Morgan Owens Elementary) was built in 1948 and has been rated as 30 percent effective for drainage, roofing, ceilings, plumbing, HVAC systems, fire protection, and electrical systems. OSPI rates the building at 50.30 out of 100.
The building is located adjacent to Hwy.97A which adds to safety concerns of the students.
“We got a good rounded view of what we need to do to our facilities,” Wilson stated.
The estimated costs to replace the elementary school and add Pre-Kindergarten is $54,740,000 with OSPI matching funding of $4,044,314 (only if bond passes).
Middle/High School: The middle/high school has been rated only 30 percent effective (poor) for its roof, doors and windows, interior construction, ceilings, HVAC systems, electrical systems, audio communications, and electronic security & integrated automation systems.
The building is not up to industry standards for CTE learning. The bond issue would remode the metal and wood shop, move floor-weight room next to art room on the main floor and the mezzanine would become the wrestling room for an estimated cost of $9,550,000.
Mt. Goat Fields: The field modernizations would include a track field with lights, more parking, locker rooms and two concession/bathroom buildings for $9,850,000.
Other issues: It would cost an estimated $50 million to remodel the existing MOE building of which up to $6 million would be required to provide portable buildings while the remodel was being accomplished.
The proposed location for the new elementary building would be on the northwest end of the Community gymnasium property.
The overall cost to district property owners is estimated at $0.86/$1,000 of assessed value for a 20 year bond. A $500,000 home would cost the property owner $1.18 per day. Or $430.70 per year.
Presentation: Brad Wilson can be reached at 509-682-3515 or by email at wilsonb@chelanschools.org.
Manson’s One Voice Coalition held its first public meetings on March 20/21. The coalition is a combination of the following organizations:
Manson Community Council
Manson Chamber of Commerce
Manson’s Historic Main Street Association
Manson Chamber of Commerce Director Timi Starkweather opened the One Voice Coalition meeting on March 20 at the Northshore Church.
Chamber director Timi Starkweather began the meeting by saying, “We are here to shape the community for the next five, ten, 20 years.”
Kim Ustanik heads up the new Main Street Association in Manson. Kim has been an active member of the Manson Chamber since its inception.
Kim Ustanik is heading up the Historic Main Street Association. “It’s a place we are creating,” said Ustanik. The primary goal of the association is to preserve the historic nature of Manson.
MIke Kirk is currently the interim chairman of the Manson Community Council. The five person council is shy two members.
Mike Kirk, Manson Community Council’s interim chairman added that the coalition is a unique chance to address Manson’s priorities.
The main purpose of this coalition is to bring the community together to:
Build systems that will support healthy growth in Manson
Provide places within the community that create tangible value
Support business that will broaden economic opportunities.
Tell stories that will attract meaningful investments.
The first meeting was well attended by interested residents.
The first meeting was well attended and the coalition’s consultant Dan Eernisser took up most of the time going over the coalition’s potential direction before turning it over to the public attending for their thoughts. (Note: people need to learn how to use a microphone).
Dan Eernisser, Eernisser Consulting has been hired to help lead Manson through the issues facing the community.
Eernisser asked that the attendees use the sticky note pads to write down their desires for the Manson community and paste them to a wall provided. This generated 10 pages of desires which are summarized below:
Roads: Over the past several years, the Manson Community Council and residents have been discussing road conditions around Manson, in particular, Wapato Way through the downtown corridor. Speeding cars and commercial trucks during harvest are the biggest complaint by residents living on Wapato Way.
Those attending this meeting specifically stated that truck routes, road improvements and vehicle capacity on Hwy. 150 need to be addressed.
Priorities: Community priorities include lighting, murals, gateway signage, preserving the historic district, adding more outdoor seating, developing pocket parks and looking towards the County and State for funding opportunities.
Parking: Parking is a problem in both Manson and Chelan, particularly during the summer months. Attendees want parking availability increased in the downtown area for residents and tourists.
Non-Motorized Traffic: Everyone was concerned about sidewalk safety. Bike trails and the Northshore Pathway was mentioned more than once.
The Northshore Pathway is being studied once again by the Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council. The pathway would offer an alternative way to travel between Manson and Chelan.
In addition, someone mentioned opening up the old flume line in the Manson Project as a way for residents and visitors to access the variety of wineries, cider houses and other amenities in the area. (Problem… orchardists are against this idea because of spray drift and other concerns.”
Water Taxi: There is a lot of interest in the possibility of having a water taxi operating in the Wapato Basin. The Boat Company is rumored to be studying this option of travel.
In addition, residents would like to see a Manson stop for the Lady of the Lake or Express. Years ago, the Lady of the Lake stopped in Manson to pick up passengers on the way to Stehekin.
Residents would love to see a non-motorized kayak/paddleboard launch in Manson.
Other issues: There were many ideas proposed at the meeting including:
Cultural history, i.e. apple history available for visitors to learn about Manson’s history.
More parks
Consistent participation from the County in Manson issues
Revamp of the Urban Growth Area
Incorporation
Development of healthy shoulder seasons.
Promote Echo Valley/Echo Ridge year round.
Develop an indoor swimming opportunity for residents
Tangible Values: Farmers Market expansion and development of an indoor market for year round operation
Events: Events drive business. Manson has several successful events that help merchants. Winterfest and the Lake Chelan Hydro-Fest are two of the annual events that take place.
5-litre hydro planes race to the start/finish line for the start of their race at the annual Lake Chelan Hydrofest.
Residents asked for more spaces for community events and the inclusion of Sports events that would draw outside teams to play in Manson tournaments
Ag-tourism: Offer farm visits… With the apple industry in a steep decline, this will require some serious attention. Manson has a full-on farm offering many opportunities for visitors to learn about farming. Also Manson Growers offers tours of its production lines and its new business Cider Press offers cider pressing and locally produced foods.
6,500 acres of apple, pear and cherry orchards, and grape vineyards make up the Manson Agricultural Project on the north shore of Lake Chelan.
There was one note that stated that Manson has too many wineries and not enough food options.
Next Meeting: The next meeting of the group will meet on Thursday evening, June 5 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and then again on Friday morning, June 6 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Fire Chief report: Assistant Chief Shaun Sherman gave the report in Chief Asher’s absence. He reported that there were only 40 calls in February of which 72 percent were EMS calls. “There were no major incidents,” said Sherman.
Assistant Fire Chief Shaun Sherman
Sherman stated that pre-fire planning was ongoing. “We are working out the bugs and getting positive reports back.” He added that all of the department’s airtanks (bottles) were undergoing hydrostatic testing.
New boat acquisition: Sherman reported that the new work boat from the Pasco Fire Department couldn’t be delivered until a clear title is obtained. Apparently Pasco FD is applying for a lost title.
Sherman stated that he and Jason (?) would be traveling to Pasco to test the new boat.
Commissioners report: Simmons brought up the district’s dropbox process and stated that the commission can’t be signing vouchers without proper review. Commissioner Mark Donnell added that all the commissioners need to be on the same page.
Station 71 generator update: Apparently the controller on the generator broke, but an alternative has been found. This generator will eventually supply power to the station in the event that PUD power is lost.
California mobilization: Commissioner Russ Jones asked how the California mobilization billing was going and Administrative Manager Misty Fifield said the final billing has been submitted.
Commissioner Russ Jones
SOG – 226 – Marine Emergency Responses: Simmons asked Sherman if six hours, including night training, on boat operations was attainable? Sherman replied that it was. “We are lucky to have Russ Jones and Tim Sullivan to help. Boating is a dangerous activity,” Sherman stated. “I hear your concerns.”
Commissioner Ron Simmons
Simmons added that his concern is if someone not quite trained takes the boat out on a call and gets in trouble… Sherman replied that it all comes down to training plus evaluation of the trainee. “If he doesn’t pass than more training is required.” He added that there is an elevated risk on the water.
There is also the element of trailering the boat. “We’ve never had trailer training.” Jones suggested a trailer class.
Strategic Plan: The department will audit the policies that apply and if needed, correct them.
Firefighter medicals: Donnell stated that medical examinations need to be done right. He remarked that volunteers over 60 have to be looked at differently than a young volunteers. Simmons replied, “We need to be real careful how we go about this. I agree with you,” he told Donnell.
Commissioner Mark Donnell
Sherman told the commissioners that the department has a physical requirement depending on each position a firefighter fills. He also stated that there is a mental component to the process.
Donnell highly recommended yearly physicals for fire personnel.
Annual Report: Simmons suggested leaving the 2024 annual report as is but said he would like discuss what the department does in the future.
Summer seasonals: The department administration wants to hire three summer seasonals. Jones asked if that would add $35,000 to the budget? He was told it would.
Donnell said he didn’t even know where the department was going to get its seasonals. Sherman said they want to bring seasonals on by April 24. “If you are asking for a third seasonal, we want more information,” said Donnell.
Community input: A Union Valley resident and past fire fighter told the commissioners and administrators that he has put four 1,000 gallon tanks on his property all connected to a heavy duty sprinkler system for fire protection of his property. He also has a fire truck on site. “There are 90 families living in Union Valley. I would like to get some support.”
John Olson, a communjty advocate remarked that when he ran the Re-Runs truck that there were a number of south shore residents whose homes were not accessible. He said he would like to see the department investigate those access roads to see what could be accessed.
Donnell replied that they would attempt to access fire situations where and if it was safe.
Simmons said he was concerned with political rhetoric on KOZI.
Simmons also stated that he isn’t sure that sending firefighters out on State Mobilizations is in the best interest of the department. “We are not a for profit agency,” he added.
Firefighter Chris Burchman, who was sent to California, said he ran into a California firefighter who thanked Chelan for coming down and helping out. He told Burchman that he was sent to the Pioneer Fire last summer and truly appreciated Chelan for sending crews.
Agritourism code amendments: After months of debate and discussion the Chelan City Council unanimously approved the Agriculture Based Short Term Rental Code ordinance.
Community Development Director John Ajax has been working with the Chelan Planning Commission for a number of months to pass a new agritourism code that will help property owners monitize their property.
The proposed code changes went through an arduous process by the Planning Commission who reviewed the proposed udates to the Agricultural Tourism Code at meetings on April 17, May 15, July 17, August 21, September 25, October 16 and November 20, 2024.
A public hearing was held on November 20 to receive public input on the code amendment. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the amendments including the retention of a five-acre minimum lot size. On February 25, 2025, the City Council held one more public hearing on the amendments.
The recommended amendments can be read in the following chapters of the Chelan Municipal Code
Chapter 17.46 – Special Use District Chapter
17.47 – Agricultural Tourism Chapter
17.77 – Short-Term Rentals Chapter
17.56 – Conditional Use Requirements (introducing new provisions for agriculturally based rentals)
The new amendments to the code will permit small scale, agricultural based short-term rentals within the SUD (Special Use District), providing the property meets the following criteria: a minimum lot size of 5-acres with at least 51 percent of the property used for agriculture.
GMA 2025 docket: City Council unanimously approved the 2025 Growth Management Act Comprehensive Plan Docket along with several other amendments.
City Attorney Quentin Batjer
Each year the City updates its annual work plan under the GMA. This year the docket includes work on climate resiliency, housing affordability, zoning code refinements and infrastructure planning. In addition, there are several development regulation amendments that remain in the docket.
Most interesting is the Housing Action Plan which will focus on alternative housing types, density incentives, and accessory dwelling unit flexibility.
Interlocal agreement for legal services: City Administrator Wade Farris reported that the Chelan/Douglas Regional Port Authority was requesting an additional $1,000 from the City to continue its legal efforts against the state to contain the illegal diversion fuel taxes for the purposes. “They have been diverting these funds illegally,” said Farris. The City authorized $1,000 last year towards the effort.
The Council approved this expenditure.
Indigent Criminal Defendant legal services: City Attorney Quentin Batjer reported that Kottkamp, Yedinak & Esworthy, PLLC defense of indigents arrested in Chelan has exceeded the Primary Attorney’s quarterly caseload limit and needs to assign overflow to Hankins, Tibbits Law Firm who has agreed to accept the excess caseload at a cost of $600 per case.
Apparently the overflow is due to an increase of property theft at WalMart.
Ecology funding for sewer project: Chelan Public Works completed a funding application in the fall of 2023 for a sewer main replacement project from Don Morse Park to Columbia Street from SR150 to Lift Station No. 1. The City’s application was approved and awarded in 2024.
Public Works Diretor Jake Youngren
The City staff is working with the Department of Ecology (DOE) on the scope of work, grant and loan administration, design and construction, construction management and change order allowances.
The $5,411,000 funding amount is on a 20 year repayment plan at 1.2% interest.
The Council approved the motion to finalize the agreement with DOE.
Administration reports: Public Works Director Jake Youngren reported that Public Works opened six proposals for the downtown water and sewer pipe replacement project and has accepted Selland Construction’s bid of $2,468364.92. Selland Construction was the second lowest bidder n the project. Ascent Foundation and Moore bid $2,420,103.37, but had several anomalies on their bid which led to the City rejecting it.
Interestingly, the bids came in below the Engineers Estimate.
Landscape architecture for lift station 1 is something the Public Works Department has been working on. Lift Station 1 is located at the northeast corner of the Woodin Avenue Bridge at the entrance to Riverwalk Park.
The above ground structure will be removed and the lift station will go underground with landscaping to help disguise it. “We are collaborating with the PUD,” said Youngren. “We are amending the current landscape element to what their goals are for landscaping and our needs,” he added.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if Youngren had any concerns about groundwater table. Youngren replied, “We are confident we will be able to construct subsurface without a problem.”
Speed limit reduction on Hwy 97A. Youngren stated that Public Works is looking at reducing the speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph from city limits to SR 97A mile post 231and from mile post 231 to 232.88 to 35 mph. From there to mile post 233.66 to 30 miles per hour and from there to 25 mph t mile pst 234.49 before the speed limit resumes to higher speeds.
“It is kind of a confusing ordinance,” said Youngren. “I will come back to you. We’ve been working with all the property owners.”:
Wayfinding signs. Community Development Director John Ajax told the council that the planning department has been working on the wayfinding signage for 10 years. “The signs are waiting to be installed. We didn’t know that we were going to have a Lakeside Trail,” said Ajax. “We need to repurpose the signs with the Lakeside Trail.”
The signage will go from Lakeside all the way to the Lookout. Youngren stated that downlake winds could be problematic and they were looking at brackets to withstand high winds. Mayor McCardle asked what the next step was? Ajax said he has to get together with the city engineer.
Proposed 2025 budget amendment No. 1. Finance Director Jackie Tupling presented the Council with the first budget amendment of the 2025 fiscal year.
City Council will reconvene on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
Chelan Park 2025 regulations: Chelan City Workshops give Chelan’s department heads an opportunity to interact with council members on the various issues facing the city. At the Tuesday, February 4 workshop the big issue the council will be considering at its Tuesday, February 11 council meeting is a new ordinance (Ordinance No. 2025-1629) on City Park regulations.
Shade tents and umbrellas will be allowed as long as they provide visibility.
This ordinance, if passed by the city council will implement new regulations covering five new policies that will help control park issues that became unmanageable last year.
Working with the Friends of Lakeside, a neighborhood advocacy group since last September, the city came up with policies to help make the parks more family friendly.
It is hoped that Chelan Parks will have these policies in place by Memorial Day. They include enforcement and infrastructure elements.
The workshop on February 4 provided direction for staff to draft the required revisions to the existing Code of Ordinances, particularly Chapter 9.22 PARKS – Prohibited Acts. They include:
Dogs – are permitted in the parks during the off-season between Labor Day and Memorial Day as long as they are on a leash no longer than eight feet. Dogs and other animals are not permitted during the summer months between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Glass Containers – New… glass containers will not be allowed in Chelan Parks.
Tents & Canopies -Tents with flooring will not be permitted except for Chelan permitted special events. 10X10 tents will be allowed as long visibility is not obstructed. Beach umbrellas will be allowed to protect park visitors from the sun, but no pitching or maintaining a tent or canopy or other improvised structures.
Fire & BBQs – not permitted unless provided by the Park.
Alcohol & Smoking – Prohibited.
Hollingsworth noted that getting the word out to public is going to be hard. “We need to make a reasonable effort,” he said. The Parks Department will be hiring enforcement for the weekends during the summer months.
2024 Finance progress: Finance Director Jackie Tupling shared the major and significant revenue numbers for each department at its Tuesday, February workshop. “The ending balances was better than expected,” said Tupling. The Parks ended up $600,000 in the hole. The Golf Course broke even and the department is receiving a $702,000 grant.”
The $700,000 grant is for planned improvements at Lakeside Park.
Tupling reported in writing that:
Sales tax receipts decreased by $29,309 in the fourth quarter bringing the amount to $775,189. Total to date is $2,757,532
Lodging tax, 2% and 3% came in slightly higher than last year’s 4th quarter by $25,802. Total 2% capital funds collected in the fourth quarter was $298,645. Total for the year was $813,710. Three percent collections in the fourth quarter was$47,149 and $1,223,562 for the year.
Real Estate Excise Tax IREET) added up to $175,913 or $522,549 for the year. Tupling reported that REET collections were up $53,327 dollars and $140,420 to date.
Building fees are slightly higher compared to 2023
General facilities charges are down
Receipts in Parks and Recreation are higher in General Parks, the Marina and Golf Course, but down in the RV Park, Putting Course and Recreation/Youth Sports.
Chelan Butte: Tupling reported that the $500,000 set aside for Chelan Butte’s potential purchase has reached its sunset clause. “You guys can be thinking about those funds when they drop off.”
Chelan Butte from Lake Chelan Marina.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked where the city is at concerning the Butte and the Trust for Public Lands. Tupling said it was time to move forward. There is no potential buyout purchaser for the privately held land and it is still available for development.
Chelan/Chelan County PUD partnership: Mayor Erin McCardle reported on the City/PUD partnership. “Going back to last summer and looking at the community requests we came out with four projects,” stated McCardle. They were:
Connecting a wastewater line from the PUD’s Fish Rearing Facility to the City Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Chelan Gorge Park Revitalization. Building a multi-use four plex for baseball, softball and soccer along with other improvements.
Imagine Downtown – modernize infrastructure, enhance public spaces, and integration of innovative technologies like Wi-Fi for all.
South Chelan vacant property to potentially be developed into an additional community park.
One of the big issues with the public has been protecting the Chelan River from the east side of the Woodin Avenue Bridge to the dam from motorized traffic with the exception of boats transiting to and from the Chelan PUD boat launch.
The Chelan River has become a favorite paddleboarding and kayaking place.
The city has prepared a proposed resolution to keep the river free of motorized traffic including a proposal by a local consortium that would like to develop a docking area along the north side of the river west of the pavilion. The proposed resolution recognizes the increasing demand for expanded motorized access to downtown and supports such access west of the Woodin Avenue Bridge
The community wants more access to the water and a proposal to add access points for non-motorized craft and swimming areas.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth remarked that “There is a tremendous amount of non-motorized use in the river. We need to recognize the popularity of that corridor. Mayor McCardle added, “We don’t want to encourage additional boat traffic.”
January 28 City Council highlights: Council member Brad Chitty received his certificate and recognition for completing training in five competency areas of local government.
These competency areas include 1.- Effective local leadership; 2. – Community planning and development; 3. – Public sector resource management; 4. – Roles, responsibilities and legal requirements; and Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
Congratulations to Mr. Chitty. Since becoming a councilmember he has attended almost all outside meetings held on the City’s behalf.
Lakeside Trail The Lakeside Trail project is nearing design completion and moving towards the Right-of-Way phase. During this phase the City’s consultant (SCJ Alliance) and its subconsultant (Tierra) will, negotiate with property owners and finalize agreements related to impacts caused by this $3.5 million dollar project. “We have to follow the DOT’s guidelines closely,” said Public Works Director Jake Youngren.
Residents look at proposed Lakeside Trail drawings at Sunset Marina
The project is slated to be in the construction phase this spring.
Stormwater Management Plan The Washington State Department of Ecology awarded Chelan a $262,000 grant to produce a Stormwater Management Action Plan. In July, 2024, the City and Ecology entered negotiations and with the scope and fee, general project description, special terms and conditions, the grant is ready for execution.
The City’s 5% match comes to only $13,000 and Ecology will cover the remaining $248,900.
City Park regulation update The Parks Advisory Board, parks administration and residents living adjacent to Lakeside Park have been working toward improvements at both Lakeside and Don Morse Parks.
Each year the beach at Don Morse is plowed.
At Tuesday’s, February 4, Chelan City workshop, the council will have a dialogue about the recommendations that have been discussed over the past several months.
Last summer, Lakeside Park had a number of serious issues that have since been discussed. “We need to build a board consensus for the entire community,” stated Parks Director Paul Horne.
This year, if City Council agrees, there will be enhanced parking enforcement, dog restrictions after Memorial Day, a tobacco prohibition, no glass containers near the beach areas, no day camping, tents or canopies unless permitted for special events like the beach volleyball tournaments, and no BBQs except where allowed.
Tents and canopies have been a controversial topic for residents. This coming summer, they may only be allowed during special events.
“Law enforcement needs to be engaged for our efforts to be successful,” said Horne.
Councilman Bob Goedde said, “You are going to have a lot of fun enforcing those requirements.”
Mayor McCardle remarked that a lot of communication needs to take place with the community. Horne said, “We certainly don’t want to target one population.” Councilman Terry Sanders asked Horne to check with the PUD on their rules for Riverwalk Park. McCardle said it has taken a lot of work to arrive at the proposed solutions.
Other items for workshop
Mayor McCardle will report on the City’s Chelan County PUD partnership
Jake Youngren will discuss Public Works Project Status updates
The Council will discuss these potential solutions at its Tuesday, February Workshop which begins at 4 p.m. at City Hall.
All Things Lake Chelan 