Closing the Books on 2024: Chelan City Council closed its books on 2024 and approved both the Airport 2025 budget and 2025 City budget after they were pulled from the large Consent Agenda. Finance Director Jackie Tupling stated, “There are no changes from the workshop and the budgets are ready for adoption. Both were adopted unanimously.
Branding services contract 454 Creative Services was on the Consent Agenda and was pulled from the agenda for discussion. 454 Creative Services will provide graphic design services for the Mayor’s newsletter template, business cards, and social media designs at a cost of $17,000.
Councilman Terry Sanders
Councilman Terry Sanders asked HR/Communications Director Chad Coltman if he could share with the council how 454 Creative was selected for this service contract.
Coltman said he had worked for the firm as a creative director and that they were an excellent design firm that he hoped would develop into a good working relationship with the City.
Communications Director Chad Coltman
No other solicitations by Coltman were requested for these services.
Motion Considerations: RH2 Professional Services Agreement: Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the council that RH2 does a lot of work on city facilities. “We have been satisfied with their work over the years,” said Youngren.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren
MMEC Architects: City Council voted unanimously to approve a $219,000 time and materials Professional Services Agreement for a Facilities Conditions and Needs Assessment. This assessment will look at all of the city’s facilities, and in particular the aging city hall and the golf course clubhouse. “They will receive a more thorough examination than other facilities,” said Youngren.
MMEC Architects: The Council also approved a separate $246,000 agreement to design a new Chelan Recycle Center. This is also a time and materials service. The old Recycle center burned down in July of 2024. Youngren stated that many discussions and evaluation needs had taken place since then. The City’s insurance company will be paying for the new center.
Legal Services: The Council unanimously approved a new agreement with Kottkamp, Yedinak and Esworthy, PLLC for Indigent Criminal Defendants. City Attorney Quinn Batjer said the price for these services have increased to $113,000 from the past amount of $75,000 in 2024. “Typically public defenders are overworked,” said Batjer. “It is a considerable increase over last year.” Finance Director Tupling added that the agreement would be amended in 2025.
City Attorney Quinn Batjer
In addition to the increase, Batjer stated that the Washington Supreme Court is redoing the until 2026.”
TIF (Tax Increment Area): Council agreed to remove the end of year deadline which allows for a more flexible approach to evaluating property tax allocations and potential mitigation requests when new construction occurs. This extended timeline will enable the City to assess the potential impacts of future development on critical public services, including levels of service for the Fire District and Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Aligning the mitigation requirements with RCW 39.114.020 ensures compliance with state law while allowing for informed decision-making,” said Community Development Director John Ajax. “We need a little more time and the Fire District is working with us.”
During the Mayor/Council Comments, Councilman Bob Goedde said that there is a rumor that Chelan County is getting ready to introduce a TBD (Transportation Benefit District) within the county.
All of the Council members wished everyone a happy holiday season and a Merry Christmas.
Mayor ProTem Tim Hollingsworth thanked the staff for all their hard work and remarked that the City will be facing a number of challenges in 2026.
Fire Department Chelan Fire and Rescue wants to add two more career firefighters to their roster. “It doesn’t effect our budget if we were to hire two more firefighters,” Chief Brandon Asher said. He added that the department has more funds expected to come in.
Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman and Fire Chief Brandon Asher requested that the commissioners approve the hiring of two new career firefighters at a cost of $300,000.
Commissioner Russ Jones said he would rather wait one year before adding those firefighters, but both Commissioners Mark Donnell and Karyl Oules stated they would like to see the additional firefighters on staff in 2025. “I would like to see them hired in 2025,” said Donnell. “It’s the cost of doing business.”
Commissioner Russ Jones wanted to delay the hiring until 2026 but both Mark Donnell and Karyl Oules want them to be hired in 2025.
Chief Asher added that they would be able to help the department yearround. Donnell’s argument for the hires was the ability to provide the necessary fire service. “We also need to get them into the Fire Academy,” said Assistant Chief Shaun Sherman. Asher reiterated that the additions would provide service to the community and that it would reduce overtime hours being paid out.
Commissioner Karyl Oules said she would like to see the department move forward with the hiring.
Jones reminded them that a final decision on the budget was not made yet.
Fire chief report:
10/5/24 – Brush fire
10/9/24 – Structure fire in Manson
10/13/24 – Third alarm call for a brush fire in Squlchuck
10/14/24 – Motor vehicle rollover south side of Tunnel
10/19/24 – Brush fire in Manson
Asher reported that the Chelan Fire Protection Plan was still being updated. “It will open up high dollar grant opportunities,” said Asher.
Assistant chief report: Chief Sherman reported that the Apple Cup burn on November 9 had just under 50 people involved. “It was a huge effort.” Sherman and Rayner Baker, Manson’s Training Officer work in conjunction to make sure the effort was successful. He thanked the commissioners for their support.
Forty seven firefighters participated in the Apple Cup training burn on November 11.
Asher remarked that a lot of residents came out to watch the event and Oules said she had talked to a lot of residents watching. “People were really positive,” she said. “It was a winner.”
Sherman recognized Belcher as his Incident Commander during the fire. “He performed admirably in that role,” said Sherman.
The two districts are looking to add a Volunteer Coordinator position. “I’ve had a meeting with Chief Baker and Rayner. We both have needs.” The volunteer coordinator position would open up a better level of training for the two districts.
“My goal is to open the door for what’s going to happen in the next several years,” said Sherman. “The doors not slammed shut with District 5 anymore.”
Firefighters Association: Ron Simmons stated that the association raised $500 for the VFW from the burn. “Right now, we are
Unfinished business: The Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) war between the fire district and city continues to be an issue. “What we are going to need is the ability to handle calls,” said Asher. The most recent mitigation proposal has the fire department amortizing calls to the TIF area for the past 25 years.
Jones asked if the property tax base would go back to the one percent at the end of the TIF. It was noted in the discussion that no one has put a legal challenge to a TIF. “I don’t want to see it get to that point,” said Asher.
The city would like to see the number of calls into the TIF area. “We have no information on this year, but it was about 20 over the past few years.”
The city invited other non-profit organizations who didn’t make the initial cut for Community Benefit Funds to present their needs for 2025. With benefit funds of $111,000 already allocated for the 2025 budget, these requests, if approved, would be funded out of either the Housing Fund or Tourism dollars.
Currently the city’s housing fund only has $170,000 and the Tourism Fund is at $5 million plus.
Jackie Tupling Chelan Finance Director
When added up, the requests equal $312,320 as follows:
Chelan Valley Feral Cat Project $ 10,000
Chelan Valley Housing Trust $100,000
Heritage Heights $ 16,400
Lake Chelan School District $ 30,000
Lake Chelan Habitat for Humanity $105,920
911 Glass Rescue $ 50,000
Jackie Tupling said that Chelan has received only $15,000 from the State for housing.
Erin McCardle stated that those funds could also be used for capital projects. “It takes a very long time to fill that fund back up. That’s something to think about.”
Tupling stated that the Lookout provides $1,000 for every new home sold to the city’s housing fund.
Feral Cat Project: April Leaf and Wendy Isenhart presented the case for continued funding for the feral cat project. The project has been successful in trapping feral cats and Leaf reported that 286 cats have been helped.
Feral cat director April Leaf and volunteer Wendy Isenhart
The $10,000 requested is $5,000 more than the city granted the project for 2024. The project has received $7,496 in private donations. This year $12,000 has been spent on veterinarian services and another $320 on administrative services. It costs $450 to neuter a male cat and $200 to spay a female cat.
Communications Director Chad Coltman asked how many cats have been helped specifically in Chelan and whether or not Chelan County provides any funding for the project. Leaf replied that the cats are trapped throughout the valley and that the county doesn’t provide any funding.
Housing Trust: Executive Director Scott Meyers of the Chelan Valley Housing Trust stated that the city has provided funding in the past and he wants to see those grants continue. “Our goal is to build homes for wage earners,” said Meyers
Housing Trust executive director Scott Meyers
The request for $100,000 would help support the organization’s operational costs, landscaping costs at Harbor Meadows and $20,000 for its operations budget.
Heritage Heights: Heritage Heights requested $16,400 from the city for WiFi connections, telephone system, purchase of computers and printers and three new wireless access points in the facility.
Heritage Heights Melissa Robbins and the new CEO, Joel.
Melissa Robbins explained that the non-profit has an all-volunteer board. “The city has been a contributor to this project in the past. Our building is old and has bad WiFi. We have a lot of things that are not normal,” said Robbins.
Lake Chelan School District: Superintendent Brad Wilson and the district are requesting $30,000 to improve ballfields and gymnasium surfaces. Wilson remarked that the softball and baseball fields are used for tournaments before Memorial Day and after Labor Day and provide a number of overnight stays by parents and teams.
Chelan School Superintenent Brad Wilson
These programs denote overnight stays; Chelan youth wrestling, youth fastpitch; Kahiau Volleyball Club; baseball; basketball; Babe Ruth baseball and Bachfest. Other programs supported by the district include FC youth soccer; Valleywinds Musicians; Adult pickleball and tennis and Thrive.
Mayor McCardle asked if this request was a one-off request or a recurring one. Wilson replied that if they can get the community fields in shape it would result in a lot less requests from the city. She asked about the gymnasiums and Wilson said the funding would help pay for resurfacing of the Community Gym.
Habitat for Humanity: Michelle Fanton, executive director of Habitat, is requesting $105,920 to continue providing homes for families who qualify. “We have served 17 families with homes. These homes fall within 30% of their incomes,” she said. All prospective families must be from Chelan.
Michelle Fanton – Habitat executive director
The organization is highly dependent on volunteer labor and the funding is also provided by the Habitat store. City funding would help Habitat keep neighborhoods clean and revitalized, expand homeowner education, staff time to develop other sources of funding, help pay for infrastructure reimbursements to offset the costs of development at Pumpkin Lane in Chelan.
911 Glass Rescue: Julie McCoy said the $50,000 requested would help the glass recycling get back into operation by early 2025.
911 Glass Rescue representative Julie McCoy
Mayor McCardle stated that the request might have to wait until the 2026 budget process. McCoy stated that the organization needed to have it considered in the 2025 budget so the program could move forward.
Chelan lost its glass recycling when the recycling center burned down.
Requests: All of the above requests will be discussed and decided on prior to the final budget hearings.
Anytime you walk into Chelan’s council chambers and it is full of people, you know something is up. Tuesday night’s council meeting had a number of Lakeside residents on hand to speak during the “Citizen Comments” period. Their concerns, of course, was Lakeside Park overcrowding, parking, safety issues and a request for some resolution to the problems.
Lakeside Park and community has become an overcrowding issue with its residents.
Lakeside Park overcrowding and parking along other issues has reached a boiling point with Lakeside residents and they were at Tuesday evening’s City Council meeting in force.
Twelve residents signed up to voice their concerns over the lack of any enforcement at the park. “All day long people were desperately looking for parking. Cars all day long,” stated Tammy Haig. “There was a feeling of tension in the air. At one point, I thought something might explode.”
Tammy Haig
Haig asked if the city was going to create a baseline with the Lakeside Trail and street ends in hopes that it might disperse recreation. “It (July 4) was a very intense day.”
Stan Morse remarked that visitors were parking across the street from his house leaving no room for emergency vehicles to get by in case of fire. “My hillside is ripe for wildfire. We live in a one road in and one road out of town with 2,000 to 3,000 people.”
Stan Morse
Another resident, Janet, said she didn’t feel comfortable taking her granddaughter to the park. “Lakeside Park has been overcrowded since 2020,” she stated. “People start arriving at 5 a.m. Vehicles are going round and round all day long. I counted 107 vehicles per hour.”
She added that she is asking for the city to limit capacity at the park. “Visitors are also at risk.”
Another resident requested discourse immediately with the city to see what the resolution to the issues might be.
Barry De Paoli told the council that he has lived in Lakeside for 22 years. “We have a town of 4,700 versus 5,500 visiting Lakeside on a weekend. Imagine what it looks like, 2,500 to 3,500 people per day.” De Paoli said the issue is at a breaking point. He mentioned overuse of alcohol, poor signage, and zero enforcement. “Residents can no longer sit back and watch the problem.
Barry De Paoli
“We are asking to be included in the process going forward. A meeting in October with the Mayor and others. We need a healthy balance. I know we can achieve a positive outcome.
Other comments mirrored those above and several asked if requiring reservations to get into the park might be a solution. It was also stated that the city needs to pay for monitoring the situation and enforcing the parking.
Don Morse Park might provide some relief for Lakeside residents. It’s much larger and can handle more traffic, but is also busy during the summer months.
Our Valley Our Future update: Steve Maher was on hand at the city council meeting to give an update and summary of the outreach results from the Lake Chelan Vision Project.
He provided survey results and feedback gathered since June, 2023 during individual and group listening sessions.
“We had an excellent response,” said Maher. 550 responses were gathered between June and August which included eight listening sessions with 142 people participating and 10 or 11 interviews with stakeholders. “We struggled to get younger folks to participate,” said Maher.
Some results: Housing was the number one issue by far stated Maher. “Families have to move away because of housing. It’s the biggest challenge,”
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The rapid growth is one of the biggest challenges. There were calls to manage growth better. There is a desire to maintain the smalltown feel. The respondents remarked that the valley was going away from growing apples to growing grapes and housing.
Increasing traffic and traffic congestion was another issue along with Short Term Rentals adding to the traffic congestion.
The positive things is the new hospital and Wal Mart according to some.
Wildfire and smoke was another issue on the respondents minds.
Maher stated that the next step will be developing community values from what was gathered and would be delivered by the first week in October. “Things are going really, really well,” Maher said.
This information will serve as the foundation for the core values framework in the 2026 Comprehensive Plan update, which is currently in its early stages.
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City 2025 Legislative Agendas: East Chelan Reservoir Project: The city is seeking $7 million from the State t complete the design and construction of the East Chelan Reservoir Project.
Current funding sources include a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) program initiated by the City. Another $9 million is making its way through the Senate in Washington D.C. after passing through Congress. These funds would come from the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) if approved by the Senate.
Regional Transportation Study – $$??: The city is seeking increased state funding to its regional transportation MPO, so the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council can conduct a transportation study to solve critical safety issues.
With over 650,000 tourists visiting the valley each year, the regional transportation system experiences localized failure. Chelan is the center of all transportation in the valley.
Funding would be used in partnership with the CDTC, Chelan County, the Colville Confederated Tribe, WSDOT and the community of Chelan to conduct a regional transportation plan to better evaluate interconnectedness in the Lake Chelan Valley.
Downtown Revitalization – $3 million: The city and the Historic Downtown Chelan Assn. is seeking $3 million to invest in construction of Phase 1 of the downtown revitalization project which will upgrade failing infrastructure, enhance the downtown business core and create welcoming public spaces.
Northshore Pathway – $2.8 million The Northshore trail would solve critical safety issues for pedestrians and cyclists along the lakeshore connecting Manson and Chelan.
Other top issues: Housing
Environmental sustainability
Planning and infrastructure
Fiscal sustainability.
Transportation Improvement Program Survey Findings: “What are we going to do about it,” asked Communications Director Chad Coltman. Traffic congestion was the big issue respondents felt the city needs to address. Seventy two percent of the respondents would like to see the Woodin Avenue Bridge returned to two way traffic in hopes that it would alleviate downtown congestion and open a secondary evacuation route.
Seventy two percent of Chelan’s residents who responded to a survey requested that the Woodin Avenue Bridge be returned to two-way traffic.
The other option was to reverse the direction on the bridge to move traffic out of town. My opinion: I would like to see the traffic on the bridge reversed for an actual traffic study done during the high season to ascertain if it would actually help relieve traffic congestion on Johnson Avenue and Sanders Street to the light.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren said, “Regarding the return to a two-way bridge we will invest some time and effort to what that (process) looks like.” Mayor McCardle replied that hard cost numbers need to be assessed.
Councilman Bob Goedde has been a proponent of making the bridge two-way and reiterated his desire to see it returned. Youngren replied that the city has to be careful.
Councilman Brad Chitty stated that it was a hot topic and suggested that taking the foot traffic off the bridge might be an option. “There are other options out there.
Mayor McCardle stated that the most respected traffic consultants in the nation have provided actual traffic data for May through August.
Residents responding to the survey and attending the transportation meeting also want to see better walking/biking paths on both the south shore (in the works for construction in 2025) and north shore to ensure pedestrian safety.
Other issues that the public would like to see include:
Dedicated Parking areas
Better walking and biking paths
Improving intersections
Enhancing public transportation options
Safer access to schools
Mayor McCardle stated that the city has the tools to move forward and have identified which projects to move forward with in the next two years.
HR/Communications: Chad Coltman remarked that offers are out on the three major job opportunities within the city and that he is excited about the pool of talent that wants to work with the city.
Chad Coltman
Mayor/Council comments: Jon Higgens warned the council and staff that when “You step on toes and go in a different direction, people will stop engaging.”
Terry Sanders said the city has a good start on the issues. “Huge thank you to the Lakeside residents. I’m looking forward to common sense solutions”
Mayor McCardle talked about the valley’s tourism impact study which addresses the many impacts tourism has on the community. She also remarked on how much work it takes to run the city. Mentioned the upcoming Transportation Benefit District that is on the ballot in November and raises the sales tax a mere .03% (or 30 cents on every $100 spent on taxable goods. She wants the community to know that the city council is responsible for spending taxpayer dollars.
The next council meeting is on October 8. The community is welcome to attend.
Grizzly bear meeting tonight: Chelan County Commissioner Tiffany Gering told attendees at Tuesday evening’s Manson Community Council meeting that Wednesday evening from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Chelan County is hosting a “Living with Bears” meeting at Chelan Community Center.
Tiffany Gearing
“There will be several guests to help us out with the next steps if reintroduction of grizzly bears happens,” said Gering. Guest speaker Tina Jo Bradley, Chair of the Montana Conflict Reduction Consortium and Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Front Ranchlands Group, will be on hand to talk about living with grizzly bears.
Representatives from the National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife will also be on hand to explain how the reintroduction will go forward and how they arrived at the decision to put grizzly bears into the North Cascades ecosystem.
“People can share their concerns, but it’s already been decided,” stated Gering. The last sighting of a grizzly in the North Cascades was 1996.
Many people opposed to the reintroduction of grizzly’s say that if they wanted to be there, they would be there.
“Most people don’t support the effort,” explained Gering who added that the timeline has been M
This meeting should be of interest to anyone in the community that is concerned with an apex predator being introduced in the neighborhood. The big question is exactly where they will be released, but I’m sure Pacific Crest Trail users will be concerned and perhaps Stehekin residents
Manson Community Forum: The next Manson Community Forum is scheduled for October 15, beginning at 6 p.m. at Northshore Bible Church on Wapato Parkway. Manson school and Library representatives have already indicated that they will attend. “The Chelan/Douglas County Transportation Council will also be in attendance,” said Kari Sorenson-Krause. She expects other agencies and organizations to join.
Council chair Kari Sorenson-Krause
Community Collaboration meeting: A collaboration meeting between the Manson Chamber of Commerce and the council has tentatively been scheduled for 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 9 at 9 a.m. The purpose is to explored potential changes that could help the community and businesses. More information on this meeting will follow.
501 (C) 3 Councilman Mike Kirk reported on the steps for the council to become a 501 (C) 3 non-profit organization that would open up a number of opportunities for the council apply for grants and raise funding. He explained that the council needs to write bylaws as required by the federal government, provide a Tax Payer No. and an address. “Chris (Willoughby) has offered his address as the official address until we can get a Post Office Box,” said Kirk. “All council members will have to sign.”
Mike Kirk
Incorporation study: Kirk reported on the efforts to have an incorporation study conducted for Manson. “Some studies have been paid for by (representative) counties and others by the State Department of Commerce,” said Kirk. Gering replied that she would like to know how other counties have paid for incorporation studies. She asked Kirk to find out which counties have paid for studies and she would find out how they did it.
Kirk reported that the State Legislature would have to pass a resolution for the Department of Commerce to pay for a study which has cost $190,000 in the past. “We would like to kick it off in January,” said Kirk.
The study would help determine the pros and cons to incorporation.
He also suggested that the council invite the new elected officials to the December meeting. “By then we will know who will be our new county commissioner,” he said.
Totem Pole road project: Gering told the council that she didn’t have any good news on the county’s Totem Pole Road project. “It is still happening,” said Gering. “We are having trouble with funding. What was a $4 to $5 million project is now estimated at $9 million.”
The current plan stated Gering is to do the stormwater portion from Wapato Way to Green Avenue with Phase II up to the school in the early fall of next year. “We will start in 2026 while the county continues to find funding.”
Roses Lake contamination: Gering also reported that there is a bacteria toxin in Roses Lake and the recommendation is for small children or pets to stay out of that lake. Whatever this toxin is, it apparently disappears in winter. She said a sample is being sent to Ecology and that Mike Kaputa, Natural Resources director is following up on this report. He did not mention it at the Watershed Planning Unit meeting earlier in the week.
Gering also reported that the county was conducting a homeless housing survey to try an figure out where it can get information.
Post Fire Meeting: Gering said that the commissioners will be holding a post Pioneer Fire meeting with the National Park Service, Forest Service and DNR to air issues with the management of the fire. “We also are inviting Senators Cantwell and Murray, Representative Schier and Hilliary Franz. The sheriff will also be in attendance. No date has been set yet.
Short Term Rental issues: Change to the current codes in both the county and the City of Chelan are in front of their respective planning commissions.
Gering said that the county planning commission is asking why the STR code needs changing and what the problems are. “We will get answers to those questions to the planning commission next Tuesday at 10:15,” said Gering. It will be a ZOOM meeting for those wanting to attend.
Gering added that if you are operating without a permit, you are done. She said lodging taxes are down this year. “I think a lot of people are renting without a permit and not paying taxes.”
The county has received numerous calls from angry residents over how the STR renters are abusing the neighborhoods. This includes parking, loud parties, garbage and host of other things.
Kirk asked if the county was comparing current STR rentals with COVID. Gering replied that the county was going back 20 years.
Flint Hartwig, a candidate for Gering’s commission seat, was present at the meeting. He said after COVID things completely changed in the STR market. He also stated that the housing market is drying up. “After COVID everybody went to Mexico or Europe,” he said, adding, “the market is moving.”
Gering said that over the last two years, the county has received 170 complaints. There is a 24-hour complaint line on the County’s website – 509-293-4577.
Marcus Smith, an orchardist, said that people come to the valley for the open spaces. “If we don’t do something, it (agriculture) is going away.”
The next meeting will be the second COMMUNITY FORUM at North Shore Bible Church’s “Sowers Hall on October 15 beginning at 6 p.m.
“We are trying to preserve farm-lands and keep the area rural,” Chelan Planning Director John Ajax told a Chelan City Council Workshop on Tuesday, September 3
John Ajax – Community Development Director
Ajax and the Chelan Planning Commission have been struggling to come up with a change to the City’s existing Short Term Rental Code that would help keep the 400 acres of existing farmland in agriculture and maybe help create new agriculture.
Preserving agriculture in Chelan’s Special Use Districts to help keep the rural feel and cultural heritage is high on Chelan’s list of projects.
The change would provide options for property owners and growers to keep agriculture in place while supplementing their income with Short Term Rentals in Chelan’s Special Use District’s (SUD).
SUDs are designed to support and enhance agricultural operations; allow low impact educational and commercial uses for tourists that complements agriculture while providing an opportunity for lower density residential housing developments.
Proposed changes in the code would provide property owners and growers one STR on a minimum 2.5 acre lot with 1.25 acres dedicated to agriculture. The code’s criteria would require $1,000 profit after two years of operation.
Property owners would be allowed a single family home and one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) which can be attached or detached and can be up to 1,200 sq. ft. Both can be used as STRs.
This code change, if adopted would enhance agriculture tourism and promote small scale farming which would hopefully help preserve farms and potentially develop future farmers. It would also remove the Homestay Unit provisions of the code.
Lone Point cottages in Brewster.Lone Point Winery – Brewster
The proposal, if adopted, would help maintain a rural landscape and support the City’s goals of trying to preserve ag land and the fast disappearing rural landscape. It is hoped that keeping 1.25 acres in agriculture would help maintain Chelan’s agricultural roots and scenic open spaces while giving the land owner an opportunity to supplement the property owner’s income.
Much of the orchard land that used to exist in Chelan’s Special Use Districts has already disappeared.
Discussion: Councilman Tim Hollingsworth noted that farmers are struggling with increased costs, regulations and low revenue returns. “I would like to see the revenues that STR’s bring in.” Hollingsworth said some incentives need to be built into the code.
Mayor McCardle remarked, “What incentives do we have… we don’t have kids taking over the farms.” Hollingsworth replied that vacation rentals might be incentive enough.
Ajax said, “It’s tough finding that balance when land is going for $310,000 per acre. It’s very hard when an orchard doesn’t make a profit.” Hollingsworth replied that he thinks the City is on the right track.
Conclusion: If the code revisions are adopted, will they help keep the “Cultural Agriculture Heritage” alive in the Chelan Special Use Districts or will farmers make the hard decisions to tear the orchards out and sell their property at a premium price? Only time will tell.
Community Forum results: Chris Willoughby, vice-chair of the Manson Community Council, reported to his colleagues at Tuesday’s council meeting, that the Manson Community Forum was extremely successful.
“I’ve been getting feedback and most people want to continue to do this,” said Willoughby. “It worked really well.”
The Community Forum held at the Grange in Manson, had 93 people in attendance to get information from each agency and organization operating in the community. They heard reports of on-going project activity from the council; Manson Chamber of Commerce; Manson Parks Department and Fire District No. 5.
Chris Willoughby, vice chairman of the Council reported the results of the poll taken after the recent Community Forum that was attended by 93 residents and interested individuals.
In addition to the meeting, a poll was available for the public to rank issues based on community importance. Willoughby’s written report to the Council stated the forum was a great way to get information out to a larger group who didn’t have the time to attend each groups meetings.
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Following are the survey results from the Manson Community Forum ranked in order of importance:
Traffic flow into and out of Manson on Highway 150. (This is also a major transportation issue in Chelan.).
Affordable housing. (Affordable Housing is another major issue in the Valley. No affordable housing for local residents is forcing them to relocate).
Protecting Agriculture lands and ag based opportunities. (Small family farms are finding it increasingly tough to stay in business because of regulations, increasing costs and low or not profits off the ag products. This is forcing many struggling to farm to sell their land which then becomes developed sub-divisions.}.
Rising property taxes and assessments. (Many residents in the valley are complaining about rising property taxes.)
Creating ag business opportunities. (agritourism, adding value added products to the farms or other means to increase sustainability of the valley’s agricultural base.).In
Youth activities during non-school hours.
Several other issues lower on the scale of importance included Incorporation of Manson, Lake Chelan Water Quality, Downtown business diversity, Crime and Drug concerns and Transit expansion into more remote areas of the community.
It was suggested that the Council hold a Community Forum quarterly. A date for that meeting will be decided on in the near future.
Colville Tribe Project: It was reported that the proposed Coville Casino/Resort project has grown to a one-quarter of a billion dollar facility with a conference center. “We should ask them to come and address us,” said Kari Sorenson. “The project keeps getting larger.”
Bob Goedde, Chelan City Council liaison with Manson, said that there was a conference meeting with the Colville’s last week and that Mayor Erin McCardle reported to the Council that the project was on hold indefinitely until the Tribe’s Tri Cities project was completed.
In other business: Kari Sorenson brought up the right-of-way issue on Pedoi Street. “I still have an issue of the wall in the middle of the right-of-way,” she said. Mike Kirk suggested she ask the county engineer about it. Willoughby replied that neighbors down the street were asking why they were being affected but not the property owners who have the wall.
Right of Way infringement on Pedoi Street is being addressed by Chelan County. One major issue is the home with a concrete wall built over the right of way and residents are wondering what the County plans on doing about it.
“There are some things there that need to be addressed,” said Willoughby
Kari Sorenson and Chris Willoughby were confronted by the home owner about parking in front of their home despite the fact that is on Community property and open to parking.
NOTE: After the council meeting an altercation between the homeowner, Sorenson and Willoughby took place in front of his home. Since his property is on a public street, vehicles are allowed to park adjacent to the illegal wall. The issue is probably going to heat up in the future.
Candidate forum: It was suggested that the council host a Candidate Forum in September with those candidates still in the November race for elected positions. Locations being considered are the Performing Arts Center or Riverwalk Park. “Let’s put it up to the candidates and if they can’t show, they can’t show,” said Sorenson. The date for the forum was set for Thursday, September 17 with a time and venue to be announced later.
Our Valley – Our Future: John Olson brought up the on-going Lake Chelan Vision Project and asked everyone to take the community survey. Goedde said the Council needs to ask Mayor McCardle to include them. “It’s more of a ‘What works now and what worked when you were younger… more of a philosophical event,” said Goedde.
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Northshore Pathway update: Apparently, the Northshore Pathway project has been taken over by the Chelan/Douglas County Transportation Council. The next meeting of the transportation council will be in August. “At some point I’d like to see them open it to the public,” stated Willoughby.
Mike Kirk brought up the need for the Manson Community Council to live stream its meetings. Sorenson stated they had tried in the past but couldn’t get it to work. “It needs someone more technologically advanced than I am,” she said. “I’m out of it.”
Kirk also stated that the Council needs some sort of website where a database and email functions can be used. Willoughby added that a website would help to get community members on board. He suggested that they look at IONOS as a domain and website possibility.
Manson Fire preparation: Willoughby said that strike teams have been going through the Manson neighborhoods and looking at structural integrity and risks. “They have been evaluating the area for fire”
Singleton Park in Manson is now the home of firefighters working the Pioneer Fire.
Evacuation protocols were also being explored because of the one road in and one road out. “It would not be viable with resources coming and residents trying to get out. Most fire management types feel that Manson residents would be safe at the high school or other downtown locations from any fire that might enter north Manson.
On Tuesday evening, July 9, Chelan’s Council Chambers filled with unhappy residents over the Fourth of July parking and fireworks issues.
The July 4 Fire on Chelan Butte was handled quickly by Chelan Fire & Rescue.
Citizens Comments: Many of these residents live on Chelan Butte or in the Lakeside community. Margie Lynch, a longtime Butte resident summed up the parking issue by telling the Council that the Butte Road had cars, not only parked on both sides of the road, but double parked. “It became increasingly difficult for emergency vehicles to access the area,” she said. She added that she visited both the Sheriff’s Department and Fire Station where she was told to call RiverCom with her issues. “There was just enough room for my car to drive between the parked cars all the way to the switchback.”
Another resident stated that Lakeside Park is full at 7 a.m. “How do we monitor the parks,” she asked. She also mentioned that vehicles were driving up the Butte Road to Daybreak to watch the fireworks. She, along with others, are concerned about fire.
Another resident told the Council the Sheriff’s Department deputies told her they didn’t have time to write tickets and who would show up in court over a $30 ticket anyway. Her bigger concern was fire risk and the homeowner insurance companies view of that fire risk which is raising insurance or cancelling it.
Another resident addressed the fireworks issue with not enough resources to deal with illegal fireworks. “When the Butte fire started, there were still fireworks going off. We are all losing fire insurance for our homes.”
Mayor McCardle replied to the Citizens that the city needs to work on tougher long-term solutions.
Linda Sydloski brought up safety concerns on the Union Valley Road. “It is so treacherous with the fire traffic and dump trucks. There are no curbs… no guardrails and the dump trucks speed down the road.” She thought it would be good to put speed bumps in to slow traffic.
Parks & Recreation Professional Day Proclamation: This proclamation couldn’t have come on a better day,” said Mayor McCardle. “All of our parks were full this past week. Thank you very much Paul.” She then read the proclamation and entered it into the record.
Mayor McCardle
Parks Proclamation: WHEREAS, the City Council of Chelan recognizes that the citizens of Chelan desire to enjoy the benefits of modern, safe, and well-designed parks and facilities that enhance their quality of life, positively impact their health, foster community cohesion, drive economic activity, and protect our environment; and
WHEREAS, the City Council acknowledges that tourism is a primary economic sector for Chelan, that tourists visit to enjoy our lake, and that almost all the publicly accessible lakefront is stewarded by the Chelan Parks Department, with visitors’ impressions of the parks significantly influencing their opinions and memories of our community; and
WHEREAS, the City Council recognizes that the operations of Chelan’s Parks Department receive no taxpayer funding and that the Parks Department contributes to downtown beautification, supports other City departments, and benefits our taxpayers at large; and
WHEREAS, the City Council commends Chelan’s park professionals for their dedication to serving the public, providing exemplary customer service, and enriching our community through their work in managing commercial enterprises, maintaining facilities, and developing a strategic plan for the continuous improvement of the parks system into the future; NOW, THEREFORE, IT BE RESOLVED, I, Erin McCardle, Mayor of Chelan, do hereby proclaim July 19, 2024, as “Park and Recreation Professionals Day” in Chelan Washington. Dated this 9th day of July 2024.
Assistant Parks Director: City Council is considering the hiring of an Assistant Parks and Recreation Director who’s position will have an emphasis on Capital Planning and Management of the $24 million dollars of capital projects the Chelan Parks department has on its PROS plan schedule.
“This is to alert the Council to a position that has been discussed for a long time,” Parks Director Paul Horne told the Council at its Tuesday evening, July 9 meeting. “The positions focus will be on capital projects.”
The search for this position will be done in-house and by the new Human Resource Director Chad Coltman who stated that once the job description is finished and approved, the search for the new director would be handled internally through the National Parks Recreation Association. “This will be a full time, non-represented position,” said Coltman. “There are sufficient funds to pay for it,” he added. The position would also be added to the upcoming 2025 budget.
Chad Coltman is the City’s new Human Resources and Communications Director. He will be heading up the search for the new Assistant Parks Director once the position is approved by Council.
Horne asked that the position be put on the next Council meeting’s Consent Agenda.
Mark Ericks asked about the delta funding for this new position description. Coltman replied that it is around $20,000, which takes into account the expanded scope of the new position.
Mayor McCardle added that the position has been in discussion for several months which included whether the position should be union or administrative. “We should have been hiring for this position much earlier,” said Mayor McCardle.
While the primary function of the job will be to assist on capital planning and management, the new employee will also assist in overall Parks operations and, when necessary, stand in for the director when he is unavailable or out of office.
In other City business: City Council unanimously approved a $110,105 bid by Rudnick and Sons, LLC for the Bradley Street and Johnson Avenue Intersection improvements. This work will be accomplished before the school year begins and will allow teachers and school kids to cross from the Community Gym to MOE safely. The project is 90 percent grant funded.
Council also approved a General Services Agreement for on-call survey work with Erlandsen, Inc.
Council approved a Task Order No. 1 – 2024 for Right of Way Dedication Utility Easement No. 1, and Utility Easement No. 2 for the Anderson Road Project. “We have a memorandum agreement with Chelan Fruit for a utility easement through their property,” said Jake Youngren, public works director.
Mayor/Council Comments: Terry Sanders said he appreciated the public comment regarding fires, fireworks and parking issues.
Bob Goedde said Chelan had a totally different crowd over the Fourth of July. “Traffic was terrible and there was fireworks going off all night long… I guess you can’t fix stupid,” said a disgusted Goedde.
Brad Chitty echoed Goedde’s comments. “I remember when we had police here from Seattle to help.”
Jon Higgins thanked the firefighters for all of their work to keep the community safe. He also agrees that parking has become a major issue in the downtown area.
Mark Ericks brought up the fireworks issue and said, “I don’t get it. We had a fire up on the Butte. We need to come up with a game plan.”
Tim Hollingsworth said people need to take personal responsibility for their actions. Regarding parking, Hollingsworth said there has been considerable discussion in the past. “We don’t have the capacity. The parks are abused and overcrowded,” said Hollingsworth.
Mayor McCardle echoed all the comments regarding the issues during the Fourth of July week. “A lot of things happened this weekend. We had incidents on the water. We are sitting here on Tuesday discussing parking issues, but there are so many other issues to consider.”
She added that the City has to get on top of the parking and fireworks issues.
City Council meets every second and fourth Tuesday at 6 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The Public is encouraged to attend.
Last week was busy in the Valley as the U.S. Open for Paragliding competition continued each day, Chelan City Council heard from the Boys and Girls Club guy and the Humane Society gave a presentation to the Council.
On Friday evening and all day Saturday the Battle of the Butte River Surfing competition went on.
So I’m just now getting to the City Council report. The Battle will be reported on separately.
City Council meeting – 6.25.24 Consulting agreement: The Council approved a $20,000 amendment at $155 per hour for Tower Consulting to continue helping the City with grants and funding applications.
On a ZOOM meeting, Analise Noble went through the grants and funding applications that were funded, denied, or pending. These applications are listed below.
2023 FUNDING – Awarded – RCO LPM | $100K | Chelan Parks Surface Maintenance of Parking Lots – Awarded – ECY CWSRF | $222K | Stormwater Management Action Plan – Awarded – ECY CWSRF | $5.41M | Sewer Collection Improvements 2024 FUNDING March – Pending – Rep. Schrier CDS | $2.8M | Lake Chelan Shared-Use Community Connector Pathway – Not Awarded – Chelan Co. LTAC | $50K | Chelan Gorge Park Improvements April – Pending – Senator Cantwell CDS | $2.8M | Lake Chelan Shared-Use Community Connector Pathway – Pending – Senator Murray CDS | $2.5M | East Chelan Water Reservoir Project – Pending – DOT SS4A | $177K | Transportation Safety Action Plan – Not awarded – RCO COAF | $840K | Chelan Gorge Baseball Diamond Improvements May – Pending – WSDOT PBP | $2.2M | Apple Blossom Multiuse Trail Project June – Pending – WSDOT SRTS | $267K | Farnham-Webster Pedestrian Safety Project – Pending – Chelan Co. CPIF | $300K | Washington St. Water Booster Pump Station Capacity Summer 2024 – Anticipated – US ACE | $TBD | TBD (Water System Improvements) – Anticipated – Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation | $TBD | TBD (Baseball Recreational Improvements) – Anticipated – TIB | $TBD | TBD (Transportation Improvements)
Fulcrum Management Solutions – AI data management: This issue was brought down from the consent agenda due to concerns by several city council members.
Tim Hollingsworth was mostly concerned with using a new application platform to gather community input. He was worried about how the data collected would be used and that the City might be prone to just accept the data. “It is expensive,” he said. “There is a more human process fr a city our size,” Hollingsworth added. “I’m not opposed to new technology.”
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth
Mark Ericks said he shared some of the same concerns. “I’m in favor of technology,” said Ericks, who thought there was a broader range of options. Brad Chitty stated that he was aligned with the platform, but wanted to review it for cost.
Mayor McCardle remarked that it was only a one-year contract and was more than willing to address the council’s concerns. “This type of platform opens the door with the community.”
Mayor Erin McCardle
McCardle added that the program does not make the decisions for the City. “We need to use it to do more with less,” stated McCardle. Hollingsworth said, “As long as we have our eyes open.” Bob Goedde worried about older residents dealing with new technology.
Terry Sanders said the school district is using AI and that it is a great tool. “It is not necessarily a decision making tool,” said Sanders.
The consultant explains that the AI ThoughtExchange platform is an engagement and research tool that deepens engagement and helps to provide faster, easier analysis and actions.
The AI platform will hopefully all the City Staff to create more robust engagement strategies with the residents and enable internal feedback amongst employees. The cost for the one-year contract is $25,000 which will be split amongst the different departments.
The first year breakdown is as follows:
30% administration
Community Development and Public Works will pay $7,500 each.
Parks and Finance will pay $1,250 each.
The council unanimously approved the contract.
Boys and Girls Club: Executive Director Bill Tsoukalas of the Snohomish Boys and Girls Club gave a major presentation to City Council in an effort to secure the remaining $230,000+ dollars left in the City’s ARPA fund (American Rescue Plan Act).
The Club has expanded to eastern Washington and Tsoukalas sees Chelan as one missing piece of the franchise. The Club is located in Tri-Cities, Spokane and Moses Lake. “You have a great asset here,” said Tsoualas. The Club will be renting 7,000 sq. ft. of space the Center and will also be in charge of managing the building.
One of the major concerns the Council has is the Club competing with organizations like Thrive which is already serving a segment of the communities youth population.
“We don’t want to compete. We want to fill the gap and give kids multiple choices.” Tsoukalas added that he had a great meeting with Thrive on how they can work together. He told the Council that the real gap in the community is the three to five year old population. “This is what we want to fill,” he added.
The Club would be open before and after school for parents who have to work, and during non-school days, they would be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The influx of capital ARPA funds would help the Club kick-start its occupation of the Community Center with desks to computers. “It is a one time investment you would make.” He stated that the rest of the $450,000 needed would come from other sources.
The other issue is getting the Community Center licensed with the State. “We don’t restrict anybody,” he said. “It is a financial risk for us.”
Brad Chitty stated he had worked with the Boys and Girls Club in the past, but was concerned at how fast the Council was rolling this out. He asked about computers and Tsoukalas replied that the club got into technology more than they used too.
Councilman Brad Chitty.
Chitty said, “There are things that cost a lot of money.” He suggested looking for a computer donation solution when a company upgrades. Chitty was also trying to separate the Community Center and the Boys and Girls Club. “I’m confused… you need to pay the rent for five years up front?”
Tsoukalas replied that the rent was taken care of. Asked about employment, Tsoukalas replied that up to five would be employed; one to two full-time and the rest half-time plus volunteers.
Mark Ericks, who has been involved with the Boys and Girls club in the past said, “I’ve witnessed the benefits. No question about that.” Ericks concern was diluting the work of other organizations and stated that the City needs to continue supporting them. Tsoukalas replied that the organization would not be competing for donations from the City. “Our revenue streams will be generated by activities.”
Councilman Mark Ericks
He continued… “We have the means to raise money. We are not going to come back to the City and say we need help. The investment you are making is a one time investment.”
Shari Dietrich asked about transportation. Tsoukalis replied that had to be figured out. Possibly the use of school buses or LINK. “We prefer not to be in the transportation business because of the liability. It will be a challenge to figure that out.”
Terry Sanders stated that the community works closely with Thrive. “It is one organization that can’t fill all the gaps. My question is what are those lines?”
Dietrich asked if a local person(s) would be employed? “We don’t have anybody identified yet.” Every potential employee would have to go through a background check.
Mayor McCardle ended the conversation with the fact that Chelan has a large youth population. “There are kids that don’t play sports. Where do they go?” McCardle says the community is extremely lucky to have the Boys and Girls Club looking at the community.
McCardle added that the organization would be a huge youth benefit. “We are open to have more conversations with you.”
While the decision to use the remaining ARPA funds hasn’t been made, the Council will continue to discuss and make a decision soon.
Humane Society: Humane Society representatives gave the Council and update on their activities in the Chelan area. While they work mostly with dogs and cats, other animals, domestic and wild are also a part of their work.
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Mark Ericks asked what response time can be expected? The representative replied that they always have an officer in the area, so response times should be short.
The Society is working with the private group trapping feral cats. Veternarians are also a part of the system to spay and neuter animals. The cost is $45.
Administrative reports: City Administrator Wade Farris told the Council that efforts to find an Airport Manager are ongoing. He directed anyone looking for employment with the City to visit the City’s website for current positions open. News Flash • Now Hiring | Multiple Positions Open (cityofchelan.us) .
Parks Director Paul Horne said the department is putting the finishing touches on the Park Street Micro Park with a library. “We will have an opening ceremony soon.”
Mayor/Council Comments: Mark Ericks asked about the different marina rental agreements. City Clerk Peri Gallucci replied that the difference in marina rentals is day rentals versus year leases
Jon Higgins also asked about parking enforcement. Horne said the first person hired didn’t work out. Higgins agreed that it is a tough job. “We are having trouble filling that position,” said Horne.
Brad Chitty wants more information on ARPA funds. “We need more time to hash that out.”
Terry Sanders mentioned the Boys and Girls Club and how the City can get the most bang for their buck and not have to dip into the general fund.
Mayor McCardle remarked that the $9 million dollar request for the East Chelan Water System has made it through to the next federal legislative step .
The next City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 9 at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers. The Public is encouraged to attend.
A number of projects were highlighted at the Manson Community Forum held at the Grange Hall on Tuesday, June 18. Ninety three people were in attendance to hear from the Manson Chamber of Commerce, Manson Parks Department, Manson Community Council and Chelan County Fire District No. 5.
Ninety three Manson residents attended the Manson Community Forum on June 18.
Manson Community Council Vice Chairman Chris Willoughby moderated the Forum. Willoughby is also a District 5 Fire Commissioner and a candidate for the open County Commission seat.
Chris Willoughby, moderator for the evening and vice chairman of the Manson Community Council told those in attendance, “I hope this meeting works for you.” He added that there would be another community meeting in the Fall.
As a candidate for Chelan County Commissioner, Chirs Willoughby graciously gave his three opponents an opportunity to talk.
Brant Cappell, a former staff assistant for Representative Keith Goehner is also a candidate for Chelan County Commissioner.
First up was Brandt Cappell. Cappell has been Representative Keith Goehner’s staff assistant told the audience that he wants to make sure that “we have good representation with the county.”
Retired developer Flint Hartwig stated that he wants to get the County’s essential services done. “I want to get stuff done… get stuff built… fix the potholes… roads, the essential services of Government. “I am very heartened to see you all showing up,” said Hartwig. “I mean that.”
Senator Brad Hawkins said he will bring a lot of experience to the table. “I want a balanced budget and reduced wildfire risk,” said Hawkins. He also stated that it was awesome that Chris Willoughby allowed them some time to speak.
Flint Hartwig is a retired developer running to Chelan County Commission.
Senator Brad Hawkins, is also a candidate for Chelan County Commissioner.
Chris Willoughby informed the audience that he grew up as a farm kid and is stlll an apple orchardist. “I’m community first,” said Willoughby. He added that it is important to confront the issues at hand like the failing agriculture business in the Valley.
Chris Willoughby, a Manson Apple Grower and community advocate is also running for the Commission seat.
Fire District No. 5: Chief Arnold Baker stated that the Pioneer Fire currently burning up lake is a little bit concerning. He mentioned that the Incident Command has heavy equipment reinforcing Grade Creek and opening up old fire breaks from Coyote Ridge all the way down to Lake Chelan. “This fire is going to be here all summer,” said Baker. His concern is a wind event that spots the fire towards Manson.
“In 2002 we had the Deer Point Fire and in 2001 the Rex Creek Fire.” The Deer Point Fire threatened Manson and Rex Creek Fire where the Pioneer fire is currently burning, burnt 60,000 acres.
The 2001 Rex Creek Fire where the Pioneer Fire is currently burning, burnt 60,000 acres before winter set in. The Pioneer Fire is burning deadfall from that fire. Photo by Richard Uhlhorn from Junior Point.
“My job is to plan for the worst,” said Baker. “We are in the planning phase.” Baker went on to say later in the presentation that Manson has lost its green belt to housing developments.
2024 Levy: Baker told the audience that the 2014 Levy is expiring at the end of the year. Property owners are paying $.89 per Thousand and that with the increase in Manson’s property values, the District will be asking for $.75/$1000.
Manson’s fire district is completely volunteer based with only three paid positions. “We are not going to stop recruiting,” said Baker. Six to seven volunteers are still in training to become certified. The District also has some younger volunteers who are interested in Fire as a Career Path.
Fire Chief Arnold Baker
The District is in the process of building an 8,000 sq. ft. Training Facility which will include a residency program. “We’ve already got districts wanting to be a part of the residency program.”
Foundation permit applications are in to the County and Baker hopes to begin construction next spring. The training center will train firefighters how to fight structural fires and wildland fires. Baker also remarked that Chelan and Manson are training together. “The good old days are back when we can work together.”
The District and Hospital/EMS provide Advanced Life Support and the fire department is certified to transport victims
The new Levy will be on the August ballot. The levy that is retiring was a 10-year levy, but Baker said the new levy will be permanent. “I can’t tell you how to vote,” said Baker, but a loss at the polls would cost the District approximately $400,000. “That is going to hurt.”
Manson Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber is operating with nine board members and is looking for more volunteers to carry out their mission.
The Manson Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Executive Director Timi Starkweather.
Executive Director Timi Starkweather stated that she is excited about how the Chamber is going to grow. Projects the Chamber is working on includes
Painting the downtown light posts
Developing pocket parks
“We’ve partnered with Wapato Point for pickleball,” said Bill Swayne. “We really want to build that into a National event.” The last event had 160 to 200 players but the Chamber is hoping to build the event to 300 to 500.
More information is available at https//mansonchamber.com. The Chamber is open from 9 to 5, Monday through Friday and then from 8 to 5 on Saturday and Sunday.
Manson Parks: Robin Pittman, director of Manson Parks began her presentation with weekly events that take place. The department has an AAU program for baseball, basketball, T-Ball and soccer.
Manson Park Director Robin PIttman.
Pittman detailed the department’s big upcoming projects which include the new bathroom at Willow Point, the Dog Park at the Old Swim Hole which is fully funded. This project will also include a non-motorized dock for kayaks and canoes and a board walk from Park to Park. “This is funded through the Public Power Benefit Fund,” said Pittman. The cost is $1.3 million dollars. This project has to be completed by 2025.
The department has brought back lifeguards at the Manson Bay Park. “We are the only swimming area that has lifeguards in the Lake Chelan Valley.
The Chelan Swim Foundation offers free swimming lessons because of generous donations from the public. “It’s brought to you by you guys,” stated Pittman.
Leffler Field was jointly purchased by Manson Parks and the Manson School District. “We are looking at buying the School District out,” said Pittman. “That will free us up for more grants,” She added. The cost for the buyout is $575,000.
The field has a lead/arsenic which will be capped. Two development plans were offered at the meeting for attendees to participate by putting colored dots on what they liked. LINK Transit has proposed building a transit center at the property.
Old Mill Park “We are working with the PUD on several projects at Old Mill Park,” Pittman said. One of those projects is the development of a swimming area. Pittman noted that they can’t keep people out.
Wapato Lake Campground: The department also takes care of the campground at Wapato Lake.
Pittman thanked everyone for passing the Park’s levy. “It’s the barebones things that are important,” she said.
All Things Lake Chelan 