Lakeside Surf will be offering plenty of surfing action over the Labor Day weekend.
The Event: It’s one of the most exciting action packed events of the year. On Labor Day weekend some of the best river surfers in the world will be in Chelan competing to compete for some of the $40,000 in cash prizes at the first biennial Gerry Lopez River Surf Invitational.
The History: Over the past three years, Lakeside Surf has hosted an annual Continental Surf Cup featuring a European team against the best surfers from around the region. The highly successful Continental Surf Cup has been put on hold until next year to make way for the Gerry Lopez River Surf Invitational.
“It relieves some of the tension to be here,” said Robert Bordner. “The logistics of traveling here is challenging for the Europeans.” Obtaining team visas is one of the main challenges.
The Gerry Lopez event gives individual surfers from around the world to come and compete on one of the best standing river surf waves in the world.
The Venue: Lakeside Surf has become one of the most enjoyable and stunning venues anywhere on the planet. Situated above Waterslides, Lakeside Surf offers both spectators and surfers an engaging experience. Spectators are always free and surfers, new and experienced have an exciting, adrenaline fueled rush of fast moving water 51 feet wide and up to six feet tall. The views from the location is also stunning offering a spectacular scene of Lake Chelan stretching out to the surrounding orchards and vineyards and mountains.
Lakeside Surf’s venue offers plenty of seating for spectators. Spectators are always free.
The Competition: With $40,000 at stake, the Gerry Lopez River Surf Invitational will see a number of male and female surfers from around the world compete against each other in a variety of segments from tricks to open surfing competition.
Beginning on Wednesday, August 27, the Pros will have a practice session beginning at 12:45 p.m. and again beginning at 5:45 p.m.
On Thursday, August 28, The pros will again have some practice times, but actual competition begins with the Round 1 of the Open Amateur competition at 5:45 through7:15 p.m. Round 2 takes place on Friday, August 29 from 3 p.m to 4:30 p.m. with the finals from 7:15 to 8:45 p.m.
The top male and female surfers in the Open Amateur comp. will fill the final roster in the Gerry Lopez Invitational
Saturday’s Professional competition will begin with Heats # 1 followed by the Best Trick session and finishing up around 9:30 p.m. with the Best Trick & Grab session.
Sunday’s competition will begin at 2:30 p.m. with Standard Heat #2 followed by the Semi finals and Finals with an Awards show following.
The Competitors: There are a number of local surfers on the list of professionals that fans will recognize and cheer for. High on that list is Cash Eygabroad who won this year’s Battle of the Butte competition with some incredible surfing. He’s joined in the pro ranks by Ben Benson who is a major challenger of Eygabroad’s. Liam O’Driscoll, Elijah Moody, Jared Eygabroad (Cash’s dad) and Logan Watson fill out some of the local surfers who will be challenging the surfers traveling to Chelan to try and claim some of that cash up for grabs.
On the ladies side, there is Cash Hoover who is from Hawaii, but is a well known Lakeside surfer. She is joined by Sierra White, Reese Bordner, Kale Funston and Madeline Cowan.
Sponsor Involvement: Want your business to be front and center. Lakeside Surf has a number of options for you to consider. Join Rocket Apples, File Boats and other sponsors of this competition and be seen by hundred’s of spectators for as little as $200.00
Apple Blossom Development changes: What is affordable in the housing market? That has been an ongoing debate. We all know that the Weidner apartments will rent at market rate prices.
At the Chelan City Council meeting on Tuesday, August 12, the council passed Ordinance No. 2025-1640 Amendment No. 1 to the Apple Blossom Center Development Agreement.
This agreement will increase the density of the development from the assumed number of 720 units to an estimated 828 units. Chelan Apartments might develop up to 64 cottage units while Weidner and Chelan Apartments will add no more than 80 450 sq. ft. micro units.
Initially, Weidner plans on constructing 250 apartment building and increasing that to 450 if their initial investment is rented.
It was rumored that the micro units might rent for approximately $1,500 per month which in many minds is not affordable. I reached out to Weidner’s Development Director, Nick Nowotarski about micro unit and cottage rents. He replied that the Leavenworth micro units were renting for $1,000 per month. “As market rate housing, the rents for the micros will be determined by what people are willing to pay.” Weidner is not planning on building any cottage units.
Chelan Community Development Director, John Ajax, stated in his opening report that the micro units are about the ability to provide affordable units.
Council members all have concerns with the increased density, parking and increased traffic. Ajax addressed the potential traffic issues by reporting that currently there are no plans to alter traffic flow. “There might be a roundabout at the Walmart intersection,” said Ajax. “Weidner would be making some contribution to that intersection.”
Terry Sanders is concerned with proper infrastructure being in place along with serious concerns about traffic, etc.
“Traffic is something we are going to have to address,” said Brad Chitty. Mark Ericks added that potential traffic problems need to be addressed before they arise.
Both Sanders and Jon Higgins voted No on the amendment due to their concerns.
With the Ordinance in place, Weidner and Chelan Apartments have a clear road to increasing the density of the development.
Unit Lot Subdivisions: City Council unanimously approved an ordinance allowing Unit Lot Subdivisions as required by a state law passed in 2023. This law required short plat regulations for all cities, towns and counties.
The law allows the division of a parent lot into separately owned unit lots. Portions of the parent lot not subdivided will be owned by the owners of the individual lots or by the homeowners association.
These four units are an example of subdividing a parent lot into four individual lots.
Jon Higgins asked where these lots would be allowed. Ajax replied parent lots could be subdivided everywhere in the city. Tim Hollingsworth asked about covenents.
Lynette Grandy is concerned tht building heights will ruin iconic views within the city and buildings that don’t represent the communities small town historic architecture. “The look like shipping containers,” she remarked.
Lynette Grandy and friend addressed city council regarding the new law allowing parent lots being subdivided.
Grandy would like to hear more public testimony on the subject.
Downtown Sewer/Water project: City Staff requested its consultant, Ardurra Group Inc., to provide an Additional Services Addendum (ASA) for the Lift Station No. 1 Improvements Project.
Jake Youngren, public works director, told the council that the work encompasses all the requirements by the Department of Ecology. The city is working with Chelan County PUD on the lift station remodel that will become a main feature of the Riverwalk Park property.
Youngren reported that adequate funds are available. The PUD is estimated to pay $85,100 as their portion of the work. The total additional services amount is $241,842.
The pumphouse located at the northwest end of Riverwalk Park will be removed and remodeled.
The design ASA includes the following additional work:
Coordination with Chelan County PUD regarding the landscape architecture components and park features to be installed as part of the lift station project. 2) Geotechnical support to understand and mitigate potential soil contamination as well as soil mechanics. 3) Completion of environmental permitting requirements established by the Department of Ecology as part of the funding agreement. 4) Inclusion of gravity sewer design elements for a gravity sewer pipeline upgrade along Columbia Street between Johnson Avenue and Lift Station No. 1.
The council unanimously passed this ordinance.
Lakeside Park bid award: Chelan Parks Department, after rejecting its first bids on the Lakeside Park project, rebid the project after working with Berger Associates to revise the project plans, accepted the rebid by Cascade Central Construction. The new base bid was $1,279,299.21. The original scope of work included restroom and playground renovations, a new ADA compliant walkway, beach improvements and other park enhancements.
During the community comment period at the beginning of the council meeting, Lakeside resident Barry DePaoli told the council that there has been some improvement at the park but that he has seen multiple violations of the new rules without consequences and that the security team has no backup from the Sheriff’s Department. He also told the council that he is disappointed that he was told to stop providing feedback in the collaboration process. “We want to be a part of the process,” he stated.
The work has been scaled back resulting in reducing the cost of the base bid by $234,000. Cost-reduction efforts in the revised bid included reducing finishes within the restroom building, square footage of beach enhancement, square footage of concrete pathways, and some site furnishings.
The project will begin in early September.
In addition: The in-water work for the Lakeside Park Renovation Project was bid separately for the installation of a new T-dock and beach enhancements to the designated swimming area.
The Dock Company bid $ 231,748.60 for the work. The total project exceeds the budgeted amount by $250,000 and the Parks Department is seeking approval to reallocate funds from its shoreline access and road-end parks funds which has $379.115 available. This will require a budget amendment.
Tim Hollingsworth asked it the department is sure the city needs to have docks at Lakeside. He cited potential conflicts with watercraft users and the swimmers. “We need to think outside the box on Lakeside.”
The existing docks at Lakeside Park are heavily used
Parks Director Paul Horne replied that Hollingsworth’s question was a valid one but that the docks are constantly in use by people. Horne feels that the Sheriff’s Marine Patrol can help with inappropriate watercraft use at the docks.
Lakeside resident Tammy Haig told the council that she encourages the city to pursue its pocket parks. She also mentioned that the Butte developer is now asking for a booster pump for water and warned the council that 1300 acres could potentially be developed under its TA zoning.
Administrative reports: Communications Director Chad Coltman recognized several employees for outstanding work and in particular, Deputy City Clerk Cailey Couch who has taken all the classes necessary to become a full-fledge certified clerk. “Her understanding of the profession is an important aspect of the job.”
Deputy City Clerk Cailey Couch
City Administrator Wade Farris said, “The city clerk is extremely important and having a backup is helpful.”
Jake Youngren reported that his department had to put divers into the lake to help seal a sewer leak.
Paul Horne remarked that the City’s parks are a lot more family friendly this season.
A weekend day at Don Morse Park.
Farris remarked that crowds were overwhelming at times and that there were still some problems. “We still have lots of work to do,” said Farris. He added that the Sheriff’s Department is stretched thin.
Mayor/Council comments: Terry Sanders stated that Lakeside Park “is a work in progress.” He would like to see increased signage at the park.
Brad Chitty said he appreciates public input. “It’s how we get things done.”
Tim Hollingsworth stated that he doesn’t want to lose the pocket park projects.
Mayor McCardle remarked that hundreds of hours of staff time have been devoted to the Lakeside Park issues. “You will find a much more family friendly park at Lakeside,” she said. McCardle said that not listening to the residents is a bit frustrating.
Volunteers will help restore the shores of Lake Chelan this coming Saturday, April 12 as the third annual Restore the Beach project gets underway at 9:30 a.m.
The third annual Restore the Beach event will take place on Saturday, April 12 at various locations around the lake. It is a chance for the community to help the lake’s beaches clean of debris and trash that gets dropped into the lake when it is full.
This map shows this year’s areas for volunteers to work the beaches.
This year’s event will begin at the Lake Chelan Marina parking lot and other locations around the lake (see map). The idea is to pick up and remove as much trash as possible throughout the morning hours.
Anna Galipeau, an environmental engineer with a passion for trash in the environment will be on hand this Saturday to help volunteers work the beaches on Lake Chelan.
“This is my passion project,” said Anna Galipeau, an employee at the Lake Chelan Research Institute (LCRI).
Her passion began in high school where students were asked to pick a community impact project. “I decided to pick up trash and thought it was interesting” She was fascinated by the diversity of trash she collected.
Anna Galipeau collecting trash on a Lake Chelan beach.
Her passion for trash has led her to individually work several areas around the lake including State Park, Manson beaches and Willow Point Park area. It is amazing the stuff she has recovered from the lakeshore.
Phil Long, director of the Lake Chelan Reseach Institute will help direct volunteers to beaches around the lake.
Phil Long, Institute director said, “Students from the Chelan Project do a log of heavy lifting.” April Slagle’s environmental class works the beach at Chelan River and along the beach at the Chelan Ranger District.
On Saturday,the main group will meet at the City Marina Parking Lot. Meeting at the parking lot is optional, and you are more than welcome to go directly to your preferred cleanup site. Please “bring your own bag or bucket”, preferably reusable, because we want to minimize our environmental impact while we restore the beach.
At the parking lot, students from The Chelan Project will be organizing groups to cover specific sections of beach. A certain number of canvas bags and 5-gallon buckets will be provided for people to use, but we ask that you please return them to us at the end of the cleanup.
April Slagle’s Chelan Project Volunteers last year.
If you are cleaning up a section of shoreline that is not highlighted on the map, please let us know the general location of where you picked up trash by texting Anna at 425-765-4449. This helps us create a comprehensive analysis of how much lakeshore was restored!
This year, Restore the Beach will be utilizing an app called TrashBlitz created by the 5 Gyres Institute to create a log of all the trash that is collected. The app is free to download on Google Play or the App Store and can be found at https://www.5gyres.org/trashblitz.
Paper forms will also be provide so participants can log their trash in place of utilizing the app. Because we want to make sure that we are documenting all the trash that is collected, there is also the option to drop off your collected trash at our office location at 601 W. Woodin Avenue. Bins will be placed outside of the office for you to leave your collected trash in.
For those individuals or groups who will not be near our office location, please contact Anna at 425-765-4449 and we will make arrangements to come pick up the trash at your collection location. The main takeaway here is to have a complete record of all the trash collected from the lake!
In addition to picking up trash, volunteers are encouraged to pick up fragments of aquatic weeds like milfoil to help prevent milfoil growth when the lake rises.
Also volunteers are encouraged to take photos of algae to help the institute map and track what happens when the lake level rises. Photos can be texted to Phil Long at 509-531-2987.
Galipeau was an awardee of the 5 Gyres’ TrashBlitz Ambassador Action Fund! This fund is intended to be used by the recipient to organize a TrashBlitz cleanup project on federal land. In Anna Galipeau’s application, she chose the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area in Stehekin as the intended site for her cleanup project.
This clean-up project will take place on Friday, April 11. It will be the first time the Restore the Beach effort will be in the remote community of Stehekin. Ten volunteers will be given passage to Stehekin to collect trash that has accumulated over the years.
Restore the Beach is a great time for volunteers to get out of the house and walk the beaches before the lake fills from snow runoff. In addition, volunteers will be helping Keep Lake Chelan Blue.
Scan this QR code to donate to the important research being conducted by the Lake Chelan Research Institure.
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.”
Apple growers in the Lake Chelan Valley applied 80,000 kilograms of DDT to their orchards from the 40s to 70s. It is now leaching into the lake from drains, groundwater and streams.
by Richard Uhlhorn
DDT LOADING STUDY: Clay Patmont, Anchor QEA, LLC, told the Watershed Planning Committee that Lake Chelan still has the highest concentration of DDT in the nation.
DDT (dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane), developed as the first of the modern synthetic insecticides in the 1940s, was used extensively in Lake Chelan Valley orchards from the 1940s to 70s. An estimated 80,000 kilograms (140,800 ibs.) of DDT was applied to some 12,000 acres over the years. “There was a lot of DDT applied,” said Patmont.
The Toxics Control Demonstration study in 2010 and 2021 found no DDT levels declining. The study sampled lake trout for DDT levels which was used to determine the level of DDT in the lake.
Sources of this contamination comes from ongoing leaching of the material in orchard soils to the lake from orchard drains, groundwater and creek drainages.
Patmont stated that natural recovery would not achieve risk reduction goals for at least 100 years, but directing drainages through wetlands (Dry Lake) could substantially reduce DDT loading by 70 to 95 percent.
With a $1.3 million dollar grant from the Department of Ecology, the plan is to 1. – characterize current DDT loading into the lake in 2025; construct a one to two acre prototype wetland in 2026; monitor the wetland’s effectiveness in 2027 and 2028; and if successful; expand wetland treatments in the entire basin where it was applied.
Quagga/Zebra Mussel concerns: “It has never been more important for people to stay alert,” said Stephen Lesky. This comment came during a report on Quagga mussels being detected in the Columbia River Basin and the potential of this invasive species being introduced in Lake Chelan.
Multiple occurrences have been noted in the Twin Falls, Idaho area where 375 miles of river dumps into the Columbia River.
Quagga and Zebra mussels are species that can cause millions of dollar’s worth of damage if allowed to attach and grow in water passage ways, irrigation canals, dams and fish hatcheries. The economic impact is estimated at $100 million per year.
The Washington State Fish and Wildlife Service has five primary boat inspection stations for vessels crossing into the state. “We are trying to protect Washington waters,” said Bush.
Currently the state is free of quagga mussels. “When we find an occurrence there will be a rapid response.”
Stephen Lesky, manager of Lake Chelan’s boat inspection program, said, “We are seeing an increase on boats on Lake Chelan.” The Lake Chelan Boat Inspection Program is in its second year on a grant from the National Park Service. “People appreciate what we are doing with the program.”
The economic risk of quagga or zebra mussels entering Washington waters is huge.
“We are excited about what you are doing,” said Bush.
Bush described another major concern with zebra mussels that are showing up in moss balls being sold to pet stores. “There are 22 wholesalers that have received contaminated products in Washington. Ultimately, we know it is an ongoing problem.”
Fish and Wildlife has received $1.8 million in State funding and another $1.83 million in Federal funding to combat the potential influx of invasive species to Washington waterways. The WDFW Response Team has met with 27 retailers and are taking significant steps to stop the importation of zebra mussels in moss balls to pet stores. “We are planning for the worst case scenario.”
Water Quality – Phil Long
Phil Long – Lake Chelan Research Institute
“We had a busy summer,” said Long. “Things look fairly normal.” However there is ongoing concern with the algae growth on rocks and docks in the near shore areas of the Wapato Basin. The Lake Chelan Research Institute is hoping to identify the different species that are present.
Phil Long captured this photo of periphyton growing in the Wapato Basin.
Long stated that the Institute is in the second year of a three year study funded by the PUD. “This is not what you want growing on our shores and docks,” said Long.
Water rights: Ecology continues to work with RH2 Engineers on water right applications and reported that seven more property owners have received their certificates. “We are moving forward.”
Round Table:
Mike Kaputa – Chelan County Resources Department director.
Fishery Forum… PUD will give an update in December
NPS is conducting temperature monitoring and creel surveys.
Mike Kaputa reported that the committee should have a report on the reintroduction of bull trout December. A draft manuscript has been circulated for peer review amongst the committee members.
Bridge Jumping: Bridge jumping wasn’t on Tuesday’s workshop agenda but was brought up during the final comment period at the City of Chelan Workshop.
Bridge jumping has been a right of passage for many local kids, and now it has become a major concern as bridge jumpers include tourists and parents taking photos of their youngsters jumping. The City is looking for a way to shut it down before someone is seriously injured or even killed.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth who walks across the bridge frequently brought the topic up. “It’s becoming a free for all on the old bridge,” said Hollingsworth. “Somehow we need to come down hard on it.”
Jumping from the Woodin Avenue Bridge has become a ‘Right of Passage’ for many of the kids who defy the law. Signage clearly states that no bridge jumping is allowed, but even parents are encouraging the children to jump while taking photos. There is a $500.00 fine if an individual is ticketed, but the Sheriff’s deputies don’t have the time to monitor this activity.
What began as six to eight local kids jumping has morphed into a dangerous situation where people are spread almost halfway across the bridge.
A j;umper does a flip off the west side of the Woodin Avenue Bridge.
The concern, of course, is that someone is going to jump and land on a boat or other watercraft passing under the structure, seriously injuring or killing someone.
Mayor McCardle asked the Council for some helpful ideas on how to address the issue.
Parking enforcement: Another issue facing Chelan and in particular, Lakeside Park is the lack of any parking enforcement. The city has had no luck in attracting an individual to fill that summertime position since the last parking enforcement officer left early in the year.
People are taking up parking spaces for well over the three hour limit in downtown and all day at Lakeside Park.
Recycle Center: Public Works Director Jake Youngren reported that a lot of discussion has ensued since the Recycle Center burned down. “I don’t have much to report on what is happening,” said Youngren. He added that the department is looking to select a consulting team to help explore options to continue to recycle.
The City is looking into a variety of alternatives for the fire destroyed recycling center, but will continue to pick up recyclable materials.
The recycle truck will continue to pick up recycling material while the city looks for an alternative. Also, the 911 Glass Recycling unit was severely damaged in the fire and the Rotary is looking into that issue.
City Clerk Peri Galluccci stated that an insurance adjuster and an investigator are working with the department.
Water and Sewer Rate Fee Study: Youngren said that the latest rate study for water and sewer has an infinite number of scenarios. He said that Waterville went from a $50 per month charge to $250 per month in one fell swoop. “We are trying to avoid that.”
Public Works Director Jake Youngren
Currently, residents (a family of four) are allowed 7,000 gallons per month which, according to Youngren is pretty generous.
Mark Ericks asked about residents who are just on Social Security. Bob Goedde replied that there is a senior level bracket.
Water and Sewer Rate Study project manager Brooke Tacia of FCS Group updated the Council on the study.
The study, conducted by Project Manager Brooke Tacia of FCS Group, centered around significant changes since the last study in 2018. These changes included increased inflation and delay of large capital projects for both water and sewer treatment plants.
Upcoming revenue requirements include operations and maintenance, debt service and capital costs.
The study is developing a rate plan to balance the city’s financial needs and to minimize customer impacts. The study period covers 2025 to 2029 using the 2024 budget as a baseline.
From 2024 to 2037 the city has $57.4 million in capital projects.
Lakeside Trail update: City engineer Travis Denham updated the council on the Lakeside Trail between downtown and Lakeside Park. “We are in the permitting process with WSDOT right now,” explained Denham.
City engineer Travis Denham
The planning phase will be 60 percent complete by the end of August, and the biggest development on the corridor is a proposed speed limit change from 30 mph to 25 mph from the Boat Company to the high school. The planners need to get approval from the State Traffic Engineer. “We understand that people will drive at what they feel comfortable with,” said DOT’s David Kieninger
Two proposed inline bus stops just south of the Boat Company raised some concerns about blocking traffic and the potential for rear end accidents. “It could cause additional congestion. There is a lot going on there,” said Kieninger.
The third issue discussed was the buffer zone landscaping alternatives. Denham stated that the vertical element was being discussed to give a sense of safety to trail users. Hollingsworth thought that the low density alternative was the best. Similar to what’s in place on the trail down to town from the roundabout.
Bob Goedde said, “Let’s not get to crazy building guard rails.” McCardle felt there should be a little more than the low density plantings.
The Lakeside trail project will hopefully begin construction next spring.
Clear Gov: Finance Director Jackie Tuppling gave an overview of the city’s new website section that is being built with Artificial Intelligence. “This is user friendly way to see the city’s budget expenditures,” she said. “It shows everything and how it is spent.” The system will be available to the public.
There is always a cry from the public about new taxes, but the City of Chelan will be asking Chelan residents within its described Tax Benefit Area (TBD) to add .03% to the local sales tax to help Chelan’s Public Works Department continue working on its six-year transportation program.
Chelan Public Works has approximately $26 million infrastructure projects it needs to work on to keep the city’s roads, streets, water and sewer systems up to date. The good news is the new tax only represents 3 cents added to every dollar a customer spends in the TBD.
If passed, this new tax will bring in approximately $900,000 each year. The good news for the Chelan residents, because it is added to sales tax, is that most of those proceeds will come from visitors to the Valley. City administration estimates that visitors and tourists will contribute 75 percent of that tax.
Funds raised from the TBD can only be spent on infrastructure projects within the TBD defined area which is the City of Chelan.
At the Washington State Transportation Council meeting that took place in Chelan Thursday and Friday, Mayor Erin McCardle’s welcoming presentation included the City’s upcoming TBD. “The TBD opens up opportunity for a revenue source of which 75% will be supported by the visitors,” she said.
Mayor Erin McCardle
Transportation Council’s executive director, Reema Griffith asked McCardle how the funds received would be used. McCardle replied that they would be used to leverage into grants and bond issues.
At the City’s City Council meeting on Tuesday, July 22, the Council approved Resolution No. 2024T-001 to add the TBD to the November Ballot.
Residents will have an opportunity to voice their concerns at a few public meetings and possibly a Community meeting in the near future.
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.
The Chelan Valley Republican Women held a Republican Candidates Forum Thursday evening, July 11 at Wine Girl Wines featuring all candidates running for elective office on the upcoming August Primary.
It was a nice crowd of interested voters at the Chelan Valley Republican Women’s Republican Candidate Forum on Thursday, July 11 at Wine Girl Wines.
The County will be mailing the primary ballots on July 15.
Fire District 5 replacement levy: Prior to each candidate speaking to the large audience, Arnold Baker, Fire Chief of Manson’s Fire District 5 explained the importance of the upcoming Replacement Levy.
Fire Chief Arnold Baker
The expiring 10-year levy has been collecting 89 cents per $1,000, but with the tremendous growth and increased property tax revenues in Manson, the amount has dropped to 41 cents/$1000. “We are asking for 75 cents per thousand,” said Baker. “It is a lot of money. I understand that,” said Baker.
He added that Manson has more volunteers than it has ever had. The levy, if passed, would help the district up its training, build a training complex, purchase a new fire truck and move a half-time position to full time.
He initially explained that the district is working with the Incident Management Team to protect Manson from the Pioneer Fire if it actually makes it to the community.
“In 2002 during the Deer Point Fire we protected 60 homes with no losses,” said Baker, who was the fire chief at that point also. “Today there are 160 to 200 homes on the same footprint.”
“The Incident Management Team is doing a very good job and are hoping the contingency lines hold. We hope for the best but are planning for the worst.”
Someone in the audience asked why retardant isn’t being used on the fire. Baker explained that there were environmental reasons and the fact that each drop cost $25,000. “I’m thankful for the suppression efforts taking place for our community.” He finished by encouraging the registered voters to vote for the levy.
Speakers: Dave Reichert, Republican candidate for Governor was first up to address the attendees. Reichert told the audience that he sees three major issues facing the State.
Dave Reichert
The Criminal Justice System throughout the State.
Homelessness and the substance abuse and mental illness associated with it.
The Economy and taxes.
Regarding the tax issue, Reichert said the Legislature wanted to raise the property cap from 1% to 3% and that the Legislature tried to put a 15 cent increase on all ammunition sold.
He then brought up the gorilla in the building… the Carbon Gas Tax that is costing vehicle owners up to 50 cents more per gallon. “Inslee could have hit pause on this,” said Reichert. Instead, he said there is a movement to increase the Carbon Gas Tax to 80 or 90% in the coming months.
Reichert also said the State has a $4.1 billion surplus. “Inslee says if we vote No on the increases, there will not be enough money to do all the things that need done.” He also said that $1 billion is missing from Government COVID funding.
He also stated that the Democrats have a tracker on him and are recording everything he says. “We are going to win this race,” Reichert who added, “You need to get out and vote and veto the gas tax bills. We have to get the Democrats to vote for us also.”
Bob Hagglund
Reichert decried the fact that traditionally, only 30 percent of the registered voters actually vote. “We need to get 60 to 80 percent voting.”
Bob Hagglund – Lt. Governor Hagglund said that the Lt. Governor is the President of the State Legislature. He talked about housing affordability and the causes of homelessness including mental illness. “It is time for a new direction,” said Hagglund. “Event the Seattle liberals are getting it. It’s (state government) is not working.”
Sharon Hanek
Sharon Hanek – State Treasurer Hanek told the audience that she has been a CPA for 25; years doing taxes and said she wants to take her experience into the State Treasurers office. “I want to review this system,” she said and asked for their vote.
Brian Burnett – running for State Representative Position 1 (Representative Goehner’s seat). Burnett who has 25 years of experience in law enforcement; 12 years as Chelan County Sheriff, said he has put 3,000 miles on his car visiting District 12 communities. “I have been meeting with amazing people,” said Burnett. “They ask what changes he would make and he replied that constituents need a team that can work as team. “If you don’t get out and vote that is an end game.”
Brian Burnett
Mike Steele – District 12 Position 2 seeking relection. Steele mentioned the $20 million he has brought to the district and that as the minority leader he said he was very excited to represent the district.
Mike Steele
Serving on the Education Committee, Steele remarked that the state is spending $35 billion on education alone. “I want to give the power back to the parents,” said Steele. “We need to change our focus and are one vote away from the Super Majority.” He added that as the minority they are not even invited into the room.” He stated that it is an interesting job and he is proud to do it.
Chelan County Commission: There are four candidates for Tiffaney Gearing’s District 3 commission seat. All are qualified to hold the seat and the voters will have to make a hard decision on who they want to represent them for the next four years when Gearing leaves the office.
Brad Hawkins
Brad Hawkins Hawkins told the audience that he is looking forward to bring his experience to the 3rd District. His issues he wants to address include the economy of Chelan County, the budget and growing tax burden on property owners, wildfire reduction and the affordable housing situation. He also wants to extend the County’s grant opportunities.
Hawkins is an experienced politician who has served in a multitude of public positions including as a State Representative and State Senator which he is currently.
Brandt Cappell Cappell told the voters that he comes to this position with a new life perspective. He has had a heart transplant and spent 84 days in the University of Washington ICU. Cappell works for Representative Keith Goehner as his assistant and says he knows how to navigate the issues.
Brant Cappell
Cappell said he has been attending meetings throughout the 3rd District to get to know the issues and if elected he would open an office in the Lake Chelan Valley to serve his constituency. He also stated that there is $20 million available to build a new substance abuse clinic and that a new location needs to be found.
Flint Hartwig Hartwig said, “I’ve never been a politician.” He is a developer and owner of the Rock gym in Wenatchee. He sees a massive problem in affordable housing and sets that as one of his major issues to work on if elected.
Flint Hartwig
Hartwig also wants to address the future of farming and tourism in the district without stepping on any toes. “I have real life experiences I want to bring to the commission,” he stated.
Chris Willoughby Willoughby, a Manson resident grew up on a farm and is still an apple grower. With orchards being replaced by developments, Willoughby wants to work on balancing the changes. He has been a public servant all his life and is proud to say, “I am not a politician.”
Chris Willoughby
Willoughby says he looks at issues and asks “What is the solution!” Looking for solutions to the many issues facing the district and County is his promise if elected to the seat. Issues he would like to address include infrastructure, affordable housing and tourism. “We have local people who can’t support themselves here and are moving elsewhere.”
As an orchardist, he sees farming becoming almost impossible as a sustainable business. “This (apple industry) was the industry that helped to build Chelan County and it is disappearing.”
“I want to be your voice. Be informed of who you are voting for.”
Judge Alan Blackman was given a few minutes to address the voters and encouraged them to get the vote out.
The next meeting of the Chelan Valley Republican Women will take place at Radiance Winery on August 8 with Candidate Dave Olson – Superintendent of Public Instruction and School Board Member Susie Metzger as guests.
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.
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