Ryan Petersen, owner of the Apple Cup Cafe, comforts his Mother Diane Petersen as they watch the final moments of the old Apple Cup building destroyed along with many memories.
Saturday’s controlled burn of the iconic Apple Cup building was a bittersweet day for the Petersen family.
“It was our first home in Chelan,” said a sad Diane Petersen. Larry and Diane purchased the building in 1996 and settled in to becoming restaurant owners, living in an apartment in the back of the building.
Over the years, the Apple Cup Café has served thousands of hungry customers and formed a loyal following, many of whom turned out to watch Chelan Fire and Rescue conduct a training session for firefighters from Chelan, Manson, Orondo, Entiat and Waterville. “It is an important training ground for us,” said Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman.
Lt. Jones- left, Assistant Chief Shawn Sherman, Fire Chief Brandon Asher and Apple Cup owner Ryan Petersen confer during the training exercise.
Chelan Fire Chief Brandon Asher said, “Shawn did an outstanding job conducting this training. He had help from Manson’s Training Officer, Ranor Baker,” stated Baker. Asher said he told Sherman that the operation was all his to conduct.
Firefighters drag charged fire hose into the building while a firefighting team wait their turn at fighting an interior fire..
Firefighters spent several days preparing for the burn, installing over 200 pallets to help. Firefighters went inside and started fires in each of nine areas for training purposes until Sherman handed Ryan Petersen a lit flare to throw into building starting the final burn.
Inside firefighters were confronted with real fire to learn new skills. Photo by Firefighter
As the fire began to rage, firefighters used various water hoses to keep the surrounding area cool and to prevent the fire from spreading beyond the building’s footprint
Ryan Petersen threw the last fire stick into the burning building.
Learning the ins-and-outs of battling structure fires is an important function for firefighters to learn. The Petersen’s donation of the building provided regional districts an actual structure within close proximity to other structures gain knowledge for battling future events.
Over 45 personnel took part in this training exercise.
Ryan Petersen joined the firefighters for an official photograph.
Over 45 personnel were involved in this training and hundred’s of residents turned out to watch the iconic building go down in flames to be resurrected as a new café in approximately one year.
After the burn was completed, the Petersen’s fired up the BBQ and fed all the firefighters and others who wished to eat hamburgers and hotdogs with chips and drinks.
In the meantime, the Apple Cup Café lives at the Lake Chelan Community Center on Bighorn Way. They are open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. serving up customer’s favorite dishes. “We aren’t making any money, but we are keeping staff employed,” said Petersen in an earlier interview.
The Petersen’s also plan on continuing the annual Thanksgiving Day feast they have become famous for. More information on that event will be forthcoming.
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,”
Paid advertisement
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.
Paid Advertisement
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.
While 600+ people took advantage of the City’s Transportation Survey, only an estimated 40 residents took the time to attend the Transportation Public meeting on Thursday evening, September 12. Despite the lack of attendance, the meeting was well received by those who joined in.
SEVENTY TWO PERCENT of those who answered the survey want the Woodin Avenue Bridge back to two-way traffic followed by Traffic Congestion, Pedestrian Safety, the Lakeside neighborhood parking issue during the peak summer season and Parking availability.
Most survey respondents feel that turning the bridge back to two-way traffic or just reversed so traffic can flow out of town would help alleviate much of the summertime traffic congestion that has been clogging up Johnson Avenue and Sanders Street to the stoplight. “We definitely heard throughout the survey what can we do about congestion,” said Communications Director Chad Coltman.
The City’s new communications director Chad Coltman told the audience at last Thursday’s Transportation meeting that a big part of his job is to how the city can make the community better.
It is thought that it would also help the congestion on Hwy. 97A by the Middle/High School.
However, according to Public Works, the potential cost of turning the bridge back to two-way would cost upwards of $8 million. Reversing the flow was estimated to cost $1.2 million.
I asked Public Works Director Jake Youngren how they came up with those numbers? Youngren replied that the were from the hip and not based on engineering study of the issue. It should also be noted that a traffic survey of the bridge stated that reversal wouldn’t have that much affect overall on traffic congestion.
Public Works Director Jake Youngren explained how his department works.
When the Woodin Avenue Bridge was reworked to its current status, the cost was $3.19 million with the city putting in $1.56 million for the one-way conversion and another $800,000 on structural rehabilitation and $830,000 on waterline replacement under the bridge from grant funding.
Other issues that ranked high in the survey included Pedestrian Safety, the Lakeside Park neighborhood parking issue, and Parking availability in the community.
Public Works education facts: Chelan’s Public Works department has $24 million capital infrastructure projects on their STIP (Six Year Traffic Improvement Plan). In 2024 the department is working with $1,501,486 to take care the city’s 42 miles of paved roads. This includes Road Maintenance – Line Striping – Weed Control – Street Cleaning – Alley Maintenance – Traffic Signs – Storm Drains – Snow and Ice Control – Sidewalk Repair – Sidewalk Cleaning – Street Light Repair
Seventy five percent of Sales Tax Revenues goes to Public Works. Another five percent is from gas taxes.
Only $12 ($9 to public works) out of every $100 of property taxes collected comes to the city. “It’s not a large amount going to streets,” said Youngren.
TBD (Tax Benefit District) This November, the city is asking its voters for a 0.03% sales tax increase ($.30 more on every $100 spent) to the current sales tax. The extra funds can only be used in the newly created Tax Benefit District. It is estimated that this increase in sales tax would raise approximately $1 million annually. This stable funding source is considered essential for maintaining Chelan’s transportation system.
“TBD allows for long term investment in our city’s infrastructure,” said Mayor McCardle “Passage of the TBD opens the grant door.”
Mayor Erin McCardle explained the upcoming request for a sales tax increase to help fund Chelan’s infrastructure.
Jake explained that both Hwy 97A and 150 are State highways and the state has total control between the fog lines. Anything outside the fog lines falls to the city for its infrastructure, i.e. sewer/water/storm. “We have responsibility beyond the fog line for sewer and stormwater maintenance, but the DOT has to approve any work along the highway.”
Attendees at the Transportation meeting had a chance to select projects they felt should be a priority for the city to pursue.
Other potential projects of interest: The Northshore Pathway from Manson to Chelan was of interest to a number of people responding to the survey. Multi-Modal Pathways in the region are now under the Chelan/Douglas Transportation Council. There will be public meetings in the near future to discuss the Northshore Pathway.
A Bypass Route has been discussed to help relieve traffic congestion coming from Manson. Currently all traffic flows through Chelan which has helped to create traffic congestion within the city.
Development in Manson has added to Chelan’s transportation issues. What used to be a community surrounded by orchards is now a community with multiple residential developents.
The Bypass Route proposal has been renamed an Evacuation Route due to potential wildfire danger in the community of Manson. This proposed project would probably cost billions of dollars to make happen, but it is a project that should be looked at seriously.
Question and Answer period: One attendee asked how park revenues are used. Mayor McCardle replied that all revenues from park operations go back into funding the park’s system. “We are one of the few parks in the state that is totally self -funded.”
Another person asked what the city’s relationship is with Manson? “That’s a good question,” replied McCardle. “We need a larger transportation plan that takes in the entire area,” she added. “Everyone comes through Chelan.”
The City of Chelan is holding a public meeting Thursday evening beginning at 6 p.m. at Chelan High School’s Performing Arts Center. The city will be reviewing the findings from its Transportation Survey; discussing its six year transportation plan and allowing residents to “vote with their dollars” in a fun interactive exercise.
Mayor McCardle is asking residents to attend Thursday’s transportation meeting at Chelan High School beginning at 6 p.m.
“This is an important open house,” said Mayor Erin McCardle. “It will give the community a chance to tell us what to prioritize.”
Chelan has numerous traffic and transportation issues. The city is asking residents and stakeholders to attend Thursday, September 12 meeting to help decide what transportation projects need prioritization.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to attend and share their input and priorities on the future of transportation in the community.
Citizens will be asked to vote on the November 2024 ballot on the newly formed Transportation Benefit District which is also asking for a .3% increase in sales tax (8.4% to 8.7%) to help fund the districts transportation projects.
The Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) will be presented to City Council for adoption in early 2025. Only projects identified on the STIP are eligible for grants or TBD funding.
This meeting will allow residents to present what their priorities are regarding Chelan’s transportation issues including roadways, public transportation, pedestrian pathways, and the Woodin Avenue Bridge.
Resident Input will be officially recorded and carefully considered in drafting the STIP. By participating, residents are helping to shape a transportation plan that reflects the needs, priorities and aspirations of the Lake Chelan community. We encourage all residents, business owners, and stakeholders to take part in this important meeting
ARPA (American Recovery Plan Act): City Administrator Wade Farris updated the Council on the looming requirement for the City’s remaining ARPA funds (American Rescue Plan Act) to be allocated by December 31, 2024, with the requirement to spend those allocated funds by December 31, 2026, with a final report due on April, 2027
City Administrator Wade Farris
Farris remarked that the city allocated $200,000 to the Chelan Food Bank and said, “That was money spent wisely.”
The city is looking at its option for allocating the rest of the $233,905 before the end of the year.
The City already has a request for those funds by the Boys and Girls Club that will be taking over a large space at the Lake Chelan Community Center. If awarded to the Boys and Girls Club, the funds would be used to purchase equipment, toys, computers and other needed supplies.
$750,000 has been allocated to the Anderson Road project but Chelan Finance Director Jackie Tupling said those obligated funds might be re-allocated to the East Chelan Water Reservoir project.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked if the Anderson Road project had a bid ready to go. Denham replied that public works could look at the cost estimate and rush to get a bid out the door.
Councilman Tim Hollingsworth
The ARPA topic will be back in front of Council at its first August meeting. Allocation of those funds will be discussed at the Council/Staff workshop on August 6.
Culton Consulting agreement: City Council unanimously approved a change of contract for its Legislative consultant, John Culton. Culton who had been employed by Desimone Consulting and retained by the City to facilitate contracts and relationships with federal senators and congresswomen along with their staffers, has formed his own consulting firm and asked to continue working on Chelan’s behalf.
Mayor Erin McCardle.
Councilman Brad Chitty remarked that Culton has been doing a pretty good job. Mayor McCardle added that Culton was successful in getting Congress to pass a $9 million funding request for the East Water System and Reservoir out of committee.
Councilman Brad Chitty
This funding request is being worked on by Representative Schrier.
City Administrator Wade Farris stated that his work will lead to significant grant opportunities for the City in the near and long term.
Administrative Reports: Public Works Engineer Travis Denham requested that Council consider retaining Jim Burbery as a consultant to the new Sewer Treatment Plant Operator.
Burbery would assist the new plant operator with the operation and maintenance of the City’s sewer collection and treatment system as needed. He would also help with budget preparation and expenditure control.
The agreement includes a $500 retainer fee and an hourly rate of $75 per hour when he is working. The agreement runs through the end of 2025 or until Burbery’s expertise is no longer needed.
Denham reported that Public Works expects Burbery would consult in the five to 10 hours per month.
The agreement will be brought back for finalization at the next Council meeting.
Assistant Parks Director: The hiring of an Assistant Parks Director was approved on last Tuesday’s consent agenda. Human Resources/Communications Director Chad Coltman stated that a search for an assistant parks director would begin immediately.
HR/Communications Director Chad Coltman
Farris added that the City is still searching for an airport manager.
Farris also asked Parks Director Paul Horne how the department is perform\ing so far this summer. Horne replied that smoke and heat has taken its toll but that the mini-golf is still ahead in rounds played but that July was down.
Mayor/Council comments: Terry Sanders encouraged everyone to take the time to read and educate themselves on the upcoming primary election and to get out and vote.
Mayor McCardle said that a successful meeting was held with farmers about agriculture. “There were 16 folks and it was a sobering conversation.
Ninety two percent of the people taking the Our Valley-Our Future Survey were primary residents.
Liaison reports of interest: Terry Sanders – Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce
Sanders reported that the Chamber’s major concern was the potential impact to the Valley’s economics if Stehekin went to a Level 2 evacuation (Its at Level 3 and shut down to all tourism).
The fear is that with Stehekin shut down because of the Pioneer Fire that it will signify that the greater Lake Chelan Valley is closed to outside visitation.
Sanders reported that the Valley is seeing decreased revenues due to low Short Term Rentals.
It was also reported that the 2024 Winterfest suffered a huge loss because of inclement weather.
Jon Higgins – Chelan Valley Housing Trust
Higgins reported that the Trust is seeking additional subsidy funding to help lower the per unit cost at Emerson Harbor from $335,000 to the $265 to $285,000 range to help with qualifying potential buyers.
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.
Paid Advertisement
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.
Want your business to be seen by up to 60,000 potential clients a month. Consider advertising on All Things Lake Chelan.
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.
August primary ballots will be in the mail on July 15. There are two major issues on the District 3 ballot including Chelan County Fire District 5 Replacement Levy and a choice of four candidates to fill the Chelan County Commission seat being vacated by Tiffany Gearing.
The four candidates vying for her seat on the commission include Senator Brad Hawkins; Representative Keith Goehner’s staff assistant, Brandt Cappell; Manson Fire Commissioner Chris Willoughby and Wenatchee developer Flint Hartwig.
Following is a brief description of each candidate and what they feel is the most important priority facing Chelan Count over the next four years.
Brad Hawkins: “My primary focus, if elected, will be to help diversify the County’s economy,” said Hawkins. He also wants to maintain a balanced budget and mitigate the growing property tax issues. “If we continue to grow and get Malaga (Microsoft development) onto the tax rolls, that should help to moderate some property taxes.”
Senator Brad Hawkins
Hawkins has a long and successful public service record and is currently a Washington State Senator. He is vacating that position to be closer to family. The recent redistricting would have had him constantly on the road.
“My knowledge and relationships (at the state level) will help bring resources to the County,” More information about Hawkins is available at www.bradhawkins.org. He can also be reached at 509.393.3231.
Brandt Cappell: Cappell, who is currently Representative Keith Goehner’s Legislative Assistant stated that he has been focusing on issues in the Chelan/Manson area. Over the past several months he has attended many Chelan and Manson meetings to learn what issues are foremost”. “I’m trying to get the lay of the land,” he said.
Brandt Cappell
Cappell, if elected plans on opening an office in Chelan to be close to District 3 constituents and the Valley’s emerging issues. He is interested in getting in front of what is happening in the local agriculture industry.
Chris Willoughby: Willoughby’s primary focus, if elected, will be the County’s infrastructure. “Our infrastructure is at the center of everything that goes on,” said Willoughby who added that Entiat’s sewer systems is at capacity and will have to stop development. “Leavenworth and Plain also have infrastructure issues as does Manson.”
Chris Willoughby
Willoughby has been involved in Manson and the County’s politics since 1999 when he first served on the Manson Community Council until 2011. He is also the vice-chairman of Fire District 5s board of commissioners where he has served as a firefighter and EMT since 1988 and 2003 respectively.
He claims that he is not a “politician” and does not believe in them. “I am a long time public servant who represents the communities I serve.” He is also the only candidate who lives in the heart of the 3rd District.
Flint Hartwig Hartwig is the only candidate running for the 3rd District position who has no experience in politics. He is a Wenatchee businessman and developer who wants to streamline the County bureaucracy.
Flint Hartwig
His voters pamphlet promise is to make sure the County is only spending money on the essential roles of government.
“I’m good at getting things done,” said Hartwig. His primary focus if elected would be agriculture, tourism and affordable housing. “I want to fight for you,” he added.
The District 3 Commission seat is an important position for those who live in the Chelan and Manson area. It is incumbent on voters to educate themselves on each candidate running for the position and vote for the one candidate voters will best represent them.
Manson Fire Department Levy request: Manson Fire District No. 5 will be asking eligible Manson voters to pass a new replacement levy to replace the retiring 10-year levy that currently collects $0.89/1000. The district is asking the voters to pass a $0.75/$1000 which is less than the current rate.
The smoke plume of the Pioneer Fire 25 miles up lake from Manson.
Manson Fire District is a successful volunteer department with 40 volunteers, 25 of which are active in both fire fighting and Emergency Services. With only three paid staff, the district is hoping to expand its personnel, offer full-time training for personnel to gain full certifications to meet the needs of the growing Manson Community.
The district is in the process of building a training facility which would be used by all firefighting agencies for training purposes. Fire Chief Arnold Baker reported at a community meeting that other district’s and the Forest Service have contacted him about training and trainee housing at the facility.
The district would also use some of their budget along with grants to replace a 30 year old fire truck along with other equipment needs.
Operational expenses are used for fuel, overall maintenance needs and a hedge against current inflation increases.
Responding to over 100 fire-related calls and 500 Emergency Management calls per year underscores the increasing demand for trained personnel in a growing community.
A levy failure would be disastrous to the district. Budget cuts and reducing volunteers by half would leave Manson without the required safety net for the community.
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.
All Things Lake Chelan 