politics – All Things Lake Chelan

School district hears program presentations on district activities

By Richard Uhlhorn

The Lake Chelan School District hosted a special guest at its Monday, January 12 school board meeting to present his interest in collaborating with the district to help with its housing needs.

Brad Wilson, superintendent at the Lake Chelan School District has said in the past that it is losing students in the District because of the lack of affordable housing in the area.

Following is Venugopal’s presentation to the school board.

Raja Venugopal’s presentation:

“Although I was raised in modest circumstances, education proved to be my pathway to opportunity and advancement. I firmly believe that every family deserves access to a safe, affordable home and equal opportunities for health and education.

Couple of years ago, I met with the Chelan School Superintendent to better understand the district’s needs. He noted that the shortage of affordable housing in Chelan is impacting staffs and families, ultimately affecting enrollment. Providing housing, particularly affordable housing, remains a central focus of our efforts, and we hope it will help address these challenges.

I appreciate the opportunity to introduce myself to the Chelan School Board of Directors and look forward to collaborating with the district to support the future of Chelan’s schools.”

In other business:
January is School Board Recognition Month. It’s a great time to recognize our elected community members who selflessly give their time and energy in support of high-quality public schooling for our youth. School board members in the Lake Chelan School District are entrusted by this community with responsibility for an annual budget of $24 million, 1273 students, 230 employees and 8 buildings.

School boards are charged with making decisions that can sometimes be quite difficult or require sifting through a great deal of information. They also bear responsibility for developing a vision that will guide the school district for years to come. Through collaboration as a team, and with school district staff, their governance and advocacy are building the future of education in our Chelan community.

This January, we’re encouraging all members of the community to thank a board member. Please thank them for volunteering their time and playing a critical civic role that helps form the bedrock of our democracy—public education. As a crucial bridge between the local community and the school district, their efforts are instrumental in helping all of us realize the hopes and dreams we have for the children of our community.

The dedicated leaders serving the Lake Chelan School Districtand their years of service are: Board Chair Kim Thorpe (6 years), Vice Chair Stephanie Fuller (4 years), Barb Polley (4 years), Christy Nielsen (2 years), Jennifer Puckett (newly elected)

Student Reps: Joslyn Bobadilla-Chavarria, Eva Whiteman, Imani Goings-Marrero.

The Bond failure stats:
The failure of the recent bond issue to replace MOE was a disappointment to the district. Two hundred seventy four (274) more YES votes were needed to reach the 60 percent super majority to pass the issue. Three hundred eight (308) eligible voters did not vote.

The District will be conducting new FOCUS GROUP LISTENING SESSIONS regarding the bond failure and its ongoing planning to improve its facilities.

Our goal is to hear from our community what they did and did not like about the last bond measure and what direction the District should consider to address its facility needs. The listening sessions will be followed up with a community wide survey based on what the District learns from the listening sessions.

The upcoming listening sessions will be held on Thursday, January 22 at the District offices.

The listening sessions will be held Thursday January 22nd at our school district central office at the following times: 8 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

The District can accommodate up to eight people per session. RSVP to schedule your preferred time to:
Phone (509)682-3515 Website chelanschools.org

Email wilsonb@chelanschools.org

FCCLA:
Officers from the FCCLA club presented its activities to the school board. It currently has 15 active members and 35 inactive members.

It’s mission is to help students build confidence in public speaking, teamwork and decision making skills.

Student members will be performing community service at this spring’s Earth Day event and will be attending Regional Competitions and the State Leadership Conference in March.

Migrant Program:
The District’s Migrant Program is in full swing and a detailed presentation was made to the board on its basic tenants.

**Ms. Galvan gave an update on the District’s Migrant Education Program.**

The board was told that the program has a current grant amount of $111,103 and a carryover from last year of $51,896 for total of $162,999 but that the program is facing a lot of uncertainties in the coming year.

Chelan’s Migrant caseload works with 111 migrant students in the district. This includes 44 students at the high school, five at CSI/CDA, 27 at the middle school, 31 at MOE and one in pre-school.

The funding helps staff connect with parents and guardians, connection with resources outside of the school for food, clothing, school supplies, and family resources, home visits and most important, helping these students feel welcomed in the school system.

Migrant students must meet the following criteria:

Ages between 3 and 21
Have not attained a high school diploma or equivalent
Moved due to financial need from one residence to another and from one school district to another.
Made a qualifying move in the previous 36 months, i.e. as a migrant farm worker; migratory fisherman or with a parent/guardian or spouse who is a migrant farm worker or migratory fisherman.

The administrative staff all gave their customary reports on school activities.

Manson is now an affiliate Main Street community

by Richard Uhlhorn

Mainstreet Program:
Kim Ustanik, president of the newly formed Historic Manson Main Street Association was the featured speaker at the Manson Community Council meeting held on Tuesday, December 16.

Kim Ustanik, President of Manson’s new Mainstreet Program.

Ustanik remarked that the Mainstreet Program was born out of the Manson Chamber of Commerce. “We are currently an affiliate member,” said Ustanik. “There are several things we need to do yet.”

Washington State Main Street Program has been helping communities revitalize the economy, appearance, and image of their downtown commercial districts using the successful Main Street Four-Point Approach®

Ustanik said the main purpose of Manson’s program is to work towards economic vitality and the historic preservation of the downtown core.

As described, the program is intended to concentrate on the main corridor from Lake Chelan Building Supply all the way through town to the Old Swimming Hole west of the PUD Swimming area.

“We will be the only unincorporated community in the program,”Ustanik said.

Vice President of the Manson’s Main Street Program is Wayne Miller who also is heading up the creative side of the program. “We are working with an artist right now,” said Miller. Metal signage is being designed and created and will hopefully be ready for placement before this January’s WinterFest event.

**Wayne Miller is serving as the Mainstreet Program’s Vice President and is chairing the promotions committee.**

Ustanik also mentioned an upcoming kickoff campaign.

The goal, of course, is to combine publicity outreach to the community visually and with special events, creating business opportunities, telling historic stories and maintaining economic vitality of the community.

Following is the current organization members. If you are interested in becoming involved, contact Kim Ustanik at the

Historic Manson Main Street Association

PO Box 801

Manson, WA 98831

Our 2026 Board & Champions:

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President – Kim Ustanik

Vice President – Wayne Miller, and Chair of Design Committee

Secretary – Mary Lynn Thompson, and Chair of Promotions Committee

Treasurer – Cynthia Dale

Project Manager – Jean Whitehouse

CHAMPIONS

Sarah Hart – VonHart Goods

Mariah Koester – Four Lake Winery

Nancy Grossi – Allisons of Manson

Todd Heric – former owner of KOZI/ZCounty Radio, and Chair of Outreach Committee

Marci Trask – downtown Manson resident

Olivia Libbey & Mary Lou Schoolcraft – both with extensive historical families, and story-telling knowledge.

ADVISORS
Kelley Hegarty-Lammers – Advisor, retired with extensive experience in community/city building , mostly in small towns in Alaska
Shaimoom Newaz – Advisor, owner of the impeccable Shai Creates

**Manson Community Council – Renee’ Commons, Dom Amor, Gerry Ustanik, Jeff Conwell, and chairman Mike Kirk;**

In other Council Business:
It was reported that Robin Pittman, Manson Parks has put the Old Swim Hole project on hold. The Parks Department is apparently seeking more funding for the project through the State Appropriations Committee.

A part of the project includes a boardwalk from the park to the current PUD park.

Dom Amor reported that the Council came up short with the Community Foundation of North Central Washington for funding. “They told me that they have had a lot of applications and that it was not a NO to our requests, but not this time. The Council’s request was for administrative costs. “Asking for money next year is not going to be easy.”

The Manson Community Council now has a long awaited website, and it is nice. Check it out at http://www.mansoncommunitycouncil.org

Jeff Conwell reported that he has met with Entiat regarding incorporation. Cashmere is also interested in the process.

Gerry Ustanik remarked that the Council and community is not starting something new with its desire to create a Dark Skies community. The PUD is also interested in this becoming a reality and Wapato Point has been contacted regarding the Dark Skies initiative.

Chelan adopts $33 million 2026 budget

by Richard Uhlhorn

Chelan City Council:
It has been a busy several weeks in the Lake Chelan Valley starting with the Chelan City Council meeting on Tuesday, December 9.

Senior Center operations:
LeAnne Weathersby, director of the Chelan Senior Center, informed the Council that 2026 federal budget constraints have effected the Senior Center’s operation and that it will not be able to continue serving lunches five days a week. Weathersby said the center will discontinue its lunch program on Fridays beginning after December 19. “We will continue to serve lunches from Monday through Thursday,” said Weathersby.

Leanne Weathersby at her desk in the Senior Center.

The Senior Center delivers 3,000 lunches each month to home bound seniors throughout the region. Weathersby stated that she wasn’t asking for anything, but keeping the Council informed. She also thanked the City for its continued support.

Shari Dietrich was honored for her tenure on both the Planning Commission (5 years) and City Council (4 years) with a proclamation and many platitudes by council members and staff for her dedicated service. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with you,” said Mayor Erin McCardle. Dietrich replied that she would be staying in involved.

Northshore Pathway (Chelan to Manson):
Jeff Wilkins, executive director of the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council gave a special presentation on the proposed Northshore Pathway which would follow the lake from Manson to Chelan. The draft report can be found here:

CDTC Chelan-Manson Draft ES.pdf

“We do not have the authority to make this happen,” said Wilkins who added, “Our role is to evaluate the possibilities. What we care about is safety.”

**Jeff Wilkins, executive director of the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council**

Background:

The Northshore Pathway was originally described as a priority project from the Lake Chelan Recreation Association’s Lake Chelan Comprehensive Trails Plan published in the 90s. Wilkins stated that the trail would have been much easier to construct before all of the development along Hwy 150.

The transportation council received a little over 2,000 public comments on the trail with 52% against it and48% in support. Key issues are narrow lanes on Hwy. 150, traffic congestion, ease of access, Rocky Point and the Cabana stretch of private property.

“The public opinion was divided,” said Wilkins. “We do have one more public comment period that is due by December 31.”

At an estimated cost of $56 million funding would have to be secured through a variety of grants, donations and local agencies.

My opinion – I was one of the authors of the Lake Chelan Comprehensive Trail Plan and the North Shore Pathway was designated a priority project and during the Chelan Dam Relicensing process, the Recreation Association requested that the PUD provide $11million dollars that would be invested in a foundation for recreational projects which included the Northshore Pathway. The PUD denied the proposal. So, the trail languished over all these years until the Federal Government decided that public trails were a high priority.

I agree with the transportation council that the trail needs to be done in phases. The trail corridor that is probably the easiest to construct would be from Crystal View Estates to the existing trail into Chelan. That segment would take in most of the residents on the Chelan side. The Manson segment that would be the easiest would be from Manson to the Lake Chelan Winery. From Rocky Point to the Crystal View intersection would be an expensive project.

City Budget:
The council approved both the Airport and City 2025 amendments and the two 2026 budgets. The $33 million City Budget passed 6-1. Councilman Brad Chitty recused himself from the vote. Chitty said he appreciated sitting down with staff and re-evaluating his concerns with part-time staffing. “I just want to be transparent about it.”

Councilman Terry Sanders also stated that he appreciated the work staff put into the budget. He mentioned the savings with staffing and its financial realities.

The Council unanimously approved the employment contract with the new administrator.

Communications Director Chad Coltman reported that the City and Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority had reach agreement on an Interlocal Agreement for Chelan Airport’s support and operations.

At the end of the meeting, Mayor McCardle gave a huge thank you to both staff and council for passing the 2026 budget. “I’m giving a sigh of relief for passing the budget,” she said. She also stated that she has received numerous emails regarding the Barge Services.

CITY COUNCIL HEARS CITIZEN CONCERNS WITH BUTTE DEVELOPMENT

by Richard Uhlhorn

**Bob Goedde (center) got a huge send off from staff and council after 30 years of public service to the community as both a councilman and mayor.**

Community concerns:
Tuesday’s November 25 City Council meeting opened up with a number of citizens voicing their concerns over any developments occurring on the Butte. Their primary concern was that any development on the Butte be required to hook up to the City’s wastewater system.

Lynnette Grandy told the Council that the City needs to follow its 2008 policy that says in part that all new developments are required to hook up to the Chelan Sewer system.

She was followed by Mary Ann Patton who called the Butte an iconic landmark and needs to remain as such. She also said that no STRs should be allowed on private land without hooking up to the sewer system. She warned the city that not requiring it is a violation of the City’s code and that the City should uphold its standards.

Paul Elias, parttime resident remarked that the community as a whole does not want this development and that there is a need to protect ground water.

Tammy Hauge brought up a three house development application and stated that all development projects on the Butte should be looked at as whole. She also mentioned the proposed roundabout at the Peterson intersection with Hwy. 97A and its potential impact. Hauge said she would like to see a moratorium on any Butte development until it is completely studied by the City.

Public Hearing in 2026 budget:
The City held a public hearing on its upcoming 2026 final budget. Finance Director Heidi Evans told the council that the budget is online for the public to view.. “I welcome any public feedback,” Evans said.

Councilman Brad Chitty is concerned about saving funds for different projects. He specifically mentioned the Parks budget and asked, “How do we get through those services between departments.” He went on to say that the City seems to have too many moving parts. “We need to slow down. I’m not saying the staff isn’t doing a good job, but I don’t see adding jobs as a solution.”

**Councilman Brad Chitty is concerned about budget issues.**

Councilman Terry Sanders stated that there is a massive effort on this budget. “With the perceived slowing of tourist dollars we need to see how we can be more efficient,” Sanders said.

Public Works Director Jake Youngren told the Council that inspection services cost an estimated seven to eight percent of a project’s construction costs. He stated that the hiring of an inspector is saving the city approximately $200,000 a year.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth asked how that position was being funded? Youngren replied she was being paid through the Public Works Enterprise Fund.

Councilman Chitty said the City needs to look at employees in the entire City. “Are we being as efficient as we can be,” he asked. Chitty stated that the more educated he becomes about City business, the more he begins to understand all the complexities. “We still haven’t solved the parks (financial) issue,”

With an 11% population growth versus 25% staff growth Sanders asked, “When do we stop adding new positions and look at combining operations?”

MOTION CONSIDERATIONS:

City Council approved a motion to reduce the speed from 45 mph to 35 mph on a 0.17 mile (900 feet) stretch of Hwy 150 west of No See Um Road towards Bighorn way to improve safety concerns.

Administration reports:

Jake Youngren reported that the HDCA has offered to donate 16 Big Belly garbage cans for use in the downtown area. This donation is valued at approximately $100,000. “We will pick up less frequently in the downtown area. These are quite simple to handle.” Public Works picks up garbage on a daily basis but these units have more capacity than the current garbage cans. The city will assume full ownership of the units and will be responsible for their operation and maintenance as a part of the City’s solid waste management program. The Council approved the donation.

It was reported that Public Works staff will assign three tasks to the Transpo Group to help provide decision making data related to its Six-Year Improvement Program and the Woodin Avenue Bridge.

Youngren told Council that a study would be conducted to determine travel times from Safeway to Webster. “How long does it take,” asked Youngren. They will also look at travel on the Woodin Avenue Bridge going one way out of town and other alternatives to what is current.

In addition, the City has received a $317,000 grant for pedestrian safety projects at the high school and Farnham intersection with Hwy. 97A.

Interim City Administrator Chad Coltman reported that the required Airport Environmental Assessment is almost complete and is currently under legal review. Once completed the EA will be released for public comment which will include hard copies for stakeholders and the consultant will host an in-person open house to provide an overview of its findings and answer any questions. This will occur in January and remain open for 30 days. Once the 30 days are up, all comments will be compiled and forwarded to the FAA for review and final determination.

Audrey Cooper reported that a lot of good progress has been made on the lakeside Park improvements.

John Ajax told the Council that there was a packed house at the recent Planning Commission meeting on the proposed Butte corridor road to Hwy. 97A at Peterson Place intersection.

**Public Works Director Jake Youngren.**

MAYOR/COUNCIL COMMENTS:
Tim Hollingsworth remarked that a draft housing report on the Anderson property is forthcoming. “Hopefully that will keep that project affordable.” Hollingsworth also mentioned ice hockey in the Methow and at Toyota Center and mused whether Chelan should look into building an ice rink.

Brad Chitty thanked the staff for their hard work on the 2026 budget. He also mentioned his ability to express his concerns as a councilmember.

Agustin Benegas remarked that it was his first council meeting and that he plans on learning a lot more about the City’s workings.

**Agustin Benegas was sworn in to Bob Goedde’s old council seat and participated in his first council meeting.**

Terry Sanders said he appreciated the citizens coming forward with their comments and concerns.

Mayor McCardle remarked that the 11% growth figure does not include second homes. On the budget, she stated that the City will not be adding more staff. She also warned council that discussions in executive session are private and not to be shared on social media. “There is a $500 penalty for anyone sharing executive session information.”

McCardle also mentioned that she attended the recent Parks Board meeting and said it was very informative.

In addition, McCardle announced that a contract has been signed for the Post Office to move to the Spirals Building on a six month temporary basis. She thanked Representative Schier for her help in moving this along.

COMING UP:
On Tuesday, December 2, the City will hold its workshop at 5:15 in Council Chambers. While it is a public meeting, the public is not allowed to speak unless approved by the Mayor.

November election is important VOTE

by Richard Uhlhornj

The ballots for the upcoming November 2 election have been delivered. If you haven’t taken the time to fill out your ballots and drop them off behind City Hall, please vote.

There are number of seats up for grabs in both Manson and Chelan along with the Lake Chelan School District bond issue.

Lake Chelan School District – Proposition No. 1
Morgan Owings Elementary building is 77 years old and while the building’s structure is sound, its infrastructure is failing. If passed, this $73 million dollar Proposition (bond issue) would allow the district to build a new elementary school, update its metal and woodshop at the Middle/High School along with providing ADA access to its weight room, and redo the out of compliance track field so track meets could be held in Chelan and construct restrooms or changing areas at Mt. Goat Field for soccer players along with adding 300 more parking spots at Mt. Goat Field. The cost to the taxpayer, if passed, will be $.091 cents per thousand of assessed values. In addition, many home and property owners do not vote in Chelan elections, but their property taxes will pay for 51% of the bond issue.

**The water in the elementary school is not healthy.**

Chelan City Council:
Chelan has two viable candidates looking to take over Shari Dietrich’s seat on the City Council; Shane Collins and Ben Laughlin. Both are long time residents of the city, but both have different ideas of how the council should govern.

Shane Collins
Collins is a lifelong resident of the Lake Chelan Valley having grown up on a 50-acre apple orchard and currently working in viticulture and enology. He is a member of the Chelan Parks Department’s advisory committee. He is on the board of the Washington Winegrowers Association (2015 to present).

Collins has attended City Council meetings since 2019 and says these roles have helped him understand the city’s current needs from infrastructure, transportation issues, and park issues. “I am running for City Council to advocate for thoughtful growth, to support local families and businesses.” He also wants to ensure Chelan’s agricultural heritage.

Ben Laughlin:
Laughlin is a 29-year resident of Chelan and feels that the local citizens have been pushed aside in deference to chasing tourism dollars. “I am running for council to represent the wishes and needs of the citizens of Chelan as a whole. I will listen to what the citizens want, respect majority consensus, and cast my council vote accordingly even if I personally disagree.”

Transportation issues are high on Laughlin’s list of concerns. He would like to see the Woodin Avenue Bridge put back to a two-way giving Chelan a second exit out of town.

He also feels that tourism is out of control with $750,000 being spent on attracting visitors. “Let tourism take care of itself,” he said. He would like to see the Chamber of Commerce funds cut and the funds put towards improving the city’s parks.

Hospital Commission:
Jordana LaPorte:
LaPorte has served on the Chelan Hospital’s board of commissioners since 2018. As a CPA and business owner LaPorte brings considerable experience to the board in its financial management.

In today’s political climate, LaPorte hopes to continue help in improving the hospital’s financial health and quality of care . She feels her experience in financial management is essential in guiding the hospital’s strategic direction.

Erin Peterson:
Peterson is co-owner with her husband, Ryan, at the Apple Cup Café and wants to use her perspective and familiarity with the community to serve as a new hospital commissioner.

Peterson wants to preserve access to the hospital’s maternity and newborn services, continue the hospital’s hands on, real time education opportunities for its physicians, nurses and other health care professionals, to continue extending its serviced to all populations and demographics in the district, and to allow current health care professionals to care for their patients every step of the way from clinic visits to hospital stays.

“I am proud to have a hospital that can provide so many excellent services to the community. As a board member, I will strive to listen to all stakeholders and make decisions that prioritize long-term health and safety of all our community members.”

Chelan Fire Commission:
Ron Simmons:
Incumbent Ron Simmons has 44 years of experience in fire service and says he knows what it takes to meet the Chelan Fire District needs from an emergency standpoint and as a public educator. He served as the Fire Chief of Snohomish County Fire District from 1985 to 2020 before moving to Chelan.

Simmons believes in utilizing tax money to provide what the community needs, not what would be nice to have.

**A firefighter checks conditions in Union Valley after a major human caused blaze burned hundreds of acres.**

David Rinehart:
Rinehart has been a resident of the Chelan Valley since 1982 and served the community in law enforcement for the past 30 years before retiring. He has worked with District 7, the Department of Natural Resources and Forest Service during a variety of wildfires that have threatened the community since the 1994 Tyee Complex Fire.

“I believe in honesty, speaking the truth and transparency and will bring those standards to the commissioner position if elected.”

Manson:
Manson has numerous individuals running for school board and parks board. Information is available on these important positions in your Voters Pamphlet.

VOTE… IT IS SO EASY TO HAVE YOUR VOICE HEARD.

THE BRIDGE… ONE WAY-TWO WAY???

by Richard Uhlhorn

Woodin Avenue Bridge project:
The Woodin Avenue Bridge issue was the top topic at the City of Chelan’s workshop on Tuesday, October 7. The workshop’s agenda was to receive a Transpo Group Inc. Traffic Study report followed by consultant KPFF, Inc. Woodin Avenue Bridge widening cost estimate findings.

72% of the community residents would like to see the Woodin Avenue Bridge returned to two-way traffic. The cost of doing so, might be out of reach. However, turning the traffic around to allow vehicles to leave town might help relieve some pressure on Johnson Avenue and Sanders Street.

City Engineer Travis Denham told the council that additional information on the bridge would be shared. Denham added that additional information on the Woodin Ave. Bridge would be shared to help traffic downtown. “It’s a great opportunity if you feel comfortable to move forward.”

Transpo group’s representative said he would talk through the traffic analysis the did on the bridge. The group looked at turning the bridge back to two-way and other potential alternatives. “We wouldn’t expect very much (traffic) change,” he said

Transpo collected data from other sources including the Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council.

During months outside of the busy summer months, Transpo stated that traffic on the bridge is half of what it is during the busiest summer months with Fridays being typically the highest usage.

Bob Goedde remared that most people coming from Manson would take the bridge if it was available to them.

**Councilman Bob Goedde has been** **aggressive proponent for turning the bridge back to two-way traffic.**

“This town does not want a one way bridge,” Goedde said.

“That group would have less delay,” said Denham. Mayor Erin McCardle added that with input from the community, the city is trying to give the council all the information to make a decision.

Transpo said that no special analysis has been done on cost estimates to change the bridge back to a two-way configuration.

Councilman Tim Hollingsworth noted pedestrian safety is a concern. In particular he was noting that trucks also use the bridge. “I know they are not supposed to.” Goedde has also noted that in all the time the bridge has been in use, there has never been a pedestrian accident. Hollingsworth stated that changing the bridge to an out of town configuration would benefit the Manson driving community.

The Woodin Avenue Bridge is an iconic bridge that should remain as it is. Transpo Group also studied the possibility of a new foot bridge across the river on the east side which would cost an estimated $12 million to build.

“A lot of big vehicles come across that bridge. We have a lot of projects that will have an impact on it,” said Hollingsworth. Goedde suggested putting a rail on the roadside across the bridge so no pedestrian can enter the road way.

On a typical summer day, the Woodin Avenue Bridge has 4,000 vehicles while the Dan Gordon Bridge is used by 10,400 vehicles.

McCardle also stated that the bridge issue also has to be compared with other projects which led to Denham sharing the updated Six-Year Transportation Plan.

**The City’s six-year transportation plan has $27 million dollars to be spent if all projects could be accomplished. It is updated, by law, every year with new projects added and old projects deleted.**

McCardle stated that the city has some time to think about the bridge while also thinking about other projects that are just as important.

City Budget Overview:
Communications Director Chad Coltman went over the upcoming budget hearings and said, “We have put a new set of eyes on the process,” Coltman stated. “We have more funds and everyone of those funds has a budget.” He continued by stating that the overall goal is to have a balanced budget. McCardle added that each department in the city has to pull together their budget. “There is a lot of work to bring this budget into line.

DISMAL TURNOUT AT CANDIDATE’S FORUM WEDNESDAY

by Richard Uhlhorn

Last Wednesday’s Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce 2025 Candidates Forum was an apathetic example of voter and candidate interest.

Only five candidates turned out to voice their wishes to be voted for and an estimated 25 voters were in attendance, some of which were their to support their specific candidate.

Dave Reinhart – Fire Commission candidate challenging current commissioner Ron Simmons was first on stage to answer questions and give a two-minute explanation of why he was running.

Reinhart, a retired law enforcement officer stated he would push for volunteer recruitment, engage with the residents and work hard on homeowner insurance issues if he was elected.

Kylie Schmitz, a Manson Parks Board candidate and mother of young children stated that her interest in the position is to serve the public with the issues facing the parks.

Krysta Westmoreland is seeking a position on the Manson School Board. As a mother with children in the school district, Westmoreland is committed to maintaining a balanced budget and making sure that the students have the programs available to succeed. “I know my perspective may be different than others, but I want to serve everyone in the community.”

Jordana La Porte is seeking her reappointment to the Lake Chelan Health board of commissioners. She is currently the chair of the board and has been over the seven years served, a stalwart finance member of the board. She is still focused on the hospital’s financial system and said, “We were in negative numbers for the past seven years and have now gotten on track.” She is also committed to the highest quality of health care for the community.

La Porte also stated that the hospital is facing challenging time with Medicad and Medicare which is 75% of the hospital’s income.

Shane Collins is a fourth generation farmer who stated that the community is facing development challenges and changes. He wants to protect development but said he needs to know more about the city’s infrastructure issues.

Affordable housing is high on his list of priorities and said, “I would like to make it easier for people to build affordable homes. We need to keep fees and costs down.”

He is a believer in the community’s tourism, inviting more people to the valley. “Most people I know rely on tourism dollars.” Collins is a parks board member and has served on the Washington Wine Alliance for 10 year.

“There are a lot of issues in the community and I promise to work hard if elected.”

The evenjng’s 35 minute session was monitored by KOZI’s David Mars.

City Council urged to consider building a new city hall

by Richard Uhlhorn

City Hall:
Chelan’s September 2 Workshop brought up a wrinkle in the city’s effort to remodel its current facility… the possibility of building a new $20 million city hall.

The workshop was the first time the council had heard this idea. Communications Director Chad Coltman remarked that MMEC Architecture consultants had identified a number of issues with the city’s current buildings.

At issue, of course, would be the cost which has been estimated at $20 million. The council’s issue is whether or not a new city hall is even needed versus a remodel of the existing building. Another issue is where a new City Hall would be built.

Mayor McCardle remarked that the current city hall is outgrowing itself and there will be a lack of space in the next nine years. “The problems are not going away,” said McCardle. “It’s like putting a finger into a dam,” she added.

McCardle told the Council that they need to consider coming up with a plan the city can start budgeting for. “Nothing is getting cheaper. We need to sit down and have a hard conversation,” said McCardle adding that the need is there within the next five to seven years.

Mark Ericks asked about remodeling the current facility. Terry Sanders stated that selling a $20 million dollar bond would be tough. Shari Deitrich said she doesn’t get real excited about adding a third floor. Tim Hollingsworth said the city needs to come up with a plan fr the Sheriff’s office. “We need a hard look at what they need here in Chelan,” Hollingsworth said.

During the Mayor/Council comment period at the end of the meeting, Mayor McCardle said, “You guys have to make the hard decisions on a new building.” She added that now is the right time to be thinking about this project. “It’s not going to happen tomorrow or even in four years but we need to be engaged.” She asked the council to continue to strategize and to keep the conversation going. “Let’s keep this positive.”

Note: Since the September 2 workshop a number of council members have remarked that there is a number of alternatives to building a new city hall. One of the top alternatives is to build an annex at Public Works for the Planning Department which would free up approximately 2,000 sq. ft. of space at City Hall.

Joint Operating Agreement – Airport.
meeting. “Their proposal contribution includes a three-year agreement. In a nutshell that’s the progress we’ve made.”

Currently, the contribution is $50,000 for Operations and Maintenance. The proposal follows:

                Year 1 – O&M $80,000; Capital Equipment Match – $15,000
                Year 2 – O&M $95,000; Capital Equipment Match – $15,000
                Year 3 – O&M $100,000; Capital Equipment Match – $15,000

The two year increases are subject to completion of the airport waterline and expanded Airport Development District (UGA) prior to December 31, 2026.

The Regional Port payments would be made quarterly.

The City will continue to provide monthly income and expense reports and a yearly financial summary.

Interlocal Law Enforcement Services Agreement – 2026-2029
Coltman stated that the proposed agreement revolves around the cost per deputy. Under the agreement, the department has three deputies on patrol 24/7. Currently the department has 12 officers on board. “We pay for six deputies and the new rate is $270,952 per deputy.

Mayor McCardle said, “We can’t absorb a15% increase.”

The City will pay the County the following amounts for base services to 2029
2026 – $1,72,900; 2027 – $1,793896; 2028 -$1,865,651; and 2029 – $1,940,278.

Chelan will also be required to pay for discretionary overtime.

The County will pay rent on that 1,200 sq. ft. portion of City Hall formerly the police station.

The agreement was approved unanimously by the City Council at its Tuesday, September 9 council meeting.

Council pushes back on city administrator hire

by Richard Uhlhorn

City administrator evaluation:
The motion consideration regarding an internal candidate (Chad Coltman) for the City Administrator position hit a brick wall at the Tuesday, July 22 City Council meeting after the council approved the motion to hire GMP Consultants to assess the mayor’s selection qualifications for the position.

**Communications Director Chad Coltman is Mayor Erin McCardle’s choice to replace Wade Farris when he retires. Members of the City Council want to open the position up to see who is available.**

During council comments, Councilman Terry Sanders remarked that his comment was no reflection on Coltman, but that the city administrator position is a critical hire. “We need ot have confidence in our decision,” said Sanders.

Bob Goedde, Brad Chitty and Jon Higgins all agreed with Sander’s position. “It is important that we see who’s out there,” Sanders said.

It is the mayor’s prerogative to select who will replace Wade Farris when he retires later this year, however, the decision also has to be ratified by a majority of council.

McCardle stated that Coltman has been with the City for a year and has the support of staff. “He is someone who is very qualified,” McCardle said. She added that hiring a new administrator from outside would have no connection with city staff or her.

Councilman Mark Ericks stated that he has served in an administrator’s role and has gone through the exact same process. He also said he has served on a selection committee in the past. He also feels a search for the best candidate should take place.

GMP Consultants has been hired to assess Coltman’s qualifications for the job. Coltman will be required to submit a cover letter, resume, application, and responses to two essay questions. There will also be an interview ending with a written summary of the candidate’s strengths and weaknesses before offering a recommendation. A follow-up work session with Mayor McCardle will be held to review all findings and support of her selection decision.

Airport:
City Administrator Wade Farris reported that he has been working “really hard” with the Port of Chelan/Douglas County on Option 2. This option transfers ownership of the Chelan Airport to the City with the Port making some financial contributions to its operation. “They don’t like that,” said Farris.

Both parties have requested to extend the time frame for providing the notice of non-renewal until September 30. “My goal is to have an agreement by the end of August,” said Farris.

Tim Hollingsworth said he thought it would be useful to have a joint session with the Port. Farris replied that a joint session would happen in August.

Hollingsworth is a skeptic about the City being the lead agency of the airport in particular since the Port and City are looking at the largest infrastructure project in the region. “I would like to hear their arguments.”

Airport Environmental Impact Survey:
In preparation for moving ahead with the airport expansion project, Tim Ike, JUB Engineering, reported that they have been working on the EIS for some time. “We are three years into the project and should be wrapping up soon.” Ike stated that JUB hopes to be done by spring of next year.

Chelan Valley Housing/City MOU:
Chad Coltman reported on the Memorandum of Understanding between the City and Chelan Valley Housing Trust regarding a CHIP Grant application seeking approximately $2 million for infrastructure costs for the Anderson Road housing project.

Coltman reminded the council that the City has put $200,000 in the Sewer Capital Fund to contribute as needed with project design and engineering costs for the Anderson Road sewer line improvements.

QTR 2 Financial Report:
Finance Director Jackie Tupling reported that Quarter 1 financials were slow, but Quarter 2 has made up the difference. Her report stated the City is on track to meet its revenue goals of the adopted 2025 budget.

The City has collected a total of $978,705 in sales tax so far this year which is a decrease of $90,162 over last year. “We are on pace for $2,517,811 this year,” she said in her report.

Overall lodging tax receipts are on track for the $800,000 budgeted.

Parks revenue to date is up over prior years across general parks and its commercial enterprises.

To date Parks has received $1,675,075 over its operations.

Parks rules:
Parks Director Paul Horne reported that implementation and enforcement of park ruls this season has so far brought the attention for further refinement of the Code (CMC 9.22.020 – Parks Prohibited Acts) to ensure consistency, clarity and public safety. These revisions have been developed in consultation with the City Attorney.

Mark Ericks said that service dogs can provide emotional support. The current code is pretty broad and Quinten Bajar, city attorney, said he would take another look at it.

Bob Goedde asked about BBQs outside of the parks perimeter. Horne said that was outside of their jurisdiction.

Tim Hollingsworth said he was concerned about the variety of electric vehicles operating at a high rate of speed in the parks. Shari Dietrich asked what the City’s liability inside the parks were. Horne replied that the staff would look at those issues. “We are trying to balance that,” he said.

City administer/department reports:
Wade Farris remarked that the 2026 budget process was beginning and said, “Hats off to Chad.” Jackie Tupling that anyone who had a question concerning the city’s finances to give her a call. Jake Youngren said the Lakeside Trail project was underway and drivers could expect some traffic delays.

Mayor/Council comments:
Mayor McCardle reported that Representative Kim Schier was in town and she would be meeting with her to discuss the water project.

She also brought up a potential new road all the way to Union Valley Road as an alternative to Hwy. 150 and needs to be considered. “There was a grant application that was pulled back. I hope it comes back.” The road, if constructed would be an emergency access road.

The City will hold its monthly Workshop on Tuesday, August 5.

Manson council attains 501 (c) 3 status

by Richard Uhlhorn

Council granted 501 (c) 3 status:
Mike Kirk, Manson Community Council chairman, told those in attendance at the council meeting on Tuesday, July 15, that they have been granted 501 (c) 3 status from the IRS.

**Manson Community Council Chairman Mike Kirk**

This status is an important juncture for the council who have struggled financially for years with no real ability to secure funding or its continuing operations to serve the Manson community.

With the 501 (c) 3 status the council can now pursue grant opportunities along with other sources of funding for its mission. “We are still in the process of filing with the North Central Washington Foundation,” said Kirk.

Transportation issue:
The entire board attended a Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council meeting early in July with the sole purpose of proposing a roundabout at the intersection of Wapato Lake Road and Hwy. 150.

Kirk stated that WSDOT and the transportation council both agreed that the intersection was a good location for a roundabout, but that it doesn’t prioritize high enough traffic statewide for funding through WSDOT’s funding process. However, both WSDOT and the transportation council are working with the Colville Tribal Federal Corporation (CTFC) on its plans for development of a new casino/hotel adjacent to Hwy. 150.

CTFC continues to work on its design for the development including a traffic analysis. “They are trying to find the best solutions,” said Kirk who added that the council is hopeful that its request for a roundabout will eventually become a reality. “Jeff Wilkins believes we have the right approach.”

Both WSDOT and Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council encouraged the Manson Community Council to stay engaged. The council will also stay connected with the tribe as it continues to work towards its development.

Parking issues:
Parking in Manson was also discussed. “We need to keep the communication open for more parking in Manson,” said Gerry Ustanik. Kirk mentioned the proposed LINK Park and Ride. Manson Parks is trying to purchase the land held jointly by the school district and parks department. “Manson Parks is short of money,” said Kirk. Chelan City Councilmember Bob Goedde stated that LINK has a lot of money.

One Voice:
Three groups make up the One Voice group; Manson Community Council, Manson Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Association.

A Manson resident spoke up and went on a rant regarding the lack of participation by the community in the council’s agendas. “The DOT said they aren’t going to do any work on 150,” she said. “I don’t see any feed back from people who live here.” She added that in the past, the council meetings used to be full of interested community members.

Kirk stated that the lack of participation by the community was partly his fault. She asked how to get the community out. Kirk said, “We have a very, very new council.” He asked for some patience as the council defines itself and moves to a more community oriented

The Council then discussed potential speakers they can invite. Councilwoman Rene Commons suggested that they ask Planning Commissioner Chris Willoughby to speak at a meeting. “What can be done to make this a better process,” she asked.

Other potential speakers include Chelan County Commissioner Brad Hawkins, a PUD representative, Ron Cridlebaugh, Chelan County Economic Services, and Chelan Councilman Bob Goedde suggested inviting Chelan Mayor Erin McCardle. Rene Commons said, “I’m comfortable with having two speakers at a meeting as long as they compliment each other.”

Brian Patterson updated the council on the efforts to conduct an incorporation study. He stated that funding has been turned down and that it will cost an estimated $100,000 to conduct. Now that the Council has 502 (c) 3 status, funding could become available from the State.

Kirk replied that the council was entirely voluntary and no money was available. “The council has come together,” said Kirk. “I’m very proud of it.” It was suggested that representatives be assigned different organizations to attend as liaisons instead of Kirk being the sole member responsible for attending meetings.

Future meeting:
A transportation meeting has been tentatively scheduled for August 20 at the Manson Grange Hall.