News

Written by Jonnie Crossland, Public Relations Coordinator, Colville12 Tribes Casinos

Published: 30 April 2020

Created: 30 April 2020

OMAK, WASH. April 30, 2020— The Colville Business Council and the Colville Tribal Federal Corporation (CTFC) Board of Directors approved a re-opening date for all three 12 Tribes Colville Casinos properties of Tuesday, May 5, 2020.

“We will continue to keep our top priority the health, safety, and well-being of our team members, valued guests, and communities,” said CTFC Chief Executive Officer, Kary Nichols. “Throughout this pandemic, we have relied on facts to help guide our decisions.”

Each 12 Tribes Colville Casinos property, 12 Tribes Resort Casino in Omak, 12 Tribes Mill Bay Casino in Manson, and 12 Tribes Coulee Dam Casino in Coulee Dam, will start with a soft opening, with the following measures in place to ensure the health and safety of team members and guests;

• Daily hours of operation at all three properties will be 8AM-2AM

• All three properties will be deep cleaned nightly and throughout the day

• All players are voluntarily visiting the property at their own risk and will be required to sign a waiver along with signing up for a Player’s Advantage Club Card (if they do not already have one)

• Masks, gloves, and sanitizer will be supplied but patrons are encouraged to bring their own masks as there will be a limited supply available

• Temperatures will be taken prior to entering each property. Any person displaying a cough, shortness of breath, or other known symptoms of COVID-19 or a temperature above 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit will be asked to visit another time

• Patrons and staff will be given placards to promote social distancing at gaming machines

• Plexiglas has been installed in key locations across each property for patrons and employee safety

• Food and beverage venues will follow strict social distancing guidelines

• The hotel at 12 Tribes Resort Casino will open, while valet, the pool, hot tub, workout room, and Renew Spa will remain closed until further notice

• Table games at 12 Tribes Resort Casino and Mill Bay Casino, Camas Restaurant at 12 Tribes Resort Casino, and Crosswinds Restaurant will remain closed during the initial re-opening• All entertainment events have been postponed, all 2020 Deep Water concerts have been canceled

• Team members will have extensive training on company policies and proper health protocols upon returning to work and will be required to wear mask until further notice.

“Our casinos are an essential tribal operation that helps support important government essential services,” said Colville Tribal Federal Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Kary Nichols. “This has been an impactful, but necessary closure that has affected our tribe, patrons, and team members, and we look forward to safely welcoming everyone back.”

12 Tribes Colville Casinos closed on March 17, 2020, six days before Washington State announced the, “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” Order.

More information regarding re-opening plans will be made available on 12 Tribes Colville Casino’s website at www.colvillecasinos.com/covid-19-prevention.

Written by Erin McCardle, Executive Director, Historic Downtown Chelan Association

Published: 28 April 2020

Created: 28 April 2020

Monday April 27, 2020 CHELAN — The COVID-19 pandemic has created extremely difficult circumstances for small businesses in our community. In response to the financial hardship the pandemic has put on local small businesses, the Historic Downtown Chelan Association (HDCA) will launch a micro-loan program for qualified applicants starting May 1, 2020.

"This micro-loan program is a way for the HDCA to put needed resources into the hands of our local downtown businesses quickly and with a minimum of red tape." says Erin McCardle, Executive Director of the HDCA.

Loans of up to $5,000 will be available and must be repaid over a period of three years at a rate of 2%; payments deferred for the first 6 months and no interest for the first 12 months. The loans are first come first serve for qualified applicants and total program funding will cap at $100,000.

The application period will open May 1, 2020 and will close May 7, 2020. Priority will be given to eligible applicants who are physically located within the Historic Downtown Chelan boundary as defined in the HDCA bylaws and all applicants must have been members by December 31, 2019 (this requirement is waived for businesses that began operations on or after January 1, 2020). All applicants must have their 2020 HDCA membership in good standing by the time of application.

The HDCA micro-loans will be serviced by HDCA community partner, North Cascades Bank. Bank President, Charlie Guildner says, “At North Cascades Bank, we believe a vibrant downtown benefits the whole Lake Chelan community, which is why we are proud to be providing support for the HDCA micro-loan program.”

Please check the Historic Downtown Chelan Association website for qualification details and to download a copy of the application and instructions. https://www.historicchelan.org/microloan/

The Historic Downtown Chelan Association is a local non-profit working to shape the future while preserving the past of historic downtown Chelan.

Written by Kevin Morris, Sheriff, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office

Published: 26 April 2020

Created: 26 April 2020

On April 19, 2020 at about 2:13 PM, Douglas County Deputies were dispatched to a report of human remains found by an individual picking asparagus.

The remains were located in the trees and brush on the hillside, in the 2700 block of Tacoma Avenue, Bridgeport. The scene was investigated and the remains were removed.

Although confirmation cannot be made as to the identity of the remains until further DNA testing, Investigators believe this to be Roy L. Groeneveld. Mr. Groeneveld was reported missing from a nearby residence in 2010 and never located.

Written by Roger Pepperl, Marketing Director, Stemilt

Published: 26 April 2020

Created: 26 April 2020

WENATCHEE, Wash. – Stemilt Ag Services (SAS) received COVID-19 results late yesterday after coordinating with Confluence Health to proactively test 71 asymptomatic team members at an isolated East Wenatchee site over the weekend. Thirty-six individuals tested positive for COVID-19. The group is in isolation, and SAS continues to follow Chelan-Douglas County Health District protocols for confirmed cases. This was the first widescale testing done in Chelan and Douglas County on asymptomatic agriculture workers.

“Our essential business of growing fruit to feed people would not be possible without our frontline team members,” said West Mathison, Stemilt president. “We are doing all that we can to ensure our team members are well-cared for while in isolation.”

Dr. Joel Banken, who oversees the Confluence Health operated Stemilt Family Clinic in Wenatchee visited with the SAS team members at the isolation site on Tuesday. He provided them with clinic information and pamphlets on the virus.

“Everyone was in good spirits,” said Banken. “It’s great that this family medicine clinic exists and will continue to be available to serve employees.”

Stemilt has proactively followed Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations for spacing, hygiene, and social distancing in its work processes.

Local public health officials and health care organizations are fully involved with these positive cases, and able to support individuals if needed. Stemilt, in collaboration with Confluence Health, will monitor each team member daily and is working on a protocol to re-test the individuals who tested negative this week while they quarantine.

“Stemilt has actively implemented social distancing, symptom monitoring and other recommended COVID control measures at its work and housing sites,” said Barry Kling, administrator at Chelan-Douglas Health District. “What these test results tell us is that asymptomatic cases of COVID-19 are so common that these measures are not sufficient in these settings even when implemented well. That means we need to think differently. Social distancing measures should be maintained at farmworker sites and housing, but we also need to greatly increase testing of workers so that isolation and quarantine can be used when needed, and uninfected workers can continue to work. We must assure that agriculture workers who are sick get the care they need. Public Health will be working with the ag industry to make this happen. We are fortunate that local health care organizations such as Confluence and Columbia Valley Community Health are also ready to play an important part in this effort to protect workers -- and to protect a truly essential local industry.”

Written by Undersheriff Tyler I. Caille, DCSO

Published: 26 April 2020

Created: 26 April 2020

See our previous story: Missing person sought after major structure fire

On 4/21/2020, a Unified Command Team was established to help coordinate fire investigation efforts. Members of this team included the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Douglas County Fire Marshal, Douglas County Coroner, Douglas County Fire District #1, and the Town of Waterville. Due to the size of the scene, Chelan County Volunteer Search and Rescue was contacted for the assistance of their cadaver-trained detection K-9. The K-9 identified areas within the fire scene to help guide investigators to check for the unaccounted person. Due to the amount and size of the debris, heavy equipment had to be mobilized to the scene to assist with further search efforts.

On 4/22/2020, Douglas County Detectives, Coroner, and Fire Marshal re-entered the fire scene to conduct a search for the unaccounted subject and attempt to determine the cause of the fire. As a result of the search and the assistance of the heavy equipment, one deceased subject was located within the debris. The subject located has not yet been positively identified, but is believed to be the property owner, 87-year-old Waterville resident Ray D. Kope. The Douglas County Coroner will work to confirm the identity. The Douglas County Fire Marshal has concluded his investigation work at the scene and determined the cause of the fire to be accidental.

Written by Sheriff Brian Burnett, CCSO

Published: 26 April 2020

Created: 26 April 2020

Sheriff Brian Burnett proudly announces that Chelan County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Sergeant Adam Musgrove has been selected to be promoted to Chief of Patrol, tentatively scheduled for July 1, 2020. This is following the recent announcement of Chief of Patrol Rick Johnson being selected as the next Chief for East Wenatchee Police Department.

Sergeant Musgrove has been with the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office since March 1, 2012 when both he and his wife decided to move to East Wenatchee in order to be closer to family. He was born in Hawaii and grew up in Oak Harbor where he graduated high school in 1996. He served on active duty in the Navy from 1996-2006 and he continues to serve in the U.S. Navy Reserve, as he approaches 25 years of service and holds the rank of Senior Chief.  He spent a majority of his Navy career as a Patrol Leader in the Navy Expeditionary Combat Command community where he deployed several times overseas. Musgrove joined the Sedro Wooley Police Department in 2006 where he worked until being hired by Sheriff Burnett in 2012. Musgrove was promoted to Sergeant for the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office in September 2017, and is currently a nightshift supervisor for a patrol squad.  He runs the Reserve Program for CCSO and is a Domestic Violence instructor. He has organized two Reserve Academies and one Citizens Academy. He has served as a Field Training Officer and is close to becoming an FTO Instructor.  He created and runs the CCSO Santa’s Stars program every year. Sergeant Musgrove has completed a course in Police Leadership, “the West Point Model” and more recently a Senior Leadership Course at the Navy War College. He lives in East Wenatchee and is married with 2 daughters.

Sergeant Musgrove brings some great leadership qualities to the Sheriff’s Office and the Chief of Patrol position. Sheriff Burnett says that although he is sad to see his current Chief of Patrol Rick Johnson leave, he is equally excited about the future of the Sheriff’s leadership growth, both in the command level and first line supervisors who are such an essential part of our operations and leadership. Sheriff Burnett says, “This is an exciting time of growth for the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office and I’m personally excited and confident with the staff we have to lead us successfully into the future.”

Written by Jason Reinfeld, Chief of Special Operations, CCSO

Published: 26 April 2020

Created: 26 April 2020

Sheriff Brian Burnett reports on April 20th, 2020 at approximately 7:45 am, a rollover collision was reported in the area of Swakane Canyon. The reporting party, who has now been determined to be the passenger said the vehicle, a Toyota Tacoma had rolled over and was on top of the driver. The driver has been identified as 18 year old Meghann Dodge of East Wenatchee. The passenger told RiverCom Ms. Dodge was not breathing and eventually said she was unable to perform CPR due to her position underneath the truck.

Chelan County Sheriff’s Office Deputies and a Department of Fish and Wildlife Officer responded to the scene. They found Ms. Dodge deceased when they arrived. A CCSO collision investigator is investigating the collision with the assistance of a Washington State Patrol Detective for scene diagramming. So far the investigator has determined Ms. Dodge and her passenger drove from Cashmere up Nahahum Canyon Road and started down Swakane Canyon. When they were approximately 7.3 miles from highway 97A, the vehicle left the roadway at a low speed and rolled over on it’s top. Ms. Dodge was partially ejected and the vehicle came to a rest on top of her.

The investigator has not yet determined the cause of the collision. There were no other vehicles involved. The passenger was transported to CWH with minor injuries.

Written by Sarah Deenik, Communications Coordinator/Finance Specialist, CDRP

Published: 26 April 2020

Created: 26 April 2020

The Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority has been working with the Washington State Department of Commerce in administering the Working Washington Small Business Emergency Grant Program. This program was announced by Governor Inslee on March 18 to assist small businesses impacted by the COVID‐19 outbreak and the response to it. Funding is being provided through the use of $5.0 million from the Governors Strategic Reserve Fund.

Grant funding up to $10,000 per business will be provided to a limited number of businesses in Washington’s 39 counties. Applicants must have been in business for at least a year and have no more than 10 full‐time employees. Grant funds can be used for operating expenses including rent, supplies/inventory, utility bills, consulting, marketing, and training. Payroll cannot be reimbursed as part of the grant program.

The Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority accepted and processed applications on behalf of the Department of Commerce. The Governor’s Office will make the final small business selections. The Regional Port was flooded with applications once the Department of Commerce website went live on April 7th.

To date, the Regional Port has received over 800 applications from small businesses in Chelan and Douglas Counties with grant requests exceeding $8.0 million. The Regional Port estimates $173,000 will be available for the two county area from the Governors Strategic Reserve Fund. With so many applications and very little money, the Regional Port has requested the maximum grant amount for Chelan and Douglas County small businesses be placed at $5,000 per business. This way more deserving businesses will receive some funding instead of none at all. Grants will be made available to approximately 34 businesses in lieu of 17. Grant award announcements are expected within the next three to four weeks.

The State also requested the Regional Port submit applications for “Aspirational State Funding” in case additional state and/or federal funds could be secured for the program. That amount for the two county region is estimated at $674,000.

Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority Board of Directors President Rory Turner said, “the demand for small business grants in our region has been overwhelming. The board of directors have asked our administrative team to look at other opportunities to secure funding for our impacted small businesses.”

The Regional Port is currently working with several local governmental agencies to determine if Community Development Block Grant funding can be used to assist small businesses impacted by COVID‐19.

Written by Janice Stewart

Published: 26 April 2020

Created: 26 April 2020

The Manson School district has been providing meals in the community for 25 days since the shutdown and has now served over 20,000 meals to kids in our community.  A team of 20+ staff works to prepare and deliver meals throughout our community using our existing bus routes.  Last week the staff and students took part in dress-up days to show our school spirit. For weekend meal service

THRIVE Chelan Valley is changing their weekend food support for students from a pick up process to a delivery model beginning May 1st. Families need to register by clicking the link below.

• Food2Schools Friday Order Form - English Version

• Food2Schools Friday Order Form - Spanish Version

Additionally, an anonymous donor has donated $7,500 to the Manson Volunteer Firefighters Association for Manson families in need. Gift cards for use at Manson Bay Market in the amount of $100 will be mailed to 75 families that have had a financial loss due to the COVID 19 Virus

Written by Undersheriff Tyler I. Caille, DCSO

Published: 17 April 2020

Created: 17 April 2020

On 4-16-2020 at approximately 7:07 PM, Douglas County Deputies responded to assist with a commercial structure fire located in the 100 block of W. Locust Street, Waterville.

Douglas County Fire District #1 personnel were on-scene of the fire, which was reported as being fully involved upon arrival.

Fire District #1 personnel requested a second-alarm fire response which provided additional fire resources from both neighboring Chelan and Douglas County Fire Districts.

Washington State Patrol Troopers also responded to the scene and assisted with traffic control.

During the course of the fire containment, deputies learned one of the subjects reported to be at the location, prior to the start of the fire, is currently unaccounted for.

Douglas County Detectives are currently assisting the Douglas County Fire Marshal with the investigation of the fire and are working to locate the unaccounted subject.

Due to the compromised integrity of the building, US 2 will remain closed past the fire scene and WSDOT has established a detour route for motorists traveling through the Waterville area.

Written by Tiana Rowland

Published: 17 April 2020

Created: 17 April 2020

Effective April 14 2020, the Douglas County Commissioners are limiting the use of Short Term or Vacation Rentals and recreational vehicles until May 4, 2020 or until the Stay Home, Stay Healthy order is lifted.

The Douglas County Commissioners find that people coming to Douglas County for recreational purposes avoiding the COVID-19 emergency directive and recommendations in other communities are negatively impacting the public health, safety, and welfare in Douglas County.  Additionally, these actions are negligent in complying with Governor Inslee’s Proclamations 20-25 and 20-25.1 by not staying home.  An influx of people living in recreational and other vehicles, as well as short term and vacation rentals, creates traffic, sanitation hazards, trespass, and other public safety problems further exhausting law enforcement and first responder resources.

The Douglas County Commissioners are directing all use of recreational vehicles for camping, sleeping or occupancy to cease unless occurring on owner’s own property. Furthermore, all short term/vacation rentals are hereby directed to close, whether compensated or not.

The Douglas County Commissioners are committed to the health and safety of their community and as such strive to ensure the continued operability of all emergency services.  The Board believes that limiting the influx of visitor during this emergency will help reduce the strain on community resources and protect Douglas County.

Read the full resolution here.

Written by Mark R. Donnell, Fire Chief, Chelan Fire & Rescue

Published: 17 April 2020

Created: 17 April 2020

Firefighter/EMT Stephanie Preheim and Firefighter/EMT Mitchell Matthews will be joining the Chelan Fire & Rescue Team as seasonal firefighters for the 2020 Fire Season.

The addition of these two seasonal employees will give our community the additional staffing needed to accommodate the seasonal call volume increase during our daily peak operating periods.

Both Stephanie and Mitch are active members within the Chelan Fire & Rescue organization and have been filling available stipend shifts working as a third firefighter over the past several months.

Stephanie and Mitchell also have their IFSAC Firefighter I/II and Hazmat Operations and Wildland Firefighter Type 1 or 2 certifications in addition to being credentialed Washington State Emergency Medical Technicians.  These are nationally recognized certifications which are added benefits to the organization and the community we serve.

The seasonal firefighter positions are being funded within our 2020 budget using funds that were allocated for our current firefighter stipend program.

The seasonal firefighters will start May 1st and complement our daily staffing working alongside our career and volunteer members in providing service to the community. Welcome Aboard Firefighters Preheim and Matthews!

Written by Amanda (Levesque) Newell, Education & Outreach Specialist, Cascadia Conservation District

Published: 17 April 2020

Created: 17 April 2020

FREE CHIPPING!

Spring is a great time to get work done around your property, including wildfire preparedness. Consider using our spring chipping program instead of burning debris piles.

Burning your piles can lead to air quality issues and is a safety concern if fires were to get out of control.

Registration is open for our chipping program until May 1 here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GKTNND9.

Chipping will take place in late May. You don’t need to leave your property, just stack your branches on the street or driveway and our contract chipping crew will take care of it!

Questions? Please contact Amanda Newell with Cascadia Conservation District: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Written by Gregory Kennedy

Published: 17 April 2020

Created: 17 April 2020

Resolution 2020-42 has been signed by the Board of Chelan County Commissioners.  This latest resolution will allow pre-existing home sales to continue.

Read the resolution here.

Written by Gregory Kennedy

Published: 14 April 2020

Created: 14 April 2020

The Chelan County Board of Commissioners have released a new resolution in response to questions from citizens who stated they were not clear about declarations stated in Resolution 2020-38.

You can read the resolution here.

Written by Mark Donnell, Chelan Fire & Rescue

Published: 10 April 2020

Created: 10 April 2020

Summary of the April 9, 2020 Leadership Response Team Conference Call

Submitted by: Mark Donnell, Chelan Fire & Rescue

Kent Sisson, Chelan-Douglas Regional EOC: Kent restated continued frustration from inability to obtain PPE (personal protective equipment) through the State due to changing guidelines and lack of coordination. Chelan county did receive needed ventilators and were able to return 40 back to the state due to lower-than-expected patient counts. Kent stated that he believed our latest PPE order might bring in some needed PPE but that long-term care facilities have been moved into the Tier 1 category which will impact the EOC’s ability to distribute surgical masks which are in low supply numbers.

Kent stated that the Sheriff’s Office was working with property owners regarding the recent declaration from the Chelan County Commissioners regarding vacation rentals and using education strategies before implementing enforcement.

Kent reinforced the need for the community to keep our focus on social distancing and the need for all essential services to focus on those infection control measures as it appears to be having a positive effect in controlling this current outbreak.

Barry Kling, Chelan-Douglas Health District: Answered questions regarding the number of patients testing positive in the Chelan/Manson area and referred to current information posted on the Chelan-Douglas Health District website: https://cdhd.wa.gov/covid-19/#case-count.

Barry was also asked about the drive-through testing process in place at Confluence Health and whether or not patients tested were given instructions about self-isolation until test results were returned. He was able to get an answer from Confluence during the conference call and it was affirmed that patient instructions were being given for those being tested.

Barry also offered to work with Kristi Morris form Columbia Valley Community Health to reach out to the Okanogan County Health District to assist in infection control measures to packing facilities in Okanogan County.

Barry reiterated that even with all of the news coming from Washington State that we may be at or near the top of the infection curve, it is extremely important to keep our social distancing processes in place for our area, as the eastern part of the state is about 1 to 2 weeks behind the curve for the Puget Sound. We need to keep sending the message out to our community about staying home, maintaining social distancing, and practicing effective infection control as these things appear to be working.

Chris Foreman, Chelan County Sheriff’s Office: Reiterated that patrol officers are working more towards educating the public regarding essential businesses and the vacation rental declaration rather than enforcement. Chelan County Sheriff has a dedicated number 509-667-6985 for the community to report violators with one deputy assigned to this task

Kristi Morris, Columbia Valley Community Health: Stated that they currently have 5 patients who have tested positive and 9 patients with results pending.

Kari Grover-Weir, USFS: USFS is starting to staff up for the upcoming fire season while working within the confinements mandated with social distancing. Mike Asher (CCFD #8 – Entiat) inquired whether or not the USFS was moving towards an earlier implementation of the seasonal burn ban similar to those released today by DNR. No decision is in place at this time.

Mike Steele, Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce: Gave updates from the business community in regards to unemployment benefits and the business community grant program. Currently over 200 businesses in Chelan County have applied with participation from business owners in the Chelan and Manson communities. Mike also stated that many in the business community are concerned about the recovery of business in our area and the possibility of what social distancing might need to be implemented when this current situation is over.

Mike gave an update on residential construction being an essential service and what the definition and guidelines for this would look like. There are a number of municipalities and counties looking at reviewing this issue and making recommendations for changing the current designation.

Mike also recommended adding the CEO from Chelan Fruit to the Leadership Response Team as a resource for working with the growers in the area, for purposes of educating and enforcing social distancing and infection control measures to safeguard worker health.

Debbie Conwell, Manson Chamber of Commerce: Gave a brief update on the community support program for Manson.

Bob Goedde, City of Chelan: City of Chelan and its citizens must follow this directive the Chelan County Declaration on short term rentals as we are in Chelan County and fall under their jurisdiction on this issue. The city is also seeking clarification on owners of second homes and where to shelter in place. There have been concerns from the community that people who own second homes are travelling back and forth and not sheltering in place as is the intent of the current stay-at-home policy

Mike Asher, Chelan County Fire District 8 (Entiat): CCFD # 8 has sufficient stock of PPE to handle current call volumes. Is concerned about the impact that current social distancing will have on partner agencies’ ability to respond for a potential busier-than-normal fire season. Fire Chief Mark Donnell spoke to the conversation he had with Bob Plumb (Chelan County Fire Marshal) about the possibility of starting the burn ban earlier this year (May 1st). Mr. Plumb indicated that he was working with the county commissioners and fire chiefs in coordination with the County Director of Community Development to put this in place.

Brandon Asher, Chelan Fire & Rescue: Updated team on recently implemented infection control measures put in place at Station 71. PPE stock is sufficient although disposable gowns and surgical masks are at critical lows. EMS call numbers for March are down but CF&R has had 19 fire or fire-related events since March 1st. All predictions are that we will be experiencing a busier-than-normal fire season.

Written by Jordyn Giulio, Douglas County Records and Risk Manager

Published: 09 April 2020

Created: 09 April 2020

In the interest of public safety, the Douglas County Treasurer has opted to maintain the April 30 deadline for property taxes and assessments.  In our largely rural county, many of our small hospital and fire districts, as well as other valuable districts that provide services to the public are often supported by property taxes alone. 

To respond to the economic impacts stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Douglas County Treasurer is encouraging property owners who are financially able, to pay first half or full year property taxes early to fund essential services needed now and in the months to come.  However, the Treasurer’s Office understands that some taxpayers will be unable to make the April 30 deadline for their payments. 

The Treasurer will be offering two tax relief plans for homeowners and small business owners who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The first option is a grace period extension.  A taxpayer that enters into this plan will pay 50% of their first half tax and/or assessment(s) payment by April 30, with the remainder of the first half payment due on or before May 29 and will not be assessed interest or penalty.  The second option is an 8-payment plan.  The Treasurer office will assess the statutory monthly interest to the first half payment, but waive the state penalty.  The balance will be divided into eight (8) payments, with the final payment due November 30.  The second half tax due date of October 31 will remain unchanged. 

In the event the pandemic persists into late 2020, the Treasurer will consider offering similar plans for the second-half 2020 taxes and assessments. 

Applications for both plans are available on the Treasurer webpage at http://www.douglascountywa.net/elected-offices/treasurer or a paper or email copy can be obtained by contacting the Treasurer Office at (509) 745-8525.

You can also download the forms here:

COVID-19 8-Payment Plan Rev 04092020.pdf

COVID-19 Grace Period Extension Rev 04092020.pdf

Written by Carol A Kibler, Administrative Office Manager, CCFD

Published: 09 April 2020

Created: 09 April 2020

The CFR Board of Commissioners will conduct the meeting via google hangout. The public is welcome to listen to the open public meeting by calling #351-888-7591 no access code is needed.

Proposed Chelan Fire and Rescue agenda pending Board approval.

Flag Salute:

Regular Meeting Call to Order:

Approve Agenda:

Public Comment: No comments will be accepted at this meeting. If you have questions after the meeting please email Chief Mark Donnell at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 509-682-4476

Consent Agenda:

• Revenue and Expenditure Report: February 2020 / March 2020

• Payroll: $111,849.11 February 1-29, 2020 Paid: 03-05-2020 / $117,566.60 March 1-31 Paid: 04-05-2020

• Vouchers for February 1-29, 2020 General Account: Vouchers #746238 - 746259 for $20,171.83; Vouchers 746260 – 746280 for $19,400.87; Vouchers 746282-746290 for $3,502.45.

• Vouchers for March 1-31, 2020 General Account:

• Vouchers for February 1-29, 2020 Capital Account: Vouchers 17106 - 17107 for $2,054.17; Vouchers 746281 for $2,235.97and Voucher 17108 for $53.18.

• Minutes: February 10 & 19, 2020 and March 23, 2020

Fire Chief Report:

• 2020 Budget & Financial Report

• Emergency Response Report / Operations / Community Risk Reduction

Assistant Chief Report:

• Volunteer Recruitment & Retention / Training

Firefighters Association Report:

Unfinished Business:

• Long Range Planning

• Seasonal Hires

New Business:

• Resolution 2020-02 Surplus - Laptops

• Resolution 2020-03 Delegating Authority to Declare an Emergency

• Resolution 2020-04 Surplus – 1987 Ford Water Tender

• Resolution 2020-06 Surplus Items Structure Helmets and Boots

• Resolution 2020-07 Surplus 1992 Seagrave and 2000 Nav/IH

• Incident 2020-129 Illegal Burning Billing

• Incident 2020-186 Out of District Brush Fire Response Billing

Special Events:

Board for Volunteer Firefighters:

Public Comment: No comments will be accepted at this meeting. If you have questions after the meeting please email Chief Mark Donnell at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 509-682-4476

Commissioner Comments:

Executive Session:

Adjournment:

Written by Tiana Rowland M.Ed., CMC, Clerk of the Board, Douglas County

Published: 09 April 2020

Created: 09 April 2020

On April 8, 2020 the Douglas County Board of Commissioners passed Resolution CE No. 20-26B & TLS 20-22B, Proclamation of Pre-existing Home Sales Agreements Proceed During the COVID-19 Stay Home Stay Healthy Governor Proclamation.

This proclamation allows pre-existing home sales that also have building permits in place to proceed to build completion as an essential activity under the Governor of the State of Washington’s guidance, subject to restrictions.  Both the purchase and sale agreement and the building permit must have issue dates on or before March 27, 2020.  The restrictions are as follows:

• An affidavit stating there is an existing Purchase and Sale Agreement or Real Estate contract and previously approved building permit prior to March 27, 2020 must be provided.
• An authorization letter will then be issued by the Douglas County Planning Department.
• Property viewings, inspections, appraisals and final walk-throughs shall be arranged by appointment only, and be limited to two people at each occurrence.  Inspector may require additional measurers as required by the building inspector.
• County authorization must be posted on site.
• All persons on site must observe social distancing guidelines and applicable health and worker protection measures.
• This proclamation may be rescinded or superseded any time at the direction of the Douglas County Board of County Commissioners.

 Full documents can be read here:

Douglas County Resolution CE No. 20-26B and TLS 20-22B

Chelan-Douglas Health District Letter of Support

Memorandum from Office of Gov. Jay Enslee

Written by Mark R. Donnell, Fire Chief, Chelan Fire & Rescue

Published: 09 April 2020

Created: 09 April 2020

On 4-7-20 at 5:41 PM, Chelan Fire & Rescue crews were dispatched to a reported brush fire in the area of 752 Swanson Gulch Road.

Arriving crews found an approximately ¼ acre wind driven brush fire that had moved into several large debris piles.

13 personnel from Chelan Fire & Rescue, working with several area residents, were able to get the fire under control within an hour and remained on scene to mop up until 1950.

The property owner was not burning at the time of this incident and the cause is still under investigation.

Chelan Fire & Rescue would like to remind our community that we are already experiencing an unusually active fire season this year and to please use caution when burning.

Written by Gregory Kennedy

Published: 08 April 2020

Created: 08 April 2020

Written by Barbara LaBoe, WSDOT communications

Published: 07 April 2020

Created: 07 April 2020

OLYMPIA – The arrival of spring typically means drivers in Washington have until March 31 to remove studded tires. However, this year the Washington State Department of Transportation is further extending the deadline to Friday, May 15, due to COVID-19 virus concerns and Gov. Jay Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order to help reduce the spread of the virus by limiting social interactions. This extends the previous April 30 deadline.

“Washington is experiencing some extraordinary challenges with COVID-19 right now and we recognize this is not a time for ‘business as usual,’” said WSDOT Maintenance Operations Branch Manager James Morin. “People are dealing with a lot of concerns – and this further extension means getting tires changed by the end of April doesn’t need to be one of them.” 

Studded tires are legal in Washington from Nov. 1 to March 31. State law gives WSDOT authority to extend the deadline when circumstances call for it, most commonly when a forecast indicates widespread snow and ice. With most residents asked to stay home through Monday, May 4, removing studded tires before the previous deadline could be difficult for some.

Because the COVID-19 event is rapidly changing, WSDOT will re-evaluate the situation near the end of the new extension period. If no new extensions are granted at that time, the May 15 deadline means that starting at midnight on Saturday, May 16, drivers with studded tires face a $136 fine.

WSDOT encourages drivers to remove studded tires prior to the deadline, if possible. Studded tires damage pavement, so removing them promptly after winter has passed helps preserve state roadways. Tire removal services can get crowded near the removal deadline, so please plan accordingly.

Crews continue to monitor roads, passes and forecasts, and work to quickly clear any late season snow or ice. Travelers are always advised to “know before you go” by checking road conditions before heading out and staying up-to-date on changes by using WSDOT’s social media and email alert tools or calling the 5-1-1 road conditions report.

Other states may have different studded tire removal dates, but the Washington law applies to all drivers in the state, even visitors. No personal exemptions or waivers are issued.

More information about studded tire regulations in Washington is available online.

Written by Gregory Kennedy

Published: 06 April 2020

Created: 06 April 2020

This is a very important resoulution that affects those renting space to out of town visitors, campers and anyone staying in an RV or other vehicle that are non-residents of Chelan County.

A fine of $500 per day can be applied to owners, operators and managers of B&Bs, vacations rentals and campgrounds that are shown to be in violation of the order.

READ THE RESOLUTION HERE

Written by Brandon Asher, CCFR

Published: 06 April 2020

Created: 06 April 2020

Chelan Fire and Rescue is currently looking at reactivating the downtown “air raid” siren for larger, multi alarm incidents within the fire district.

Chelan Fire and Rescue runs over 900 calls a year and is a recognized as the 6th most high-risk area for large catastrophic fires in the state. As we have seen in the past, occasionally these fires can quickly overrun the capabilities of our limited local resources, especially with the right weather conditions. The majority of our calls are usually handled by the on-duty crews in combination with the volunteers at outlying stations. Those calls would NOT activate the siren. But due to the reduction of half of Chelan Fire and Rescue’s daily career staff coupled with a decrease in volunteers responding to calls we feel now is the time to research different ways to notify the community to prepare.

As more orchards are being torn out and more homes are moving deeper into the urban interface, we feel the Lake Chelan community as a whole, needs to be alerted. The community can share in their part of the response by looking up, looking for smoke, recognizing that there is a fire, and generally remaining vigilant to their surroundings. Fires that used to be slowed by green orchards and irrigation now have paths from the hills right into homes.

Chelan Fire and Rescue is looking at activating the siren only on 2nd alarm or greater fires. By activating the siren on 2nd and 3rd alarm fires it serves many purposes. It lets the community know that all five stations and all firefighters are being requested for a fire in the district. It lets business owners who employ our volunteer members know that there is a significant fire event locally in hopes that they may be able to release them to respond to the call. It lets you the citizens know there is a chance that if you call 911, your emergency may have a slight delay as incident commanders decide what to break free from the major incident or who to call to assist you. It lets you also know that there will soon be apparatus and personnel from all over Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties potentially coming through town to assist. It creates community situational awareness that is vital to the safety of all as conditions can change in a matter of minutes. We will do our part in getting up to date factual information out to all media platforms as the situation allows.

Chelan Fire and Rescue is not alone in this endeavor. The Leavenworth and Lake Wenatchee areas are also in the process of researching the reactivation of their siren system. Chelan Fire and Rescue hopes that we won’t have to activate it at all this summer but we also recognize the challenges that we are facing regarding our response capabilities. Now with the COVID-19 situation we could potentially have even fewer firefighters locally and statewide to respond. Chelan Fire and Rescue is here to answer questions and looking for input from the community in regard to this. You can contact Assistant Chief Brandon Asher at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call Station 71 at (509)682-4476.

Written by Public Information Officer, Washington Emergency Management Division

Published: 03 April 2020

Created: 03 April 2020

Today, Gov. Inslee extended the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order to May 4. The governor says the fastest way to economic recovery is the recovery of our health. Stay home. Stay healthy. Save lives. The order continues to require everyone to stay at home unless they are pursuing an essential activity, like shopping for groceries, going to a doctor’s appointment or going to work at an essential business. This is unprecedented times and the sacrifice residents have made are clear. But we will get through this together. #WeGotThisWA

All grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, food supply chains, and other things necessary for continued operations will continue to remain open. https://coronavirus.wa.gov/whats-open-and-closed

Employment Security phone lines continue to be overwhelmed. Keep trying or try filing online. https://esd.wa.gov/newsroom/retroactive-payments

The order means that the eviction moratorium continues. If you are having problems with a landlord, let the state know: https://fortress.wa.gov/atg/formhandler/ago/COVID19EvictionComplaintForm.aspx

Our team at our state Emergency Operations Center has processed thousands of inquiries looking to be an essential business. If you have more questions, let them know https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/d4c155fa930f4b848f95774d610c9708

There are so many businesses and people staying home and we appreciate everyone’s help. But if you see a business willfully violating the order, report suspected violators at the link. Don’t call 911. https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/09349a1c56844b539fea1c2cabd16d56

Have questions? Visit http://coronavirus.wa.gov or call 1-800-525-0127 and press #.

Written by Janice Stewart

Published: 03 April 2020

Created: 03 April 2020

Manson Athletic Program is excited to announce the hire of Steve Nygreen as the new Head Girls Basketball coach. 

“We are thrilled to have Steve onboard in this role and look forward to him building a strong foundation for our program.” stated Manson AD Eric Sivertson.  

Steve has taught in Manson for two years and has served as a middle school football coach and a high school assistant boys basketball coach.  Prior to landing in Manson Steve was the Head Girls Basketball coach in Chelan.

Written by Brandon Asher, Assistant Fire Chief, Chelan Fire and Rescue

Published: 03 April 2020

Created: 03 April 2020

On 4-2-20 at 1:42 pm Chelan Fire and Rescue assisted Chelan County Fire District #8 (Entiat) with a brush fire on the hill above the orchards off Chelan Butte Rd in Stayman Flats.

On arrival command reported a ¼ acre working brush fire with multiple orchard workers on scene attempting to extinguish.  The fire was being pushed by 10-15 mph winds.

Crews were able to quickly get the main body of fire under control.  Crews also caught one spot fire about 50 yards away that had started across the road and were able to catch it before it was out of reach.

Four apparatus from Entiat and three from Chelan responded with a total of ten firefighters.

The cause of the fire was an orchard burn that had spotted due to the sudden winds.

Written by Veronica Farias, CDHD

Published: 03 April 2020

Created: 03 April 2020

East Wenatchee, WA – Many people are curious about the positive COVID-19 cases confirmed so far in Chelan and Douglas Counties. Chelan-Douglas Health District was not releasing details on individual cases to protect patient confidentiality. Unfortunately, because we now have enough cases, we will release grouped information.

One caution. You may live in a town with no lab confirmed cases so far. That does not mean the virus is not there. Recent studies make it very clear that there are many mild or non-symptomatic cases, that is, people don’t know they have coronavirus, and that they can infect others. Most people who get this infection will recover and be fine, but the measures we take now will save the lives of vulnerable people. You must do the same things – stay home, wash hands, etc. – whether or not there happen to be known cases in your town. The infection is there, and there will be more. STAY HOME – STAY HEALTHY – STAY SAFE.

The following information represents confirmed cases in Chelan and Douglas Counties as of April 1, 2020:

Confirmed Cases by Age

Confirmed Cases by Sex at Birth

Confirmed Cases by City

Statement on Deaths:

There have been two (2) deaths among those who have been confirmed positive for COVID-19. Both were more than 80 years old and had coexisting medical conditions.

COVID-19 Resources:

Chelan-Douglas Health District

Chelan-Douglas Emergency Operation Center

Washington State Department of Health

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Written by Gregory Kennedy

Published: 01 April 2020

Created: 01 April 2020

The body of 18-year-old Hannia “Paulina” Mosqueda Rodriguez of Waterville was discovered near Horse Lake Road on March 17th (see our previous story).

Her family has set up a GoFundMe account to help pay for expenses incurred during this difficult time.

Please help by donating at: gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-paulina.

Written by Janice Stewart

Published: 01 April 2020

Created: 01 April 2020

The Manson School Board is asking our community for nominations of Manson School District Staff Members who have made a significant contribution to the lives of students and/or the greater Manson community. Recipients of this year’s award will receive a scholarship in the amount of $500 from Aaron England of England Chiropractic. They will be recognized by the Manson Chamber of Commerce “A Night to Remember” held next fall.

Selection criteria is as follows: one certificated employee (grades P-12) and one support staff employee (secretaries, bus drivers, custodians, para-professionals, food services, coaches, etc.)

Nominations have been extended until April 23, 2020 at noon. Winning nominees will be announced at the Manson School Board meeting on April 27, 2020.

Nominations forms are available online by using the following link: https://forms.gle/bEhzz8SVLrjaiDJg6 (English) and https://forms.gle/JMciVt4WNCBqUvMVA Spanish .

Written by Mark R. Donnell, Fire Chief, Chelan Fire & Rescue

Published: 01 April 2020

Created: 01 April 2020

Chelan Fire & Rescue Firefighter/EMTs Troy Keene and Adam Jones were recently recognized for their 10 years of dedicated service to the community.

Adam and Troy are the only two members from the original group hired as fulltime firefighters for Chelan Fire & Rescue and are truly a decided asset for the community and the organization.

Please congratulate them on reaching this milestone anniversary.

Written by Mark R. Donnell, Fire Chief, Chelan Fire & Rescue

Published: 01 April 2020

Created: 01 April 2020

On March 30th at 4:13 PM crews from Chelan Fire & Rescue were dispatched to a reported illegal burn in the 400 block of Tennant Lane off Washington Creek. 

Arriving crews found an unattended 10’ X 50’burn pile that had reignited due to windy conditions that was slowly spreading. 

Crews were able to quickly control and extinguish the fire in an hour. 

Chelan Fire & Rescue would like to remind everyone to please call Chelan Fire & Rescue at (509)682-4476 or check the Department of Ecology website for daily updated burning information. 

Written by Ray Eickmeyer, Director of EMS, LCCH

Published: 01 April 2020

Created: 01 April 2020

Written by Kevin Morris, Sheriff, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office

Published: 01 April 2020

Created: 01 April 2020

Douglas County officially combined with the Chelan-Douglas Health District, Chelan County, City of Wenatchee, and City of East Wenatchee to form a Unified Emergency Operations Center in response to the COVID-19 Virus.

Unification of response efforts will result in increased efficiency and resource availability during this situation.

All official emergency response information regarding COVID-19 will be coming from this newly formed group.

More information and all future communication can be found at www.cdeoc.org.

Written by Jonnie Crossland, Social Media & PR Coordinator, 12 Tribes Colville Casinos

Published: 01 April 2020

Created: 01 April 2020

OMAK, WASH. April 1, 2020— Following guidance from the Colville Business Council, 12 Tribes Casinos has extended closures for all three casino properties- 12 Tribes Resort Casino in Omak, 12 Tribes Mill Bay Casino in Manson, and 12 Tribes Coulee Dam Casino in Coulee Dam.

The closure has been in effect since March 17, 2020 and will last through April 30, 2020, in accordance with Washington State Governor Jay Inslee's "Stay Home, Stay Healthy" order.

“These measures are necessary to ensure the safety of our patrons, employees, and communities, and help minimize the spread of COVID-19 to allow everyone to resume their normal lives as soon as possible,” said Colville Tribal Federal Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Kary Nichols.

Updates will be made available on 12 Tribes Colville Casino’s website at www.colvillecasinos.com/covid-19-prevention.

Written by Kevin Morris, Sheriff, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office

Published: 01 April 2020

Created: 01 April 2020

On March 31, 2020 at approximately 5:33 PM a Douglas County Deputy heard a broadcast from Rivercom with an attempt to locate for a subject with a confirmed Department of Correction’s felony warrant for escape.

The subject with the warrant was Victor J. Stevenson, a 31 year-of-age male out of Wenatchee.

The Deputy, familiar with Stevenson from prior contacts, went to the 400 block of Parkway in Rock Island to attempt to locate. The Deputy saw Stevenson enter a motor home in the 400 block of Parkway, but was told he was not there when he tried to make contact.

With the assistance of Chelan County Sheriff’s Office, East Wenatchee P.D and Wenatchee P.D. units, the area was secured and a search warrant was obtained. Utilizing phone conversations, Stevenson ultimately surrendered without incident before the search warrant was served.

Stevenson was booked into CCRJ on his felony warrant.

Written by Deputy Rich Magnussen, CSSO

Published: 01 April 2020

Created: 01 April 2020

The Chelan-Douglas Regional EOC reports that the Washington National Guard will be deploying to communities around the state to assist with food distribution at local food banks.

Starting tomorrow, April 2nd, the National Guard will be sending 10 guardsmen to Wenatchee to assist with food distribution at the Town Toyota Center. The National Guard will be assisting our local food banks, churches and community groups as they combine resources to better serve our community during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The request for the National Guard was made by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The National Guard will only be assisting with food distribution. They will not be utilized in any law enforcement capacity or to enforce any restrictions put in place by Governor Inslee.

Written by Robin Pittman

Published: 28 March 2020

Created: 28 March 2020

Regular Board Meeting
April 9, 2020, 4:15pm
Phone-in meeting: 1-425-436-6260
Access code: 8182416

I. Call to Order
II. Approval of Minutes
a. March 12, 2020 regular meeting minutes
III. Financial Review
a. Review monthly financial report
b. Review and approve monthly voucher
IV. New Business
a. Resolution 2020-05 approving Director to submit RCO grant application for Leffler Field acquisition
b. Resolution 2020-06 approving Director to submit RCO grant application for Old Swim Hole
c. Resolution 2020-07 approving Director to submit RCO grant application for Manson Bay Marina
V. Adjournment

Next regular meeting is May 14, 2020 at 4:10pm, 142 Pedoi Street, Manson, WA 98831, unless otherwise posted.

Written by Central Washington Home Builder’s Association

Published: 28 March 2020

Created: 28 March 2020

Yakima, WA— March 27, 2020 — This week has proven to be a most challenging of time for the country, state, and now -- the building industry.

On Wednesday evening, Gov. Jay Inslee issued clarification on construction in which he significantly narrowed the original order which allowed for “housing construction.” His new order does allow for continued construction, under limited circumstances:
a) Construction related to essential activities as described in the order;
b) To further a public purpose related to a public entity or governmental function or facility, including but not limited to publicly financed low-income housing; or
c) To prevent spoliation and avoid damage or unsafe conditions, and address emergency repairs at both non-essential businesses and residential structures.

To that end, it is permissible for workers who are building, construction superintendents, tradesmen, or tradeswomen, or other trades including, but not limited to, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, laborers, sheet metal, iron workers, masonry, pipe trades, fabricators, heavy equipment and crane operators, finishers, exterminators, pesticide applicators, cleaning and janitorial staff for commercial and governmental properties, security staff, operating engineers, HVAC technicians, painting, moving and relocation services, forestry and arborists, and other service providers to provide services consistent with this guidance. All construction activity must meet social distancing and appropriate health and worker protection measures before proceeding.

(Gov. Inslee’s March 25, 2020 Memo: Construction Guidance – Stay Home, Stay Healthy Proclamation (20-25)

Contractors are required by local 2 jurisdictions to have strict safety plans, various licenses and certifications that ensure safety not only for their crews, but for the safety and well-being of homeowners.

Residents and community members may continue to see construction still occurring, but must understand that CWHBA is not providing direct or legal interpretation of the order, enforcing or enquiring regarding specific job sites, and trusts that builders are moving in a direction that is safe and in compliance with the order.

Visit CWHBA.org for more information to stay informed.

Written by Carlye Baity, Clerk of the Board/Public Records Coordinator, Chelan County Commissioners

Published: 25 March 2020

Created: 25 March 2020

Chelan County is pleased to announce the appointment of James (Jim) Brown as our new Community Development Director.

Jim comes to Chelan County after serving 28 years with Washington State Fish and Wildlife the last 7 of which he has served as the Director for the North Central Region.

He has extensive leadership experience that will serve the County well. In his tenure with WDFW, he has overseen the implementation of agency policy initiatives and programs, providing policy direction to the approximately 150 staff in the region.

The Commissioners chose Jim Brown to succeed former Director David Kuhl who left the County at the end of February. We selected Jim due to his ability to work with a wide variety of interests and to resolve difficult issues in a professional and objective way.

The Commissioners are pleased to welcome Jim Brown to the Chelan County team. He will start on April 23^rd.