Your trusted source for local Chelan, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Construction crews began a bank stabilization project this week at Chelan Falls Park along the Columbia River. Chelan PUD plans to stabilize 417 feet of riverbank to combat erosion, with minimal disruptions to park visitors expected.
RiverCom 911 seeks voter approval for a sales tax increase to modernize emergency dispatch in Chelan and Douglas counties. The proposed one-tenth percent sales tax, appearing on the February 10, 2026 ballot, would fund infrastructure upgrades and eliminate annual user fees for local emergency agencies.
Gusty winds have heightened fire activity and smoke from the Lower Sugarloaf Fire, which has burned 28,387 acres and is 22% contained. Firefighters are conducting mop-up operations and strategic burns to secure fire lines while addressing spot fires. Cooler weather provides an opportunity to enhance containment efforts despite ongoing challenges from wind.
Manson Grange Youth Fairs program showcased its talents at the Chelan County Fair, achieving notable success during its third year of participation. Over three days, youth aged 5 to 19 engaged in various agricultural competitions, earning awards and recognition for their hard work and community spirit.
Team Okanogan Animal Rescue (TOAR) and Greater Good Charities will host the BIG FIX 4.0 clinic from September 25-28, 2025, offering free spay/neuter, vaccinations, and microchips at the Okanogan County Fairgrounds. The initiative aims to surpass 4,000 surgeries in under two years, addressing urgent pet overpopulation in the region.
The Lower Sugarloaf Fire has expanded to 23,883 acres with only 20% containment as of September 20, 2025. Firefighters are employing both direct and indirect line construction strategies while utilizing seven Type 1 heavy helicopters to combat the blaze. Smoke levels are expected to rise today, prompting an Air Quality Alert for nearby communities.
The City Council and Lake Chelan Airport Board will host a Zoom conference from September 19 to September 23, 2025. The event aims to discuss business and finance matters, with participation facilitated through Zoom Video Communications. Attendees in the Pacific Time Zone can join the sessions during this timeframe.
The Lower Sugarloaf Fire has burned over 22,000 acres and is currently 20% contained. Firefighters are conducting strategic burning operations to strengthen containment lines while community support remains strong.
Chelan County Community Development warns residents about an email scam involving bogus invoices. A local resident received a fraudulent invoice for $5,000, including official details, prompting officials to remind the public that they do not issue invoices via email. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious communications to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.
The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office announced the discovery of human remains believed to be those of Travis Decker in a remote area near Leavenworth. A multi-agency search, led by the US Marshals Service, located the remains, and DNA analysis will confirm their identity. The Sheriff’s Office is providing updates and support to the Decker family during the investigation.