Your trusted source for local Chelan, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The City of Chelan is accepting applications for a position on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board until August 15, 2025. Interested candidates must submit a Talent Bank Application via the city's website by the deadline.
Firefighters face challenges in battling the Pomas Fire due to difficult terrain and limited road access. More than 500 personnel are working to keep the fire contained within the Entiat River drainage while constructing secondary control lines to protect nearby communities. A Level 1 Fire Advisory has been issued for Holden Village as conditions evolve.
A climber, Ryan Polkinghorn, sustained multiple injuries, including a broken ankle, while alone on the northern glacier of Sinister Peak. Rescuers from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island used a hoist-capable helicopter to airlift him to Harborview Medical Center after administering on-site care.
Chelan County deputies arrested two individuals for residential burglary after a homeowner reported suspicious activity via security footage. The suspects, identified as Steven C. Leighton and Alexis C. Pipkin, were found at the residence with personal belongings and clothing belonging to the homeowner. Pipkin, an employee of the cleaning service, was charged with identity theft for misrepresenting herself during the incident.
A multi-agency rescue operation successfully extracted 31-year-old Ryan Polkinghorn after he suffered a broken ankle and multiple injuries while climbing Sinister Peak. The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office coordinated with Naval Air Station Whidbey Island to deploy a hoist-capable helicopter for the extraction on July 14, 2025. Polkinghorn was airlifted and transported to Harborview Medical Center for treatment.
Wellness Place seeks nominations for its NCW Cancer Heroes event to honor individuals impacting cancer patients in North Central Washington. The nomination deadline is August 1, with the award ceremony scheduled for September 6 at the Wenatchee Convention Center. Proceeds will support Wellness Place’s free cancer support programs.
The Chelan County Regional Justice Center installed 44 new medical sensors, enhancing its medical monitoring capabilities to a total of 68. This upgrade aims to ease the workload on staff and support inmates undergoing detoxification. The initiative reflects a growing focus on improving health services in correctional facilities.
Heritage Heights Senior Living in Chelan will reopen its facility on July 22 after a multi-million-dollar renovation. The updates will enhance services, including memory care and end-of-life support for residents.
Chelan Bay Marina, a full-service boating facility on Lake Chelan, opened on July 1 and will host a Grand Opening "Sip & Surf" event on July 19. The event features wake surfing, boat demos, live music, and local wine tastings, inviting the community to experience the new amenities. The facility aims to support local boating lifestyles and provide premium services for residents and visitors alike.
Chelan city council held public hearings on July 8 to amend the Municipal Code for more cost-efficient housing options. Proposed changes include definitions for micro-housing units and cottages as part of a new development agreement for the Apple Blossom Center. These amendments aim to comply with a state law mandating unit lot subdivisions.