Your trusted source for local Chelan, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The Washington State Treasurer’s Office urges the Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority to revise its tax increment area proposal in Malaga and collaborate more with local taxing districts. Chelan County officials express concerns that the proposal, which diverts $195.7 million from local budgets, threatens vital services and indicates a disregard for community input.
Wenatchee officials announced a Fill & Grade Permit Application for construction at the golf course and NoSeeUm Rd, beginning November 18, 2025. The event will run until December 2, 2025, and aims to facilitate local development efforts.
The Washington State Patrol will increase emphasis patrols from November 20 to 30 to ensure safe travel for Washington State University students during the Thanksgiving holiday. Troopers will focus on speeding, distracted driving, and other traffic violations in Adams, Grant, and Kittitas counties, particularly on State Routes 26 and 17 and Interstate 90. Travelers are encouraged to check road conditions and prepare their vehicles for winter travel.
Chelan County Commissioner Brad Hawkins will address the Manson Community Council on November 18 at 6 p.m. at the Manson Grange. He will discuss the county's 2026 budget and a proposed tax increment area in Malaga, alongside Mike Kaputa, director of Chelan County Natural Resources, who will lead an Ag Lands Workshop.
The Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce elected JoAnne Strandberg, Jordana LaPorte, and Luke Wall as new board members for three-year terms. LaPorte brings over 35 years of accounting experience, while Wall has extensive non-profit leadership background, and Strandberg is a community-focused business owner. Their roles aim to enhance economic growth and quality of life in Lake Chelan.
Manson American Legion Post 108 distributed financial support to community programs in Chelan Valley, continuing its tradition of service in 2025. The contributions focus on assisting veterans and seniors, highlighting the organization's commitment to local welfare.
The Chelan-Douglas Transportation Council is finalizing public outreach for a regional pathways master plan amid significant community interest, especially in the Chelan-Manson corridor. Public feedback, open until November 30, has generated over 13,500 unique visitors and mixed responses from residents regarding trail alignments.
Washington State Treasurer Mike Pellicciotti warns that federally-imposed tariffs are threatening the state's financial stability, despite its top ranking for fiscal health. He notes that up to 33,000 jobs could be lost due to current trade policies, impacting the agricultural economy most severely.
The Washington Board of Natural Resources approved the conservation of 1,049 acres of old-growth forests and endangered species habitat in Snohomish County. This expansion of the Morning Star Natural Resources Conservation Area aims to protect vital ecosystems for future generations. The property, valued at $4.5 million, will contribute to local parkland through the Trust Land Transfer process.
Chelan PUD has launched a new bill pay kiosk at Plaza Super Jet in Wenatchee, allowing customers to pay utility bills while shopping for groceries. The kiosk offers 24/7 access and supports various payment methods including cash, credit, and debit. Customer Relations Supervisor Jeanine Porter emphasized the convenience and security of in-person payments.