Your trusted source for local Chelan, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Senator Keith Goehner and Senate Republican colleagues recently held a press conference to oppose Senate Bill 5798, which proposes raising property taxes significantly. The bill would alter the current 1% cap on property tax increases, potentially leading to much higher tax rates for homeowners and renters. Goehner urges constituents to voice their concerns against this proposal.
Chelan County District Court and its Probation Office are collaborating with Armada Collections to launch a debt relief program aimed at individuals with unpaid fines and probation fees. The initiative, which runs from April 14 to June 14, 2025, offers a chance for participants to settle their debts at significantly reduced costs. Judges Blackmon and Volyn emphasize the program's potential to help those burdened by debts that are often non-dischargeable through bankruptcy.
Washington state's new WE-Bike program will launch on April 9, offering residents the opportunity to apply for e-bike rebates. With over $4 million allocated for instant rebates, eligible applicants can receive between $300 and $1,200, depending on their income. The initiative aims to make active transportation more affordable and accessible for residents.
Local environmental groups are gearing up for the third annual "Restore the Shore" cleanup at Lake Chelan on April 12, 2025. The event aims to preserve the lake's natural beauty and includes new data collection methods via the TrashBlitz app. Volunteers will receive refreshments from Campbell's Resort and can participate at various locations along the lakeshore.
Wenatchee Valley College will host the Sustainable NCW Earth Day Fair on April 19, featuring over 50 local vendors and organizations, as well as various educational activities and entertainment. The event will include an Earth Day Fun Run, Eco-Talks, musical performances, and children's activities, all aimed at promoting environmental awareness. WVC President Faimous Harrison emphasized the fair's significance in fostering community engagement toward sustainability.
Crews are making significant progress in clearing the Liberty Bell avalanche pathways on the North Cascades Highway, with the goal of completing the job early next week. Safety measures are in place, requiring the public to avoid the work zone during weekdays. While rumors of a "bike day" persist, there is no such event planned before the road officially opens to all vehicles.
A maintenance crew from the Washington State Department of Transportation will be conducting work on the US 97A Knapps Hill tunnel on April 7, causing flagger-controlled traffic and potential delays. Scheduled from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., drivers should expect disruptions and consider alternative routes, especially those traveling between Wenatchee and Chelan. Real-time travel maps are recommended for current conditions.
A public hearing regarding the Unit Lot Subdivisions Code will take place in Chelan, Washington, starting on April 2, 2025, and concluding on April 16, 2025. This event, organized by the Planning Commission, aims to discuss important legal matters affecting local land use and development. Community members are encouraged to participate and voice their opinions on the proposed regulations.
Commissioner Dave Upthegrove of the Department of Natural Resources reflects on his first three months in office, highlighting significant strides in forest conservation and environmental education. He discusses a recent op-ed on pausing the sale of certain mature forests to better achieve habitat conservation goals while promoting biodiversity. The article also emphasizes his commitment to engaging with DNR employees and the importance of science in environmental policy.
A public hearing regarding a shoreline permit at 1320 W Woodin Ave, Chelan, will take place from April 2 to April 22, 2025. This event addresses significant local concerns surrounding redevelopment and environmental impact. Residents are encouraged to engage in discussions important to their community.