Regional port rejects Chelan Countys 37.5 million offer

The Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority and Chelan County Board of Commissioners are in conflict over a proposed 3,326-acre Tax Increment Area (TIA) in Malaga, projected to generate $195. 7 million in tax revenues over 25 years. The county proposed paying the port $1. 5 million annually for 25 years to abandon the TIA, but the port rejected this offer, urging the county to raise taxes instead. Commissioner Kevin Overbay expressed concerns about adding financial burdens on residents and highlighted community opposition to the TIA.

Fellow commissioners Shon Smith and Brad Hawkins criticized the port's response, with Hawkins labeling it as "sad and disgusting. " The proposed TIA threatens to divert revenue from critical services, raising alarms among local officials. Under Washington law, the county faces limitations on adjusting tax levies without voter approval, complicating the situation. County officials indicated that their alternatives are now exhausted, prompting them to consider other options to safeguard essential services. The ongoing dispute underscores the challenges of balancing economic development with community needs in the growing Malaga area.