Judge overturns Lake Wenatchee Fire and Rescues 15 million bond, cites Open Public Meetings Act violations

A Chelan County Superior Court judge invalidated a $15 million bond proposal for Lake Wenatchee Fire and Rescue, citing violations of the Open Public Meetings Act. This decision came after four residents challenged the election results, claiming improper election procedures influenced the outcome. The bond, intended for station upgrades and new facility construction, was initially approved by just four votes, with 512 in favor and 335 against. The court found that the fire district failed to post meeting agendas and minutes promptly, particularly concerning meetings where the bond measure was discussed. The judge ruled that these violations likely affected voter perception and the election result, leading to the bond's annulment.

Although the petitioners were awarded attorney fees, the court did not impose civil penalties on the fire district. Fire Chief David Walker expressed disappointment, asserting that no individual board member acted wrongly and that internal processes would be improved. The district is now considering options to move forward with community interests in mind.