Residents encouraged to attend the Tuesday, May 12 City Council meeting to hear directly from candidates
information released
The City of Chelan has closed applications for the vacant City Council Position #5 and will move forward with candidate interviews during the regular City Council meeting on Tuesday, May 12 at 5:15 p.m. City Council is expected to make the appointment at the conclusion of the meeting.
The vacancy was created following the resignation of Councilmember Ericks. The selected candidate will serve until the certification of the next municipal election in November 2027.
Community members are encouraged to attend to hear directly from the candidates.
A total of six applicants will be interviewed:
Pamela Gean Van Gerpen
Ms. Van Gerpen brings over 30 years of professional experience with Boeing, along with more than eight years of service on the Chelan Hills Maintenance Association Board, where she currently serves as Treasurer. Her background includes financial oversight, governance, and long-term planning.
Mr. Todd Higley
Higley is the owner of Skydive Chelan and Airsports Chelan, with over 30 years of business and risk management experience. He currently serves on the Chelan City Parks Board and is active in youth sports coaching.
Brant Jones
Mr. Jones is an executive chef with 15 years of experience operating a catering business, a downtown Chelan restaurant, and serving as executive chef for a local winery. He has also worked in purchasing for a local business and has developed a growing interest in city operations and community involvement.
Ben Laughlin
Mr. Laughlin has a diverse background in community service, including volunteer work with the Rec Association, service as a volunteer firefighter, and co-founding multiple charitable initiatives such as Riverwalk Closet and Fresh Winds Restoration. He has also been active in youth sports coaching, community advisory groups, and local economic development eZorts.
Cesar Rivera-Vargas
Mr. Rivera-Vargas previously served two terms as a Trustee for Carpenters Local 816, where he participated in executive board leadership, financial oversight, and member representation. He has completed leadership training through the Carpenters Union and brings experience in accountability, governance, and community advocacy.
Lars Strandberg
Mr. Strandberg is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served as a helicopter pilot for 10 years. A Chelan resident since 2008, he and his wife own and operate Culinary Apple. Strandberg has contributed to the community through downtown revitalization eZorts and local business leadership.
Residents are encouraged to attend the May 12 meeting at 5:15 at City Hall to learn more about each candidate and the perspectives they would bring to the City Council.
About the City of Chelan:
Chelan is a rural lakeside community surrounded by pristine natural beauty where generations of visitors and residents enjoy an exceptional quality of life.
