Land use, sustainability, energy supply among concerns voiced
information released; Photo: Natural Resources Director Mike Kaputa leads a community meeting at the Stehekin School
The Board of County Commissioners spent two days in Stehekin last week, gathering information from property owners and learning what issues are most important to the remote community at the northwest end of Lake Chelan.
On May 14, commissioners, joined by a half dozen staff members as well as Chelan PUD commissioners and staff, hosted a meeting at the Stehekin School that drew about 60 community members. Following the meeting, the community put out the welcome mat, hosting a potluck dinner on the school lawn.
“Much of the discussion during our visit surrounded the Stehekin Community Plan, which is a year-long effort by the county and PUD to assist Stehekin with visioning and planning efforts,” said County Commissioner Brad Hawkins, who represents District 3. “This community engagement process includes important topics such as wildfire risks, land use designations, short-term rentals and other issues, including, for the PUD, near-and long-term energy supply planning.”
Commissioners continued the community outreach on May 15 by making themselves and staff available at the Stehekin Pastry Company for a drop-in event.
People were able to talk with Community Development Director Deanna Walter, Natural Resources Director Mike Kaputa, Economic Services Director Ron Cridlebaugh and Chelan County Fire Marshal Chris Pedersen.
Between organized events, the visitors representing the two agencies toured a variety of locations, including the Company Creek hydropower facility, the historic Buckner Orchard and the Golden West Visitor Center, operated by the National Park Service and now closed. A final meeting was held to discuss potential short-term rental regulations in Stehekin.
Information gathered from the trip will be discussed further by the Board of County Commissioners as projects such as the Community Plan move forward. Hawkins thanks the people of Stehekin for their time, thoughtful dialogue and hospitality.
“The Chelan County Commissioners and staff had a very productive visit to Stehekin. It was also great to be joined by PUD commissioners and staff,” he said. “Stehekin is very special community but faces unique challenges due to its remote nature, rural character and proximity to federal lands. Chelan County looks forward to continuing to work closely with the community to support its success and sustainability.”
