In 2015, Commissioners asked the public to help identify ways to boost the quality of life in Chelan County through a Public Power Benefit program. Priority projects were selected and work started.
Parks & Recreation
Provide experiences and programs in Chelan PUD parks that provide lifelong play, discovery, creativity and learning.
- Conduct a pilot study to evaluate reducing or waiving day-use fees for Chelan County residents and ratepayers in Chelan PUD parks operated by Washington State Parks.
- Study the potential for providing a continuous water source for the Horan Wildlife Area to preserve the wetland trail and educational experience.
- Study the potential for a splash pad in a PUD-owned park
Water & Wastewater
Ensure adequate resources to water, water quality, and wastewater infrastructure.
- Sustain existing water and wastewater services by providing capital funding.
- Conduct legal analysis around further system expansion.
- Continue to study operational efficiencies between entities.
- Investigate legal authority to fund surface water quality improvements.
Fiber & Telecom
Build out the fiber system to more customers.
- Restart fiber expansion, covering capital costs.
- Expand broadband from 69 percent to 85-90 percent of current county residents during the next 11 years.
Electrification
Purchase electric vehicles and explore new opportunities for electrification research and equipment, where it makes sense.
- Install vehicle chargers at PUD facilities.
- Make electrification part of an education and mentoring program.
- Continue internal evaluation of vehicles and equipment conversion to electricity when cost-effective.
Economic Development
Take an active role in education opportunities and attracting new businesses that support Chelan County’s vision for the future.
- Develop a tool to evaluate impacts of new electric loads from new or expanding businesses.
- Develop utility-focused education and mentoring programs.
- Take an active role in economic development by providing basic infrastructure support.