12/08/2025
Following please read.
The Chelan County Republican Central Committee has closely followed the recent discussions surrounding the Chelan–Douglas Regional Port Authority’s proposed Tax Incremental Area (TIA) in Malaga. In light of the Port’s recent decision to pause its vote on moving forward with the proposal, and given the significance of this issue for taxpayers and local jurisdictions, we believe several points should be clearly articulated to the public.
1. Opportunity for a More Constructive, Transparent Process Moving Forward: We appreciate the Port’s decision to postpone its vote in order to review public testimony and ensure a sound decision. This pause creates an important opportunity for greater clarity, improved communication, and more productive dialogue with the community. As the process moves forward, citizens would benefit from clearer, more detailed information regarding the proposal’s intent, structure, and projected impact. In particular, greater transparency is needed concerning the Port’s specific objectives in redirecting future tax-revenue growth within the proposed TIA. Chelan County residents deserve to understand the intended purpose, measurable outcomes, and justification for this financing tool before any final action is taken.
2. Clarifying the Port’s Financial Direction and Long-Term Intent: The current debate has raised important questions about the Port’s financial trajectory, including its expanding assets and increasing revenue streams. These factors prompt a reasonable and important inquiry: Does the Port have a stated plan or goal to become financially self-sustaining without ongoing reliance on Chelan County tax dollars? Clear communication about long-term financial intentions and future tax dependency is essential for maintaining public confidence.
3. Encouraging Meaningful Participation from All Stakeholders: We strongly encourage all parties—Port leadership, county officials, local jurisdictions, and citizens—to engage in open, respectful, and purposeful dialogue. Decisions of this scale should be grounded in collaboration, transparency, and a shared commitment to the long-term wellbeing of Chelan County residents.