Chelan County seeks public input on Hazard Mitigation Plan update

WENATCHEE — Chelan County officials are seeking public input on an updated Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) to reduce risks from natural disasters.

The county's Natural Resources Department has scheduled two open houses on Thursday, Oct. 3, to present the draft plan to residents. The first session will be held from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Wenatchee City Hall, with a second session from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Leavenworth City Hall.

The HMP outlines the county's vulnerabilities to natural hazards and details strategies to reduce risks. Officials note that while natural disasters cannot be prevented, proactive mitigation efforts can help communities become more resilient, protecting lives and property while promoting long-term sustainability.

A 14-day public comment period for the draft plan will run from Oct. 3 to Oct. 17. Residents can review the draft plan on the county's website starting Oct. 3. The site also features interactive maps and a hazard mapper tool for exploring specific risk areas.

Officials are also encouraging public participation in a survey to guide updates to the County's Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). The draft CWPP is expected to be ready for public comment in January 2025.

For more information, residents can visit the county's Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan webpage at https://www.co.chelan.wa.us/natural-resources/pages/natural-hazard-mitigation-plan.