Volunteers launch cleanup of newly acquired Manson Village Green

MANSON — Over 25 community volunteers gathered recently at the newly acquired Manson Village Green property to begin extensive cleanup efforts in preparation for the upcoming Apple Blossom Festival on May 10.

The 91 Wapato Way property, adjacent to Manson Bay Park, saw volunteers mowing, raking, cutting trees, piling brush, trimming hedges, bagging leaves, and hauling garbage during the community work party. Local businesses also contributed to the effort, with Dan Clark of Mountain View Concrete Pumping providing heavy equipment and resident Bob Carleton offering chainsaw services.

The property, which was purchased for $750,000, is now owned and managed by the Lake Chelan Community Services Council as a charitable gift to the community. The council took possession of the property last week and has begun organizing volunteer cleanup efforts.

The Village Green Group, a loose association of volunteers who have envisioned this park since 1987, helped raise the necessary funds. When community members learned of the Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority's initial plans for a bus turnaround and small business incubator on the site, they quickly assembled enough donations to make a backup cash offer, raising the entire amount in just two days.

The project aims to enhance the town's entrance from the lake, creating a more welcoming space for visitors arriving by boat. The improvement is expected to benefit the entire community by encouraging more foot traffic to local businesses and boosting the local economy.

Environmental assessments have already been completed, and gas tanks were previously removed from the property. The space is intended to offer an area for picnics, family gatherings, and community events.

Among the volunteers participating in the cleanup were Hal Killian, Debbie Conwell, Auturo Zavala, Jeff Horton, John Peters, Bob Carleton, Doug Chevalier, Cathy Chevlier, Mary Ann Patton, Larry Hibbard, and Debbie Koenig.