Chelan PUD survey charts 50-year course through customer input

WENATCHEE — Chelan Public Utility District officials announced Tuesday that more than 1,700 customer-owners participated in a survey designed to guide the utility's planning through 2075.

The survey, "Imagine 2075," presented participants with seven priorities in 21 different combinations and asked them to select the most important priority in each pairing.

Results showed the following ranking of priorities:

1. Invest in equipment, people, and technology to make Chelan PUD’s services more resilient
2. Make sure energy and water are available for future generations, even if it costs more
3. Invest in clean energy resources to support future community needs
4. Keep the public informed and involved by sharing details and collaborating with them
5. Strengthen partnerships with governments, community organizations, and others to support a high quality of life
6. Be bolder in exploring opportunities (including some with higher risks) that could benefit Chelan County in the long run
7. Develop a more effective way for the PUD to make decisions for the future

"We're taking this information now and turning it into some of the goals, strategies and actions that you will see later on," said Justin Erickson, Chief Stakeholder and Strategy Officer.

The survey generated approximately 700 comments addressing rapid community development, resource use, environmental impact, and energy management infrastructure.

PUD officials reported participation from across Chelan County's demographic spectrum, with outreach conducted through social media, print, radio, and local events including the Chelan County Fair, Fiestas Mexicanas, and the Wenatchee River Salmon Festival.

The utility plans to incorporate survey results into its first draft of a 50-year vision document, which will inform the next strategic plan. Complete survey findings will be posted at chelanpud.org/imagine2075.

The PUD commissioners also reviewed the proposed 2025 annual budget, with public hearings scheduled for November 4 and 18.