Manson, Chelan County officials discuss possible Leffler Field makeover

A new fire station and park-n-ride adjacent to open green space at Leffler Field in Manson was discussed Monday. A group of Manson officials visited with Chelan County Commissioners on a host of ideas for future uses of the land.

The county used a portion of state sales tax proceeds, Manson Parks invested Washington State Department of Commerce grant money and the Manson School District invested in the purchase of the 5 acres of land in 2020.

Multiple owners has proven to be a roadblock to securing additional grants for improving the field.

"The intent was for community use of this property," said Manson Schools Superintendent Tabatha Mires. "The school district doesn't have a desire but to get what has been invested back in the property. We're really trying to get to a place where the parks can do something with that property and the schools frankly don't need the property."

In steps Manson Fire which would like to relocate their main fire station to better house emergency responders.

"Manson is growing, there's over 400 open building permits, we're working with the casino up there, putting in a resort, and we see the need for emergency response 24 hours a day," shared Manson Deputy Fire Chief Mike Williams. "Land in downtown Manson is getting scarce and this opportunity came up and I started conversations with the (Manson) Park District and inquired about the property, and it's located perfectly in the right location (for a new main fire station)."

A larger question is the required use of the state monies received by the county and Manson Parks for future use of Leffler. One idea was a fire themed park next to a fire station with the proposed park-n-ride.

"Given all of the challenges, what if the first district purchases half of it, builds there fire district, that benefits the community" mused Chelan County Commissioner Brad Hawkins. "The other half is LINK (Transit) park-n-ride which benefits the community right there. If there's any spots you do need some parks facilities, like some pickleball courts, then everybody comes out kind of a winner."

The Manson group will revisit the commissioners in the future with conceptual ideas for the property.