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County, city of Wenatchee reach agreement on jail

The city of Wenatchee and Chelan County have reached a settlement that resolves the ongoing litigation between the two jurisdictions and re-establishes a framework for housing city inmates at the Chelan County Regional Justice Center.

Under the settlement agreement, the two entities will enter into a new interlocal agreement governing jail services through 2027.

The interlocal agreement runs from Jan. 1, 2025, through Dec. 31, 2027. It sets the city’s annual cost for these services at $2.5 million for 2025 and $2.51 million for 2026. For 2027, the city will pay $213 per inmate day, subject to a minimum annual base payment of $2.2 million.

Under the settlement agreement, the parties will jointly ask the court to vacate the partial summary judgment order entered in July 2025 and to dismiss the underlying litigation. The parties will also dismiss the pending appellate review proceeding and the related, currently stayed arbitration. The settlement resolves these matters without any admission or waiver of either party's claims or defenses.

“While this process took some time, I am pleased we were able to reach a resolution that continues to provide safety and security for Chelan County residents,” Chelan County Commissioner Kevin Overbay said. “This agreement will provide a predictable future for the city and Regional Justice Center.” 

The city approved the interlocal agreement at its Aug. 13 city council meeting. The Board of County Commissioners approved the agreement at its Aug. 18 meeting.

“Public safety is the city’s first responsibility, and this interlocal agreement delivers it. It assures that the suspects that our officers arrest may be jailed,” said Mike Poirier, mayor of the City of Wenatchee. “The agreement also allows the city and the County to move past litigation, and it provides a foundation for improved cooperation between our two governments.”

Last Updated: 08/18/2026 12:47 PM

Chelan County Calendar

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