McCardle names McAloon as Chelan’s next city administrator

CHELAN — Mayor Erin McCardle has appointed Laura McAloon as Chelan’s next city administrator, calling her “an experienced, community-minded leader who understands how cities grow responsibly and collaboratively.”

McAloon’s hiring marks the next chapter in the city’s management transition following the retirement of Wade Farris, who stepped down Nov. 7 after years of service that spanned infrastructure upgrades, modernization projects, and steady city operations through rapid growth.

McCardle announced the appointment Friday, pending final contract approval by the City Council. In her statement, she praised Farris for his leadership and professionalism, saying his work “helped Chelan become stronger, more connected, and better prepared for what’s ahead.”

“Laura brings extensive experience in municipal law, budgeting, and intergovernmental collaboration that will help us continue building on Chelan’s strong foundation of progress,” McCardle said.

Until McAloon officially joins the city, Chad Coltman, Chelan’s director of human resources and communications, will serve as interim city administrator beginning Monday, Nov. 10.

Coltman joined the City of Chelan about a year and a half ago and has been instrumental in improving internal communication, updating city systems, and coordinating department-level initiatives. McCardle said his interim role will provide continuity as the city finalizes the transition.

“Chad has a deep understanding of the city’s operations and culture,” she said. “His leadership over the next few weeks will ensure that Chelan continues moving forward without missing a beat.”

McCardle noted that the city administrator role has evolved alongside Chelan’s population and economic expansion. The position, she said, “is now as much about community engagement and intergovernmental relationships as it is about internal operations.”

She plans to propose a “measured restructure at the administrator level” to strengthen staff development, cultural alignment, and economic vitality initiatives.

“Our community has grown more complex — not just in size, but in the kinds of partnerships we rely on,” McCardle said. “We need leadership that understands how to connect city goals with regional and state partners while maintaining the hometown values that make Chelan special.”

In the release, McCardle reaffirmed that the city’s focus on infrastructure, workforce stability, and economic opportunity will continue through the transition.

“Our shared work — from infrastructure investment to economic vitality — remains our top priority,” she said. “We’re grateful for the continued partnership of our staff, community members, and regional collaborators as we move forward.”

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media