Historical signage at Waterfront Park to be updated; museum and tribal representatives propose new heritage panel

Museum volunteers and tribal representatives presented a proposal to update two aging interpretive signs on the concrete battlement at Waterfront Park and to add a third panel titled “We Are Still Here” to acknowledge the Shimpu/Shohpats (tribal) stewardship of the fishery at the Wenatchee–Icicle confluence.

The presenters said the existing signs are more than 40 years old, contain outdated photos and text focused on the past, and do not reflect present‑day tribal presence or correct tribal names and language forms. John Cyrus, identified in the meeting as Traditional Territories Coordinator for the Confederated Tribes, and museum volunteers including Mara Bowman and Wendell George described collaboration with tribal historians to craft updated text and imagery. Bowman and museum president Christy Bose asked the council to “investigate this further” and to consider the proposal during an upcoming parks and comprehensive‑plan update.

Museum staff and tribe representatives described a heritage exhibit at the Greater Leavenworth Museum that had received strong positive response and suggested a related outdoor interpretive panel and a heritage‑site designation for Waterfront Park would serve visitors and residents. Mara Bowman said the proposed third panel would direct visitors to the museum’s “We Are Still Here” exhibit for fuller historical context. Presenters noted prior permit work and that earlier permitting had lapsed during COVID; they said archaeology review and a permit will likely be required for new signs in the battlement area.

Council members and staff responded with procedural and coordination notes. Councilmember Christine and museum staff said the city’s ongoing update to the comprehensive plan and parks plan creates an opportunity for aligning any heritage‑site work with planned park improvements. City staff suggested museum and tribal stakeholders continue stakeholder meetings, provide draft text and materials, and return with a permit and cost estimate. No formal funding commitment or vote occurred at the meeting; council members expressed support for further investigation and collaboration rather than immediate action.

Next steps: museum and tribe representatives will continue stakeholder coordination, prepare updated sign drafts, and follow city permit steps (including archaeology review if required). Staff will note the idea in the parks master‑plan process so signage plans can be considered in the broader waterfront experience.