SEKIU — Herb’s Motel, a popular hostelry for tourists and salmon anglers visiting the Clallam Bay-Sekiu area, has been sold by Herb and Sande Balch to private interests.
The buyers, who asked not to be identified, said they do not plan to run the property as a motel.
“The motel is out of business, and the sign was removed on Monday, Oct. 18,” said Sande Balch.
“This is the end of an era for our family, and the loss of 12 rooms for Sekiu. So it is a bittersweet decision.”
The Balchs have been very active in civic and Chamber of Commerce affairs in the area.
Sande was the leader of the successful effort that made winding, 61-mile-long Highway 112 — the Strait of Juan de Fuca Highway — a National Scenic Byway in 2000. She now serves as the highway’s scenic byway coordinator.
She also oversaw production of a popular brochure, The Northwest Coast — Clallam Bay-Sekiu Visitor Guide.
“Herb and I are hoping to move and retire to a new location within Clallam County sometime in 2005,” she said.
“We plan to take more time for our family, especially the grandchildren, and be able to take in a few Dixieland jazz festivals during the summer months that we have always had to miss due to the fishing season.
“And,” she added, “Sekiu will see us on the water next summer, fishing [our boat] the Nymah J — but not having to clean rooms after we get the fish cleaned.
“Home, garden, friends and family (some travel, but not snow-birding) are our goals for retirement — with enough time to remain active in civic affairs, but less time in committees.”