Side we want to refresh..

ALternatively, we can keep the 30in fridge, and place new base cabinets with drawers on wither side of the range. Can place wall cabinets about fridge and on either side of the window, but it doesn't help the counter space dilema. Due to where the basement stairs are located, I am thinking of the cabinet on the right on (very) low profile wheels so it can be moved when we need to bring larger items up from the basement.

If the fridge remains accessible to your kitchen, then I think your idea of moving it to mudroom is feasible - kind of like a butler’s pantry style layout. Certainly, you can try relocating it to see if it works before you commit to cabinets.

A range should never go under a window. That's a good place for a sink. The range in a small kitchen should probably have a microwavehood over it You need to show the whole room so people can understand what space is available. Here's a link to why a range under a window is bad and other problem designs https://www.mainlinekitchendesign.com/general/is-your-kitchen-designer-going-to-kill-you/

Here's the whole view. I agree that the range shouldn't be under the window we didn't consider this when we bought the house). Unfortunately finances allow for a refresh rather than a gut job and completely redo everything.

Looking at the photo of your kitchen, I don't understand your AI cabinet arrangement for taking the refrigerator away from that space. I see it as adding one cabinet (wall & base) on the left side of the window and extending the counter on the right up to the wall with base and wall cabinets.

You need to carefully consider your budget along with the increase in utility/function that it might afford you. You have a few restrictions (not being able to move the range, the basement stairs, etc.)

Before you spend any money, you might do a substantial de-cluttering. There are lots of items out on your counter tops that are inhibiting your work space. Go through your drawers and shelves and see if you can remove things you don't use much. I did that when I remodeled my kitchen and it was amazing to see how much stuff just accumulated/took up space that could be freed up. Then you might be able to store some of the items currently on the counter tops behind doors or in drawers. Not sure what the tall appliance is directly on the left of the range? Coffee urn? Might that go somewhere else?

If that were my kitchen, I'd aggressively de-clutter first, and then save up for a more substantial remodel down the road.

Use graph paper to do a scaled floorplan and post it. Do the whole floor. When you move the frig, you have space to position the range to the right of the window. All lower cabs should be drawers.

The OP stated that she is not able to do a complete renovation now, so changing out all the lower cabinets to only have drawers is not feasible. She's only interested in possibly moving the refrigerator and replacing it with cabinets.