Text of a recent response I sent to a reader regarding the port's ED and job creation.
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I don't think expertise in any specific field is necessary in the ED, although it would be desirable and helpful depending on that experience.
I believe we need a well rounded person who can champion and put into play the vision of the commission, which should be the vision of the owners - you, the taxpayer.
The ED is appointed, at will, by the commission so it's extremely important that the port isn't "controlled" by the director - the port should be "managed" by the director.
As to job creation: I don't believe it is the port's job to create jobs, rather, it is the port's job to manage the public's land portfolio and other assets in such a way that the private sector can find opportunities for success. It may seem like parsing words but I don't think so. I think the port should be a facilitator bringing interests, ideas and people together all of which can then capitalize on the synergy or geography of our region to advance our county's economic goals.
Your port should create opportunities, and in the case of the local capture of over 900 jobs on the waterfront (granted short term, I know, but that company just signed a 5 year lease so there will be some long term work), a refocus on the fishing community, dozens more private hires at the airport, high rates of occupancy in port buildings, etc, etc, I think that the port has been working toward that "creating opportunities" end reasonably well.
