Columbia Port meeting includes public hearing on surplus property

DAYTON – The Columbia Port Commissioners held their regular meeting at 5 p.m., July 13, 2022, at the Port of Columbia and on Zoom. All Commissioners were present in person, Genie Crowe, Seth Bryan, and Johnny Watts, along with the Executive Director, Jennie Dickinson. Members of the public attended using Zoom and in person.

Dickinson reported that Dayton Electric will vacate its lease at the Port to move into a duplex the company purchased. Red Band Cellars has agreed to expand its operation into the unit vacated by Dayton Electric.

Dickinson said the Comprehensive Plan process was ongoing.

Crowe opened a public hearing to discuss the sale of excess Port property. The property consisted of a former rail siding east of Seneca, near the Columbia Grain Grower’s silo. The Port or the railroad has not used the property for many years. The Grain Growers have been using a part of the property and would like to acquire the rest. Members of the public voiced no objections. Bryan moved to accept Resolution 2022-03, which declared the property surplus, and Watts seconded. The resolution passed unanimously.

Two long-anticipated Conestoga wagons have finally arrived at Lyons Ferry Marina. In her report about Blue Mountain Station, Dickinson said two tenants had given notice, Humble Honey, which is closing their business, and Mama Monacelli’s Candy is moving to Walla Walla. Both will leave at the end of September.

Dickinson also said in her Director’s report the rail operator was planning on exercising their option to renew their lease for three years.

No significant changes or met milestones for any of the other Port projects were announced during this evening’s meeting.

Watts said he wanted a U.S. Flag inside the Port office building. Dickinson said the building never has had one inside, only outside. Bryan agreed that he wanted a flag inside the building too.

Crowe adjourned the meeting at 6:12 p.m.