Unorthodox behavior by Port commissioner

To the editor,

It was with incredulity and disgust that I watched the Port Commission meeting of February 14, 2024, as Seth Bryan put forth an unprecedented, unorthodox motion to change the executive director from a contracted position to an at-will employee. After the motion passed 2-1 with Mike Spring against and Johnny Watts following Seth Bryan’s lead in lockstep, as usual, Commissioner Bryan proceeded to make unsubstantiated accusations of insubordination against the Executive Director. 

Having watched many of the Port of Columbia meetings and witnessed Commissioner Bryan’s misinformed statements against many economic development projects and subsequent correct info offered by the Port Executive Director -I have been amazed at the professionalism of Jennie Dickenson in dealing with the constant hyperbole. My guess is Commissioner Bryan simply doesn’t like to be corrected, doesn’t see the value of informational discourse, and probably does not like to be seen as less knowledgeable than a woman. 

There is no doubt in my mind that Jennie recognizes the authority of the Commission and carries out the Port Commission’s direction. Jennie’s commitment to the advancement of Columbia County, its businesses, and community members is stellar and above question or doubt. Her passion goes beyond her job description- volunteering in efforts to promote her community. Jennie Dickenson is respected throughout the Walla Walla-Touchet Valley. I cannot say the same of Commissioner Bryan who seems determined to destroy a community, the businesses in that community, an accomplished economic development organization, and a respected community member.

Joy Marie Smith

Waitsburg, Wash.