Winter 2024 Newsletter - Port FAQ
There are many questions that the staff and Commissioners field both in person and online. In the next few issues of the newsletter, we will be answering some of the most common questions in hopes of adding clarity to the purpose and operations of the Port of Hood River.
Port districts in Oregon function in a specialized role, assigned by state statute to function as government agencies that also focus on profit-making enterprises that support economic growth and opportunities. Port districts can borrow money, issue bonds, levy taxes and charge for services like many other special districts. Under Oregon law, port districts are allowed to make improvements to harbors and rivers, construct warehouses and other storage areas, operate airports and interstate bridges, construct and operate public marine facilities, and develop industrial parks.
The Port is run by 5 elected board members, called Commissioners. These five members guide the Port on decisions that promote economic growth and recreation. All administrative, maintenance and bridge personnel work under the direct supervision of the Executive Director. The Executive Director then reports to the Commission on updates to policy, projects and day-to-day operations.
A very small portion of the Port’s revenue is collected through taxes. With the lowest tax rate in the district, just over three cents per $1,000 of assessed value is collected by the Port annually, totaling $95,634 in the last fiscal year.
The Port of Hood River was established in 1933 as a result of the Bonneville Dam Project, with the vision and mission to initiate, promote and maintain a healthy economy and strong quality of life in the Port District.
If qualified to be a commissioner, delegates must be at least 18 years old, a registered voter and live within the Port of Hood River district. Individuals seeking a seat on the commission must run for the seat and be voted in by the residents of the Port of Hood River district.
Commissioners are paid $100 each month.
Commissioners serve a 4-year term, that begins July 1 of the year elected.
The Port Commission meets on the third Tuesday of each month in the Marina Center Boardroom at 1000 E. Port Marina Drive, Hood River, Oregon. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed online on the Port of Hood River YouTube channel. You can view meeting packets at least 24 hours before each meeting.
