Port of Newport Commissioner Stuart Lamerdin provided the port commission with his letter of resignation this week, citing that he has taken a job outside the area and will not be able to continue as a port commissioner. Lamerdin stated this was a difficult decision to make as he and his family love this area.
Commissioner Jeff Lackey thanked Lamerdin for all of his time that he has volunteered to the commission. He and commissioner Skamser said he helped lead the port through some difficult times. Commissioner Chuck said it was an honor to work with him over the years.
Commissioner Skamser presented Lamerdin with a T-Shirt from the Barge Inn. Port Manager Paula Miranda presented him with a plaque of appreciation.
Stuart Lamerdin, was first elected to the commission in July of 2015. His current term expires on June 30, 2023. The Port will be posting requirements for applying for the vacant port position. His last day will be Friday July 26th. Stuart obtained a Bachelors of Science degree from Lewis and Clark College in Biology and a Masters degree in Oceanography from San Francisco State University.
He has spent the last 20 years managing research vessels and marine operations facilities for various universities. He has sat on numerous proposal review panels for the National Science Foundation and the Office of Naval Research and has played a leadership role in supporting the US Academic Research Fleet through his involvement with the University National Oceanographic Laboratory Systems (UNOLS).
The port commissioners then held their yearly election of officers. Commissioner Lackey nominated Sara Skamser as president and Jim Burk as vice president and Walter Chuck as Secretary. All were approved. More information about applying for the vacant port position will be posted on the Port of Newport's website at www.portofnewport.com