Robert L. Levy, a Umatilla County resident
and self-employed farmer, has been confirmed by the Oregon State Senate as the
newest Port of Portland Commissioner.
Levy operates both the Windy River and L&L
Farms in Hermiston, Oregon and was previously the owner of American Onion Inc.,
a food products wholesale company. He currently is chair of the Westland
Irrigation District and also serves on the board of the Cunningham Sheep Co. ranch.
He also previously served on the Oregon Board of Agriculture.
“During my business career as a farmer and
rancher, I have been involved in importing and exporting a number of
agricultural products through the port’s facilities and understand what an
important role the port plays in our state and the region,” Levy said. “I look
forward to representing those interests and the interests of all Oregonians on
the Commission.”
Commissioners are unpaid volunteers who are
appointed by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate. They serve
four-year terms and can be reappointed at the pleasure of the Governor. Levy
replaces Commissioner Steve Corey who has served on the Commission since 2003
and whose current term has expired.
“I had the pleasure of traveling with Bob on
last fall’s trade mission to key markets in Asia,” Gov. Kitzhaber, who
nominated Levy to the nine-member commission, said of Levy in a prepared
statement. “He understands the importance of trade to businesses both large and
small and will be a strong voice for Oregon exporters and importers on the
Commission.”
