Hayden, who’s been with the port since 2000, was chosen via
a unanimous decision vote by the Port of Pasco Commission on June 27. Under the
Commission’s action, Hayden was appointed deputy executive director effective
July 1, and will then move up to fill the executive director seat upon Toomey’s
retirement.
Under the plan, Hayden’s salary now increases from $117,000
annually to $120,000.
“I am humbled and honored by your decision,” Hayden told the
three-member Commission June 27.
The Port of Pasco, located in the Tri-Cities region of
Washington State, manages a 28-acre marine terminal, 15-acre multi-modal
rail/barge terminal, 600-acre industrial center, the Tri-Cities Airport and
numerous other properties, with the assets worth more than $130 million dollars.
Hayden’s priorities, according to the Commission, will
include industrial development and business recruitment, as well as a major
airport expansion.
The Tri-Cities Airport is currently planning the largest
expansion project in its history: a $36 million project that would nearly
double the size of the existing terminal. Construction’s slated to begin in
early 2014.
