By Mark Edward Nero
Port of Walla Walla Executive Director Jim Kuntz announced Sept. 22 that he’s stepping down from his post after more than two decades on the job. He is expected to depart in June 2016.
Kuntz has been the port’s executive director since July 1989 and since then has been responsible for day-to-day port operations, including the oversight of businesses and operations at the Walla Walla Regional Airport.
The port is also the lead economic development agency for Walla Walla County and helps creation of family wage jobs and expansion of the region’s tax base via the attraction of new investment.
Prior to coming to Walla Walla, he was the assistant port manager for the Port of Benton from June 1986 to July 1989. Upon his departure at age 55, Kuntz will have 30 years of service with Washington ports.
He told the local media that he is not planning on leaving the workforce.
“I am without a doubt looking forward to starting a second career,” Kuntz told the Walla Walla Union-Bulletin. “I am young enough to do that.”
