By Karen Robes Meeks
Michael Zucchet became the newest Port of San Diego commissioner when he took the oath of office June 15.
He joins the seven-member board, three of which represent San Diego, and one each for the cities of Chula Vista, Coronado, Imperial Beach and National City. Zucchet was appointed to represent San Diego.
Robert “Dukie” Valderrama, chairman of the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners, welcomed him on behalf of the commission and said he looks forward to Zucchet’s perspective and expertise.
“Mr. Zucchet brings a wide array of skills and interests that will benefit our communities, the environment, our businesses, and most importantly, our residents and visitors to the San Diego waterfront,” Valderrama said.
Zucchet is general manager of the San Diego Municipal Employees Association, the union representing city workers. He previously worked for the Utility Consumers’ Action Network, and for the San Diego City Fire Fighters as legislative and community affairs director. Additionally, he represented District 2 on the San Diego City Council.
Zucchet, who earned a master’s degree in environmental economics and policy from Duke University, was a renewable energy economist with the Energy Information Administration of the United States Department of Energy in Washington, D.C. He also worked with Santa Barbara nonprofit Environmental Defense Center and was president of the San Diego League of Conservation Voters.
“Mr. Zucchet’s public sector experience and background in environmental economics will serve us well as we approach the final stages of our Port Master Plan update,” said Rafael Castellanos, vice chairman of the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners. “His expertise will complement and increase the Commission’s capability as we strive to balance the diversity of interests on our vibrant waterfront.”
