By Karen Robes Meeks
At nearly $34 million, the Port of Grays Harbor posted its second highest overall operating revenue and highest revenue by the Marine Terminals.
Although vessels calls fell in 2019, the port moved almost three million metric tons of cargo at its four terminal, a historic tonnage record.
Following two years of record cargo growth, the port is looking at growth opportunities in the coming years.
“We hope to increase the diversity of cargoes we handle here at the Port with progress on a potential new project and private investment at Terminal 3,” said port Executive Director Gary Nelson. “We will also move forward with preparing the former pontoon site for future development to support cargo operations at adjacent Terminal 4. As you will hear from us throughout the year, the Future is Here, in Grays Harbor.”
Showing posts with label Port of Grays Harbor. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Port of Grays Harbor. Show all posts
Tuesday, March 3, 2020
Thursday, June 27, 2019
Grays Harbor Considers Potash Facility
By Karen Robes Meeks
This month, Port of Grays Harbor commissioners authorized port Executive Director Gary Nelson to ink an Options to Lease for BHP’s proposed potash export facility at Terminal 3 in Hoquiam, Washington, a move that could bring potash business to the seaport.
Grays Harbor is one of the sites BHP is considering for a potash export facility and the Options to Lease includes certain conditions such as the completion of a State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) review and the City of Hoquiam vacating parts of Paulson Road and Airport Way.
The company still has to secure necessary permits and approvals before building and operations.
“This project is important for Hoquiam, important for the port and important for our community so we are pleased to see this essential step in the process,” Port of Grays Harbor Commission President Stan Pinnick said. “While BHP choosing Grays Harbor is not a done deal, this is an important milestone in the process and we look forward to providing support and assistance throughout the Option period to help make this project a reality. BHP’s proposed project is consistent with our vision for utilizing our deep-water shipping infrastructure and upland property to create jobs for our community.”
This month, Port of Grays Harbor commissioners authorized port Executive Director Gary Nelson to ink an Options to Lease for BHP’s proposed potash export facility at Terminal 3 in Hoquiam, Washington, a move that could bring potash business to the seaport.
Grays Harbor is one of the sites BHP is considering for a potash export facility and the Options to Lease includes certain conditions such as the completion of a State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) review and the City of Hoquiam vacating parts of Paulson Road and Airport Way.
The company still has to secure necessary permits and approvals before building and operations.
“This project is important for Hoquiam, important for the port and important for our community so we are pleased to see this essential step in the process,” Port of Grays Harbor Commission President Stan Pinnick said. “While BHP choosing Grays Harbor is not a done deal, this is an important milestone in the process and we look forward to providing support and assistance throughout the Option period to help make this project a reality. BHP’s proposed project is consistent with our vision for utilizing our deep-water shipping infrastructure and upland property to create jobs for our community.”
Tuesday, March 26, 2019
Grays Harbor Director Named AAPA Chairman
By Karen Robes Meeks
Gary G. Nelson, the executive director of Port of Grays Harbor, has been chosen to be board chairman of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) for the 2019–20 activity year starting this upcoming October.
“With his valuable experience as a port director involved with diversified cargo, his international trade background, and his longstanding active engagement with AAPA and our member ports throughout the hemisphere, Gary Nelson is an outstanding choice for leading our association during the upcoming activity year,” said Kurt Nagle, AAPA’s president and chief executive officer. “Gary’s outstanding leadership and business skills, together with his easy-going demeanor, will be of enormous value as our member ports work together to address common challenges and legislative priorities.”
Nelson, who’s been with Grays Harbor since 2000, takes the one-year baton from outgoing chairman, William D. Friedman, president and chief executive officer for Northeast Ohio’s Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority.
Gary G. Nelson, the executive director of Port of Grays Harbor, has been chosen to be board chairman of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) for the 2019–20 activity year starting this upcoming October.
“With his valuable experience as a port director involved with diversified cargo, his international trade background, and his longstanding active engagement with AAPA and our member ports throughout the hemisphere, Gary Nelson is an outstanding choice for leading our association during the upcoming activity year,” said Kurt Nagle, AAPA’s president and chief executive officer. “Gary’s outstanding leadership and business skills, together with his easy-going demeanor, will be of enormous value as our member ports work together to address common challenges and legislative priorities.”
Nelson, who’s been with Grays Harbor since 2000, takes the one-year baton from outgoing chairman, William D. Friedman, president and chief executive officer for Northeast Ohio’s Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority.
Tuesday, February 26, 2019
Grays Harbor Project Phase II Completed
By Karen Robes Meeks
At the Port of Grays Harbor’s sixth annual Business Report event presented earlier this month, port leaders touted its business successes and the completion of Phase II of the Grays Harbor Navigation Improvement Project.
Commission President Stan Pinnick announced record-breaking cargo results handled at the port’s four deep-water terminals, record number of camping nights at Friends Landing and Westport Marina’s commercial seafood landings ranking 11th in the nation.
Past strategic investments in infrastructure have resulted in today’s success for port partners, acknowledge Executive Director Gary Nelson.
“Our customers and tenants are able to utilize the buildings, docks, waterways, roadways, rail and utilities that we have invested in to support and grow their businesses, employ our neighbors and generate solid economic impacts for our community,” he said.
Nelson noted that investment in infrastructure will continue this year with road paving projects in the Port Industrial area and Satsop Business Park, dredging and upland improvements at Westport Marina, and a critical drainage project at Bowerman Airport.
The port also celebrated the long-awaited completion of a Grays Harbor Navigation Channel deepening project, allowing more vessels to call at the Grays Harbor.
At the Port of Grays Harbor’s sixth annual Business Report event presented earlier this month, port leaders touted its business successes and the completion of Phase II of the Grays Harbor Navigation Improvement Project.
Commission President Stan Pinnick announced record-breaking cargo results handled at the port’s four deep-water terminals, record number of camping nights at Friends Landing and Westport Marina’s commercial seafood landings ranking 11th in the nation.
Past strategic investments in infrastructure have resulted in today’s success for port partners, acknowledge Executive Director Gary Nelson.
“Our customers and tenants are able to utilize the buildings, docks, waterways, roadways, rail and utilities that we have invested in to support and grow their businesses, employ our neighbors and generate solid economic impacts for our community,” he said.
Nelson noted that investment in infrastructure will continue this year with road paving projects in the Port Industrial area and Satsop Business Park, dredging and upland improvements at Westport Marina, and a critical drainage project at Bowerman Airport.
The port also celebrated the long-awaited completion of a Grays Harbor Navigation Channel deepening project, allowing more vessels to call at the Grays Harbor.
Tuesday, December 4, 2018
Commissioner Named for Grays Harbor
By Karen Robes Meeks
Tom Quigg will fill the Port of Grays Harbor’s District 2 Commission seat, the port has announced.
Quigg was selected by Commissioners Stan Pinnick and Phil Papac to take over the seat left vacant by Commissioner Jack Thompson, who passed away in October.
“We appreciate all of the highly qualified candidates that applied and truly value their interest in the Port and their enthusiasm and commitment to the future of Grays Harbor,” stated Commission President Stan Pinnick. “We look forward to welcoming Mr. Quigg to the Board and have confidence his business experience, knowledge and dedication will serve the Port and our community well.”
A lifelong Grays Harbor resident, Quigg brings marine construction and real estate experience to the role. He is a commercial and industrial real estate broker with Windermere Real Estate in Aberdeen, Wash., a founding member of the Grays Harbor Shipping Club and a board member of the Grays Harbor Community Foundation.
Quigg will be sworn in on Dec. 11 and will serve until November 2019, when he and others may seek to run for a six-year term on the commission.
Tom Quigg will fill the Port of Grays Harbor’s District 2 Commission seat, the port has announced.
Quigg was selected by Commissioners Stan Pinnick and Phil Papac to take over the seat left vacant by Commissioner Jack Thompson, who passed away in October.
“We appreciate all of the highly qualified candidates that applied and truly value their interest in the Port and their enthusiasm and commitment to the future of Grays Harbor,” stated Commission President Stan Pinnick. “We look forward to welcoming Mr. Quigg to the Board and have confidence his business experience, knowledge and dedication will serve the Port and our community well.”
A lifelong Grays Harbor resident, Quigg brings marine construction and real estate experience to the role. He is a commercial and industrial real estate broker with Windermere Real Estate in Aberdeen, Wash., a founding member of the Grays Harbor Shipping Club and a board member of the Grays Harbor Community Foundation.
Quigg will be sworn in on Dec. 11 and will serve until November 2019, when he and others may seek to run for a six-year term on the commission.
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
Satsop Manager Honored
By Karen Robes Meeks
Satsop Business Park Manager of Business Development Alissa Shay was named to the South Sound Business Magazine’s 2018 class of 40 Under 40.
“It is an honor to be working to create more job opportunities for people in our region while helping existing port customers be successful in Grays Harbor,” Shay said. “I am proud of the work we do to help make Grays Harbor a prosperous and vibrant community.”
Shay started her career at the port in 2013 following more than five years as a city planner for the city of Hoquiam.
In her current position, Shay has helmed the recruitment of Xpress Natural Gas, Overstock.com’s Customer Care Call Center and Fuller Hill Development Co., who in total employ more than 350 people at the park.
“Alissa is most deserving of this honor and we are proud of all she has accomplished during her tenure,” said Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Gary Nelson. “I am confident the port and the community will continue to benefit from her leadership and experience as her career continues to flourish.”
Satsop Business Park Manager of Business Development Alissa Shay was named to the South Sound Business Magazine’s 2018 class of 40 Under 40.
“It is an honor to be working to create more job opportunities for people in our region while helping existing port customers be successful in Grays Harbor,” Shay said. “I am proud of the work we do to help make Grays Harbor a prosperous and vibrant community.”
Shay started her career at the port in 2013 following more than five years as a city planner for the city of Hoquiam.
In her current position, Shay has helmed the recruitment of Xpress Natural Gas, Overstock.com’s Customer Care Call Center and Fuller Hill Development Co., who in total employ more than 350 people at the park.
“Alissa is most deserving of this honor and we are proud of all she has accomplished during her tenure,” said Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Gary Nelson. “I am confident the port and the community will continue to benefit from her leadership and experience as her career continues to flourish.”
Tuesday, October 30, 2018
Grays Harbor Begins Search for Commissioner
By Karen Robes Meeks
The search to fill the Port of Grays Harbor District 2 Commissioner seat left vacant following the sudden passing of Jack Thompson began on Oct. 29.
Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Nov. 9. Candidates must include proof of voter registration within Grays Harbor County District 2 and proof of residency from the Grays Harbor County Auditor’s Office. Complete application can be submitted by sending an email to district2commission@portgrays.org or delivering it in person to either the port’s main office located at 111 S. Wooding Street, Aberdeen, WA 98520 or to the Westport Marina’s main office located at 326 Lamb Street, Westport, WA 98595.
The commission will meet on Nov. 13 to review candidates’ qualifications. Finalists will be interviewed at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 26 during a Special Commission meeting. The commission is expected to vote to select a candidate on Nov. 27 at 3 p.m. This short-term appointment will run until the next port regular scheduled election in November 2019. At that point, the elected candidate will serve a full-term through Dec. 31, 2023.
Visit portofgraysharbor.com for more information on the commission process and application procedure.
The search to fill the Port of Grays Harbor District 2 Commissioner seat left vacant following the sudden passing of Jack Thompson began on Oct. 29.
Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Nov. 9. Candidates must include proof of voter registration within Grays Harbor County District 2 and proof of residency from the Grays Harbor County Auditor’s Office. Complete application can be submitted by sending an email to district2commission@portgrays.org or delivering it in person to either the port’s main office located at 111 S. Wooding Street, Aberdeen, WA 98520 or to the Westport Marina’s main office located at 326 Lamb Street, Westport, WA 98595.
The commission will meet on Nov. 13 to review candidates’ qualifications. Finalists will be interviewed at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 26 during a Special Commission meeting. The commission is expected to vote to select a candidate on Nov. 27 at 3 p.m. This short-term appointment will run until the next port regular scheduled election in November 2019. At that point, the elected candidate will serve a full-term through Dec. 31, 2023.
Visit portofgraysharbor.com for more information on the commission process and application procedure.
Friday, October 19, 2018
Grays Harbor Commissioner Dies
By Karen Robes Meeks
Longtime Port of Grays Harbor Commissioner Jack Thompson passed away on Oct. 4. He was in Chile attending the American Association of Port Authorities’ 107th Annual Convention when he fell and sustained a head injury on Sept 30.
“The sudden and devastating passing of Commissioner Thompson is a tremendous loss that will be felt throughout the Port community and beyond,” Executive Director Gary Nelson said. “On behalf of our entire port family, we extend our deepest condolences to Commissioner Thompson’s family during this difficult time.”
Thompson, who became a port commissioner in 1994, was serving his fifth term as District 2’s representative and was one of the longest-serving commissioners in port history. He played a role in diversifying the port’s cargo business, helping to draw more jobs to the area and supporting long-term tenants.
“Jack’s leadership, wisdom and service to his community will be deeply missed and never forgotten,” Nelson said. “His legacy of economic development and job creation will live on throughout our community and the port industry. We would also like to thank the staff of AAPA, the Port of Valparaiso, the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Department of Commerce for providing support and resources during this difficult time.” In accordance with state law, the commission is expected to fill the vacancy within 90 days.
Longtime Port of Grays Harbor Commissioner Jack Thompson passed away on Oct. 4. He was in Chile attending the American Association of Port Authorities’ 107th Annual Convention when he fell and sustained a head injury on Sept 30.
“The sudden and devastating passing of Commissioner Thompson is a tremendous loss that will be felt throughout the Port community and beyond,” Executive Director Gary Nelson said. “On behalf of our entire port family, we extend our deepest condolences to Commissioner Thompson’s family during this difficult time.”
Thompson, who became a port commissioner in 1994, was serving his fifth term as District 2’s representative and was one of the longest-serving commissioners in port history. He played a role in diversifying the port’s cargo business, helping to draw more jobs to the area and supporting long-term tenants.
“Jack’s leadership, wisdom and service to his community will be deeply missed and never forgotten,” Nelson said. “His legacy of economic development and job creation will live on throughout our community and the port industry. We would also like to thank the staff of AAPA, the Port of Valparaiso, the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Department of Commerce for providing support and resources during this difficult time.” In accordance with state law, the commission is expected to fill the vacancy within 90 days.
Tuesday, July 10, 2018
New Grays Harbor Commissioner
By Karen Robes Meeks
Phil Papac has been chosen to take on the next Port of Grays Harbor District 1 Commission seat after Commissioner Chuck Caldwell vacates the post at the end of this month.
Commissioners Jack Thompson and Stan Pinnick made the selection at a special commission meeting held recently.
“It was great to see so many candidates passionate about the Port and the future of Grays Harbor apply,” Pinnick said. “We are excited to welcome Mr. Papac to the Board and feel his commitment, experience and abilities will be an asset to the Port and our community.”
A lifelong Montesano resident, Papac is a father of two and a longtime restaurant operator who served on the Montesano Parks Board for 20 years. He also co-chaired two successful school levies and is heavily involved in youth sports, including a 20-year career as a local basketball referee.
Papac is expected to be sworn in on August 14 and will serve the rest of Caldwell’s term, which will be up for election in November 2019. At that time, the position – a six-year term – will be up for grabs.
Phil Papac has been chosen to take on the next Port of Grays Harbor District 1 Commission seat after Commissioner Chuck Caldwell vacates the post at the end of this month.
Commissioners Jack Thompson and Stan Pinnick made the selection at a special commission meeting held recently.
“It was great to see so many candidates passionate about the Port and the future of Grays Harbor apply,” Pinnick said. “We are excited to welcome Mr. Papac to the Board and feel his commitment, experience and abilities will be an asset to the Port and our community.”
A lifelong Montesano resident, Papac is a father of two and a longtime restaurant operator who served on the Montesano Parks Board for 20 years. He also co-chaired two successful school levies and is heavily involved in youth sports, including a 20-year career as a local basketball referee.
Papac is expected to be sworn in on August 14 and will serve the rest of Caldwell’s term, which will be up for election in November 2019. At that time, the position – a six-year term – will be up for grabs.
Tuesday, June 12, 2018
Grays Harbor Tours
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Grays Harbor is offering tours this summer as part of Your Jobs, Your Community, Your Port, an annual outreach program.
The 90-minute tour starts with an overview of the port’s past and present, followed by a bus tour of industrial properties and marine terminals in the Aberdeen and Hoquiam area.
Tours will take place at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. on June 28, July 12 and August 8.
Space is limited so reservations are needed. Call 360-533-9528 to RSVP or for more information.
Meanwhile, the Satsop Business Park has been conducting walking tours of its facilities, such as the cooling towers, tunnel training facility, warehouses, and office buildings.
Walking tours will take place at 3 p.m. on June 28, July 13, August 10 and September 27, and at 5:30 p.m. on July 26 and August 23.
Participants need to be at least eight years old and wear comfortable closed-toe shoes to take the tour. Space is limited so guests must make a reservation. Call 360-482-1600 to RSVP or for more details.
The Port of Grays Harbor is offering tours this summer as part of Your Jobs, Your Community, Your Port, an annual outreach program.
The 90-minute tour starts with an overview of the port’s past and present, followed by a bus tour of industrial properties and marine terminals in the Aberdeen and Hoquiam area.
Tours will take place at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. on June 28, July 12 and August 8.
Space is limited so reservations are needed. Call 360-533-9528 to RSVP or for more information.
Meanwhile, the Satsop Business Park has been conducting walking tours of its facilities, such as the cooling towers, tunnel training facility, warehouses, and office buildings.
Walking tours will take place at 3 p.m. on June 28, July 13, August 10 and September 27, and at 5:30 p.m. on July 26 and August 23.
Participants need to be at least eight years old and wear comfortable closed-toe shoes to take the tour. Space is limited so guests must make a reservation. Call 360-482-1600 to RSVP or for more details.
Tuesday, May 22, 2018
Grays Harbor to Appoint New Commissioner
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Grays Harbor plans to appoint a new District 1 Commissioner, effective August 1, replacing longtime Commissioner Chuck Caldwell, who recently announced his resignation.
“While it has been an absolute honor to serve the citizens of Grays Harbor County over the past 16 years and I am incredibly proud of the business diversification and growth at the port during this time, it is now time for me to focus my energy on other important areas of my life,” Caldwell said. “I will continue to be a supportive citizen and ready volunteer to promote any Port initiatives that will continue to expand the service and opportunities for the people of Grays Harbor County.”
The appointee will be in place until the next regular Port election scheduled for November 2019, at which point the six-year term vacant position will be filled.
Those interested in serving the remaining of Caldwell’s term may submit an application at district1commission@portgrays.org, or at the Port’s main office at 111 S. Wooding Street, Aberdeen, WA 98520 or at the Satsop Business Park’s main office at 150 Technology Way, Suite 100, Elma, WA 98541.
To qualify, applicants must be a registered voter in Grays Harbor County District 1. The deadline to turn in applications, proof of residency from the Grays Harbor County Auditor’s Office and proof of voter registration is 5 p.m. on June 5, 2018.
After receiving and reviewing applications, the finalists will be interviewed on June 14 before a final decision is announced on June 19.
The Port of Grays Harbor plans to appoint a new District 1 Commissioner, effective August 1, replacing longtime Commissioner Chuck Caldwell, who recently announced his resignation.
“While it has been an absolute honor to serve the citizens of Grays Harbor County over the past 16 years and I am incredibly proud of the business diversification and growth at the port during this time, it is now time for me to focus my energy on other important areas of my life,” Caldwell said. “I will continue to be a supportive citizen and ready volunteer to promote any Port initiatives that will continue to expand the service and opportunities for the people of Grays Harbor County.”
The appointee will be in place until the next regular Port election scheduled for November 2019, at which point the six-year term vacant position will be filled.
Those interested in serving the remaining of Caldwell’s term may submit an application at district1commission@portgrays.org, or at the Port’s main office at 111 S. Wooding Street, Aberdeen, WA 98520 or at the Satsop Business Park’s main office at 150 Technology Way, Suite 100, Elma, WA 98541.
To qualify, applicants must be a registered voter in Grays Harbor County District 1. The deadline to turn in applications, proof of residency from the Grays Harbor County Auditor’s Office and proof of voter registration is 5 p.m. on June 5, 2018.
After receiving and reviewing applications, the finalists will be interviewed on June 14 before a final decision is announced on June 19.
Tuesday, May 8, 2018
Grays Harbor Executive Chairs AAPA Caucus
By Karen Robes Meeks
Acting as the North Pacific Caucus Chair for the Association of American Port Authorities (AAPA), Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Gary Nelson spoke about the importance of taking care of US waterways and how revenues from the Harbor Maintenance Tax (HMT) would fund that effort.
“AAPA has worked with its members throughout the port industry to develop a sustainable, long-term funding solution for maintaining our waterways that is fair and equitable to ports of all sizes,” said Nelson, who took part in the recent US House Subcommittee on Water Resources roundtable discussion, “America’s Water Resources Infrastructure: Concepts for the Next Water Resources Development Act, Part II.”
“The unified solution will address the equity concerns of donor and energy ports, as well as the needs of emerging ports, while ensuring HMT revenues are used for their intended purpose of navigation channel maintenance,” he said.
Maintaining federal navigation waterways is important for the Port of Grays Harbor, a top export port for soybean meal, automobiles, liquid bulks and logs, and ranks 37th in the US for export cargo volumes, Nelson added.
“Our customers recognize the strategic advantage of our port and have invested millions of dollars in their facilities to take advantage of our location and proximity to Pacific Rim markets,” he said. “AAPA’s unified, sustainable and long-term HMT funding solution will ensure the thousands of farming and manufacturing jobs in those regions, and thousands more here in the Pacific Northwest can continue to depend on our waterways to deliver goods throughout the world.”
Acting as the North Pacific Caucus Chair for the Association of American Port Authorities (AAPA), Port of Grays Harbor Executive Director Gary Nelson spoke about the importance of taking care of US waterways and how revenues from the Harbor Maintenance Tax (HMT) would fund that effort.
“AAPA has worked with its members throughout the port industry to develop a sustainable, long-term funding solution for maintaining our waterways that is fair and equitable to ports of all sizes,” said Nelson, who took part in the recent US House Subcommittee on Water Resources roundtable discussion, “America’s Water Resources Infrastructure: Concepts for the Next Water Resources Development Act, Part II.”
“The unified solution will address the equity concerns of donor and energy ports, as well as the needs of emerging ports, while ensuring HMT revenues are used for their intended purpose of navigation channel maintenance,” he said.
Maintaining federal navigation waterways is important for the Port of Grays Harbor, a top export port for soybean meal, automobiles, liquid bulks and logs, and ranks 37th in the US for export cargo volumes, Nelson added.
“Our customers recognize the strategic advantage of our port and have invested millions of dollars in their facilities to take advantage of our location and proximity to Pacific Rim markets,” he said. “AAPA’s unified, sustainable and long-term HMT funding solution will ensure the thousands of farming and manufacturing jobs in those regions, and thousands more here in the Pacific Northwest can continue to depend on our waterways to deliver goods throughout the world.”
Friday, April 13, 2018
New Finance Director at Grays Harbor
By Karen Robes Meeks
Mike Folkers is the new director of finance and administration for the Port of Grays Harbor.
Folkers, who will start in the his new role on April 16, takes over for current director of finance Mary Nelson, who will retire in June after 23 years with the port.
Folkers, who serves as the City of Aberdeen’s finance director, has led municipal finance departments in Ocean Shores, Hoquiam and Aberdeen.
“Mr. Folkers’ proven leadership and knowledge in the field will be an asset to the port’s management team,” said Executive Director Gary Nelson. “We look forward to having him on the team and continuing the strong legacy of fiscal responsibility Ms. Nelson and her department have established over the past 23 years.”
Mr. Folkers earned his masters of business administration from Washington State University, a bachelor’s degree in aeronautics and astronautics engineering from the University of Washington.
“We are confident Mr. Folkers’ experience and skills will be an excellent fit for ensuring the legacy established during Mary Nelson’s tenure of prudent, judicious and transparent management of the public assets entrusted to the Port for the betterment of the community,” said Port Commission Secretary-Treasurer Jack Thompson. “Mike is well prepared to assist our port management team in navigating future challenges and opportunities.”
Mike Folkers is the new director of finance and administration for the Port of Grays Harbor.
Folkers, who will start in the his new role on April 16, takes over for current director of finance Mary Nelson, who will retire in June after 23 years with the port.
Folkers, who serves as the City of Aberdeen’s finance director, has led municipal finance departments in Ocean Shores, Hoquiam and Aberdeen.
“Mr. Folkers’ proven leadership and knowledge in the field will be an asset to the port’s management team,” said Executive Director Gary Nelson. “We look forward to having him on the team and continuing the strong legacy of fiscal responsibility Ms. Nelson and her department have established over the past 23 years.”
Mr. Folkers earned his masters of business administration from Washington State University, a bachelor’s degree in aeronautics and astronautics engineering from the University of Washington.
“We are confident Mr. Folkers’ experience and skills will be an excellent fit for ensuring the legacy established during Mary Nelson’s tenure of prudent, judicious and transparent management of the public assets entrusted to the Port for the betterment of the community,” said Port Commission Secretary-Treasurer Jack Thompson. “Mike is well prepared to assist our port management team in navigating future challenges and opportunities.”
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
Potash Meeting at Grays Harbor
By Karen Robes Meeks
Global resources company BHP will host an open house to discuss its plans for a potash export facility at Port of Grays Harbor’s Terminal 3 later this month.
BHP’s representatives will introduce what potash (potassium chloride) is, in addition to discussing the company’s work at the Jansen Potash Project in Saskatchewan, Canada, and its proposal for Terminal 3. A question-and-answer segment will follow the presentation.
“We commend BHP for holding this event as an opportunity for our local citizens and other interested parties to learn more about the proposed project and what it could mean for our community,” said Port Commissioner Stan Pinnick.
The meeting will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on September 14 at Hoquiam High School Commons, located at 501 W Emerson Ave. in Hoquiam.
Global resources company BHP will host an open house to discuss its plans for a potash export facility at Port of Grays Harbor’s Terminal 3 later this month.
BHP’s representatives will introduce what potash (potassium chloride) is, in addition to discussing the company’s work at the Jansen Potash Project in Saskatchewan, Canada, and its proposal for Terminal 3. A question-and-answer segment will follow the presentation.
“We commend BHP for holding this event as an opportunity for our local citizens and other interested parties to learn more about the proposed project and what it could mean for our community,” said Port Commissioner Stan Pinnick.
The meeting will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on September 14 at Hoquiam High School Commons, located at 501 W Emerson Ave. in Hoquiam.
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Overstock to Double at Grays Harbor
By Karen Robes Meeks
Overstock.com’s presence in the Port of Grays Harbor’s Satsop Business Park will double in size.
The Port Harbor Commission recently agreed to a lease amendment that will increase the Salt Lake City, Utah-based company’s footprint to include the 43,000-square-foot Flex Tech Building. Overstock.com expects to be operational by October 1.
“We are extremely excited for Overstock’s expansion at the Park and the additional jobs it will bring to the region,” announced Commission President Jack Thompson. “Overstock has been a wonderful partner for the Satsop Business Park and Grays Harbor as a whole. We are confident they will be able to add more local, quality employees to their team here in Washington.”
The approval comes three months after commissioners welcomed Overstock.com with a ribbon-cutting ceremony of the company’s Evergreen Customer Care Call Center at the Satsop Business Park, a move that is expected to add at least 150 new employees all likely to come from the five-county region of Grays Harbor, Thurston, Lewis, Mason and Pacific.
“Our Elma-based associates are performing well and providing excellent customer care, and the response from the community has been everything we could have hoped for thus far,” said Overstock.com Senior Vice President Carter Lee. “As a result, we’ve moved up plans to expand our Evergreen Customer Care center, and are looking forward to finding more amazing associates from the community to join our Overstock family.”
Satsop Business Park is a mixed-use facility located two hours away from Seattle, Wash., that is home to more than 30 businesses and 600 acres of developed land and buildings. The Grays Harbor Public Development Authority, which developed the site, transferred the park’s management and assets to the Port of Grays Harbor in January 2013.
Overstock.com’s presence in the Port of Grays Harbor’s Satsop Business Park will double in size.
The Port Harbor Commission recently agreed to a lease amendment that will increase the Salt Lake City, Utah-based company’s footprint to include the 43,000-square-foot Flex Tech Building. Overstock.com expects to be operational by October 1.
“We are extremely excited for Overstock’s expansion at the Park and the additional jobs it will bring to the region,” announced Commission President Jack Thompson. “Overstock has been a wonderful partner for the Satsop Business Park and Grays Harbor as a whole. We are confident they will be able to add more local, quality employees to their team here in Washington.”
The approval comes three months after commissioners welcomed Overstock.com with a ribbon-cutting ceremony of the company’s Evergreen Customer Care Call Center at the Satsop Business Park, a move that is expected to add at least 150 new employees all likely to come from the five-county region of Grays Harbor, Thurston, Lewis, Mason and Pacific.
“Our Elma-based associates are performing well and providing excellent customer care, and the response from the community has been everything we could have hoped for thus far,” said Overstock.com Senior Vice President Carter Lee. “As a result, we’ve moved up plans to expand our Evergreen Customer Care center, and are looking forward to finding more amazing associates from the community to join our Overstock family.”
Satsop Business Park is a mixed-use facility located two hours away from Seattle, Wash., that is home to more than 30 businesses and 600 acres of developed land and buildings. The Grays Harbor Public Development Authority, which developed the site, transferred the park’s management and assets to the Port of Grays Harbor in January 2013.
Tuesday, August 1, 2017
D-Day Westport
By Karen Robes Meeks
The US Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Washington National Guard conducted an emergency preparedness-training event this morning, August 1, at the Westport Marina in the Port of Grays Harbor.
The Westport Boat Launch was closed from 7 to 11 a.m. so the military could practice delivering troops and supplies in the event of a natural disaster such as an earthquake or tsunami.
Prior to the deployment, Westport Marina Business Manager Molly Bold noted that the marina was looking forward to hosting such an important training event and hoped regular users would be able to launch either before or after the military wrapped up their activities.
Various military vehicles and a helicopter were also on display at a public open house hosted at the US Coast Guard Station.
The US Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Washington National Guard conducted an emergency preparedness-training event this morning, August 1, at the Westport Marina in the Port of Grays Harbor.
The Westport Boat Launch was closed from 7 to 11 a.m. so the military could practice delivering troops and supplies in the event of a natural disaster such as an earthquake or tsunami.
Prior to the deployment, Westport Marina Business Manager Molly Bold noted that the marina was looking forward to hosting such an important training event and hoped regular users would be able to launch either before or after the military wrapped up their activities.
Various military vehicles and a helicopter were also on display at a public open house hosted at the US Coast Guard Station.
Friday, June 9, 2017
New Business at Grays Harbor
By Karen Robes Meeks
The Port of Grays Harbor’s Satsop Business Park recently welcomed its newest tenant with the grand opening of Overstock.com’s “Evergreen” Customer Care Call Center.
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and other lawmakers were present for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new 20,000 square feet of office space that the online company began leasing in December.
“Overstock’s grand opening celebration was a testament to the amazing local and regional partnerships that helped this occur on such an expedited timeframe,” said Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. CEO Dru Garson. “It was great to see representation from all of the various partners at the event along with all of the enthusiastic, smiling faces of the new Overstock.com employees.”
Overstock.com, which began the hiring process in January, started taking calls in early May.
“We are thrilled to welcome Overstock.com as a partner and tenant at the Satsop Business Park and even more excited to see 150 individuals coming to work here every day,” said Business Development Manager Alissa Shay. Satsop Business Park, which recently earned the Outstanding Job Creator Award from the Washington Public Ports Association, is a mixed-use facility two hours away from Seattle that is home to more than 30 businesses and 600 acres of developed land and buildings.
The Grays Harbor Public Development Authority, which developed the site, transferred the park’s management and assets to the Port of Grays Harbor in January 2013.
The Port of Grays Harbor’s Satsop Business Park recently welcomed its newest tenant with the grand opening of Overstock.com’s “Evergreen” Customer Care Call Center.
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and other lawmakers were present for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new 20,000 square feet of office space that the online company began leasing in December.
“Overstock’s grand opening celebration was a testament to the amazing local and regional partnerships that helped this occur on such an expedited timeframe,” said Greater Grays Harbor, Inc. CEO Dru Garson. “It was great to see representation from all of the various partners at the event along with all of the enthusiastic, smiling faces of the new Overstock.com employees.”
Overstock.com, which began the hiring process in January, started taking calls in early May.
“We are thrilled to welcome Overstock.com as a partner and tenant at the Satsop Business Park and even more excited to see 150 individuals coming to work here every day,” said Business Development Manager Alissa Shay. Satsop Business Park, which recently earned the Outstanding Job Creator Award from the Washington Public Ports Association, is a mixed-use facility two hours away from Seattle that is home to more than 30 businesses and 600 acres of developed land and buildings.
The Grays Harbor Public Development Authority, which developed the site, transferred the park’s management and assets to the Port of Grays Harbor in January 2013.
Friday, April 28, 2017
Record Year for Grays Harbor Biodiesel Facility
By Mark Edward Nero
Renewable Energy Group’s 100-million gallon per-year-capacity biorefinery at the Port of Grays Harbor is celebrating setting new production records. The facility produced 72.3 million gallons in 2016, a considerable increase in production over the previous record according to figures released by the port April 25.
Since acquiring the plant in August 2015, Renewable Energy Group has invested more than $5 million into the facility, according to the Port of Grays Harbor. One of the major investments being a new state of-the-art decanter, which helped improve the quality of glycerin, a co-product of the biodiesel making process.
The glycerin is then piped aboard vessels at Terminal 1, the port’s dedicated liquid bulk terminal, for export to China, where it is refined for other uses.
A new rail fall protection project was also recently completed, which added fall protection to all five of REG’s tracks to include all 64 rail loading and unloading locations.
“The increase in production and the increased vessel calls for glycerin export have helped put people to work in the plant and at our docks,” port Deputy Executive Director Leonard Barnes explained.
“We look forward to working with REG as they continue to weigh options for a potential expansion and further investment in Grays Harbor.”
REG owns and operates a total of 14 active biorefineries throughout North America and Europe.
Renewable Energy Group’s 100-million gallon per-year-capacity biorefinery at the Port of Grays Harbor is celebrating setting new production records. The facility produced 72.3 million gallons in 2016, a considerable increase in production over the previous record according to figures released by the port April 25.
Since acquiring the plant in August 2015, Renewable Energy Group has invested more than $5 million into the facility, according to the Port of Grays Harbor. One of the major investments being a new state of-the-art decanter, which helped improve the quality of glycerin, a co-product of the biodiesel making process.
The glycerin is then piped aboard vessels at Terminal 1, the port’s dedicated liquid bulk terminal, for export to China, where it is refined for other uses.
A new rail fall protection project was also recently completed, which added fall protection to all five of REG’s tracks to include all 64 rail loading and unloading locations.
“The increase in production and the increased vessel calls for glycerin export have helped put people to work in the plant and at our docks,” port Deputy Executive Director Leonard Barnes explained.
“We look forward to working with REG as they continue to weigh options for a potential expansion and further investment in Grays Harbor.”
REG owns and operates a total of 14 active biorefineries throughout North America and Europe.
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
Grays Harbor Port Wins Excellence Award
By Mark Edward Nero
The Port of Grays Harbor is one of three seaports – and the only one on the West Coast – to be named a winner of the American Association of Port Authorities’ Communications Awards Program’s annual excellence award.
In addition to the Port of Grays Harbor, the other two recipients of the 2016 Overall Award of Communications Excellence trophies are Port Everglades in Florida and St. John’s Port Authority in Newfoundland and Labrador.
In total, the AAPA plans to recognize 25 seaports for exemplary communications projects and programs at its annual convention and awards luncheon this fall. Winning entrants in the Association’s 50th annual Communications Awards Program are to be lauded at an Oct. 26 awards luncheon in conjunction with the organization’s 105th Annual Convention and Expo in New Orleans, set for Oct. 23-26.
Other West Coast ports announced as winners in various categories include those in Longview, Washington; Los Angeles; Long Beach, California; Stockton, California.
“This competition helps our member ports by rewarding effective communications and highlighting best practices and lessons learned,” AAPA President & CEO Kurt Nagle.
The Communications Awards Program utilized 48 professional public relations practitioners from the Washington, D.C. area who cumulatively spent nearly 200 hours over three weeks judging the 15 classifications of entries, ranging from advertisements and periodicals to videos and websites.
Based on the number of points awarded each entry by the judges, three entries earned an Overall Award of Communications Excellence and 31 entries earned an Award of Excellence, while 46 entries scored an Award of Distinction, and 26 entries received an Award of Merit.
All 106 of the winning submissions in the 2016 AAPA Communications Awards Program can be seen at http://www.aapa-ports.org/unifying/content.aspx?ItemNumber=21375&RDtoken=21609&userID=5980.
The Port of Grays Harbor is one of three seaports – and the only one on the West Coast – to be named a winner of the American Association of Port Authorities’ Communications Awards Program’s annual excellence award.
In addition to the Port of Grays Harbor, the other two recipients of the 2016 Overall Award of Communications Excellence trophies are Port Everglades in Florida and St. John’s Port Authority in Newfoundland and Labrador.
In total, the AAPA plans to recognize 25 seaports for exemplary communications projects and programs at its annual convention and awards luncheon this fall. Winning entrants in the Association’s 50th annual Communications Awards Program are to be lauded at an Oct. 26 awards luncheon in conjunction with the organization’s 105th Annual Convention and Expo in New Orleans, set for Oct. 23-26.
Other West Coast ports announced as winners in various categories include those in Longview, Washington; Los Angeles; Long Beach, California; Stockton, California.
“This competition helps our member ports by rewarding effective communications and highlighting best practices and lessons learned,” AAPA President & CEO Kurt Nagle.
The Communications Awards Program utilized 48 professional public relations practitioners from the Washington, D.C. area who cumulatively spent nearly 200 hours over three weeks judging the 15 classifications of entries, ranging from advertisements and periodicals to videos and websites.
Based on the number of points awarded each entry by the judges, three entries earned an Overall Award of Communications Excellence and 31 entries earned an Award of Excellence, while 46 entries scored an Award of Distinction, and 26 entries received an Award of Merit.
All 106 of the winning submissions in the 2016 AAPA Communications Awards Program can be seen at http://www.aapa-ports.org/unifying/content.aspx?ItemNumber=21375&RDtoken=21609&userID=5980.
Friday, October 16, 2015
Grays Harbor Approves CNG Facility
By Mark Edward Nero
At an Oct. 13 meeting, the Port of Grays Harbor Commission approved a ten-year lease for 4.3 acres with Xpress Natural Gas LLC, paving the way for the port to eventually become landlord to a $3 million compressed natural gas facility.
Xpress Natural Gas has been given approval to build a compressed natural gas distribution terminal that in the port’s Satsop Business Park area that would utilize the existing natural gas line to fill portable tubes for transport to industrial customers throughout the region.
An additional $2 million would be invested in the fleet of CNG trucks and trailers that will service XNG’s customers. The operation would be manned 24 hours per day and XNG said it expects to employ 20-25 people at full build out, in addition to the construction and trucking service jobs that would be generated.
XNG operates similar facilities in New York and Maine.
“Energy is a growing sector of our nation’s economy and we are excited a new business will be able to take advantage of one of the Park’s great assets, the natural gas line,” said Alissa Shay, Satsop Business Park’s manager of business development.
XNG is a Boston-based logistics and transportation company that manages a “virtual pipeline” that provides trucked natural gas solutions to locations where a pipeline does not provide gas service.
XNG operates one of the largest fleet of high-capacity, all-composite CNG trailers in North America and is the only provider of CNG services using CNG-powered tractor-trucks.
Satsop Business Park is less than two hours southwest of Seattle and two hours north of Portland. The 1,800-acre mixed-use business and industrial park is also 30 minutes from Olympia, Wash. and is home to over 30 businesses on 600 acres of developed land.
