Dewatto searching for candidates for commissioner seat

Port of Dewatto Manager Jeana Crosby talked about the search to replace Port Commission Chair Ray Mow, a port commissioner since 2017. Mow died April 8.

“We have not had anyone apply as of yet,” Crosby told the Herald on May 12. “We do have a few people whom we are going to ask.”

Crosby was not able to release those people’s names, she did note the replacement needs to be from Mow’s district. Mow represented Port of Dewatto District No. 2, which includes Haven Lake, Wooten Lake and the surrounding area.

“In 90 days, the county will appoint someone,” Crosby said. “I’m sure we will have at least a temp by then, which gives us more time. Ray’s term doesn’t expire until 2028, but when someone dies, or there is an emergency vacancy, we have 90 days.”

Crosby described Mow as “instrumental in helping keep the Port of Dewatto alive,” and praised his skill at resolving conflicts among port commissioners and members of the public.

“He had an amazing relationship with his parents, and his boys — Areez, Levi and Mason — were the center of his universe,” Crosby said. “He had recently reconnected with Jennifer, the love of his life, and was enjoying the time they were able to spend together, albeit being miles apart.”

Dewatto River Campground Coordinator Joe Newman said Mow’s death represents “a great loss” to the port.

The invitation to apply for Mow’s seat, which Crosby already submitted to the press, will continue to run in print through the end of June, at least.

Crosby, in her capacity as port manager, will interview potential candidates alongside the remaining two port commissioners, Ted Edwards and David Haugen, and the person selected for the open seat will fill the remainder of Mow’s term, through the end of 2027.

Election filing for candidates continues through Friday at the Mason County Auditor’s Office, with forms available online. Edwards is up for re-election, and has voiced his plans to file.

In other news, new window blinds for a port building have been ordered from Budget Blinds, with half of the invoice approved and the balance due upon completion. Crosby reported the owner of the branch of Budget Blinds had dealt with several emergencies outside of the workplace.

“He has had to take care of some family business, and will let me know when he returns,” Crosby said. “When he asked if I wanted a different person to continue, I told him ‘no,’ we are fine waiting, as long as we receive updates on the progress, and it can still be completed within the next couple of months.”

Author Bio

Kirk Boxleitner, Reporter

Shelton-Mason County Journal & Belfair Herald
[email protected]