Sherwood out as port director

"Dianne has been an incredible asset to the Port over the years," Ford said. "You need only look at the transformation that has occurred at Bingen Point and the many improvements to our Dallesport facilities to appreciate her accomplishments."

Sherwood said she was proud of all the success the Port has enjoyed.

"It has been an honor and privilege to have served the Port of Klickitat and our communities, and to have worked together with the Port Commission and staff the past 13 and one-half years," Sherwood said. "I'm very proud of all that the Port has accomplished during my tenure."

The Port Commissioners praised Sherwood.

"I've had the privilege of working with Dianne since she arrived at the Port," said Port Commissioner Wayne Vinyard. "She truly brought a new perspective to Port management, and we've all been pleased with the results."

Commissioner Norm Deo also expressed his appreciation for Sherwood's work as head of the Port District.

"Dianne has been enormously successful at whatever she decided to do," Deo said. "We all want to express to her our gratitude for her service."

Ford said the Port of Klickitat would begin an immediate search for a new executive director. According to Ford, the search will be led by Byron Hanke, a longtime Port consultant and the former executive director of the Port of Vancouver. It is expected to take several months to find the right candidate for the director's job.

"We'll be looking to bring in the right mix of experience and qualifications to build on our successes," explained Ford.

Sherwood said she plans to take some personal time away before she begins to explore other interests. She added that she will continue to be an active member of the Bingen-White Salmon community.