Port of Hood River board, position 2

What makes you qualified to be a member on the Port of Hood River board of commissioners, position 2?

I’ve called the Columbia Gorge home since 1994 and care deeply about this community. As an active user of port properties — the marina, waterfront, roads, parking areas, and even the airport — I see firsthand what’s working and where we can do better. I’m well-connected locally and always open to hearing from community members. I currently serve as vice president on the port commission, where I’ve helped improve financial transparency with new accounting systems and supported smart staffing changes to increase efficiency. I’m running because I believe in responsible stewardship and want to keep making the port work for all of us.

Have you attended any recent Port of Hood River meetings or planning sessions? Where do you believe the Port of Hood River is doing well? In what areas do you believe the Port of Hood River needs to improve?

As a current board member, I attend all meetings and planning sessions. The port is doing well improving financial transparency through detailed reports and actively engaging constituent work groups to guide decisions. I’m especially proud of the groundwork laid for the new bridge project — it’s a major step forward. That said, the port’s public image needs improvement. Despite efforts like expanded social media and the Centennial Bridge Celebration, negative perceptions persist. We also need a comprehensive waterfront master plan, which must follow critical infrastructure upgrades and ensure preservation of public green space for future community use.

On June 30, 2026, the Port no longer be able to rely on bridge tolls to subsidize other cost centers (airport, waterfront, commercial properties, etc.). How do you think can the port generate revenue and become self-sufficient?

With toll revenue ending in 2026, the port must be creative and diversify its income. Revenue can grow through optimized leases, selective property sales, grants, and funding from the new Port of Hood River Foundation. The airport offers untapped potential for self-sufficiency and public engagement through hangar development, leases, aviation services, and possible concessions. Above all, the port must remain fiscally responsible. This includes tough decisions, like recent staff reductions, to align spending with future revenue. As a board member, I’m committed to sustainable solutions that protect public assets and ensure the Port remains financially viable and community focused.

Members of the public have been supportive, but also very critical of the Port of Hood River. How do you think the port can improve their relationship with the public?

Public trust is earned through transparency, consistent communication, and meaningful engagement. The port can improve its relationship with the public by continuing outreach and providing clear, accessible updates. The distrust that has built up over time is difficult to overcome, but regularly posting project progress and transparent financial records can help rebuild confidence. As a current board member, I am listening. I believe trust will grow when we respond promptly to concerns and clearly demonstrate how community input shapes our decisions. Rebuilding this relationship takes time, but it’s essential for the port’s future and the public good.

Michael McElwee

What makes you qualified to be a member on the Port of Hood River board of commissioners, position 2?

I have over 40 years of work experience in design, development, project management and public administration. I served as the Port of Hood River executive director for 16 years, retiring in 2022.  I have extensive knowledge of the issues, challenges and opportunities the port is facing. I am interested in continuing public service and contributing to this community. The port is entering a time of significant challenge and change. My knowledge, experience and skills can help the port make good decisions in the future. If elected, I would approach the position with three core values: integrity, stewardship and service.

Have you attended any recent Port of Hood River meetings or planning sessions? Where do you believe the Port of Hood River is doing well? In what areas do you believe the Port of Hood River needs to improve?

Yes. The port has made considerable efforts over the years towards bridge replacement. This is very positive. However, with funding uncertainty, the date for a new bridge is uncertain. Better attention on inspections, maintenance and insurance for the current bridge is needed. Progress on improving the waterfront has diminished and it’s time to re-engage more thoughtfully. With diminishing resources and ongoing responsibilities, sharper focus is needed to determine the future mission, role and capabilities of the port. Finally, the port should provide more meaningful opportunities for public input before decisions are made, particularly dealing with public property.

On June 30, 2026, the port will no longer be able to rely on bridge tolls to subsidize other cost centers (airport, waterfront, commercial properties, etc.). How do you think the port can generate revenue and become self-sufficient?

The port likely cannot rely on increased revenue to become self-sufficient. Some opportunities for ongoing revenue generation do exist, primarily through land leases, targeted development that meets public objectives and partnerships with user groups. It’s much more likely the port will need to reconsider its mission, role and capabilities in a future with limited resources. This will require a broad community conversation. A public agency must fulfill a compelling public purpose. And the public must see the value, now and in the future. If not, the port may need to significantly transform itself or even relinquish its role.

 Members of the public have been supportive, but also very critical of the Port of Hood River. How do you think the port can improve their relationship with the public?

Better communication is essential to improve the port’s relationship with the public. Port district residents need better awareness of processes underway, upcoming decisions to be made and opportunities to provide their input. More outreach efforts are needed, particularly related to the use or disposition of the port’s public property. More extensive commitment to advisory committees and user groups. More engagement with local businesses. Better collaboration with other public agencies. More robust and timely feedback to citizens. And clearer communication about the port’s fiscal challenges. Each of these would help build awareness, trust and confidence, and improve relationships with the public.

Election coverage ends

Compiled by Trisha Walker

Columbia Gorge News

THE GORGE — Columbia Gorge News ends our election coverage of contested races in the May 20 special district election with this issue. Port of Hood River and Dufur School District candidate Q&As can be found on this page and A14.

On election day, official dropsites are open until 8 p.m. Mailed ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on election day. Postmarks count. For drop off locations in Hood River County, visit www.hoodrivercounty.gov/elections; in Wasco County, visit www.co.wasco.or.us/departments/clerk/elections.php.

Note: None of the candidates running for South Wasco County School District contested races (zones 3, 4 and 6) responded to Columbia Gorge News media requests by press deadline.

Candidate forum held

The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce, Wasco County Farm Bureau and the Mid-Columbia Senior Center will present a candidate forum May 14 beginning at 6 p.m. at the senior center. North Wasco County School District 21 zone 4, 5 and 7 board candidates and Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue position 2 and 4 candidates will attend.