Port of Bremerton Commissioner Roger Zabinski’s announcement that he will not seek re-election this year calls to mind the influence that port commissions have in our communities.

First, we thank Commissioner Zabinski for his service. He’s proud of the port district’s accomplishments during his tenure, and he should be. In his announcement that he would not run for reelection, he listed those accomplishments:

• The port secured grant funding for Phase 1 and Phase 2-1 of the Airport Industrial Way.

• Obtained state appropriations grant to build pad-ready sites in the industrial park.

• Completed the Airport Master Plan and airport modernization upgrades.

• Secured a long-term lease with Safe Boats.

• Increased tenancy in the industrial park and airport.

• Improved the success of the Bremerton Marina and community festivals at both marinas.

• Built the Port Orchard boat ramp, expanded Port Orchard waterfront park, and reconstructed Harper Pier.

• Paid down port district debt and increased its cash reserves.

• Built a stronger relationship between the port, Olympic College, and Washington State University.

Second, residents need to be aware of the authority that port districts have. Port districts were established in Washington state to promote economic development.   Port districts are empowered by state law to acquire land by purchase, condemnation or eminent domain; construct and maintain bridges, docks, landings, terminals,  warehouses, and facilities that accommodate rail and motor vehicles; establish and operate foreign trade zones; improve land for commercial and industrial purposes; and construct and operate water and wastewater utilities.

Port districts are also on the front lines in protecting the health of our marine environment.

As you see, there’s more to a port than a marina. And they do this, in part, with your property tax dollars. They should also do this with your input.

Attend port commission meetings. The port commission meets the second and fourth Tuesday of the month, 6 p.m., at Bremerton National Airport. Meetings are broadcast on BKAT.

Zabinski is the commissioner from District 1: West Bremerton and portions of East Bremerton. Larry Stokes is commissioner from District 2: Downtown Port Orchard, and portions of Eastern South Kitsap. Alex Strakeljahn is commissioner from District 3: Portions of South Kitsap, Southwest Bremerton, and Seabeck/Holly/Crosby.

There’s another way to be involved in the district: Zabinski announced that he would not seek a second term “so that others may consider filing and running for the position.”

Candidate filing period is in May. Go to www.kitsapgov.com/aud/elections.htm for more information.