The North Kitsap Herald has long been a supporter of expanding the Port of Poulsbo’s boundaries to the city limits. Here’s why.

Voters created the Port of Poulsbo in 1951 to operate marine- and recreation-related facilities and help bring economic development — investment and jobs — to the community.

But as the city boundaries grew, the port district boundaries did not. As a result, only half of the city’s commercial and residential property owners pay a property tax to support a port district that benefits the entire city.

The benefits of expanding the port district’s boundaries: All voters in Poulsbo would be able to vote for port commissioners; only port district residents can do that. All residents of Poulsbo would have a voice in port matters. The enlarged port district would generate significant tax revenue that could be used to replace the breakwater and its creosoted pilings; improve the seaplane dock and the marina so the port can accommodate more visitors; and help prevent further erosion at the foot of Anderson Parkway.

Larger port district boundaries would also empower the commission to look beyond the waterfront for economic development. Under state law, the port district could play a major role in economic revitalization in Poulsbo through the acquisition of property for commercial, ecotourism and recreational uses.

The Poulsbo Port Commission is expected to put a measure on the Nov. 8 general election ballot asking Poulsbo voters outside of the port’s boundaries to approve annexation into the port district. If approved, the port’s boundaries would match those of the city limits.

Port district residents support the port with a levy of 30 cents for every $1,000 of assessed property valuation — about $75 a year for a $275,000 house. Between 2006-12, the port took in between $224,000 and $265,000 in tax revenue each year.

Attract more businesses to Poulsbo. Create new jobs. Find a solution to erosion on Anderson Parkway. Improve the health of Liberty Bay. Improve boat, plane and customer facilities at the Port of Poulsbo. Give yourself a voice in port matters. Spread taxpayer investment in the port across the entire city, not just a portion of it.

That seems a good return for an investment of $75.

We hope the port district does put an annexation measure on the Nov. 8 ballot. And we hope residents will approve it.