Jim Rothlin

The Board of Commissioners discussed an Interlocal Agreement with Kitsap County for the Vessel Turn-In Program, which involves providing a temporary storage site at the Bremerton National Airport for vessels slated for disposal. Additionally, the Board authorized the advertisement for construction bids for the Port Orchard Marina Breakwater Replacement project, following the receipt of final permit approvals and securing a significant portion of the required funding.

The Board of Commissioners discussed various infrastructure and administrative projects. Key topics included the final design and bidding services for the South Hangar development project, the final acceptance of the airport maintenance shop and vehicle wash oil-water separator, and the acceptance of a donation for the Port Orchard Marina Park ADA upgrade project. Additionally, the Board reviewed and approved a Data Access and Use Agreement with Kitsap County regarding the Abandoned and Derelict Vessel Program.

The Port of Bremerton outlines its strategic vision to increase economic opportunity and enhance the quality of life for Kitsap County. The plan focuses on its three core businesses: the airport, marinas, and industrial/business parks. It prioritizes job generation, infrastructure development, and sustainable economic growth through strategic public investments and environmental stewardship. The Port envisions operating world-class facilities, creating sustainable jobs, and providing recreational opportunities, with a projection of over 9,000 additional jobs by 2025.

The agenda for the meeting included the approval of the agenda and consent items, which covered the minutes from the February 24, 2026 meeting and the payment of numerous checks from the General Fund totaling $231,759.12. Information items featured presentations from the Downtown Bremerton Association (DBA) Executive Director, the 2025 Year-End Financial Review by the CFO, and reviews of the 2026 Seattle Boat Show and 2026 Northwest Aviation Conference. A key action item involved considering Resolution 2026-02 to support a Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Aviation Division Airport Aid Application for the Runway and Taxiway Reseal (design) Project. Staff reports detailed the ongoing search for a Director of Facilities, contract finalization with American Cruise Lines, and updates from the Northwest Aviation Conference. Commissioner reports included an update on Bay Street properties and a summary of the Kitsap Regional Coordinating Council Executive Committee meeting regarding Gorst transportation corridor improvements. An executive session was held to discuss current or potential litigation.

The agenda for the regular business meeting included approval of the February 10, 2026 minutes and executive session, along with the payment of various checks from the General Fund, voiding one check. Information items covered an update on the Airport Feasibility Study, a presentation regarding the Port Orchard Farmers Market, and information on the Port Orchard Marina Park Pathway Mural. During public comment, concerns were raised about the timeline and power requirements for charging electric aircraft infrastructure, leading to a discussion about due diligence and pending meetings with Puget Sound Energy. Action items involved awarding the contract for the Bremerton Marina Cathodic Protection and Maintenance Project and approving the First Amendment to Lease with Collins Investments, LLC for an airport ground lease. The CEO report included updates from the Seattle Boat Show and Washington Public Ports Association Port Day, and a request for calendar availability for a Port Community Meeting.