By the Herald editorial staff
The Port of Kennewick is forging ahead with waterfront development and a building program on Clover Island that fairly takes the breath away.
Kennewick and all the Tri-Cities want to see that development and expansion continue.
Two well-known, civically involved and ready volunteers compete for an unexpired term on the Port of Kennewick, and both agree that continuing riverfront development is essential.
Skip Novakovich came out of the primary the clear leader, with about 44 percent of the votes cast.
Jeff Losey was second, with 29 percent.
Both are good candidates.
The most divisive question for the Port of Kennewick the past couple of years has been whether or not to shut down Vista Field.
An effective answer was probably made in the primary race, when incumbent Port Commissioner Calvin Dudney was eliminated.
Losey and Novakovich favor keeping the airport open, believe improvements could make it an economic driver. Dudney's sentiments about the long-term future of the airport weren't clear.
Losey is executive officer of the Home Builders Association of Tri-Cities and is active in Little League, YMCA and Junior Achievement. He is on the Washington Policy Center Eastern Washington Advisory Board.
Novakovich, a retired lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserves, owns Esprit Graphics in downtown Kennewick. His awards include Kennewick Man of the Year in 1999, Outstanding Partner of the Year with the Kennewick School District, Everyday Hero Award from Kiwanis, Kennewick's Leadership Award for the Bridge to Bridge/River to Railroad project, Lifetime Volunteer Award for First Night International and Downtowner of the Year Award (with his wife, Shannon), plus many more.
"I understand the need and know how to get the job (of port commissioner) done," he said. "As a small-business owner I know how to lead and motivate others."
Novakovich has the broader and deeper background that will enable him to keep the port on the steady course of expansion and development of the waterfront.
The Herald editorial board recommends Skip Novakovich for Port of Kennewick, District 3.
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