Longtime Pasco port commissioner resigning after nearly 40 years in office

Jim Klindworth is resigning from the Port of Pasco seat he’s held for nearly 40 years.

Klindworth, who has represented northwestern Franklin County on the elected commission since 1987, said his resignation is effective Dec. 31.

Once his seat is officially vacant, the port will advertise the opening to potential appointees. Commissioners Jean Ryckman and Vickie Gordon will choose a replacement to serve until a successor is elected.

Klindworth ran unopposed in his three most recent elections,, 2009, 2015 and 2021. He received nearly 99% of the vote to secure his current six-year term in the 2021 general election.

The seat is up for election in 2026. 

Commissioners are paid $18,000 a year and $161 per meeting, up to 96 meetings per year. They are also eligible for some benefits. 

Candidates for appointment must live in the port’s third commissioner district. 

The three elected commissioners oversee the public port district, which is responsible for economic and business development in Pasco and much of Franklin County. The port owns and operates the Tri-Cities Airport, marine terminals and numerous business and industrial parks. 

This story was originally published October 23, 2024 at 3:48 PM.