Long-time Tri-Cities elected official announces his retirement

The Port of Benton is losing a long-serving commissioner, Robert Larson.

He announced his retirement from the elected position on Thursday after 27 years on the commission, most recently as vice president of the three-member board.

“While there is rarely a good time to step down from public service, I’ve had the pleasure to see our community, staff and fellow commissioners partner to bring forth many transformative projects to our region,” he said.

“With the announcement of the White Bluffs Archive and Storage Project, foundations for a community led supply chain alliance and WSU Tri-Cities involvement in the Walter Clore Center, I feel many of my personal goals for the port’s growth are well on their way to fruition,” he said.

His favorite project, completed through his personal efforts, was securing the USS Triton sail and conning tower from the U.S. Navy and getting the artifact placed at the USS Triton Sail Park in North Richland, according to the port.

Now he plans to travel, spend more time with family, golf and continue to participate in the Richland Rotary Club.

The Port of Benton will announce the application process to fill his vacated position on portofbenton.com, and a commission meeting will be called to vet the qualifications of applicants.