The Port of Kennewick has one competitive race with Raul Contreras Gonzalez and Tammy Kenfield running to replace outgoing District 2 Commissioner Tom Moak.
The Tri-City Herald sent each candidate a list of questions from readers and our newsroom. Candidates were asked to answer the same questions as their opponent, or respond to a question relevant to a specific position an incumbent has taken.
Click on each question to show the candidate’s answer.
Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is it about the role of port commissioner that appeals to you?
I’ve had the privilege of knowing and working alongside several individuals at the Port, and I’ve seen firsthand the impact the organization has on the Tri-Cities’ economic growth and community development. This role feels like a natural extension of my work supporting small businesses and fostering partnerships across the region.
As someone who understands the challenges and opportunities that local entrepreneurs face, I’m drawn to the chance to help shape the infrastructure, policies, and initiatives that make business success possible. I see this as an opportunity to bring my experience, community connections, and collaborative leadership to that effort.
I also share the Port’s vision for revitalizing key areas, such as Vista Field, and want to be part of ensuring those ideas are brought to life in a way that benefits residents, businesses, and future generations.
2. The executive director hasn’t announced retirement plans, but is taking steps to prepare the port for leadership changes. What priorities and goals do you have for future leaders?
Executive Director Tim Arntzen has built a strong foundation for the Port, and I have great confidence that when the time comes for a transition, he will ensure a smooth and thoughtful process. In the time I’ve had the opportunity to speak with Tim, I’ve learned a great deal. I’ve even applied his lessons in my own day-to-day work. He is a leader who truly understands the value of collaboration, vision, and community impact. For future leaders, priorities should focus on continuing that legacy.
Ensuring consistency and commitment to completing the multiple phases of the Vista Field redevelopment plan and maintaining strong partnerships with the cities and communities the Port serves. It will be essential that new leadership remains engaged with local stakeholders, listens to community needs, and sustains the Port’s reputation for fostering collaboration and economic vitality.
3. What should Kennewick do to secure employers and taxpayers such as Darigold or Amazon?
To attract and retain major employers like Darigold or Amazon, Kennewick must ensure that its industrial areas are truly “ready to build.” This means investing in and maintaining strong infrastructure, including roads, water, sewer, broadband, and reliable power capacity, so that large companies can see immediate opportunities without major delays or uncertainty. Having sites that are shovel-ready makes a tremendous difference when businesses are evaluating potential locations.
We can also take a more proactive approach by showcasing what Kennewick already has to offer. Creating clear, data-driven informational materials or digital campaigns that highlight available sites, workforce strengths, and community amenities can help market the city to larger employers.
Collaboration will also be key, working closely with neighboring cities, ports, and regional partners will make it easier to provide companies with a smooth and coordinated entrance into the Tri-Cities region.
4. Vista Field has seen a few bumps in the road. Is the current approach working, or should the port adjust its strategy to bring in new tenants?
Vista Field is an ambitious and visionary project, and with a development of this scale, it’s natural to experience a few bumps along the way. I believe the Port has a strong and capable team that is committed to seeing the project succeed. They’ve demonstrated transparency and a willingness to adapt when needed, which speaks to the strength of their leadership and the trust they’ve built with the community.
The current approach of creating a vibrant mixed-use area that blends residential, commercial, and cultural spaces, is the right long-term strategy. It aligns with the Port’s mission to not just grow the economy but to enhance quality of life. As the Port continues moving forward, it will be important to keep engaging potential tenants, small businesses, and developers who share that vision.
5. What do property taxpayers get in return for their investment in the Port of Kennewick?
Property taxpayers in Kennewick see their investment come to life through projects that not only drive economic growth but also strengthen our sense of community. Among the three Tri-Cities ports, the Port of Kennewick stands out for creating some of the region’s best public experiences, from the beautifully renovated marina to the thriving Columbia Gardens Urban Wine & Artisan Village, and soon, the transformational Vista Field redevelopment.
These projects are more than just economic engines, they’re places that bring people together. The Port invests in spaces where families can gather, local entrepreneurs can grow their businesses, and residents can take pride in their community. Beyond job creation and property value increases, taxpayers are investing in the quality of life.
Tammy Kenfield did not respond to the candidate questionnaire.
