The search for a new Port of South Whidbey executive director appears to be over. 

Port commissioners loosely offered Angi Mozer the position at a special meeting of the board Wednesday in Freeland. Mozer, who has for months filled in as interim executive director, accepted the job pending negotiation of salary and benefits.

The job offer was unexpected. While the open position was an agenda item, the discussion was planned to revolve around the hiring process. Commissioners Curt Gordon and Ed Halloran decided to expedite things due to the district’s busy schedule in coming months: grant writing, finalizing the 2015 budget, studying the viability of taking over management of the Island County Fairgrounds, etc.

Halloran complimented Mozer’s work to date, and said it made sense to skip a lengthy hiring process when the district already has a qualified candidate.

“I don’t see any reason why we shouldn’t proceed now,” he said.

Gordon voiced reservations about not postponing the discussion until the next regular meeting when Commissioner Dennis Gregoire could be present, but ultimately agreed. Gordon admitted that he’s a bit of a “field marshal” when it comes to port staff and their work, but that Mozer requires little oversight.

“So far, you have not disappointed me,” Gordon said.

Mozer is the district’s former budget manager. Commissioners decided earlier this year to restructure administrative positions by combining the financial chief’s job with that of port manager, which was held by Ed Field. Forecast as a cost saver, the new position would carry the title of executive director.