Port of South Whidbey candidate search yields single return

The initial search for a new Port of South Whidbey commissioner has yielded just one result. The application deadline for the District 2 seat formerly occupied by Chris Jerome passed last week and Langley resident Ed Halloran was the only one to submit a resume with the district.

The initial search for a new Port of South Whidbey commissioner has yielded just one result.

The application deadline for the District 2 seat formerly occupied by Chris Jerome passed last week and Langley resident Ed Halloran was the only one to submit a resume with the district.

The port’s remaining commissioners, Curt Gordon and Dennis Gregoire, planned to review applications Tuesday, Feb. 11, during the district’s regularly scheduled monthly meeting, but with only one candidate, the port’s plans remained unclear earlier this week.

Gordon said Monday the board may interview and appoint a candidate at the Tuesday meeting — held after press time — but that it may also choose to delay.

The commissioners set an initial deadline for Friday, Dec. 7, but Gordon said the submission period is not technically closed until April, or until an appointment is made.

Jerome resigned on Jan. 14 and the commissioners have 90 days from that resignation, by April 14, to fill the position.

Halloran has lived in Langley for 10 years and is the owner and president of a management consulting company called HALCO Management Systems. He is also active in youth and adult sailing camps with the South Whidbey Yacht Club, and in other groups including the Rotary Club of Whidbey Westside and The HUB, according to his application material.

“I’m active in studies for marina improvements,” he said. “This is good way to give something back.”

Halloran previously lived in California where he served on multiple committees and worked in the aviation industry for more than 40 years, primarily in management positions.

“I think I’m qualified to make objective determinations and make the right decisions,” Halloran added.

Gordon said he will be considering what strengths the candidate would bring to the commission and look to get a sense of the person’s history.

Commissioner Dennis Gregoire said he hopes the candidate is familiar with the Comprehensive Scheme and Strategic Plan, documents the commissioners have updated for this upcoming year.