The commissioners for the Port of Coupeville Wednesday decided to continue advertising for applicants for the executive director position.

The port’s current executive director, Jim Patton, is a contract employee.  Because of recent changes in state law, the port is required to put the executive director contract out to bid each year.

The port placed advertisements in local newspapers. As of the June 13  meeting of the commissioners, Patton was the only person to apply for his position. The original application window closed Tuesday.

The commissioners decided to continue advertising the position to give potential candidates a chance to apply.

“I’d be more comfortable running it up to the July meeting,” commissioner Laura Blankenship said.

Patton, who works part-time as executive director, is under contract until Aug. 11. He earns $50 an hour and receives no benefits. He’s a retired submarine commander.