Port District 2 rejects Century Link lease offer

Commissioners of Port District No. 2 of Wahkiakum County turned down a CenturyLink telephone company request for a new land lease agreement and acted on other business in a brief meeting June 18.

CenturyLink leases a small parcel of port district land at the intersection of SR4 and Vista Park Road for an equipment cabinet and vault.

The firm, said Port Attorney Tim Hanigan, renewed in 2012 a long term lease with an annual payment of $283.90. Now, Hanigan said, the firm asked that the port consider taking a lump sum payment for use of the parcel.

Port commissioners weren't interested in the new proposal.

"Let's continue with what we're doing," said Commissioner Lori Scott.

"I don't necessarily want to give them ownership of the property, said board Chair Brian O'Connor.

Commissioner Kayrene Gilbertsen agreed, and the proposal was rejected.

In other port business, commissioners discussed dredging issues. Manager Janet Bryan said the Port of Portland wanted to set up paid parking for dredge crew members at the Svensen Boat Ramp on Puget Island.

Commissioners suggested a rate of $5 per day per vehicle, similar to what the port charges for parking at Skamokawa Vista Park. Commissioners agreed to let Bryan negotiate the rate.

Also, Bryan reported that the consultant helping the port with an update of its comprehensive plan has collected use surveys sent or delivered to Vista Park customers. The public may access the survey on the internet or go to the port office in Vista Park to obtain one to fill out, Bryan said this week.

The port commission will schedule community meetings later this summer to go over results and begin updating the comprehensive plan.