Port of Allyn names Merrill executive director

Port of Allyn commissioners agreed to drop “interim” from Executive Director Travis Merrill’s title at the July 1 regular meeting.

Merrill has been the interim director since January, after former Interim Executive Director LeAnn Dennis died in December 2023. Dennis was serving in the position after Executive Director Lary Coppola died in October.

“You’ve earned your title.” Commissioner Judy Scott said.

Port discusses $25K refund

Port of Allyn Commissioners tabled discussion on a $25,000 refund for connection hookup fees paid last year by Ronald and Debra Jamerson, who were developing an assisted living facility in Allyn.

“We are unable to proceed with the project,” Ronald Jamerson wrote in a letter to the port requesting the refund.

Merrill said the port doesn’t have a refund policy for connection or development fees.

“My suggestion is that without such a policy in place the full amount is refunded to the Jamersons. This policy oversight needs to be addressed the next time a hearing is scheduled for changes to the overall water system,” Merrill wrote in his report to commissioners.

“It’s unfortunate,” Merrill said about the project’s termination.

“It’s unfortunate that we don’t have a policy,” Sheridan said. “Shame on us.”

Scott said she was in favor of giving the refund and then “cleaning up” the water policy.

“We need to make it right,” Sheridan said.

While they were in favor of the refund, commissioners tabled the motion until they spoke with the port’s attorney.

Port appoints auditor for 2025 budget

Port commissioners agreed to appoint an auditor along with the adoption of the 2025 budget.

Erin Civalla, the port’s accountant, will perform auditing duties.

“That appointment may be extended by being incorporated into the Resolution the Commission adopts for approval on the 2025 annual budget,” according to the resolution.

New meeting time

Commissioners also approved a new time for regular meetings. Starting next month, the port will meet the second Monday of each month at the port office in Allyn.