Shawn Ottenbreit appointed new Port of Anacortes District 3 Commissioner

March 3, 2023 | News

The Port of Anacortes Board of Commissioners appointed Shawn Ottenbreit to the vacant District 3 Commissioner seat during the regularly scheduled Commission meeting March 2.

Mr. Ottenbreit has 25 years of experience as a small business owner and as a Certified Public Accountant. He holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce from the University of British Columbia and owns Salish Boat Co. in Anacortes, a dealership that sells new and used boats and provides local boat repair services. He also owns the Northwest Washington franchise for Freedom Boat Club.

“We’re looking forward to working with Shawn. He brings a fresh perspective and experience in the maritime industry, business, and entrepreneurship—skills that our Board isn’t as strong in after the departure of Joe Verdoes,” said Commission President Bonnie Bowers. “We’re pleased to welcome him. And we are very thankful for everyone who took the time to apply for the commission vacancy and interview with us. We deeply appreciate our community’s interest in and dedication to their public port.”

Mr. Ottenbreit will take his oath of office March 13. His first official commission meeting will be March 16. He will complete the remaining year of the four-year term recently vacated by former Commissioner Joe Verdoes, who resigned after serving the Port of Anacortes and our community for many years. Mr. Ottenbreit has the option of running for the seat in the November 2023 election.

The Port of Anacortes continues to focus on stimulating job creation and commerce while protecting the quality of life for area residents. Key initiatives this year include sustained investment in the land and facilities at Cap Sante Marina and the West Basin, funding the renovation and expansion of T Dock, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and cleaning up legacy contamination on public properties.