Kammerzell launches bid for port commissioner

Tom Kammerzell announced Friday his intention to run for the District 3 seat on the Port of Whitman’s commission.

Kammerzell, 51, a rancher and custodian with the Colfax School District, said his focus is on attracting businesses that would provide employment for Whitman County residents.

“I think the port needs to take a more active, aggressive role in seeking businesses for our small towns,” said Kammerzell.

Kammerzell credited current port leadership for its efforts to grow the county’s industrial base, particularly in the high-tech sector.

But, he said, the agency has not done enough to merge industry with agriculture.

“I think the port has done an excellent job of expanding our county’s horizons,” said Kammerzell. “But, the port district needs to be more than just the Pullman Industrial Park, the Colfax Airport and Snake River access.”

He proposed recruiting agricultural production facilities to set up shop in Whitman County. Kammerzell said having flourmills or large-scale butchers process Whitman County’s agricultural products in Whitman County would provide young adults jobs and allow them to stay in the area.

“I firmly believe that we need to find a way to keep our best product – our citizens, our children – here,” he said. “By exporting all our product, we’re also exporting the population.”

The District 3 seat is currently held by former State Rep. Don Cox. Cox was appointed last June to fill the seat vacated by the death of Bob Gronholz. Cox has yet to announce his intentions.

The post is on the ballot this fall. The person elected will serve out the remaining four years of Gronholz’s term.

Kammerzell and wife Cheryl live on their family farm west of Colfax. He has three grown children and two grandchildren.