Port plans website changes

COLFAX – The Port of Whitman staff presented to port commissioners a project that would allow better management of the port website.

At the beginning of the year in a Port Strategic Planning meeting, it was discussed whether the port should move forward with a distributed newsletter or website updates.

“Rather than allocating resources toward a newsletter, upgrading the website was recommended,” said Sarah Highfield, port communications director.

On the current port website, new pages cannot be added and any updates to existing pages are managed by a third-party rather than in house.

Highfield said by updating the website and allowing in-house customization, the port would be able to bolster its communication and outreach efforts.

The port staff sent out a request for proposals on April 22 for new website management systems. Five quotes were received by the deadline, which was May 15. Proposals ranged from $8,000 to $16,000. One outlier quote was sent in which was in the $50,000 to $60,000 range.

“I would approve up to $16,000, to allow the staff to make the best decision in regards to the website,” said Port Commissioner Kristine Meyer.

Highfield said that with the cancellation of different events and the need to strengthen communication and outreach efforts regarding the Columbia River System, the staff feels the importance of moving forward with the project.

Commissioner Tom Kammerzell said he believes the request from the staff seems reasonable and gave his approval to pursue the project. He said by allowing more control of the website it would help the port do better at communicating with the public.

The port commissioners approved the motion of allowing up to $16,000 for the staff to move forward with the website.