Empowered by Washington Law, the Port holds specific capabilities as an economic development authority and an off-water industrial property developer. The Port acts as a liaison between private businesses and local, state, and federal business assistance programs. We are also a conduit to state and federal lobbyists. Therefore, the Port works to communicate with, and educate, the public about these capabilities. The Port also strives to increase the coordinated, cooperative promotion of the area to prospective industrial investors and firms. As part of our goal to assist district communities by supporting economic development facilities, services and by coordinating communication and partnerships with entities engaging in economic development activities, the Port strives to do the following:
- Undertake active recruitment of new economic activities
- Acquire feasible sites in Whitman County for cooperative development with interested communities and firms
- Initiate dialog and work in partnership with other public agencies and the private sector for economic development purposes
- Acquire and lease feasible single or multiple-use facilities in Whitman County communities, with community support
- Seek partnership with entities such as the Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB), Washington State University (WSU), and the State Legislature to fund economic development facilities and services
- Provide input on District and County needs to the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association (PNWA) and the Washington Public Ports Association (WPPA)
- Assist or refer private business needs with agencies providing assistance
- Distribute promotional materials for the District and County in general and develop promotional materials for Port facilities in particular