Letters to the Editor Thankful for Port commissioner’s legacy
Last week’s Post-Record article reporting the passing of former Port of Camas-Washougal commissioner Bill Macrae-Smith tells much of the man and his accomplishments. He was my friend, too, and I will miss him as well. When I think of Bill, I think of kindness, thoughtfulness and honor. He was the truest kind of friend, and a tireless worker on behalf of the community.
But the article understates Bill’s contribution. It’s hard to believe that just 12 years ago our Port was in real trouble. An ill-advised proposal for waterfront development included removing the historic park and marina park. The Port lost the public’s support, and their agreement with a developer ended up costing over $1 million in legal fees and other costs.
Into this atmosphere Bill Ward was elected to the three-member Port Commission. Two years later, Mark Lampton and Bill Macrae-Smith were elected to join him. The transformation from the “old Port” to the “new Port” was almost instantaneous. At the first meeting that these three men sat together as commissioners, permanent protection was given to the historic park and marina park.
Since then, the Port’s accomplishments have been many. They gave us the Washougal Waterfront Park and Trail, with the recently added children’s natural play area. Planning is underway for development at the waterfront that will be a true asset to the community. The Steigerwald Commerce Center has added many businesses and jobs. The Port is recognized as a leader in the region.
We all owe the “new Port” to Bill Ward, Mark Lampton and Bill Macrae-Smith. Today’s Port is their legacy.
