ORS777
What is a Port?
The Port is a Special District, and all of its employees, volunteers, and Commissioners operate under Oregon Revised Statutes Chapter 777 and other state and federal laws. By statute, a port district is a local unit of government whose primary responsibilities are to enhance transportation, promote industrial development, manage recreational facilities, and encourage general economic growth and stability in the district. The Port abides by the ethics rules promulgated by the state of Oregon.
Port powers are granted by the state legislature under ORS 777. Ports can only perform activities as specifically authorized by state statute.
Five primary types of activities in which port districts are authorized are:
- Facilitating commerce and shipping
- Operating or facilitating recreational enterprises
- Facilitating commercial fishing
- Encouraging industrial development
- Channel maintenance