The Port of Columbia is happy to announce that long-time community supporter Shane Laib has been hired to fill the role of Economic Development Coordinator following the departure of Jill Essency. Jill served in this position for 18 months and is leaving for an opportunity at the City of Renton on the west side of the state.

“We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Jill over the past 18 months, and we will miss her,” stated Jennie Dickinson, Port of Columbia Executive Director. Jill’s last day is February 12.

Shane brings government experience to the position, having served previously as a Legislative Aide in the Washington State Senate and as a City Councilor in Walla Walla.

Shane also served as the Downtown Farmers Market Director in Walla Walla, and the knowledge and networking he gained there provides an important connection to the regional value-added ag community required for the Port’s work at Blue Mountain Station.

Shane’s most recent position at Inland Cellular in downtown Dayton, one of the three private internet service providers partnering with the Port on their fiber projects, provided a skillset that will assist the Port in their continued work on extending fiber service to all residents of Columbia County.

He also has extensive event planning and implementation experience and understands the importance of events and tourism in a small community.

“Shane’s existing knowledge of the business community here and his love for Dayton will help provide a smooth transition between coordinators,” stated Dickinson. “Economic development is a long-game that needs a committed advocate. We’re looking forward to working with Shane to assist the Port in providing value to the community.”