City searching for new port commissioner

CORONADO — Coronado’s representative to the San Diego Unified Port District board, Robert J. “Rocky” Spane, will step down from his position as commissioner after serving two four-year terms. Spane, 69, has served the maximum number of commissioner terms allowed. Coronado officials are seeking a resident to serve a new term, which begins Jan. 3. “This is an important position,” said Mayor Casey Tanaka. “Coronado has had great representation in the past, and we look forward to carrying on that tradition in making this appointment.” Spane has been a part of the seven-member Port Commission since he was appointed in January 2002 by the Coronado City Council. He was reappointed in late 2005. In 2006, the retired Navy vice admiral served as commission chairman, which is a one-year post rotated among commissioners. Port commissioners represent Coronado at port meetings. The commission is responsible for harbor and port improvements, and for tidelands and submerged lands for its member cities, which also include Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, National City and San Diego. Each city appoints one member, except for San Diego, which appoints three members. Applications for the opening are due by 5 p.m. Oct. 14. An appointment will be made by Nov. 3. Read the entire Union Tribune article here.