OTHELLO - Citing a move out of his district, Port of Othello Commissioner Sam Garza is resigning from the district at the end of July.

"We're elected to serve in precincts," Garza explained. "I'm selling my house and moving into town and I'm not going to be living in the area, so I can't represent the people that I was voted (to represent)."

Garza said he was aware of the requirements when he made the move.

Garza served as commissioner for a little more than six and a half years.

He said his feelings are a little mixed.

"I was very happy where the port was moving toward, providing community development for economic base," he said.

The port's purchase of acres on Reynolds Road provides a good place for the district to expand and build a facility for incubator businesses and others coming into the Othello area, providing more jobs for the region, Garza said.

"I'm sure the port is going to be continuing in that direction, at least that was my recommendation to them when I submitted my letter of resignation," Garza said.

Port Director Michael Beardsley said the port district is advertising for a new commissioner, and two candidates have already expressed an interest. Within a month at the most, remaining commissioners Kenny Schutte and Terry Thompson will review candidates, possibly conduct interviews and appoint a new commissioner to fill Garza's remaining term, Beardsley said.

Such a situation is a little on the rare side for port districts, Beardsley said, noting a lot can happen within a six-year term. Garza had only served six months of his present term.

"Sam Garza is a very experienced businessperson," Beardsley said. "I think the world of him as an individual and respect his experience and the strong contribution he typically makes. He will be sorely missed from this commission."

Beardsley said Garza's track record, ability and demeanor are impressive.

"He's well-known, well-loved in Othello, has a lot of relevant experience. I really look to him for leadership and direction, and will miss his presence," Beardsley said.

Garza plans to retire from the insurance industry in December to become a full-time missionary for the Assemblies of God into Spain sometime next year with his wife of 25 years, Rosa, and his youngest daughter, Vanessa.

"We've been working toward that for the last couple of years," he said. "It's falling into place right now, so God is moving us into that direction. We're very excited about our new destiny, our new endeavors. Hopefully we can be a blessing to Spain."

Garza intends to keep Othello as a home base.

"I appreciate the community members for their vote, their confidence in me to serve them," he said. "I know that I did the best I could to my ability and capabilities. I'm happy to have served the community as we did, and we ask for everyone to keep us in their prayers."