MATTAWA – Matthus Leitz, the unopposed candidate for the Grant County Port District 3 Port Commissioner position 2 seat, shared his vision for the local economy and community development during a candidate forum held at Wahluke High School on Thursday evening. 

Leitz, who was born and raised in the area, emphasized his commitment to restoring the port’s fiscal responsibility and enhancing economic diversity.  

“I want to help get our port back on track,” Leitz said. “We need to be fiscally responsible, get a budget in working order, and bring economic growth and economic diversity back into our area, providing jobs beyond agriculture for our community.” 

The candidate expressed a deep-seated gratitude for the community that instilled in him the values of economic collaboration.  

“What I'd like to do is give back to the community that helped raise me,” Leitz said. “I learned the importance of a good economy and how everyone can come together to help each other move forward.” 

Leitz said the port is struggling with some challenges right now, but did not specify what they were.  

“What I'd like to do is help the port move forward, overcoming the problems it has faced in the last few years,” he said. “We need to get back to a position where we can assist the community while sustaining ourselves.” 

During the forum, Leitz outlined specific goals he aims to achieve if elected.  

“A balanced budget will be our first priority. I don't want to start every year in the hole,” he said. “We need to regain the trust of county and state commissioners, so they feel comfortable providing necessary funds to the port.” 

Additionally, Leitz highlighted the port's interest in energy projects as part of a broader strategy to address rising energy costs.  

“Everyone knows that power bills are going up,” he said. “The port is exploring options to produce energy using hydroelectric resources, which could stabilize costs for our residents and businesses.”