Ventura Harbor welcomes new leadership

Bruce E. Smith is the newest member of the Board of Port Commissioners at the Ventura Port District. The retired planner for the County of Ventura was appointed June 15 at the Ventura City Council meeting. Commissioner Jim Friedman also was re-appointed to a new four-year term.

Smith said,”The Harbor has always been a very positive place to be.” Smith’s goals include ensuring the economic sustainability and viability of the Port District and the Harbor.

Friedman is the current Board vice chairman. The employee benefit and retirement specialist previously served as a Ventura City Council member. Friedman said the Port District Board faces challenges, including pursuing capital improvement projects that have been deferred. Freidman said new landscaping and public art is improving the look at Harbor Village but roof repairs and general maintenance is needed.