ILWACO — Tina Hayes, 50, of Ocean Park, was named Ilwaco port manager in January, succeeding former manager Tracy Lofstrom. Hayes is the port’s third manager since Guy Glenn, Jr. departed in late-2021. She has deep roots on the peninsula.

Chinook Observer: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself, hobbies and recent work history?

Tina Hayes: I have lived on the peninsula since 1988, graduated from Ilwaco High School in 1992. I like to travel, I usually take a big trip once a year with my sister and oldest daughter. This year’s adventure is Cancun in May. I also play in the local pool league and have competed in the regional tournament several times. I am married (John), have two children (Arrianna Wiegardt, Alesia Wiegardt) and two stepchildren (Ethan Hayes, Lillian Hayes). I have been with the Port of Ilwaco since June of 2023 as the finance director. Prior to my employment here I worked for Ilwaco Landing for two years until they sold their facilities. Prior to that I worked for Peninsula Sanitation and Jolly Roger Oyster company for over 20 years.

Observer: What attracted you to the Ilwaco port manager position?

Hayes: When Tracy announced that she was leaving the area she told me she had faith that I could take over the position. During her last two months of employment she took me under her wing and showed me the ins and outs of the position. Having been the finance director I was aware of the projects that had been envisioned and was excited to help bring them to life.

Observer: How have your previous work experiences helped prepare you for your role (as port manager)?

Hayes: I have worked around the water and fishing industry most of my adult life, so I feel like I have the working knowledge and will be able to apply those skills here as well.

Observer: What do you anticipate being some of the biggest challenges?

Hayes: I think that one of the biggest challenges will be to secure funding for future projects. The bulkhead project will be completed by July. We are trying to secure an in-water dredging permit, which would allow for capital dredging and in-water placement of our dredge spoils.

Observer: What’s your biggest goal as port manger?

Hayes: My biggest goal for the port is to get our docks updated. They are in need of some serious repair and electrical updates.

Observer: What are you most excited about in your role?

Hayes: I’m excited to be working with our new and seasoned crew. We have some new faces in the maintenance and office staff that have brought some really good ideas to the table. We are hoping to start on some of those projects in the next few months.

Observer: What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

Hayes: Growing up I wanted to be a lawyer because I loved watching Perry Mason with my grandmother Eileen.

Observer: Is there anything you would like to add or mention?

Hayes: I am very excited to take on this new role and look forward to being a part of revitalizing our port.