New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
At a meeting of the New Bedford Harbor Development Commission (HDC) on Thursday, June 11, Port Director Jeffrey Stieb announced his decision to step down from the post, and the seven-member board voted to appoint Deputy Port Director Edward Anthes-Washburn as Acting Port Director on a transition date to be decided.
Stieb, a former Massport executive and U.S. Coastguard officer who has overseen the port of New Bedford since September 2012, cited the challenges of a long-distance commute from his home in Weymouth, MA as reason for his decision.
In a letter to the HDC board, Stieb noted the successes of the port over the past three years, including the organization’s advocacy for the fishing industry, improvements in fiscal and operational management, the securing of $72 million in state bond authorizations working in close coordination with the local legislative delegation, and the successful hosting of the whaleship Charles W. Morgan that drew tens of thousands to the waterfront in 2014.
Stieb also expressed confidence in the strength of the existing leadership team, including current Deputy Director Washburn who has served capably as Acting Port Director for an extended period in the past, and Harbormaster David Condon who recently assumed the post after the position was held open for several years (while a legislative reform awaited passage).
Mayor Jon Mitchell reflected on the status of the port and thanked Stieb for his contributions: “Our strategy for growing the port and creating and sustaining maritime jobs is succeeding. We are fighting hard for the fishing industry. We are seeing increases in cargo activity and in recreational boating interest. And we are set up long-term to capture the potential of the offshore wind energy industry. Jeff has been a key contributor in all those efforts, so he leaves his position with our appreciation and thanks.”
HDC Commissioner Richard Canastra echoed the Mayor’s comments, “Overseeing a very active harbor that operates around the clock every day of the year is a demanding responsibility that never stops, so I have nothing but respect for Jeff and his decision.”
The Harbor Development Commission plans to revisit the selection and appointment process for the Director position at the conclusion of the boating season in the fall.
