Meet Jim Kuntz, Chief Executive Officer, Chelan-Douglas Regional Port Authority

Jim Kuntz has spent nearly four decades working in economic development and public service, building a career around the role ports can play in strengthening local communities. Today, as CEO of the Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority, Kuntz is focused on projects that will shape the region’s economic future — from expanding air service at Pangborn Memorial Airport and developing the Trades District to investing in infrastructure and supporting new business growth.

In this Executive Q&A, Kuntz discusses the lessons behind the Trades District’s success, the importance of regional partnerships, the opportunities and challenges surrounding data center development, and the Port Authority’s priorities for the years ahead. He also reflects on the civic-minded influences that shaped his leadership style and offers advice to the next generation of regional leaders.

Please tell our readers a little about yourself and your path to becoming executive director of the Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority.

I have spent nearly four decades working with port districts across Washington State. After earning my master’s degree in public administration, I began my career at the Port of Benton in the Tri-Cities, where I spent three years. From there, I served 26 years at the Port of Walla Walla before becoming Executive Director of the Port of Chelan County. Since January 1, 2020, I have had the privilege of serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority, continuing a career focused on public service, economic development, and supporting the communities of North Central Washington.

The Trades District has become one of the region's most successful economic development projects. As you begin planning Phase II, what lessons from the first phase are shaping your vision for its future?

We originally envisioned the Trades District as a home for traditional trades such as plumbing and HVAC type businesses, but it has evolved into something much broader and more dynamic. Today, we think of “trades” more broadly—as skills, crafts, and creative pursuits. It has been exciting to see the district attract small businesses, makers, and artists who needed room to grow, experiment, and refine their work. From the bakery and coffee shop to the winery, the district has become a place where local entrepreneurs can establish themselves, expand their businesses, and contribute to a vibrant sense of community.

As we move into Phase II, our focus will remain on strengthening connections with the local community and adding amenities that encourage people to gather, spend time in the district, and experience what local businesses have to offer. That includes exploring the addition of an event space, creating stronger pedestrian connections between the two phases, and incorporating more family- and dog-friendly areas. We are also considering features such as shaded seating, wind protection, EV charging stations, and thoughtfully designed gathering spaces that make the district welcoming, accessible, and enjoyable throughout the year.

How do you describe the Port Authority's role in supporting economic development across Chelan and Douglas counties?

As an economic catalyst for the area, the Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority promotes investments, develops infrastructure to support businesses, and facilitates initiatives that deliver measurable economic benefits. The bottom line is, we strive to enhance the economic vitality of the region, with smart strategic investments. 

The launch of nonstop air service between Wenatchee and Portland is an exciting milestone. What does this new route mean for local businesses and the region's economy?

The new air service to Portland significantly expands connectivity from North Central Washington to destinations throughout the West Coast. The flight departs Pangborn Memorial Airport at 12:37 p.m. and arrives in Portland at 1:31 p.m., providing access to more than 30 convenient connections that can get travelers to many West Coast cities by late afternoon or early evening. The Regional Port is optimistic that the convenience and expanded travel options offered by this new route will generate strong passenger demand.

How do partnerships with local governments, business organizations and community leaders help advance the Port Authority's goals for the region?

Partnerships make a difference, and the recent growth of data center development in both Chelan and Douglas counties is a strong example of what can be accomplished through coordinated public and private investment.

In Douglas County, the county played an important role in zoning and land-use planning that helped support the development of Batterman Business Park, which is now home to several data centers. Local utility providers—including Douglas County PUD, East Wenatchee Water District, and Douglas County Sewer District—have also been key partners in delivering the infrastructure needed to support that growth, with improvements funded in part by data center development. The Port of Douglas County was also an early investor in sewer and water infrastructure along Grant Road.

A similar approach has taken shape in Chelan County. The county has supported appropriate zoning and land-use planning, while Chelan County PUD and the Malaga Water District have worked to provide the utility infrastructure necessary to support Microsoft’s data center investment. The Malaga Water District, in partnership with the Regional Port, is undertaking approximately $50 million in infrastructure improvements in the Malaga area. The Regional Port has also constructed a Cooling Water Facility. All these improvements have been funded by Microsoft.

Importantly, both Chelan and Douglas County PUDs have policies in place intended to ensure that existing local ratepayers are not financially impacted by new data center loads. Additional power resources needed to serve these facilities are being secured from outside the region.

The success of data center development in our region demonstrates the value of strong partnerships among counties, ports, utilities, and private-sector investors. By working together and making strategic infrastructure investments, these organizations have helped position North Central Washington for significant economic development opportunities.

As the region continues to evolve, what are the Port Authority's highest priorities for Pangborn Memorial Airport and its surrounding business assets?

Expanding air service remains one of our top priorities. While the new Portland route is an exciting addition, we know there is still unmet demand in our market. The Regional Port will continue exploring opportunities for less-than-daily service with low-cost carriers and other potential airline partners.

The challenge for a market our size is that new service often requires some level of public support, particularly during the early stages of establishing a route. Our goal is to identify opportunities where that investment can help demonstrate demand, build passenger traffic, and ultimately support sustainable air service for the region.

Infrastructure projects often require years of planning and collaboration. How do you keep long-term goals moving forward while also responding to immediate community needs?

Over the past two years, the Regional Port has established two Tax Increment Areas (TIAs) to help fund significant long-term infrastructure needs. The Pangborn TIA was formed by the Port of Douglas County, while the Malaga TIA was established by the Port of Chelan County. Importantly, a TIA does not create a new tax. Instead, it dedicates a portion of future property tax revenue generated by new development within the designated area to help fund infrastructure improvements that support that growth.

The use of TIAs has generated concern among some local governments and taxing districts because a portion of the new revenue they otherwise would have received is redirected toward infrastructure investments. We recognize those concerns and have worked with affected partners to develop mitigation plans. Importantly, the portion of new revenue invested in infrastructure is intended to generate additional economic activity and tax revenue over time, creating even more future revenue for local governments and taxing districts.

Looking ahead, what trends do you believe will have the greatest impact on aviation, economic development and business growth in the region?

In aviation, the continued development of electric aircraft could create significant opportunities for our region. With North Central Washington’s central location and the relatively short distances between many communities throughout the state, short-haul electric aircraft could be a natural fit for our market. As technology advances, it has the potential to change how smaller communities connect to larger transportation hubs and markets.

From an economic development standpoint, future success will depend heavily on having shovel-ready light industrial sites available in both Chelan and Douglas counties. Businesses considering new investment are looking for property that is appropriately zoned, has utilities and infrastructure readily available, and can accommodate development without lengthy delays. Having those sites prepared and ready will be critical to attract private-sector investment, supporting business growth, and creating new jobs in the region.

Who or what has had the greatest influence on your leadership style, and what advice would you offer to the next generation of regional leaders?

My parents, Jill and Frank Kuntz, were very engaged in Wenatchee civic affairs while I was growing up. I saw firsthand how their volunteer efforts, alongside other community-minded individuals, could make a meaningful difference. That example had a lasting influence on how I view public service and community involvement.

Throughout my career, I have reported to locally elected Port Commissioners, and they have also shaped my leadership style. Port Commissioners are thoughtful leaders who are focused on making decisions they believe will best serve the communities they represent. In today’s increasingly polarized environment, decisions can be met with immediate public and social media reaction. I have tremendous respect for local elected officials who remain committed to public service and thoughtful decision-making. Their example continues to inspire me to do my best work.

My advice to the next generation of regional leaders is simple: lead with care and respect. Be willing to listen, build relationships, and be a strong advocate for your employees, your organization, and the community you serve.