We are writing in support of a local candidate for one of the lower ballot races this election. Sonny Maken is running against the incumbent Group 3 commissioner on the Port of Palm Beach Commission.
This role is an important one, as our port is directly responsible for more than $4 billion worth of trade, in and out of what is now one of the top 20 ports in the United States.
Sonny is a small business owner of a commercial realty firm. He successfully saved a local children’s charity, First Serve, from going out of business, and it continues to help hundreds of children here in Palm Beach County. He has a degree in international economics from Georgetown University, with a focus on international trade.
The current commissioner has been in office for three four-year terms now, and is seeking another. We believe that these elected positions were not intended to be lifetime appointments. (Another commissioner in a different group was recently defeated after being elected to five four-year terms!)
Sonny Maken’s community service and business experience will be able to steer the Port of Palm Beach as it diversifies and becomes more competitive, while still remaining sensitive to the environmental challenges our coastal areas are facing today.
Scott and Missy Wortman, Wellington
