MAKI RESIGNS AS DIRECTOR OF PORT AUTHORITY; BOARD ACCEPTS HIS RESIGNATION WITHOUT COMMENT ON MONDAY

SCOTT CITY - Citing a lack of confidence and common philosophy between himself and members of the board, Allan Maki resigned Monday as executive director of the Southeast Missouri Regional Port Authority.

The seven board members present at Monday's monthly meeting made no comment about his resignation, which was immediately accepted.

Maki, at the end of the executive director's report, read a brief letter to the board explaining his decision. Within seconds after Maki completed the letter, Board Member M.D. Potashnick of Sikeston, moved that the resignation be accepted.

Commissioner Ray Buhs of Cape Girardeau, seconded the motion and Board Chairman Mysie Keene called for the vote. As the voice vote was taken, only Potashnick's voice could be heard as he loudly proclaimed his vote of "aye."

Potashnick, who served as chairman of the board the last two years, has been a frequent critic of Maki and has made no secret of his unhappiness with Maki's performance as executive director.

Maki, who served as director of the port since August of 1988, told the board he would stay in his post for at least 60 days and do whatever he could to insure a smooth transition.

Maki announced his resignation at the end of the board's regular session and had not previously indicated to any board members that he would resign Monday.

Maki said later in an interview that he had not taken any other job, but hoped to stay in the Cape Girardeau area.

"I don't have any firm plans or commitments at this time," said Maki. "I am going to take some time to put my own life in order and review what options are available. Hopefully, I am going to be able to continue doing something for the economic benefit of the people of Southeast Missouri.

He noted that since last spring, he had been giving thought to resigning because of ongoing differences between he and some members of the board.

In his letter of resignation, which was also sent to Cape County Presiding Commissioner Gene Huckstep and Scott County Presiding Commissioner Durward Dover, Maki pointed out that the port authority is at "a critical juncture in its development.

"For the port to move forward in a positive manner, it is imperative that the board of commissioners and the executive director have a common philosophy and confidence in one another. Unfortunately I have profound and fundamental disagreements with the board of commissioners regarding the mission of the port, the strategic management of assets and personnel, and the structure of the organization."

Maki continued: "I am unable to effectively continue on in my present capacity as I am unable to do the things which I believe are necessary for the success of the port. Accordingly, I hereby tender my resignation. I am willing to continue working with the board of commissioners during a transition period so that the board can conduct a thorough search for someone who is more capable with their values and priorities."

During his tenure, the SEMO Port Authority has completed or budgeted all projects for its first phase of development; has completed construction of the $2.5 million public dock and made the dock and harbor operational; secured approval of the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission for the extension of Nash Road into the port; is in the process of constructing a rail spur; has increased tonnage going through the port consistently; and in October received approval of a $1.2 million Economic Development Administration grant for infrastructure improvements.

Several industries have also located at the port during Maki's tenure.

Also at Monday's meeting, it was announced that Elaine Michelson, the Port authority office manager, will leave her job, effective March 15.

For the second consecutive month, the port set a monthly tonnage record by moving 17,452 tons. The previous record, set in January, was 13,099 tons. Most of the tonnage in February was petroleum coke.

While the resignation of Maki was the big news of the day, most of the discussion during the 30-minute meeting focused on concern about a proposed $1 per gallon fuel tax increase on the maritime industry. The increase in the tax, which is presently 19 cents, is part of President Bill Clinton's deficit reduction plan.

Maki said the increase could lead to less use of water transportation and a shift to less efficient energy sources.

"A 500 percent increase is exorbitant," complained Keene.

"This is the most ridiculous tax I have heard of since the poll tax," said Commissioner Irvin Garms.

Potashnick warned that such an increase could eventually hurt development and utilization of the SEMO Port Authority.

The bill is scheduled to come up for a committee vote in Congress this week, and the board approved a resolution opposing the tax hike be sent to area members of Congress. Six members present voted for the resolution, but Commissioner Bill Bess of Sikeston, disagreed.

Bess agreed that the tax increase was out of line, but noted, "I hesitate to say the port itself should get into letter writing. I suggest it be done on a personal, individual basis from board members because we as a board represent a lot of people with different views."

But Potashnick and others said since the tax would have a negative impact on the port, it was important that the board take a position against it.