In a move that came as a surprise to some observers, Port Commissioner Lynae Slinden resigned her position Wednesday after more than seven years representing Clinton.

“During the next two years, there is a strong likelihood that I will be out of the area at least part of that time and will not be able to fulfill my role as commissioner,” her resignation letter said. She has indicated a desire to join the Peace Corps, but has no firm commitment.

Slinden led the port’s successful drive to design and build a new day-use facility at Clinton Beach, next to the ferry pier and was a strong proponent of the local arts community.

Though too late to file for the Aug. 18 primary, anyone from Clinton wishing to run for the remaining four years of Slinden’s term as port commissioner can file to run in the general election on Nov. 3.

Three men — Herb Helsel, Dean Enell and Chris Jerome — are in the race for Rolf Seitle’s Langley seat in the primary. The two with the most votes in the primary will qualify for the general election.

For more information, call Molly MacLeod at 331-5494 or visit www.portofsouthwhidbey.com.