Dennis Bouey, executive director of the San Diego Unified Port District, has called it quits after three years.
Bouey, 53, announced his resignation Sept. 17, in a closed session meeting with Port District commissioners. His last day will be Dec. 14.
Bouey came to the port in January 1999, after serving as aviation director at Philadelphia International Airport. He was also deputy director of San Francisco International Airport.
Since taking the post at the port, Bouey pushed a plan of finding a replacement for Lindbergh Field while improving the airport in the meantime. His two-track expansion plan would have added a second runway to the airport.
“It is with great disappointment that we accept Mr. Bouey’s decision,” said Frank Urtasun, chairman of the board of port commissioners. “During his tenure here, Mr. Bouey has led this organization with unwavering, dedicated hard work and commitment.”
Bouey said he is leaving the job, with an annual salary of $200,000, for personal reasons. He had been criticized by state Sen. Steve Peace, D-El Cajon for his management style.
Peace called for an audit of the port earlier this year and authored legislation that would create an airport authority to take operations away from the Port District.
That bill, Assembly Bill 93, is on the governor’s desk and could become effective Jan. 1.
Bouey said his decision was made before the bill was introduced.
