(L to R) ILWU Local 18 President Tim Campbell poses with Max Vekich, federal maritime commissioner, in Washington DC. Photo provided by Tim Campbell

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - In the heart of our West Sacramento community lies a hidden gem, the Port of West Sacramento, which remains a vital yet often overlooked contributor to our local economy. Astonishingly, many within West Sacramento, and even more beyond our city limits, are unaware of the port's continued functionality and significance. The dedicated members of the International Longshoreman & Warehouse Union (ILWU), Local 18, stationed at the Port of West Sacramento, are advocating for strategic investments in the port's infrastructure to enhance its maritime capabilities.

Recent analyses reveal that by deepening the water channel by an additional 5 feet, the port could efficiently handle approximately 75% of incoming ships, a significant improvement from the current 22%. Leading this charge is ILWU, Local 18 President, Tim Campbell, who tirelessly endeavors to convey the transformative impact that infrastructural enhancements can have on our local economy.

President Tim Campbell, who began his tenure at the Port of West Sacramento in 1992, has been fervently promoting growth and expansion to municipal stakeholders, including city council members, county supervisors, and port commissioners. Despite facing opposition, Campbell has identified Mayor Martha Guerrero and City Councilwoman Norma Alcala as crucial advocates for the port's future.

To access comprehensive information, Campbell resorted to filing Requests for Information (RFI) and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, underscoring his commitment to transparency and informed decision-making. As the elected President of ILWU, Local 18 since 2012, Campbell has played a pivotal role in job creation and the diversification of the workforce, with the union's membership now boasting a 50% representation of women from various ethnic backgrounds.

Campbell's vision extends beyond the port's immediate impact; he envisions a more sustainable, higher-paying job market in West Sacramento and Yolo County. His efforts are bolstered by the formation of the Port of West Sacramento Community Alliance (PWSCA), a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the port's history, providing scholarships, organizing workforce workshops, and supporting the local working force.

Recognizing the financial tie between the Port of West Sacramento and the city, Campbell sees an opportunity to enhance the financial viability of the West Sacramento Police and Fire Departments through port growth and expansion. Campbell envisions a consistent revenue stream benefiting the city and its essential services.

Despite facing setbacks in his bid for a port commission appointment in 2023, Campbell remains undeterred. In a determined move, he has announced his candidacy for West Sacramento City Council in District 2, scheduled for November 2024. Campbell firmly believes that elected office is the key to bringing positive change to the port, the city, and the broader region.

Beyond his advocacy for the port, Tim Campbell, fondly known as "Timmy," has a rich history of community service. Formerly a member of the Sacramento Hells Angels for 15 years, Timmy actively engaged in charitable activities, including toy runs with the Marines (USMC) and Salvation Army, fundraising for fire relief, and supporting various organizations in the greater Sacramento region.

Tim Campbell's commitment to community welfare remains unwavering as he continues to host donation drives, participate in community events, and volunteer in West Sacramento. The steadfast support of his Longshore team exemplifies the unity and dedication needed to bring West Sacramento's community even closer together.