Coos Bay, OR – A coalition of local and regional organizations has successfully prevented the sale of Giddings Boatworks, a critical port infrastructure asset located at the Charleston Marina, to Whit Industries, a company owned by Michael Whitworth Gantenbein. The proposed sale raised alarm due to evidence linking Gantenbein to neo-Nazi and white nationalist groups, sparking widespread concern about the potential social and economic implications for the Coos Bay community.

A Unified Response to Safeguard the Community

In early December, a coalition of advocacy groups, including the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 932, the Sierra Club Oregon Chapter, and Rogue Climate, sent a detailed letter to the Port of Coos Bay Board of Commissioners. The letter outlined documented evidence of Gantenbein’s association with white nationalist activities, including participation in racist “White Lives Matter” events and the promotion of discriminatory ideologies.

The letter emphasized the risks of allowing a business owner with such affiliations to manage $40 million in critical port infrastructure. Concerns ranged from the potential for discriminatory business practices to the broader reputational damage such a lease could cause to the Port and the Charleston fishing community.

Port Commission Takes Action

Following the public outcry and receipt of the letter, the Port Commission clarified that there are no current plans to sell Giddings Boatworks to Whit Industries. During a December 11 conference call with community stakeholders, Port officials confirmed that alternative solutions, including seeking other buyers or reassessing the use of the property, are under consideration. Additionally, the Port announced steps to reinforce its Title VI nondiscrimination policy, which includes new measures to ensure equitable leasing practices.

“The letter made a real difference,” said a representative from one of the community organizations involved in the meeting. “It’s a testament to the power of collective action when communities come together to hold institutions accountable.”

Challenges Ahead

Despite the positive outcome, Port officials acknowledged ongoing challenges. Resistance to the Port’s nondiscrimination policies from vocal community members highlights the need for continued public education and engagement. Transparency remains a key focus, as the Port works to balance community involvement with necessary confidentiality around grants and real estate decisions.

Looking Forward

The coalition of organizations continues to advocate for proactive steps to strengthen the Port’s role in supporting the fishing and maritime community. Proposed next steps include:

  • Hosting listening sessions to engage the public and gather input on future strategic planning.
  • Launching public education campaigns to foster greater understanding of the Port’s operations and policies.
  • Coordinating with other agencies facing similar challenges to share best practices.

“The Port has shown leadership in addressing this issue, and now there’s an opportunity to turn this momentum into a broader community conversation,” said a representative from the South Coast Health Equity Coalition. “By working together, we can ensure that our Port remains an inclusive and thriving resource for everyone.”

Conclusion

This victory underscores the importance of vigilance and collaboration in protecting public resources and fostering equitable economic development. While challenges remain, the response to this issue demonstrates that a united community can stand against hate and work toward a future rooted in transparency, fairness, and shared prosperity.

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