PORT HUENEME : Wright to End Long Tenure on Council

After 24 years as a Port Hueneme City Council member, Dorill B. Wright announced Wednesday that he will not seek reelection in November.

“I am proud to have served the community as I have, but I feel it is time for me to step down,” Wright said. “I feel we have well-qualified candidates who are capable and willing to improve the quality of life in Port Hueneme and to serve the city’s citizens.”

Wright, who also serves as representative of local government on the California Coastal Commission, will lose that seat 60 days after he leaves the council.

Wright, 73, began his career with the city in 1966 as a planning commissioner. He ran for City Council in 1970 and has held his seat since, serving as mayor from 1972 to 1974.

During his early years on the council, Wright worked to improve the city’s pier, build new parks such as the Bubbling Springs Park and the Hueneme Beach Park. In 1987, the city named its $2-million cultural center after him.

More recently, Wright has faced challenges by residents who oppose the construction of a recreational vehicle park at Hueneme Beach Park.

In addition, many residents have criticized the city’s decision to build the Dorill B. Wright Cultural Center, which was closed last year because of a lack of revenue.

Wright cited the development of the parks among his biggest accomplishments, and said he is proud of his efforts to establish better business relations with the Oxnard Harbor District.

The retired engineer said he plans to write a book about his work as a public official and travel with his wife of 52 years, Jacquelyn.

“It will be somewhat strange not to go to the City Council meetings,” Wright said. “But I will continue to be involved in the community.”