Current Term: January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2027
Richard DeRock, Commissioner
Commissioner Richard DeRock has been a leader in the Wenatchee Valley for over 20 years, deeply committed to the region's economic health. He believes that a healthy commercial airport and robust economic development are vital for the area's future. As CEO of Link Transit and a founding member of the Chelan Douglas Transportation Council, Commissioner DeRock worked to secure voting membership for the Port in our Metropolitan Planning Organization. His tenure as President of the Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce was focused on making Pangborn Memorial Airport a viable commercial hub, a priority he viewed as key to the region's economic success. Commissioner DeRock recently retired from his role at Link Transit after 21 years. During his tenure, he tripled its riders and expanded its service by 40%. He also led Link to become the most electrified transit agency in the Northwest. Before moving to Wenatchee, Commissioner DeRock was the Executive Director of Access Services in Los Angeles County, a transportation agency for people with disabilities. He led the agency for 11 years, overseeing more than 1,500 employees and a $76 million budget. For more than 20 years, Commissioner DeRock has been a key leader in Rotary at the local, regional, and international levels. He has a degree in Geology from the University of California and holds certificates from the Business School of the University of Indiana in labor relations and public sector financial management. Additionally, Commissioner DeRock has extensive expertise in alternative fuels and transportation electrification, and a strong understanding of transportation funding and grant programs.
