LaRue Smith to fill the unexpired Port Commissioner term of late husband

After deliberation, the Port of Beaumont Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to appoint LaRue Smith to fill the unexpired term of her late husband, Ward 3 Commissioner Lee E. Smith.

Smith, a retired educator with noted exceptional communication skills and strong community ties, was one of five applicants who expressed interest in the position. According to the Board of Commissioners, her knowledge of the Port of Beaumont made her uniquely qualified to fill the vacant seat.

“The opportunity to apply for the vacant position, as a result of the death of my husband Commissioner Lee E. Smith, is one that I have, prayerfully, given great consideration,” LaRue Smith said. “The passion that I have for the success of the Port of Beaumont, and to further the work that my husband began, have inspired me. I understand the important role the Port of Beaumont plays in the economic growth of Southeast Texas.”

Smith serves on the City of Beaumont Library Commission for Ward IV, is a nominating committee member for Education First Federal Credit Union, a member of the Beaumont Association of Retired Teachers, and a former board member of Sabine Oaks Nursing Home, among other things. Smith has also given her time to Lamar University as a mentor to teacher interns and served as a TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) specialist, presenting workshops to teachers and students.

Through her new role as a Port of Beaumont Commissioner, she will continue to serve as an advocate for education and community growth.

The swearing-in ceremony for LaRue Smith will take place on Monday, Dec. 13, at 10 a.m. in the Port of Beaumont Administration Building, 1225 Main Street in Beaumont.