The King County Ferry District board of supervisors has unanimously elected Redmond City Councilmember Hank Myers as its executive director.

Myers, a transportation consultant and maritime enthusiast, will begin his new job at the King County Courthouse April 1.

The longtime Redmond resident previously served on the advisory board for Metro Transit. Earlier in his career, Myers was employed by Alaska Airlines and other airlines in planning and management roles.

“Hank Myers brings tremendous management expertise to the King County Ferry District and we are pleased to have him join our team,” said King County Councilmember Jan Drago, who also serves as chair of the King County Ferry District board of supervisors.

Myers said he looks forward to putting experience to work for King County Water Taxi riders.

“My job will be to make sure the King County Water Taxi is operated as efficiently and reliably as possible,” said Myers, an avid sailor who volunteers regularly at the Center for Wooden Boats in Seattle. “The ferry district wants to provide a dependable transportation option that is safe and comfortable for our passengers and crew. I this is an exciting challenge and opportunity.”

The executive director position is considered a three-quarter time position, 30 hours per week. With Myers’ appointment, the ferry district board made the position permanent. The district was previously staffed by Lund Consulting, a management consulting firm specializing in special districts.

The King County Ferry District currently operates water taxi services between downtown Seattle and Vashon Island. On April 5, the district will resume offering water taxi service between downtown Seattle and West Seattle, operating a newer vessel and an improved dock on the West Seattle side.

In 2009, the ferry district assumed operating responsibility for the Vashon route, leased a new vessel, received a clean bill of health in its first audit since its 2008 formation and posted a record ridership year, breaking the 200,000 rider mark on the West Seattle route.

The King County Ferry District is a special purpose government created two years ago to provide passenger ferry service in King County. The King County Marine Division operates the service under the name King County Water Taxi.

For more information about the King County Ferry District, visit www.kingcountyferries.org.