Metz Appointed to Port of Lewiston Commission

Denise Metz fills seat of former commissioner Jerry Klemm

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

The Port of Lewiston Commission has appointed Denise Metz to serve as commissioner for District 3, filling the remaining term of former Commissioner Jerry Klemm, who retired at the end of January. Metz was one of four candidates to apply for the position and was appointed during the Commission's regular meeting on Feb. 4 after interviews with Port staff and commissioners.

Why it matters

The Port of Lewiston is a critical economic driver for the Lewiston area, overseeing the port facilities and operations that support local industries and commerce. Metz's appointment brings new leadership and experience to the Commission as it works to advance the Port's objectives for the benefit of Nez Perce County and surrounding communities.

The details

Metz currently serves as Manager of Safety and Security at Idaho Forest Group, where she has worked in various roles throughout her career. She has lived in Lewiston since age 11, graduated from Lewiston High School, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Communications from the University of Idaho. Commission President Joseph Anderson said the board values Metz's experience in the natural resources industry and looks forward to working with her.

  • Metz was appointed during the Commission's regular meeting on Feb. 4, 2026.
  • Metz's term runs through Dec. 31, 2026.

The players

Denise Metz

Newly appointed commissioner for District 3 of the Port of Lewiston Commission.

Jerry Klemm

Former Port of Lewiston commissioner who retired at the end of January 2026.

Joseph Anderson

President of the Port of Lewiston Commission.

Mike Thomason

Vice president of the Port of Lewiston Commission.

Idaho Forest Group

The company where Denise Metz currently serves as Manager of Safety and Security.

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What they’re saying

“I was honored to be selected and I pledge to represent the interests of local residents while supporting continued growth at the Port.”

— Denise Metz (dailyfly.com)

“The board values Metz's experience in the natural resources industry and looks forward to working with her to advance the Port's objectives for the benefit of Nez Perce County and surrounding communities.”

— Joseph Anderson, Commission President (dailyfly.com)

What’s next

Following her swearing-in, Metz participated in the Commission's meeting, where the board also approved its 2026 officers, naming Anderson as president, Thomason as vice president, and Metz as secretary-treasurer.

The takeaway

Denise Metz's appointment to the Port of Lewiston Commission brings new leadership and industry experience to the board as it works to support the port's role as a critical economic driver for the Lewiston area and surrounding communities.