A desire to step into the political arena and a daily view of the waterfront have guided a new face into public service.

The borough assembly unanimously agreed to appoint DJ McConachie to the port commission at its June 23 meeting. He steps into the seat vacated by John Yeager, who was appointed last month to complete an unexpired assembly term left open by Michael Ottesen’s resignation in May.

McConachie was the only person to apply for the port commission vacancy.

For McConachie, the appointment represents a long-awaited transition from observer to participant.

“I’ve always been interested in politics, but I’ve always been on the outside of it looking in,” he said. “I figured this would be a good way to kind of get my feet wet and see what I think about it.”

Beyond the learning experience, he noted that he is enthusiastic about joining the group during a period of progress.

“I think that commission has made some really good moves with some forward momentum lately, and I would like to be a part of that,” he said.

He believes his professional background aligns closely with the commission’s focus. As the assistant manager at Petro Marine Services, McConachie spends his workdays near the water, an environment he believes gives him a distinct and useful outlook on waterfront operations.

“I see boats of all kinds coming in and out of the harbor every day and I get to speak to people across all age groups,” he said. “I get to hear the different things they like and dislike. And I get to hear different ideas they share with me.”

The short-term appointment runs through the Oct. 6 municipal election, at which time voters will choose a port commissioner to complete the remaining two years of the term.

McConachie is keeping his options open regarding his political future.

“I think I just want to wait and see how things go until then,” he said. “I want to get familiar with the process and then I can be sure I’m in the right place for this community.”

As he prepares to take on his new responsibilities, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.

“I just want to thank the assembly for their confidence in me with their vote. I really appreciate the support.”