The Port of Seattle Commission voted to hire former U.S. Attorney Mike McKay to conduct an internal investigation of the port.

Port Commissioner Bill Bryant, who chairs the Port's Special Investigatory Committee, cited McKay's experience with similar investigations as a key factor in the selection.

"Mike's commitment to public service and the integrity he demonstrated as U.S. Attorney make him the right person to oversee this investigation," Bryant said. "I believe his expertise will ensure this investigation is as thorough as possible."

McKay served as U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington from 1989 until 1993. In 1999, he served on a committee which investigated certain allegations of wrongdoing at the Seattle Police Department and made recommendations on how the police department could better investigate itself. He just completed service on the Seattle Police Accountability Review Panel, which reviewed the 1999 model and made 29 recommendations for improvement. He also served as Vice Chair of the Citizens' Commission on Salaries for Elected Officials, having been appointed by the Washington State Supreme Court. He has conducted numerous internal investigations of government and private entities.

"I am honored to assist Commissioners Bryant and Tarleton with this investigation," said McKay. "I am committed to conducting a full inquiry into the contracting policies, procedures and practices at their port."

The port commission created the Special Investigatory Committee in January. The purpose of the internal investigation is to follow up on the recent performance audit and to make additional recommendations. At an upcoming public meeting, Bryant and Tarleton will announce the work plan and budget for the investigation, which will conclude with a report to the full Commission in public session.