The Oregon International Port of Coos Bay is hiring North Bend attorney David R. Koch to serve as its chief operating officer. Koch has practiced as an associate attorney since 2006 with North Bend-based Stebbins & Coffey, Attorneys at Law, where he handles legal issues for the port and several other public entities.

The port increasingly is tasked with complex land use, environmental and permitting processes, according to a news release. Koch’s move to the port will allow the agency to bring these specialized legal services in-house. With the impending start up of the Coos Bay Rail Link, he will oversee renegotiation of railroad easements and agreements. He’ll also advise and represent the port through state land use and permitting procedures, the release stated.

From Bandon Western World