Politicians

Port Canaveral Chairman and Retired Rear Admiral Wayne Justice Dies at 70; Special Election Will Be Required to Fill His Seat

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By The Space Coast Rocket
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BREVARD COUNTY, FL — The Canaveral Port Authority announced the passing of its Chairman, retired U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral Wayne Justice, who died at age 70. Justice served on the Port Authority Board of Commissioners for 15 years and was widely regarded for his leadership and dedication to the Port’s continued growth and success.

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Term Details and Upcoming Special Election
Commissioners of the Canaveral Port Authority are elected at-large for four-year terms, with elections held every two years to rotate no more than three seats at a time. Justice was re-elected in 2022 for a four-year term that was scheduled to run through early 2026.

As a result of his passing, his seat will now require a special election or appointment process in accordance with Port Authority rules and Florida law. The exact date for the special election has not yet been set, and the Port Authority is expected to issue a formal announcement detailing the process for filling the vacancy.

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Legacy of Service
Before his tenure at the Port Authority, Justice had a 37-year career in the U.S. Coast Guard, during which he commanded cutters specializing in drug interdiction, migrant rescue, and search-and-rescue operations. He also served as a military aide to Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton.

At the Port Authority, Justice was known for his strong advocacy for modernization and expansion projects, particularly during the challenging years of the pandemic recovery. He was recognized in 2023 as the Maritime Person of the Year by the International Propeller Club Southeast Region.

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Looking Ahead
With the vacancy now open, stakeholders across the Space Coast will be watching closely as the Port Authority determines how to fill the seat. The decision will shape who guides Port Canaveral through its next phase of growth and regional economic development.

The Space Coast Rocket will provide updates when the official election schedule or appointment process is released.