After approximately two months on the job, Port of Coupeville Executive Director Chris Michalopolous received a $10,200 pay increase.

The salary increase was negotiated as an additional benefit to cover the cost of health insurance.

John Mishasek, president of the port’s board of commissioners, said part of Michalopolous’ contract specified negotiating for additional pay to cover benefits.

However, the commissioners opted to wait and ensure the stability of this new hire.

“We’ve been through quite a few (executive directors),” he said.

The new executive director’s annual salary is $70,200.

Michalopolous said he wanted to wait and prove himself before negotiating the increase and to determine if the executive director position was the right career move for him.

“It’s definitely become a passion,” he said.

As part of the increase, Michalopolous said he suggested a stipulation that he must provide the port commissioners with proof of insurance on a semi-annual basis.