GULFPORT — Chiquita will remain a state port tenant for six more months — at double the rent. But a couple of port commissioners want to give the company the boot when its lease expires July 15.
The Sun Herald reports the vote was 3-2 Thursday to extend Chiquita’s stay until the company is ready to return to the Port of New Orleans after 40 years in Gulfport. The port had been working with Chiquita to design the company’s new facilities on the West Pier. Chiquita’s departure was rumored for weeks before the company notified the port of its plans in mid-May.
Executive Director Jonathan Daniels said the Chiquita extension doubles the company’s rent, to $50,240 per month for 25 acres, plus office, shop and warehouse space.
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