West Calcasieu Port Director Announces His Retirement

West Calcasieu Port Director Lynn Hohensee has announced plans to retire December 31, or upon the selection of his successor, following more than 20 years of service to the port.

The West Calcasieu Port Board of Commissioners will begin the process of identifying and selecting a new director to oversee the port’s operations and continued development.

Hohensee has served as West Calcasieu Port director since June 2006 through LEH Communications LLC, a Lake Charles-based communications consulting firm he owns and operates. Through the company, he also serves as director of the Port of Vinton.

Before establishing LEH Communications in August 2005, Hohensee worked in economic development in southwest Louisiana. He joined The Chamber Southwest Louisiana (SWLA) in June 2003 as director of economic development and investor relations before becoming executive director of The Chamber Foundation of Southwest Louisiana.

His professional background also includes 30 years in the petroleum industry, working for Shell and Conoco. Hohensee retired from the U.S. Army in 1999 as a lieutenant colonel after 28 years of active and reserve service.

A 1966 graduate of Worthington High School in Minnesota, Hohensee earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and geography from South Dakota State University in 1971. He also graduated from the Department of Defense Information School and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.

During his tenure at West Calcasieu Port, the port has experienced significant financial growth, strengthened its asset base and pursued a strategy of reinvesting revenues into long-term development. Total assets increased from approximately $2.9 million in 2007 to nearly $51 million in 2026, representing growth of approximately 1,660 percent.

“I take great pride in what the West Calcasieu Port, its board of commissioners and dedicated staff have accomplished over the past two decades,” Hohensee said. “Through a disciplined strategy of reinvesting port revenues, we have substantially strengthened the port’s financial position and built a foundation for continued growth.”

Hohensee also expressed appreciation for the relationships and partnerships developed throughout his time with the port.

“It has been a privilege to work alongside dedicated commissioners, staff and community partners who share a commitment to the port’s success,” he said. “I am confident the port is well positioned for continued progress in the years ahead.”

Hohensee and his wife, Marie, reside in the Moss Bluff area north of Lake Charles. They have one daughter.

The port’s board of commissioners will provide additional information about the director selection process as it becomes available.