Tribute to Martin Smith

Martin Smith made a tremendous mark on Ventura County. The Channel Islands Harbor was one of his major achievements but he had many, too many to enumerate here. He was a generous benefactor to the university, St. John’s Hospital, the Boys & Girls Club, and El Rio Gymnasium.

My main relationship with Mr. Smith was with my job as a county supervisor.

He and I met about twice a year, sometimes more often. He usually had a project to present and in most instances it had to do with the harbor.

I first met him about 30 years ago. He was always professional, never put any pressure on me and at all times was very cordial and kind. He was a good person. In most cases one can tell the caliber of a person by observing his family and the staff who work for him. He was surrounded by wonderful people, his wife Martha, four daughters, seven grandchildren, and of course, Sue Van Camp and Dick Spencer, who worked with him. They are all superb people.

Hopefully, when we finish with the Marine and Education Center planned for the harbor, we will be able to honor Martin Smith by naming the center after him.

John Flynn

County Supervisor