The Port of Hood River Commission has approved entering into a memorandum of understanding with a forest products company interested in purchasing three-and-a-half acres of the former Lower Hanel Mill property. Port Executive Director Michael McElwee says they are excited about working with Neal Creek Forest Products, noting the company would take about a third of the property and employ around 25 people, which would be a significant boost to the mid-Hood River Valley. McElwee did acknowledge the Port still faces the challenge of providing sufficient water service to the entire Lower Hanel Mill property to meet fire suppression requirements, but they are working towards a solution.