2026 Directors Seminar FAQ

Where and when is this year’s event?
This year’s event is at the Courtyard by Marriott on July 8th – 10th. There will be an informal and casual get-together on the evening of the 8th.

How do I register for this event?
Please register using our online form so we can collect the correct information. The link to the registration form is located at the top of this page.

Will I receive confirmation of my registration?
Yes. A confirmation email will be sent within 48 hours to both the attendee and the admin email addresses provided during registration. If you do not receive confirmation within 2 days, please do not hesitate to contact Mandy via email or phone 360.943.0760.

There was no link to pay for my registration, how do I pay you?
WPPA will send an invoice for all registrations and sponsorships after the event. Payments may be made by check or by calling in a credit card.

What is the dress code?
Dress is business casual.

Hotel Information:
Room rate: $179 per night plus applicable taxes and fees for a King or Double Queen.

You can reserve rooms online using this link: WPPA Directors Seminar
You can also phone in your reservation to: 509-332-1500 and mention you are with the “Washington Public Ports Association/WPPA Directors Seminar”.
Please book directly with the hotel, not a third party site. If you have questions about this, contact Mandy Lill.

Hotel Cancellation policy:
Cancellation policies vary. Please review your cancellation policy at time of booking.
If possible, contact Mandy before cancelling as we may be able to repurpose your room for another attendee in need.

Check-in: 4:00 pm
Check-out: 12:00 pm

Reservation Deadline:
To guarantee the group rate, reservations must be made by Tuesday, June 9.
Our room block may sell out before that date so reserve early.
If you encounter issues before the deadline, please email Mandy or call 360.943.0760.

Parking – Self-Parking is complimentary at the Courtyard by Marriott.

Pets:
Dogs are welcome at the Courtyard. You must request a dog friendly room when making your lodging reservation. 2 dogs max (50 pound weight limit each) per room with a non-refundable $100 pet fee. See their website for more details.

Is there a seminar registration deadline?
To receive the early‑bird rate, please register by Thursday, June 25.
Registrations received after this date will be charged the higher standard rate.
On site registrations will also be charged the higher standard rate.

What are the seminar registration fees?
Please refer to the registration link at the top of this page.
Rates increase on June 25.
Please note that in addition to your registration fees, we now also have to charge you sales tax: In 2025, the Washington State Legislature passed Senate Bill 5814, which expands the types of “services” that are subject to the retail sales tax. According to guidance from the Department of Revenue, that includes “lectures, seminars, workshops, or courses where participants attend either in person or via internet.” As a result, WPPA now charges retail sales tax on applicable event registrations at the local rate for the jurisdiction in which the event is held.

What does my registration fee include?
Your fee includes all activities and meals listed on the agenda.

Do I need to register my spouse? What can they attend, and is there a charge?
There is no additional fee for a spouse to attend, but please register them in advance.

Your spouse is encouraged to attend the tour and reception on Thursday afternoon/evening. All other meals are for registered attendees only. Thank you for understanding.

I have dietary restrictions/I’m vegetarian. How do I let you know this?
Please note your dietary needs in the comment section of the registration form. This helps us coordinate with the hotel in advance.
Because of hotel policies, last‑minute requests may not be accommodated.
For assistance, email Mandy Lill.

What if I have to cancel?
A $100 administration fee will be charged for cancellations received after June 29, 2026 and for registrants failing to show.

I would like to learn more about sponsorship opportunities:
We love our sponsors! Sponsorships help keep attendance fees reasonable and gives your organization visibility on our website, in printed and online materials, and gives you the chance to spend time with our attendees at the reception portion of the event. We offer limited sponsorships at the Directors Seminar so you are well represented. Please contact Mandy Lill for more information.

If you have any other questions or need assistance with this seminar, please contact
Mandy Lill. Thank you!