Dodson to retire as NW Natural boss

Northwest Natural Gas Co. on Thursday announced that CEO Mark S. Dodson will retire at the end of 2008.

The Portland-based gas utility (NYSE: NWN) said Gregg S. Kantor, current president and chief operating officer, will be Dodson's replacement.

Dodson became CEO in January 2003 after previous stints as president and COO and general counsel. He will continue to serve on the board after retiring at the end of this year.

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Kantor was appointed president and COO in May 2007 after previously serving as executive vice president, senior vice president and vice president.

The news came during the company's shareholder meeting at its headquarters in Old Town.

The board elected Russell F. Tromley as chairman, effective immediately. Tromley succeeds Richard G. Reiten, who retired after serving two separate terms as board chairman, most recently since 2006.