Jose Herrera

The meeting commenced with opening remarks and a prayer. Key discussions centered on the monthly operations summary report for December 2025, detailing vessel/cargo revenues, operating revenues, and net income, including year-to-date comparisons against prior year and budget figures. Several financial highlights and breakdowns of revenue sources were presented. Action items included the approval of consent agenda items, authorizing payments over $25,000 for repairs and engineering services, and approving the authority to submit a grant application to the Maritime Administration for port infrastructure development (PIDP) for the placement area number eight dyke relocation project. Further items involved approving authority to negotiate new leases or lease extensions for PS Brownell Shrimp LLC and Josephina Pimea (Restaurant De Marisla La Familia), and negotiating a fish camp lease for SpaceX employees. The commission also ratified the execution of an option to lease agreement with Seronic Technologies Inc. for a prospective shipbuilding project, which includes provisions for due diligence regarding a dredge material placement area.

The meeting commenced with a prayer and the pledge of allegiance. Public comment was heard from a representative of G&H Towing regarding community engagement and future hiring of mariners for operations in the Port of Brownsville. Director reports were presented without comment. Key actions included the approval of minutes for the January 21st, 2026 regular board meeting and a related payment authorization for a demolition and construction project. A proclamation was adopted honoring the 100th anniversary of Texas Southmost College. The Commission approved amendments to the Port's Police and Security Department Procedures Manual regarding patrol rifle policy. A resolution was adopted to authorize the submission of grant applications to the Public Safety Office for fiscal year 2027, specifically for rifle-resistant body armor and body-worn cameras. The Board also adopted the order and notice of election for the May 2nd, 2026 election to elect two board of commissioners. Finally, the Board considered authority to negotiate a 50-year lease with SpaceX Exploration Technology Corp. for approximately 83 acres to construct a dock for cargo support operations.

The initial segment of the meeting involved consideration and action regarding the recommissioning and oath of branch pilot Jonathan P. Wlette for the state of Texas, who noted his 20th year serving the Port of Brownsville. The main board meeting commenced subsequently. Key actions included approvals under the consent agenda for minutes of previous special and regular board meetings in December 2025, and authorization for payments over $25,000, including engineering services for the deepening evaluation project for cargo dock 15 and 16. Action items involved granting authority to negotiate a lease for approximately 350 acres on Highway 48 to Synergia Energy Park LLC for electrical power generation with a micro grid, with the district retaining first right of refusal on produced power. Approval was also sought for a sublease and purpose expansion for a warehouse at 2685 North Indiana by Electrical Forever LLC, and the termination of an option to lease agreement with 108 Energy LLC, including a prorated fee reimbursement. Additionally, the board addressed election matters, including the adoption of an order appointing an agent for the secretary's duties related to the May 2nd, 2026 general election, and approving a contract for joint election services with the Cameron County Election Administrator. Finally, consideration was given to Change Order Number One for the BND Cargo Dock 3 project to remove an unforeseen existing sheet pile wall, which involved significant discussion regarding the engineer's due diligence.

The regular board meeting included the presentation of the monthly operations report for November 2025, detailing revenues from vessels, cargo, leases, and easements, and comparing current results to prior year and budget figures. The investment report for the quarter ended December 31, 2025, was also presented, showing portfolio balances and interest earned. Key action items involved the consent agenda, which included approval of minutes from the January 7, 2026, meeting and authorized payments over $25,000 to HDR Engineering Incorporated and Robert Ruiz Architect Incorporated. A major action item concerned the approval of authorized payment to the US Army Corps of Engineers for additional advanced funding related to the Brazos Island Harbor (BIH) channel improvement project, specifically addressing cost overruns associated with estimated quantities for Segment B deepening, which is expected to be reimbursed under the Rivers and Harbors Act.

The 2022 State of the Port Address highlights the Brownsville Navigation District's sustained financial resilience and record-breaking performance in operating revenue and cargo tonnage for 2021. The address outlines strategic initiatives focused on infrastructure development, including the South Port Connector Road, and efforts to recruit and retain value-added industrial growth. Key focus areas include expanding trade capabilities in steel and liquid storage, strengthening relationships with Mexican companies, and promoting workforce development through educational partnerships and scholarship programs. The overarching goal is to maintain the port's world-class status, ensure regional economic stability, and drive job creation.