Michael K. Pearson

The meeting featured updates on marketing, procurement, port development, and government affairs. Resolutions were passed to authorize a contract with Binswanger for real estate and advisory services, to amend the lease and operating agreement for Pier at 124 with Eco-Energy Distribution, LLC, and to form an Executive Director Search Committee to manage the recruitment process for a new Executive Director.

The meeting included reports on marketing and port performance, a procurement update detailing current solicitations and contract statuses, and a comprehensive port development update regarding USACE permit extensions, BABA compliance for cranes, and traffic pattern construction. Additionally, the government and public affairs update covered legislative advocacy, the submission of a BUILD grant, stakeholder outreach, and upcoming port tours and events.

The Board passed a resolution to award a professional services contract to Korn Ferry for a fixed fee of $150,000 to conduct an executive director search. This search was initiated following the announcement of the current Executive Director's plans to retire.

The meeting included reports on marketing progress and procurement updates. Port development discussions focused on the USACE permit extension for the Southport Berth project, BABA compliance and waiver applications regarding the Tioga Marine Terminal cranes, and construction timelines for traffic pattern improvements at the Packer Avenue grade crossing. The Government and Public Affairs update covered the Governor's 2026-2027 budget address, the Maritime Action Plan, upcoming BUILD grant program deadlines, and participation in the AAPA Legislative Summit.

The meeting addressed several key resolutions and budgetary items. Key discussions included the adoption of the FY 25/26 Operating Budget, which projected total revenue increasing by 7% to $27.6M and total expenses increasing by 4.6% to $19.3M, with no operating subsidy required. Furthermore, the Board authorized a lease extension and amendment for the agreement with Kinder Morgan Liquid Terminals LLC concerning Tioga Marine Terminal II Berths 1 and 2, including a three-month extension to finalize a new ten-year lease with renewal options. Finally, the Board authorized the acquisition of property located at 2906 S. Christopher Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19148, via purchase in lieu of eminent domain to facilitate port expansion and development.