Steven W. Cornes

The Board received the audit report for the year ending June 30, 2025, which provided an unmodified opinion on the District's financial statements. A new stakeholder from Saronic Technologies was introduced. Discussions were held regarding low water issues in the upper basin and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project updates, including dredging activities and upcoming FY26 appropriations. Additional business included the authorization of an architectural contract amendment for warehouse improvements, updates on grant applications and capital outlay projects, the initiation of bidding for the West Dock Project, and property access agreements with the State Land office. Chamber of Commerce recognition for a district member and environmental planning efforts were also noted.

The board discussed several items, including the approval of an insurance renewal proposal from Alliant Insurance Services and a commitment to provide additional funding for warehouse roof improvements. The board reviewed and supported grant applications for the 35,000 SF Multimodal Warehouse Facility through the Port Infrastructure Development Program. Due to bid costs exceeding the engineer's estimate, the board rejected bids for the West Side Dock Expansion project. Additionally, the board adopted an ordinance levying a 4.45 mill tax rate for 2026, authorized a consulting agreement with Cassidy & Associates, Inc., and approved the hiring of a Deputy Director.

The meeting focused on hurricane preparedness protocols, presentations on emergency management, and updates from the National Weather Service. Key discussions included the integration of artificial intelligence into hurricane forecasting models, analysis of past storm tracks, and the importance of storm surge awareness and flood preparation. Additionally, the committee reviewed seasonal hurricane activity predictions, the impact of El Nino on storm patterns, and upcoming adjustments to tracking cones and warning systems.

The meeting included reports on ongoing dredging projects, the progress of the West Dock Project, and various Bollinger projects. A resolution was adopted to support a funding request for a 35,000 square foot Multimodal Warehouse Facility through the FY 2026 BUILD grant program. Discussions were held regarding economic development initiatives, including the upcoming annual hurricane preparedness meeting and stakeholder updates. Additionally, updates were provided concerning capital outlay funding, crane reimbursement, and future appropriations cycles.

The meeting includes a review of financial reports and invoices, and consideration of insurance renewal quotes. The Board will hear reports from consultants, the executive director, and legal counsel regarding various port projects and developments. New business items involve the adoption of 2026 millage rates, applications for the Port Infrastructure Development Program, and an agreement for dredging and sediment management services. Old business covers infrastructure improvements, facility maintenance, equipment purchases, port security, and various capital projects including drydock and dock expansion. The Board will also convene an executive session to discuss a legal suit regarding the Youngswood yard failure.