Occupation: Consultant
City of residence: Port Arthur
Q: What do you think is the importance of the port to the community and the region?
A: The importance of the port to the community and the region is job creation, opportunity, service and expansion of the tax base. The port helps create jobs by receiving and shipping products across its docks. Thousands of man hours are worked every year in the loading and unloading of cargo at our docks.
Because of the amount of cargo handled by the port, it has become necessary to acquire more space for storage and miscellaneous activities. Expansion of the tax base can occur when vendors are able to secure a steady stream of products for manufacturing and hire workers. Part of the port’s mission is to promote this type of activity.
Q: What do you see as the purpose of a port commissioner and how would you try to fulfill it?
A: The purpose of a Port Commissioner is to be aware of port activities as well as business strategies and to make sound decisions that benefit the growth and development of the port and the area. Port Commissioners are policy makers who hire an executive director to coordinate the activities of the port. The commissioners are also charged with the responsibility to provide guidance and direction as to expansion and growth.
Q: How would you approach introducing new generations to opportunities in the maritime industry?
A: My approach to introducing new generations to opportunities in the maritime industry is to continue the growth of programs such as Camp Seaport which is currently active at the Port of Port Arthur. Camp Seaport is an enrichment activity sponsored by the port to introduce high school students to the maritime industry by exposing them to port activities as well as various other activities to stimulate their thinking and to encourage the furthering of their education.
Gerald Hatch Sr.
Candidate
Occupation: General Contractor
City of residence: Port Arthur
Q: What do you think is the importance of the port to the community and the region?
A: I think the importance of the port to the community and the region is to assist with the import and exports of cargo goods around the world. The port will bring jobs to the area which will allow increased revenue to the community. Also addressing concerns and/or issues to protect the environment in the city and surrounding areas.
Q: What do you see as the purpose of a port commissioner and how would you try to fulfill it?
A: I see the purpose of a port commissioner is to represent and be the voice of the community which is my campaign slogan “Let me represent your voice and your vision”. I will listen to the community and address and resolve any complaints or concerns. My vision is to employ many area citizens so that we may circulate income in the community while being environmentally friendly is how I would fulfill as port commissioner.
Q: How would you approach introducing new generations to opportunities in the maritime industry?
A: I would approach introducing new generations to opportunities in the maritime industry by promoting and educating information on what the port is and the purpose of the port. Furthermore, I will explain how it may be beneficial to the new generation community to know of all the job skills required in hopes they will get the training needed for job opportunities which will allow us to grow together in our community.
Charles A. Joseph
Candidate
Occupation: Retired
City of residence: Port Arthur
Joseph could not be reached by the Enterprise.
Norris Simon Jr.
Incumbent, president
Occupation: Retired
City of residence: Port Arthur
Q: What do you think is the importance of the port to the community and the region?
A: The Port of Port Arthur is foremost the Economic Engine in The City, by continuing to expand Port not only on the waterfront but by purchasing viable land we are increasing opportunities for Local business owners and job opportunities for our citizens.
Q: What do you see as the purpose of a port commissioner and how would you try to fulfill it?
A: As Port Commissioner your first and foremost role is to represent the Citizens of Port Arthur, and work in unison with the Executive Director and fellow Commissioners setting Policy. As an Incumbent my experience and proven leadership speaks for itself. Continuing to work with my fellow commissioners leading Port of Port Arthur into the future is the reason I am seeking Re Election Vote # 4 on the ballot.
Q: How would you approach introducing new generations to opportunities in the maritime industry?
A: The Port of Port Arthur created Camp Seaport, a vision of one of our commissioners. Camp Seaport introduces young high school students into several different opportunities in the Marine Industry. I would encourage young students of high school age to contact the Port of Arthur If they are interested.
I would also encourage anyone who would like to understand the workings of the Port to attend Port of Port Arthur’s open meeting section at our monthly meetings.
Linda Turner Spears
Incumbent
Occupation: Educator
City of residence: Port Arthur
Q: What do you think is the importance of the port to the community and the region?
A: Being recognized as a Texas World Class Port, it is important that the Port continues to be the economic force that benefits all of the local and regional communities. The Port is growing and developing services with our diverse import and military cargo. We are setting records with our diesel and lumber tonnages, Job opportunities for local and regional workers keep a steady flow of money moving through our local economy. The Port of Port Arthur is a great economic asset to all citizens of our communities.
Q: What do you see as the purpose of a port commissioner and how would you try to fulfill it?
A: The main purpose of Port Commissioners is to represent the local voters who elected them to office. Port Commissioners set, review, and amend port policies. Commissioners work with the Port’s Executive Staff to grow and develop economic opportunities which bring revenue into the local and regional communities. Commissioners help build and maintain a business relationship with local and regional businesses to achieve the overall purpose of the Port.
Q: How would you approach introducing new generations to opportunities in the maritime industry?
A: I would continue to develop new local and regional relationships with businesses that are willing to support our National Recognized Education Program Camp Sea Port. This program was designed and created to teach local high school students the Maritime Industry. Phase One of the camp is a one-week hands-on learning experience with the Coast Guard, Pilots, Longshoremen, Engineers, Seamen and Women, and many other maritime businesses. Phase Two of the camp is a six-week hands-on learning experience that uses the STEAMS elements to design and build a boat. Campers are assisted by Jefferson County AgriLife Services. They also learn how to prepare galley meals for ship crews during the six weeks. For 11 years now this has been the best way for The Port of Port Arthur to introduce the maritime industry to the new generation.
Mary Wycoff
Candidate
Occupation: Retired
City of residence: Port Arthur
Q: What do you think is the importance of the port to the community and the region?
A: The port is one of the most important aspects of Port Arthur. It makes us globally known due to its inter-coastal canal and docks. It allows us to create partnerships and conduct business with people all over the world. Most importantly its an asset to our community because it is a great source of revenue for our city and also creates several employment opportunities.
Q: What do you see as the purpose of a port commissioner and how would you try to fulfill it?
A: Port Commissioners are extremely important and much needed. Of course In all businesses there is a boss, president, committee or a governing board that makes sound decisions in the best interest of that specific entity to maintain order and success. There always has to be someone that oversees and reviews major decisions that arise.
Q: How would you approach introducing new generations to opportunities in the maritime industry?
A: I’m glad you asked that because increasing awareness is a major part of my platform. In speaking to community residents both younger and older I’ve noticed that there are plenty of people who have no knowledge of the port and what it has to offer. I plan to partner with other community boards such as the city and school board to collaborate on getting our new generation involved through new education programs and community events.
"port" - Google News
April 19, 2021 at 01:32AM
https://ift.tt/3gr5BhT
Voter Guide: Port of Port Arthur Port Commission Race - Beaumont Enterprise
"port" - Google News
https://ift.tt/2VXul6u
https://ift.tt/2WmIhpL
No comments:
Post a Comment