By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the PRESS
The Port Isabel–San Benito Navigation District Board of Commissioners met on November 6, 2025, moving forward on key administrative and community-focused matters. After approving minutes from the prior meeting, commissioners reviewed routine bills which were approved following clarification from staff. Quarterly and monthly financial reports were presented but tabled until the next meeting to allow commissioners more time for review.
Port Director Victor Barrera received approval to attend the Texas Secretary of State’s Election Law Seminar in Round Rock from Dec. 1–3. The director’s report highlighted recent building weatherproofing, grounds cleanup, pest control, and equipment maintenance; coordination with TxDOT and Cameron County Public Works regarding speed control measures; and ongoing tenant housekeeping improvements.
A major compliance action came with the adoption of a revised Title VI nondiscrimination plan. Mr. Caso, legal counsel, noted the plan had been streamlined to remove costly or impractical requirements while ensuring TxDOT compliance . He explained that the revised version ensured that the district meets federal civil rights standards through clear translation notices, assistance language, and proper contract clauses.
Commissioners also heard updates on the district’s acreage and upcoming survey needs. One of the most robust discussions centered on a proposed 200–300 ton travel lift, priced between $800,000 and $1.78 million. Commissioners noted the substantial regional demand for such a lift, particularly among shrimpers from Port Isabel, South Padre Island, Palacios, and Louisiana. Several remarked that shrimp-boat owners routinely travel long distances for haul-out and bottom work. “They would come over here in a minute,” one commissioner said, suggesting the lift could attract steady business and open a new revenue stream for the port. The item was tabled as negotiations continue.
The meeting’s most impassioned moment came during a discussion on supporting local youth programs. Commissioner Morales urged the board to act, stating that many children often place others before themselves. He described past events where kids used donated funds to buy food for pets or fishing gear to spend time with family, adding, “If you could see what these children buy… it’s a tear-jerker.”
In response, the board unanimously approved allocating $2,500 per commissioner for youth-oriented programs, including “Shop with a Cop,” provided the donations include promotional recognition for the district.
After confirming representatives to the regional Metropolitan Planning Organization and approving new lease agreements in executive session, the board scheduled its next meeting for Nov. 20 at 5:30 p.m.
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