Willacy County Navigation District Board of Commissioners
The Commissioners of the Willacy County Navigation District (WCND) proudly serve as stewards of the Port of Port Mansfield, ensuring its growth benefits the entire Willacy County community. They oversee one of Willacy County’s most valuable coastal assets, working to keep the Harbor a vibrant center for commerce, recreation, and environmental protection.
Eric Kennedy, Chairman, who holds the At-Large position, representing the entirety of Willacy County and working tirelessly for their specific precincts are Ernesto “Lefty” Cavazos in Precinct 1, Stacey Reyes in Precinct 2, Steve Kendrick in Precinct 3, and Alberto Treviño in Precinct 4. Their leadership goes beyond managing maritime activity. The Commissioners focus on improving infrastructure, encouraging sustainable development, creating jobs, and preserving the region’s natural beauty. By partnering with government agencies, businesses, and local residents, they help the Port of Port Mansfield drive economic opportunity while safeguarding Willacy County’s coastal heritage for future generations.
Eric Kennedy
Chairman, At Large
Ernesto (Lefty) Cavazos
Member, Precinct 1
Stacey Reyes
Secretary, Precinct 2
Steve Kendrick
Member, Precinct 3
Alberto Trevino
Member Precinct 4
Port Mansfield Public Utility District
The Port Mansfield Public Utility District (PUD) powers our coastal community by delivering essential services like water, sewer, waste management, and harbor maintenance—keeping Port Mansfield clean, connected, and thriving for residents, mariners, and visitors alike.
Members
Doug Trapp
President
Michael Bourne
Secretary
David Alaniz
Member
Scott Hess
Member
Neil Machen
Member
Willacy County Navigation District Board Votes 3-1 to Appoint Oscar Montoya Sr. as New Executive Director of the Port of Port Mansfield
March 25, 2026 – Port Mansfield, TX– In a special meeting held today, the Board of Commissioners of the Willacy County Navigation District (WCND) voted 3-1 to move forward with the appointment of Oscar Montoya Sr. as the new Executive Director of the Willacy County Navigation District and General Manager of the Port Mansfield Utility District.
The board's decision confirms the selection of Montoya to guide the WCND and the development of the Port of Port Mansfield in the best interests of the communities of Willacy County. With more than 38 years of distinguished experience in law enforcement, emergency management, and municipal governance, Montoya brings a proven track record of leadership that will help steer the port into a new era of sustainable growth and community-focused development.
As demand for port access continues to surge at neighboring facilities such as the Port of Brownsville, Port of Harlingen, and Port of Corpus Christi, Montoya’s expertise will play a key role in strengthening the Port of Port Mansfield’s resources and capabilities. His background includes managing multimillion-dollar budgets, coordinating multi-agency partnerships, and implementing policies that prioritize public safety and economic progress.
Under Montoya’s leadership, the Port of Port Mansfield will emphasize balanced growth for Willacy County that integrates commerce, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. Precinct 2 Commissioner Stacey Reyes comments “I’m excited to welcome his experience and leadership, and I’m ready to get to work with him and my fellow commissioners. I’m confident our communities will see the value he brings, and I encourage everyone to Support our new Port Director”. Key upcoming initiatives include harbor infrastructure upgrades to accommodate growing recreational and commercial traffic, environmental impact assessments to protect local ecosystems, eco-friendly dredging practices, and partnerships with state agencies for coastal resilience. Community outreach programs will also ensure transparent decision-making throughout the process.
“Oscar Montoya’s executive leadership and proficiency in multi-agency coordination make him the ideal choice to lead our port forward,” said a WCND spokesperson. “His commitment to transparent governance and strategic planning will drive meaningful progress for Willacy County while remaining mindful of the needs of our local harbor community.”
Director Montoya holds a Master Peace Officer Certification, is a UTRGV Certified Public Manager, and studied Criminal Justice at Pan American University. Director Montoya’s response to the decision “I want to thank GOD for HIS guidance. I appreciate the Board of Directors for their confidence in me to work along side them for the progress of our Navigation and Public Utilities District”.
The Willacy County Navigation District invites all residents of Willacy County and the broader Port Mansfield community to learn more about the important role of the WCND in managing the Port of Port Mansfield and supporting economic and environmental stewardship. We encourage you to get involved, share your ideas, and help build a stronger, more vibrant port that benefits everyone. For more information about the Port of Port Mansfield, upcoming projects, or ways to support our efforts, visit www.portofportmansfield.com or call (956) 689-3332.
