The Willacy County Navigation District (WCND) Board of Commissioners convened its regular monthly meeting on October 22, 2025, in Raymondville, Texas, showcasing a commitment to open governance, collaborative decision-making, and forward progress on port development. Chaired by Erik Kennedy, the session featured robust public participation, candid discussions among commissioners, and unanimous votes on critical items, reinforcing the board's unified stance on economic initiatives while preserving Port Mansfield's community character.
Public Engagement Sets Transparent Tone
The meeting opened with public comments, highlighting the board's accessibility. A community member raised concerns about perceived harassment during an incorporation meeting on October 19, where vehicles received abandoned vehicle stickers despite active use. The speaker also sought clarity on the queuing yard's purpose amid rumors of non-container uses. Commissioners listened attentively without interruption, committing to address the issues—including coordination with local law enforcement—and dispel misinformation by affirming the yard's role in supporting sensible port commerce. This exchange underscored the board's emphasis on dialogue and rumor mitigation.
Unified Affirmation of Economic Development
A pivotal agenda item addressed recent petitions to reduce WCND boundaries, sparked by external plans presented to county and state officials. Chairman Kennedy clarified that his individual efforts were not board-endorsed, prompting open debate. Commissioners Stacey Reyes, Alberto Trevino, Lefty Cavasos, and Steve Kendrick stressed that no action represents the district without agenda inclusion and a vote. Despite personal views, the board agreed the navigation district "isn't broken" and must protect taxpayers countywide. Reyes and Cavasos advocated for collaboration to balance Port Mansfield's fishing heritage with job-creating commerce, while Kendrick noted the district's historical reliance on the port.
The discussion culminated in the adoption of Resolution 003-2025, affirming support for responsible economic development, port initiatives, and business growth via a public relations firm. Trevino, the resolution's author, emphasized "sensible" commerce over large-scale projects, with lessons learned informing vetting processes. All commissioners minus one voted aye, signaling consensus on strategic plan adherence and shared vision.
Key Actions and Operational Updates
Previous Minutes and Leases: Approved prior meeting minutes and all residential/commercial lease transfers without dissent.
Newport Subdivision Promotion: Commissioners directed Port Director Ron Mills to formally solicit real estate agents via letters and website posting for presentations at the next meeting, ensuring fair, transparent selection to market remaining lots (16 of 47 sold).
Port Director's Report: Mills updated on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredging, now enhanced with additional funding for rock breakwaters and sediment containment. Challenges in Eastport subdivision easements (AEP utility overlaps reducing buildable space) were flagged for resolution, potentially by reversing lot orientations. Defective queuing yard pilings from 2022 will be fixed by the original contractor at no cost to WCND, leveraging bonds.
WCND Resolution 003-2025: Affirmation of the current mission and focus of the Willacy County Navigation District being in continuity with it’s founding purpose, agreed and voted into record by majority vote.
Financials: Checks, vouchers, and budget reports were approved unanimously, with healthy cash flows and TxDOT reimbursements covering major invoices.
Port Director Resignation: During the executive session, Ron Mills submitted his notice of resignation. The Board accepted the resignation.
The meeting adjourned to executive session for legal and personnel matters, returning without further public action. Overall, the WCND Board exemplified transparent governance through agenda-driven decisions, inclusive debate, and collective resolve to advance port vitality while honoring community input—proving unity in pursuit of Willacy County's economic future.
