March 12, 2026 – Port Mansfield, TX – The Willacy County Navigation District (WCND) and Port Mansfield Utility District are pleased to announce 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. As Director, Montoya will guide the WCND and the development of the Port of Port Mansfield for the interests of the communities in Willacy County. With over 38 years of distinguished experience in law enforcement, emergency management, and municipal governance, Montoya brings a proven track record of leadership that will guide the port into a new era of sustainable growth and community-focused development.
As demand for port access surges in neighboring facilities such as the Port of Brownsville, Port of Harlingen, and Port of Corpus Christi, Montoya's expertise will be instrumental in enhancing the Port of Port Mansfield's resources. His background includes managing multimillion-dollar budgets, coordinating multi-agency partnerships, and implementing policies that prioritize public safety and economic progress. Notably, as Mayor of Mercedes, Texas, since November 2020, Montoya oversaw an $18 million municipal budget, leading infrastructure projects in roadway development, water management, and emergency response systems. He strengthened inter-local agreements with local, state, and federal entities to foster community services and economic initiatives.
In his role at the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office since 2014, where he serves as Division Chief, Montoya has managed a $100 million budget while leading investigations into major crimes, serving as SWAT Commander for high-risk operations. His six years as Director of Hidalgo County Emergency Management equipped him with skills in disaster preparedness and response, critical for a coastal port vulnerable to hurricanes, floods, and other hazards. Montoya's tenure as Security Director at Lone Star National Bank further honed his abilities in risk management, reducing fraud losses by 50% through data analysis and security enhancements.
Under Montoya's direction, the Port of Port Mansfield will focus on balanced growth for Willacy County that integrates commerce, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. Upcoming projects include harbor infrastructure upgrades to accommodate increased recreational and commercial traffic, environmental impact assessments to protect local ecosystems, and community outreach programs to ensure transparent decision-making. These initiatives will promote sustainable development, such as eco-friendly dredging and partnerships with state agencies for coastal resilience.
"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 progress for Willacy County, mindful of the needs of our local harbor community."
Montoya holds a Master Peace Officer Certification, is a UTRGV Certified Public Manager, and studied Criminal Justice at Pan American University. For more information about the Port of Port Mansfield or to contact the Director's office, visit www.portofportmansfield.com or call (956) 689-3332.
