A 2017 legislative briefing was provided by the government relations department for the Port of Houston Authority’s Small Business Advisory Council during its quarterly meeting that was held Nov. 7.

Commissioner John Kennedy led the meeting with the support of the port’s small business outreach department in a discussion related to promoting small businesses in Harris County. Port Authority Senior Director of Small Business and Maritime Education Gilda Ramirez provided an update on recent port engagement activities and events.

Port Authority Government Relations Director Spencer Chambers discussed state and federal policy priorities for the port, and highlighted the ongoing efforts to secure the necessary resources to dredge and maintain the Houston Ship Channel.  Also mentioned was the Texas Legislature’s efforts to study ports to determine how the state can best support these economic engines.

Commissioner Kennedy highlighted the importance of focusing on freight mobility for future infrastructure improvements, particularly to support growing exports, such as plastic resins, as well as increase cargo efficiency.

Pasadena Chamber of Commerce President Cristina Womack provided an update on the nonprofit organization’s operational activities, including member engagement, a new branding effort and education initiatives.

The council is made of industry professionals and agencies including the City of Houston, Metropolitan Transit Authority, U.S. Small Business Administration and Houston Minority Supplier Development Council.