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May/June 2009
THE PORT
OF HOUSTON
Secure
HOUSTON SHIP CHANNEL SECURITY DISTRICT APPROVED
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May/June 2009
A bi-monthly publication.
CONTENTS
12
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Emergency Response Plan
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New PHA emergency
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GISTICS SE
response plan to be
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MMAND SE FINANCE S
NIMS compliant PL
AN
NING SEC
TIO
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R AT I O N S S E
16
20
A TWIC in Time
COVER STORY
Houston Ship Channel Security District:
A Vision Becomes Reality
24 Ensuring a Strong
Perimeter Involves
More than Geometry
IN EVERY ISSUE
30
Who Works at the Port
Bill Crews’ new crew: the
6 A Message from the port security and emergency
Acting Executive Director operations team
8 The Manifest
PHA news highlights
33 Business Connections
Pasadena Chamber of Commerce:
Partnering for prosperity
34 Spotlight on Small Business
Eagle I Security, LLC keeps
eagle eye on PHA
Executive Office
Port of Houston Authority
111 East Loop North
P.O. Box 2562
Houston, TX 77252-2562
THE PORT OF HOUSTON Phone: 713-670-2400
Fax: 713-670-2429
AUTHORIT Y Acting Executive Director
Wade M. Battles
General Counsel
Erik A. Eriksson
Acting Director of Administration
Thomas J. Heidt
James T. Edmonds Director of Facilities
Chairman James B. Jackson
Director of Public Affairs
Argentina M. James
Director of Operations
Jimmy M. Jamison
Director of Planning and Environment
Charlie Jenkins
Steve Phelps Acting Director of Trade Development
Commissioner Ricky W. Kunz
Director of Small Business Development
Gilda Ramirez
Harris County Auditor
Barbara J. Schott
Field Offices
James W. Fonteno, Jr. New York
Commissioner
Keith L. Miceli
Eastern Trade Development Manager
3 Executive Drive, Suite 325
Somerset, New Jersey 08873
Phone: 732-748-3354
Fax: 732-748-3387
E-mail: kmiceli@poha.com
Kase L. Lawal
Commissioner
Central & South America Brazil
(excluding Brazil) John C. Cuttino
Arturo Gamez Brazil Representative
Central & South America Representative Port of Houston Authority
Avenida Aquilino De La Guardia y Calle 47 Av. Brigadeiro Faria Lima, 3729
Ocean Business Plaza Building, Mezzanine 5th Floor
Panama, Republic of Panama Sao Paulo, SP Brazil, CEP: 04538-905
Tel.: +(507)340-0205 Tel. +55 (11) 3323-5878
Fax: +1-281-754-4647 Fax +55 (11) 3323-5916
Jimmy A. Burke Email: agamez@poha.com Houston Access (832) 239-5076
Commissioner email: jcuttino@poha.com
Port of Houston Magazine’s editorial staff: Argentina James,
director of public affairs • Lisa Ashley-Whitlock, communications manager
• Maggi Stewart, senior publications specialist • Edwin Henry, publications
specialist • David Bray, photographer • Chris Kuhlman, photographer •
Esther de Ipolyi, freelance writer • Gilbreath Communications, Inc. •
D’Artagnan Bebel II, summer intern.
Janiece Longoria This publication is not copyrighted and permission is given for the reproduction
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
Commissioner or use of any original materials, provided credit is given to the Port of Houston
Authority. Additional information, address changes, extra copies, or advertising
specifications may be obtained by writing to the Port of Houston Magazine.
The Port of Houston Magazine is published by the Port of
Houston Authority, P.O. Box 2562, Houston, Texas 77252-2562,
and is distributed free to maritime, industrial and transportation interests
@
in the United States and foreign countries.
Visit the Port of Houston Authority online
Elyse Lanier
Commissioner
www.portofhouston.com
4
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Communications Systems
Patrolling
Security
Staff Training
Protect
Actively Engaged
A MESSAgE FROM
ThE ACTINg ExECUTIVE DIRECTOR
WADE M. BATTlES
How do you ensure a safe and secure port? It’s a monumental job, requiring the
efforts of everyone at the Port of Houston Authority.
In Houston, it means ensuring the safety and security of the people who
work at the port and the community surrounding it as well as the more than
150 public and private facilities along the ship channel.
Since the September 2001 attacks, maritime security has become a multi-layered process in terms of
both people and security measures. It involves everyone from shippers to U.S. Coast Guard and
Customs officials, Port Police, and the many stakeholders that make up the port, including the adjacent
community and industry.
Layered security involves deploying mul-
tiple security measures, such as sophisticated
camera systems linked with the U.S. Coast
Guard, the use of credentials, such as the
recently implemented TWIC program, mod-
ern patrol boats and state-of-the-art commu-
nication systems, linked with stakeholders.
It means empowering employees by
enhancing their “maritime domain aware-
ness” and conducting ongoing training
programs for staff, security personnel and
all port users.
PHA’s multi-layered approach goes beyond
the three Gs: guns, guards and gates. We
increased intelligence and information
sharing and strengthened our relation-
ships with law enforcement in adjacent
communities and facilities.
Through partnering, we are able to
share security data from the U.S. Coast
Guard, the city of Houston, Harris County
and Houston TranStar, a partnership of
governmental agencies that provides
transportation management and emer-
gency management services to the region.
Maritime security today requires that
ports comply with the standards and regu-
lations developed by the Department of Homeland Security On June 9, a historic milestone occurred when the Harris
(DHS). We must conduct security or vulnerability assess- County Commissioners Court officially approved the dis-
ments of our port facilities, looking at both strengths and trict after a resolution was presented. A majority of ship
weaknesses. A facilities security plan must be approved by channel industries had signed a petition requesting its
the U.S. Coast Guard and updated every five years. creation. The district will manage the maintenance and
Having a security plan also helps in responding to weather operations costs of security along the ship channel, using
incidents. After Hurricane Ike, we were able to re-open PHA approximately $4 million annually from PHA and private
in only five days because we had a plan in place. We were sector businesses.
able to use our security infrastructure, including the Port Initiated after 9/11, the DHS’ Port Security Grant
Communications Center, equipped with satellite communi- Program provides grant funding to port areas to protect
cations and Internet access, to respond to the effects of the critical port infrastructure from terrorism. To date, PHA
hurricane and communicate with other port stakeholders. has been awarded a total of $38.6 million in these federal
Cooperation with public and private stakeholders grants. In FY2009, the Houston-Galveston port area will
along the ship channel is essential. PHA meets regularly receive $32.3 million in new federal assistance under the
with such groups as the Houston-Galveston Navigation grant program that is providing ports almost $389 million
Safety Advisory Committee (HOGANSAC), the East nationwide. A portion will be disbursed to PHA for its
Harris County Manufacturers Association (EHCMA), security projects.
the Channel Industries Mutual Aid (CIMA) and the Congress established the federal Transportation
Area Maritime Security Council (AMSC), to share Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program
security information and develop response and recovery in 2002, under the DHS, to ensure that any individual
procedures for security incidents. who requires unescorted access to restricted areas of port
By working together with the U.S. Coast Guard, the facilities and vessels has received a thorough federal
lead agency in protecting the waterways; U.S. Customs and background check and is not a security threat. PHA
Border Protection, the lead in cargo security and screening, successfully implemented TWIC on April 14, the
local law enforcement and stakeholders along the ship chan- compliance deadline for the U.S. Houston-Galveston
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
nel, PHA can better monitor port security. sector. In fact, two PHA facilities, Care and Barbours
Another prime example of cooperative relationships, Cut terminals, were spot-inspected by the U.S. Coast
the Houston Ship Channel Security District is a public- Guard and found to have no deficiencies.
private partnership formed to address the challenge of With security, the more things change, the more they
how to fund the continued operation and maintenance change. Needs are continually evolving. Equipment and
expenses of security devices such as closed-circuit TV procedures as well as people and training need to be con-
cameras, patrol boats and virtual fences that were acquired stantly evaluated. We must all be actively engaged in order
through the federal funding program. for the process to be successful. We cannot do it alone. n
7
THE MANIFEST pha news highlights
TExAS DELEGATION SECURES $98.3 MILLION IN
STIMULUS FUNDING FOR SHIP CHANNEL
Port of Houston Authority officials are applauding to the second-largest petrochemical complex in the
the efforts of the bipartisan Texas Congressional world and accommodating 225 million tons of cargo
Delegation, led by U.S. Rep Gene Green, which annually, remains adequately maintained. In turn, the
resulted in the designation of $98.3 million in funding will help to strengthen the port’s stimulus to
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act the economy, by contributing 1.5 million direct and
(ARRA) funds to a vital waterways project. The del- indirect jobs and $285 billion of economic activity
egation’s efforts provide important relief to years of to the nation.
under-funded infrastructure projects at the Houston
Ship Channel.
The stimulus funding serves as one of the largest-
ever single allocations of federal funding for the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) to construct,
operate and maintain the HSC. The Administration
is also to be commended for providing stimulus
funding that goes a long way toward closing a five-
year shortfall of HSC funds.
The Texas Delegation advocated aggressively for
funding to ensure that the Port of Houston, home
AAPA PORT SECURITY SEMINAR & ExPO SET FOR HOUSTON JULY 22–24
The American Association of Port Authorities’ operation centers; port security project integra-
(AAPA) 13th Port Security Seminar and Exhibition tors; and commercial operations of Customs and
will be held in Houston July 22–24 at the Westin Oaks Border Protection.
and co-sponsored by the Port of Houston Authority. Among the featured speakers will be PHA Acting
The seminar will focus on security and safety Executive Director Wade M. Battles, who will discuss
challenges confronting public seaport agencies the National Maritime Security Advisory Committee
and marine terminal operators throughout the (NMSC), on which he serves as chairman, and Tom
Western Hemisphere. Schroeter, PHA associate general counsel, on legal
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
The event will also feature a day-long exhibition challenges in port security.
on July 23 to showcase the latest security trends,
technologies and products in the seaport industry.
This year’s seminar will be hands-on and interac-
tive, with in-depth discussion on such topics as the
FEMA Seaport Security Grant Program; emergency
8
THE MANIFEST pha news highlights
TSU, PHA PARTNER ON UNIqUE MARITIME DEGREE PROGRAM
Texas Southern University is partnering with the Understanding, the funds will be primarily allocated
Port of Houston Authority (PHA) on a new degree to develop, promote, recruit and graduate students
program in maritime transportation management from the Maritime Transportation Management and
and security. The first such program at any Security Program at Texas Southern University.
Historically Black College and University
in the nation will address three highly
prioritized national transportation needs:
logistics, security and environment.
Preparing graduates in this proposed
degree program is not only important
to the regional economy but also sig-
nificant to meeting the workforce needs
of the Port of Houston as well as the
maritime industry.
Pictured are Dr. Lei Yu, chairman of TSU Department of Transportation; Tim Mealey,
PHA has committed $2 million to assistant principal and director of the Maritime Program at Austin High School; Dr.
the program over a two-year period. John M. Rudley, TSU president; Port Commissioner Elyse Lanier; Dr. Sunny Ohia, TSU
provost; Dr. Carol Lewis, director of Transportation Research Center; Dr. Kase Lawal,
As outlined in a Memorandum of port commissioner; and Robert Mumphreys, principal of Yates High School.
FORMER COMMISSIONER GILLETTE DIES
Robert L. Gillette, funding to widen and deepen the Houston Ship
who served as a Port of Channel. He was an active participant in promoting
Houston commissioner the port authority’s business, attending trade sessions
for 12 years, died on around the world, riding with the Houston Pilots and
May 8 at the age of 92. giving out more than 100 maiden voyage plaques.
Gillette was elected Born in Jackson, Michigan, in 1916, Gillette
a commissioner of moved to Houston with his parents when he was
the Port of Houston 10 years old. He attended the University of Texas,
Authority by the Harris and while employed as an office boy at the Humble
Robert L. Gillette County Mayors and Company, he found his life’s purpose, enrolling in
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
Councils Association in 1987 after retiring from night classes at South Texas School of Law and meet-
41 years of private law practice in Baytown with ing Sue Alexander, his wife of 67 years.
the firm of Reid, Strickland, and Gillette. His elec- Robert Gillette was a prominent civic leader in
tion as commissioner of the port authority fulfilled a Baytown and Harris County for more than 60 years,
longtime dream and he served until 1999. serving as president of the Baytown Chamber of
In his capacity as a PHA commissioner, Gillette Commerce, the Lee College Foundation and the
was instrumental in lobbying Congress to secure Baytown Area Water Authority.
9
THE MANIFEST pha news highlights
EAST END CHAMBER’S PORT APPRECIATION DAY
CELEBRATES PORT’S CONTRIBUTIONS
Annually, more than 8,000 vessels call at
the port, which is ranked first in the United
States in foreign waterborne tonnage and
second in total tonnage.
The event also honored the Port of
Houston Authority’s excellent leadership.
PHA has a continuing partnership with the
East End Chamber to create new opportuni-
Presented with specially designed plates in recognition of Port Appreciation
Day are PHA Commissioner Jimmy Burke, PHA Chairman James T. Edmonds,
ties for area businesses.
PHA Commissioners Jim Fonteno, Elyse Lanier and Steve Phelps and PHA “We can be proud of achieving our ninth
Acting Executive Director Wade Battles. consecutive year of operating revenue growth dur-
The East End Chamber of Commerce hosted ing an economic downturn, as well as withstand-
Port Appreciation Day on May 13 in recognition of ing a major hurricane,” said PHA Chairman James
the port’s significant contribution as the No. 1 eco- T. Edmonds. “Just as the city of Houston itself is
nomic engine in the state. tending to move counter to the rest of the nation’s
The Port of Houston’s connection with the East trend toward recession, the port has been enjoying its
End goes back nearly a century. strongest export activity in years.”
pOrt peOple delivering the gOOds
LETTERS TO THE PORT OF HOUSTON
Greetings,
I want to thank you for allowing the students of Cullen Middle School to experience the Port
of Houston Boat Tour on April 7, 2009. We were running a bit late and the staff made sure the boat waited
for us that morning. The students enjoyed the tour greatly. We know that our students can be a handful
but your wonderful staff handled our students with care.Thank you once again for your time.
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
Ms. M. McCain
Cullen Middle School
THE MANIFEST spotlights news briefs exclusively from PHA, its customers, trading partners, and community
stakeholders. Submit information in the form of a letter or press release via e-mail to ehenry@poha.com or via fax
713-670-2425. The Port of Houston Magazine does not guarantee publication and reserves the right to edit submissions
10 for content and style.
New PHA emergeNcy resPoNse PlAN to be NIms comPlIANt
Allows systematic, proactive to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s NIMS
approach to incidents Resource Center.
NIMS works hand-in-hand with the National Response
The Port of Houston Authority (PHA) is revamping its Framework (NRF), the Resource Center reports. NIMS
Emergency Response Plan to be more consistent with provides the template for the management of incidents,
National Incident Management System (NIMS) guide- while the NRF provides the structure and mechanisms for
lines, says Bill Crews, PHA port security and national-level policy for incident management.
emergency operations manager. The new plan, which Crews expects to be completed
“The problem we have with the by mid-summer or August, will give PHA a viable,
present plan is that it is not NIMS- universally recognized system for emergency manage-
focused,” Crews says. “We’ve enlisted ment/response teams to work collectively by offering a
the services of a consultant who has done Bill Crews consistent and common approach to preparedness,
a gap analysis (measuring the present plan training, coordination and implementation of crisis
against the target plan and identifying the gaps between management techniques.
them). Once we’ve assembled that data, it will be Once the plan is implemented, PHA emergency
distributed to all the section leaders and the new plan response teams will be indoctrinated through a series of
will be finalized.” preparedness resources consisting of a continuous cycle
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
NIMS provides a systematic, proactive approach to of planning, organizing, training, equipping, exercising,
guide departments and agencies at all levels of govern- evaluating and taking corrective action. These efforts
ment, nongovernmental organizations, and the private are designed to ensure coordination during times of
sector to work seamlessly to prevent, protect against, crisis and facilitate efficient and effective emergency
respond to, recover from, and mitigate the effects of management and incident response.
incidents, regardless of cause, size, location, or “The plan will involve periodic training exer-
complexity, in order to reduce the loss of life and cises,” Crews says. “You have to exercise your plan or it
property and harm to the environment, according won’t work.”
12
There are six components included
in NIMS:
• Command and Management
• Preparedness
• Resource Management
• Communications and Information Management
• Supporting Technologies
• Ongoing Management and Maintenance
In addition, NIMS standard incident
command structures are based on three
key organizational systems:
• The Incident Command System (ICS)
• Multi-agency Coordination (MAC) System
• Public Information Systems
If a natural incident, such as a severe ICS provides the disciplines and orga-
weather event, or man-made incident, such as a nizational flexibility to handle all forms
chemical spill, explosion or terrorist attack, were of incidents or crisis situations, regard-
to threaten PHA facilities, PHA’s ICS would be immedi- less of size or scope; allows personnel from various
ately implemented. agencies or organizations to rapidly meld into a
An ICS consists of organizational hierarchy and common management structure with common termi-
procedures for the management of the overall incident(s) nology – thereby eliminating communication or chain-
and the means to control personnel, facilities, equipment of-command conflicts; provides logistical and
and communications. The system is designed to be used administrative support to operational staff; and, by
or applied from the time an incident occurs until the time eliminating the duplication of efforts, is cost-effective.
the situation is resolved. The Port Commission of the Port of Houston
Authority is situated atop the
Four-Tiered Organizational Structure four-tiered organizational struc-
ture of PHA’s proposed new plan,
followed by the Executive
Liaison – PHA Acting Executive
Director Wade Battles—and
N
the Command Section, which is
IO
COMM
ISS headed by Crews.
On a peer, and somewhat
S
autonomous level, rests the
N
O
N
CO I
M M U N I C AT
O
IS
EXE IA
CUTIVE L
Communications Section, headed
by PHA Public Affairs Director
N
LO CT
IO Argentina James.
GISTICS SE
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
For general staff sections of
the Incident Command System
N
– Operations, headed by PHA
IO
N
I T
O
CT EC
CO
MMAND SE FINANCE S
Operations Director Jimmy
Jamison; Planning Section,
PL N headed by PHA Director of
AN TIO
NING SEC
Planning and Environment
Charlie Jenkins; Finance
N
TI
O
O
PE C
R AT I O N S S E
13
Section, headed by PHA Acting Director of organizations seeking information directly from the inci-
Administration Tom Heidt, and Logistics Section, dent or event.
headed by PHA Acting Director of Trade Development Because of the universality and flexibility of the NIMS
Ricky Kunz – fall under Crews’ command in case of system, any threat or incident that spreads beyond the
a crisis. PHA footprint can be addressed through the meshing of
Jamison’s team, under NIMS guidelines, is responsible other agencies under a Unified Command System (UCS)
for tactical operations, developing tactical objectives and and Joint Information Center (JIC).
organization and directing all tactical operations. As the groundwork for the new emergency response
Jenkins’ team, under NIMS guidelines, prepares and plan jells, one constant Crews is sure of – is the mettle
documents PHA’s Incident Action Plan (IAP), col- of his ground troops, which was tested during the mid-
lects and evaluates information, maintains the status of September onslaught of Hurricane Ike last year.
resources and maintains documentation for the incident “Everybody stepped up to the plate during Ike,” he says.
records. “Our entire (Port) police department reported for duty,
Kunz’s team, under NIMS guidelines, is responsible for with the exception of one officer whose family was forced
ensuring that assigned incident personnel are fed, have to evacuate. Many of them worked 24 hours straight and
communications, medical support and transportation as beyond. Not one of them complained that anything we
needed to meet the operational objectives. asked of them ‘wasn’t my job.’ n
Management of all costs related to the incident and
responsibility for providing accounting, procurement, “their dedication enabled us to have the assets
time recording and cost analyses rest with Heidt’s team, in place to assess damage after the hurricane
under NIMS guidelines. and immediately move into recovery ”mode.”
James’ team serves as the conduit between internal and – bill crews, PHA port security and emergency
external stakeholders, including the news media or other operations manager.
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IN THE PORT OF HOUSTON MAGAzINE
The Port of Houston is expanding and your company could be a part of this growth in 2009! With the first
phase of the Bayport terminal now operating, the Port of Houston is becoming one of the fastest-growing
cargo and cruise ports in the world. The Port of Houston Magazine is a perfect marketing venue to capture
your segment in this growing market.
Targeted Circulation 12,500
With a targeted circulation of 12,500 readers for the Port of Houston Magazine, you can be assured that the subscribers are actively doing
business within the Port of Houston community. This is a well-read publication that will showcase your company and deliver your message
to market.
Who are these 12,500? Local, national and international senior level executives who are port tenants, manufacturers, shipping lines,
freight forwarders, shippers, media contacts, international trade organizations and prospects ... with additional distribution at the port’s
numerous trade conferences, exhibitions and community events. For extended reach and circulation, The Port of Houston Magazine is
also published online at www.portofhouston.com.
Capitalize on this invaluable branding resource and you’re sure to reach your ultimate decision-makers throughout the year.
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A
TWIC
The recent implementation of TWIC – the federal Transportation
Worker Identification Credential – has added one more vital layer
of security to the Port of Houston Authority, and thanks to a
multidepartmental effort of coordination, the process was as
smooth as the glossy card itself.
in Time
Established by the Department of Homeland Security Crews and Turning Basin Terminal
after 9/11, the TWIC program aims to ensure that indi- Manager Walt Kleczkowski.
viduals who potentially pose a threat do not gain une- In the last four months before
scorted access to secure areas of the nation’s maritime implementation, they met
transportation system. The TWIC is a “smart card,” weekly; and they are still meet-
which contains the worker’s name, photo and biometric ing, but biweekly, to attend to
information (fingerprint template). To obtain a TWIC, an any remaining issues.
individual must successfully pass a federal security threat “All PHA facilities became
assessment conducted by the Transportation Security TWIC compliant on April
Administration (TSA), which looks at criminal back- 14, the deadline for the U.S.
ground, immigrant status, terrorist watch list screening as Houston-Galveston sector,”
well as mental capacity. Jimmy Jamison, director of opera-
As with most successes, implementing TWIC at PHA tions, reported at the May 19 Port Commission meeting.
took months of thorough planning and discussions. “Several PHA facilities have been audited by the Coast
“We hashed out every possible scenario for customers Guard since that date without issues.”
and stakeholders who enter the port,” says Bill Crews, Jamison also praised what he called a true team effort,
port security and emergency operations manager. “We requiring assistance from most, if not all PHA divisions,
benefited a great deal in having done outreach to tenants, and thanked tenants, users, labor officials and all employ-
port stakeholders and labor.” ees on port facilities for their cooperation.
“The multifunctional team within the port worked on the “Ensuring a safe and secure port is a top priority of the
issues and talked out the ‘what-if’s,’” says Tom Schroeter, PHA Port of Houston Authority,” says Wade M. Battles, PHA
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
associate legal counsel. “Part of the effort was communicating acting executive director. “As part of that effort, we sup-
to all stakeholders, including PHA employees, tenants, truck- port the TWIC program. The program provides for the
ing companies, port users and members of the International issuance of a tamper-resistant identification card that can
Longshoremen’s Association.” be obtained only by individuals who pass an extensive fed-
Beginning about two years ago, representatives from eral background check. PHA has worked diligently over
executive office, operations, facilities, port security and the last few years preparing for the implementation and
emergency operations, legal, maintenance, engineering, we will also continue to work with the U.S. Coast Guard
human resources, public affairs and small business met to address any challenges and issues associated with the
regularly to prepare for TWIC implementation, led by startup of this program.”
16
Nationwide, one million individuals have enrolled in “TWIC is one of the layers of security that allow us to
TWIC. In the Houston region, those required to have control access to our port facilities,” says Schroeter, who
a TWIC include most PHA employees, longshoremen, remains as a resource person on compliance issues and
truckers, steamship lines personnel, stevedores and interpretation of regulations pertaining to TWIC. “It’s not
vendors. Individuals who are not required to have just having the card but a federal background check con-
TWICs are emergency responders, federal, state and ducted by the Transportation Security Administration.
local law enforcement officials, merchant marines with It’s part of our maritime domain awareness. And, like any
proper credentials, escorted persons and persons going to program, it’s a work in progress.”
public access areas. “Now that the implementation is past, it’s very evident
Anyone needing unescorted access to secure areas that things are settling down,” says Crews. “We have very
of PHA, as well as any other MTSA-regulated facility few outstanding issues.”
along the Houston Ship Channel, must either have a There have been occasional problems with individ-
TWIC or be escorted while on the property. A TWIC ual cards, but Crews says the card readers are now fully
is required throughout PHA’s Barbours Cut and Bayport activated and functioning.
container termi- “One issue at the beginning was having to turn away
nals and to the people at the gates who didn’t physically have their cards,”
waterfront areas he says. “We had to implement a process the U.S. Coast
of PHA’s Turning Guard developed called ‘Limited Security Measures,’
Basin terminal by checking the DHS database to see if the applicant
(that is, all areas had passed the threat assessment – at that time, a lot of
located on the them were ‘pending.’”
waterfront side of Providing an additional layer of protection is the
the fence separat- TWIC escort for individuals without TWICs who
ing the upper and must go to a restricted or secured area. PHA employees
lower levels) and with TWICs also take TWIC escort training as do
such other areas designated as “restricted” or “secured.” many of the tenants and companies that do business on
The Coast Guard will conduct checks, including using PHA’s lover level.
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
handheld card readers, to confirm the identity of TWIC TWIC is currently being used as a “flash pass” access
holders during regular inspections and unannounced card. The U.S. Coast Guard will announce a second rule
spot checks. as early as the end of the year about the next phase of
“TWIC adds another layer of security on an already implementation, which involves verifying the biometric
robust security system,” Crews says. “It gives us the through electronic card readers.
capability to know the people who are at the port While breathing a sigh of relief that TWIC is now
through our access controls. It’s not just an ID, people in place, Crews offers one last comment: “Just don’t
must go through a thorough background investigation. lose your card,” he says. “It costs $60 to replace it.”
Having a TWIC means that person has been vetted.” For more info on TWIC, go to www.tsa.gov/twic. n
17
The Making of the Houston
2007
Pictured are retired Executive Director Tom Kornegay,
PHA Commissioner Jim Fonteno, PHA Chairman James T.
Edmonds, PHA Commissioner Elyse Lanier, Gov. Rick Perry,
PHA Commissioners Janiece Longoria and Steve Phelps.
Texas Gov. Rick Perry ceremonially signs House Bill 3011,
authorizing creation of the Houston Ship Channel Security District.
2008
PHA Acting Executive Director Wade M. Battles
gives U.S. Rep. Peter King a tour of PHA’s Mobile
Command Center.
Harris Co. Judge Ed Emmett is briefed on
developments of the Houston Ship Chan-
nel Security District program.
U.S. Rep. Peter King (flanked by Sylvia Garcia,
Harris Co. Precinct 2 Commissioner, and PHA
Commissioner Janiece Longoria, got a first-
hand look at PHA’s security system during
a May 2008 visit.
1
Ship Channel Security District
2009
A press conference was held on June 10 at Harris County Commissioners Court to formally announce
the approval of the Houston Ship Channel Security District.
Sylvia Garcia, Commissioner,
Harris Co. Precinct 2, and Harris
Co. Sheriff Adrian Garcia
Harris County Judge Ed Emmett
Pat Bellamy, chair of Houston
Ship Channel Security Council
Port of Houston Captain of the Port William Diehl
speaks at HSCSD press conference.
2
Houston Ship Channel Security District:
A Vision Becomes Reality
A historic decision was made on June 9, turning a
longtime vision into reality with the official creation
of the Houston Ship Channel Security District, the nation’s
first of its kind. This unique entity, made up of public and
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
private stakeholders along the Houston Ship Channel,
will be a key element in ensuring a safe and secure
Port of Houston.
20
The district evolved from what might seem like a difficult Edmonds. “Its creation is important not just for the Port of
problem. How do you provide the optimum funding to Houston but the state of Texas. This public-private part-
protect more than 150 private and public facilities along nership will now serve as a security model for the nation
25 miles of a vital waterway? As one of the world’s largest to keep our ports, our region and our country safe.”
seaports, Port of Houston handles more foreign waterborne “Industry rose above every issue, persevering to make
tonnage than any other U.S. port, and the Houston Ship this happen,” says Pat Bellamy, who chairs the Houston
Channel, serving the nation’s fourth-largest city, is home Ship Channel Security Council. “A sign of the indus-
to the world’s second-largest petrochemical complex. try environment in the Houston region is if we say we
But the solution is a relatively simple one: partnership. are going to get something done, we do it – in this case,
Envisioned by PHA Chairman Jim Edmonds more despite a hurricane and an economic downturn.”
than two years ago, the district is designed to help The Houston Ship Channel Security District was
improve security within the Houston Ship Channel area officially established at the June 9 Harris County
by assisting with the local share and operations and main- Commissioners Court meeting. A petition to request
tenance of security infrastructure that benefits all users. the district’s approval was created about a year ago and
The approximately $4 million annual funding will come was signed by a majority of ship channel industries. The
from the port authority and private sector businesses on combined appraised value of the facilities that signed up
the ship channel. comprised more than 82 percent of the total value of all
The district boundaries include facilities with the the potential facilities in the district.
potential greatest impact from homeland security “The bottom line is that this security district makes
threats – East Harris County Manufacturers Association our local industry more secure from homeland security
(EHCMA) facilities and Maritime Transportation threats,” says Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. “Industry,
Security Act (MTSA)-regulated facilities. the port, Harris County, the University of Houston, and
“The district allows us to have a coordinated, system- other local government agencies are working together for
wide approach to security for the entire waterway,” says a safer and more secure region.”
21
A resolution was presented to and approved by matching dollars to fund specific security projects,
Commissioners Court at its 10 a.m. meeting. maintenance and operational services. Although
“This district creates a partnership that will defi- intended to prevent terrorism, the district also will deter
nitely produce results,” says Sylvia Garcia, commis- theft and other security and safety issues, such as hur-
sioner, Harris County Precinct 2. “The nature of securing ricanes, evacuations and plant upsets.
our region from harm is so complex that we need this Infrastructure improvements include wireless and fiber
district to ensure that we are all on the same page in optic-wired communications systems with integrated
providing the most comprehensive safety net with the analytics and intelligent video software: surveillance and
dollars we have.” detection cameras, including closed-circuit TV; night
With a focus on deterrents and prevention with vision and motion detection technology; land and water
high visibility, the district will leverage more than detection components, such as radar, sonar, and security
$30 million in federal grants to install technology and sensors; and enhanced radio communication.
security infrastructure, with operations, maintenance and Services include routine security capability, such as
marked patrol boats, patrol cars, all-terrain vehicles;
improved rapid response times; improved information
sharing, alerts and notifications plus quicker business
recovery capabilities; surveillance of security district
geography without infringement on privacy; and a con-
solidated, multi-agency operational and strategic com-
mand and control emergency response structure.
Member assessments as determined by the board
of directors will fall into categories based on various
criteria, including size and appraised value of facility;
number of employees; activity, traffic, tonnage, volume
throughput of operations; and security profile.
Two years in the making, the Houston Ship Channel
Security District was authorized by the Texas State
Legislature in its 80th biannual session in 2007 through HB
3011. The bill was authored by Texas State Rep. Wayne
Smith, sponsored by Texas State Sen. Mike Jackson and
co-authored in the House by state Reps. Rick Noriega,
John Davis and Ana Hernandez, and co-sponsored in the
Senate by Sen. Mario Gallegos.
PHA, Harris County, the private terminals represented
by EHCMA, the West Gulf Marine Association, University
of Houston and other security partners, supported the leg-
islation. The bill was officially signed by Governor Rick
Perry on June 15, 2007, shortly after it passed. Perry also
took part in a ceremonial signing at PHA headquarters in
August 2007.
The ultimate purpose of the district is to provide a
greater degree of security and safety for facilities, employees
and communities surrounding the Houston Ship Channel.
The security district is generally bounded by I-10, Hwy 225, SH 146 on
the east and the Turning Basin to the west. “We’re not just monitoring a thin line of water, but
patrolling facilities along the ship channel and the
BefoRe HSCSC, THeRe wAS PSSC
associated supply chain and support industry surround-
forerunner to the Houston Ship Channel Security Council was the
ing it,” says Bellamy, who is director of the University
of Houston’s Southwest Public Safety Technology Port Strategic Security Council (PSSC). The public-private group
Center. Bellamy explains in a simple analogy why the was formed after the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
district is so important: “Think of a flat piece of land officials accepted an invitation from U.S. Rep. Gene Green five years
dotted with ant mounds. Each one of those mounds ago to visit the Port of Houston and explain what criteria went into
represents PHA, individual industries along the ship determining how much in security grants ship channel industries
channel, various government entities and others. The would receive.
land that separates the mounds has little or no security.
while facility-by-facility security programs are good at protecting
We have to better protect land and water between the
each facility, it was determined that port security grants were
ant beds by protecting what’s in between – basically
our effort serves as the ‘glue’ that connects all of these needed to implement a security approach integrated throughout
mounds into what will become one common security the whole port complex.
system down the road.” PSSC was established to address these concerns and seek funding
The next step is election of the 11-member board for and implement security projects within the U.S. Coast Guard
of directors, which will manage the district. The direc-
Captain of the Port’s area of responsibility in Harris County.
tors serve staggered two-year terms, eight are elected
working with experts in port security, PSSC developed a list
from manufacturing/maritime industry membership
of projects to systematically improve security in the Houston
and three are appointed members. Two representatives
Ship Channel area. The PSSC soon recognized that a mechanism
of each of the four zones will be selected by a majority
of facility owners within each zone. Other directors are was needed to allow the county, the facilities, and others to
a representative of the port authority, and one appoin- equitably pay for the local share of the grants and the operation
tee each from Harris County and the Harris County and maintenance of these new security projects. The PSSC partners
Mayors and Councils Association. The directors will decided the means to collect these funds could be modeled after
choose a presiding officer, secretary and other officers. management districts.
That process is expected to be completed by the end
The council, now the Houston Ship Channel Security Council, is a
of August.
partnership of the area manufacturers, refineries and petrochemical
“We try to look at the big picture,” says Bellamy.
plants represented by eHCMA, local cities along the channel, Harris
“We have to make sure everything is integrated.
If we don’t, it would be like connecting an HDTV County, including both Judge ed emmett and Commissioner Sylvia
to an eight-track player for audio. As the district Garcia, the University of Houston, PHA and other private and public
grows, we want Houston to be compatible and inter- entities. The council’s effort has been supported with funding from
connected with other area ports, such as Freeport, the DHS. To date, Harris County and the council have been awarded
Texas City and Galveston.” n more than $38.6 million in federal port security grants.
24
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
Ensuring a
STRONg
PERiMETER
involves more
than geometry
At the Port of Houston
Authority (PHA), establishing
a robust perimeter around the
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
restricted areas of its Turning
Basin terminal required much
more than a geometric solution.
25
The venerable PHA terminal is a
beehive of activity, involving ten-
ants, Executive Office Building
workers, visitors and vendors, truck-
ers and railways, in addition to the
laborers and stevedoring companies
that work the cargo ships. Unlike its
more specialized sibling terminals,
sealing off the entire complex was
not an option. system allows access and departure from the secure areas
The challenges facing PHA’s security management for one vehicle at a time.
team included designing an operations concept to Pedestrian access and exit points – used primarily by
facilitate the free flow of commerce; yet definable ILA workers and other laborers – are controlled by turn-
enough to ensure the security of those areas requiring stiles. There are nine vehicle and 16 pedestrian check
controlled access. points at the Turning Basin Terminal.
What they came up with was a “perimeter within a Crews says a collaborative effort by all segments of the
perimeter,” according to Bill Crews, port security and PHA security team, contributed to a smooth transition to
operations manager. TWIC implementation on April 14.
“We added another concentric ring of security around A virtual “all hands on deck” call went out as security
our restricted areas that are specific to the Turning Basin, personnel were stationed at all entry and exit points to
because of our upper and lower road levels.” he said. assist truckers and laborers in adjusting to the new system.
Ensuring a strong, secure perimeter has
been a PHA priority for the past six years.
It was initially addressed by monitoring
and surveillance through the use of closed-
circuit television technology. Limiting access
included fencing and manning at specific
entrance and exit points.
However, once the federally mandated
Transportation Workers Identification
Credential (TWIC) program appeared on the
horizon, efforts at establishing and improving
perimeter protection became more intense,
focused and sophisticated. They also included
more flexibility.
“We had to keep the access and movement
of our tenants, employees and customers in
mind,” Crews says. “It called for more creative
thinking, particularly for truck access.”
Crews says PHA “applied developing tech-
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
nology” in answering the challenge. “Speed
gates” were installed on nine roads – one for
entry and one for exit – to control truck traffic
to the docks.
The gate opens when a driver presents an
authentic TWIC and closes once the vehicle
has passed through the checkpoint. The
26
“WE WENT FROM bEiNg a cOMPlETEly OPEN
FaciliTy TO ONE iN WHicH yOU’vE acTUally gOT
TO dO SOMETHiNg. yOU aRE REqUiREd TO PROvE
yOUR idENTiTy iN ORdER TO gaiN accESS.”
“It was a success, to do something. You are required to prove your identity
not only in terms in order to gain access.”
of vehicle access, The new system essentially allows traffic on the upper
but with labor levels of the terminal to flow, virtually unrestricted, while
getting through the lower levels are more tightly controlled. Crews says
the turnstiles,” he input from the PHA Operations team and a comprehen-
says. “We geared sive education program helped contribute to the relatively
up for the event seamless transition.
by manning the “This could not work without input from Operations,”
entry and access he says. “That input was extremely valuable. Our ability
points with secu- to communicate and work so closely with Operations
Bill Crews rity personnel to was coupled with an outreach program to all constituent
help get everyone groups – truckers, laborers and stevedoring companies.
through the learning curve. We went from being a com- We needed that experience and expertise from the other
pletely open facility to one in which you’ve actually got side in order to make it work.” n
28
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
29
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
Who Works at the Port
Bill Crews with Police
Dispatcher Bertha Collins
Bill Crews’ New Crew:
The Port Security and Emergency Operations Team
Since coming on board the Port of Houston Authority Crews explains the reason for the restructure was “to cre-
in April 2008, Bill Crews has been hard at work finding ate a hierarchical system of reporting, holding individuals
ways to improve port security. In January 2009, the Port throughout the chain of command more accountable.”
of Houston Authority Police Department was restruc- Accountability from top to bottom is now a chief priority.
tured into the Port Security and Emergency Operations Having stability within the chain of command gives offi-
Department, with Crews selected to lead efforts at cers clarity on where to report problems, and officers like
ensuring continued port safety. Crews has 27 years of having more opportunities for advancement. The transi-
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
professional experience coming from his time with the tion also finalized the automation of the dispatch station
U.S. Navy, NASA, the Department of State and the and control room with the addition of the CAD systems
White House following his graduation from the American administrator, making it easier to generate, track, and file
Military University in West Virginia. A certified protec- incident reports and other documents.
tion professional, Crews has the responsibility of directing Crews speaks for many in his department when he says,
and monitoring PHA’s security operations and programs “We needed this change a long time ago.”
while meeting federal, state, Coast Guard and other regu- In the May/June 2008 issue of the Port of Houston
latory requirements. Magazine, Crews indicated he was going to look closely
30
at policy, procedure and personnel. Since Crews’ arrival, for planning, organizing and directing all administrative
the department is in the process of approving a new use duties for their respective shifts. Farmer, who took this
of force policy and finalizing a new code of ethics. Both of position in February, has seen the progression.
these policies help define the role of the officers. “I have seen the security vastly improve in my 13 years
In addition, the officers have formalized a policy com- with the port,” he says.“I can see, as time progresses,
mittee comprised of various officers and administrative even more security because you can never have too many
personnel. The committee meets regularly to discuss safeguards in place.”
issues brought to their attention by other officers and Crews, together with his crew, strives for increased
staff. Newly promoted to the position of asset manager professionalism within the department and cites last
is Sergeant Frances Corolla. Corolla is in charge of all year’s accreditation of the Port of Houston Authority as
equipment needs, including uniforms, radios, and vehicle ISO 28000:2007 certified, the first award of its kind, as an
maintenance. In addition, she assists on any ongoing indication their efforts are being noticed worldwide.
inquiries or investigations. “Our officers have worked very hard to make this
Crews also promoted transition a successful one. We strive to be a more respon-
Sergeant Frank Marker sive service organization, with the continuing goal of
to the position of train- increased professionalism in the department.”
ing/investigator. Marker, a Crews adds, “Security is a never-ending process.
master peace officer with We will always be assessing and always looking for ways
19 years of experience, is to improve.” n
tasked with coordinating
firearms and field training
while ensuring that all officers
have fulfilled the govern-
ment-mandated TCLEOSE
Sergeant Frank Marker
(Texas Commission on Law
Enforcement Officer Standards and Education) courses.
Crews likes seeing “officers take advantage of opportunities
for training.”
Accordingly, Marker is putting together a training
scenario at the shooting range, saying because officers
rarely even draw their weapons, this new discipline will
give them all an opportunity to practice discharging their
weapons in a controlled environment. While he admits
his added responsibilities keep him busy, he firmly believes
“these changes were for the better and help us do our jobs
with greater professionalism and efficiency.”
From the onset, Crews has set out to refocus the
mission of his team and hopes that newly promoted Deputy
Chiefs Andrew Farmer and Anthony Kinchen can help
the department realize that goal. They are responsible
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
“These changes were for the better
and help us do our jobs with greater
professionalism and efficiency.”
Officer R.E. Walker and Deputy Chief Farmer 31
BUSINESS CONNECTIONS
partnering fOr prOsperitY
From the Chippewa name that roughly translates to to the chamber,”
“Crown of the Valley,” Pasadena has a rich history. The says Trainer. “I
Pasadena Chamber of Commerce has been establishing was also hon-
partnerships to promote business and job growth in the ored that he
area for 73 years. named me to
With a mission to promote economic development and the PHA Small
community growth to ensure the prosperity of Pasadena’s Business Advisory
Sherry Trainer, President and CEO,
businesses and citizens, the chamber has played a key role Council.” Pasadena Chamber of Commerce
in helping transform the city. Formerly a largely agricul- Employment
tural community – Pasadena has also been known as the in Pasadena is closely tied to ship-channel industries,
“Strawberry Capitol of the South” – it is now one of the which have created opportunities for partnerships on
largest chemical manufacturing complexes in the world. several different levels.
The port and Pasadena are longtime partners. When Many Pasadena firms participate in PHA’s Small
the Port of Houston was in its early development stages, Business Development Program, which was designed
many Pasadena residents realized it was more lucrative to to help PHA contractors make good faith efforts to
work at the port than to farm. include small business participation in eligible contracts.
“Over the years, we have always had a good work- PHA’s Pedro Garcia, manager of the Small Business
ing relationship with the city and community as well Development Department, serves on the chamber’s
as the businesses board of directors.
that represent the “We feel the port
Pasadena Chamber,” should have a per-
said PHA Chairman manent place on our
Jim Edmonds at the board because they
March 15 “State of are so important to
the County” lun- us,” Trainer adds.
cheon to accept the “Think what
chamber’s Industry we wouldn’t have
of the Year award on if not for the port,
behalf of the port. like all the import
“I am extremely and export goods,”
pleased that the port says Trainer. “It’s
was named indus- such a presence
Port of Houston Authority | May/June 2009
try of the year,” here. We at the
says Sherry Trainer, Pasadena Chamber
president and CEO look forward to
of the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce. “The port continuing to work with the port for many years
does a lot for us. We have been working together for to come.”
many years. Committed to strengthening the region’s economic
“Our port commissioner is Steve Phelps and he does base, the Pasadena Chamber will continue to create
a great job of communicating partnership opportunities opportunities for the city’s growth and prosperity. n
33
SPOTLIGHT ON SMALL BUSINESS
eagle i securitY, llc keeps eagle eYe On pha
When former FBI agent Rolando Moss opened his professionalism, dis-
security services business, coming up with a name was tinguish them from
easy. With a background in law enforcement and an most other security
affinity for the national bird, Moss dubbed his company, guards.
Eagle I (pronounced like “eye”) Security, LLC. “All our guards
Rolando Moss and Sheldon Theragood
The Queens, New York, native started his career as must have high school
a police officer, then worked as a special agent for the diplomas,” he says. “They also are required to complete
Federal Bureau of Investigation for 15 years before enter- Homeland Security training as well as PHA training and
ing the corporate environment as a senior director of protocol and pass a series of aptitude tests. They must wear
corporate security. He started his own business in 2005. uniforms and have good interpersonal skills.”
“To successfully run your own business, first, you have Among other services that EIS offers are security
to have the skill sets,” he says. “Working with PHA’s system design and integration, risk and vulnerability
Small Business and Police departments provides mentor- assessments, security program management, executive
ing and additional tools that have been instrumental in protection, development and vendor selection, security
Eagle I’s success.” training and third-party peer review. EIS partners have
Eagle I provides 42 security guards, or 35 percent, of more than 100 collective years of investigative and
the total at PHA. They are non-commissioned (unarmed) security experience.
guards who check IDs to ensure proper credentials Moss, who has a B.S. degree from Capital University,
at PHA’s facility gates. Moss says Eagle I staff’s Columbus, Ohio, is certified as a vessel security officer and
training, education and physical fitness, as well as their facility security officer. n
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