The Houston Ship Channel Security District held its annual luncheon and directors meeting Nov. 8 at the Pasadena Convention Center. The organization, known for supporting and contributing to security projects in the Houston Port Region, represents over 225 chemical, refining and logistical service companies. The funds received through the District provided new boats, firefighting equipment, IT infrastructure, training and helicopter maintenance for the municipalities.

District board members approved their agenda items, while supported agencies provided annual updates on their jointly funded projects. The City of Baytown, the City of Houston, Harris County and Texas Parks and Wildlife gave presentations on fire, marine and law enforcement response projects.

District Chair Gary Scheibe said during his opening remarks that the main goal “is simply to protect the supply chain and channel.” Marcus Woodring, Vice Chair for the District, shared new legislative rules regarding security pending in Washington, D.C.

The District is a political subdivision of the State of Texas created by Harris County Commissioners Court in 2009 and is governed by an 11 member Board of Directors, eight of whom are nominated and employed by private industry located within the boundaries of the District. The other three Board members are appointed to represent the Port of Houston Authority, Harris County and the Harris County Mayors and Councils Association.