PREPARED BY:
PROMOTION & DEVELOPMENT FUND
PREPARED BY:
PROMOTION & DEVELOPMENT FUND
PLAN - PORT HOUSTON
JULY 28, 2023
July 28, 2023
MariaAguirre
Director Community Relations Port HoustonMs. Aguirre:
The Economic Alliance Houston Port Region appreciates our long-standing partnership with Port Houston, and we want to thank you for supporting our mission to grow and market a vibrant regional economy.
We are pleased to submit this information for review and consideration for funding in 2023 as part of Port Houston’s new Promotion and Development Fund Improvement Plan initiative. This submittal includes the following requested data:
Introduction - Economic Alliance
Executive Summary
Audited Financial Statements Attached
Promotion of Port Houston and Support of Programs
Promotion of Port Houston’s Sustainability, SMWBE, and DEI Efforts
Workforce Development and DEI Activities
Membership of the Economic Alliance Event Attendance
Port Houston Board and Taskforce Participation
Economic Alliance Location and service area zip codes
Promotional Flyers Attached
We are happy to provide any additional information or clarification during your review process as needed.
Port Houston is a critical economic anchor to our local communities, and we look forward to our continued partnership.
Respectfully,
Chad Burke President and CEO Economic Alliance Houston Port RegionIntroduction/Background
Economic Alliance Houston Port Region (Economic Alliance) is a nonprofit organization whose mission since 1986 has been to grow a vibrant regional economy. Supported by impact initiatives focused on:
EconomicDevelopment
Public Policy
WorkforceDevelopment
Transportation/Infrastructure
Qualityof Life
Events/Thought Leadership
Our structure consists of an Executive Board, an Elected Board and eight initiative chairs supported by members through their direct involvement. Our staff of seven works to carry out the directives of each of these bodies in the most efficient and effective way possible.
8 Taskforces
Several annual events convening leaders and highlighting one of the World’s most influential energy corridors and trade ports.
6 full-time and 1 part-time professional staff and 2 college interns.
The Houston Port region’s make up is so unique that there is not a blueprint of how to strategize to improve our economic development activities/assets, transportation infrastructure, workforce development entities and investment protections. For this reason, EconomicAlliance has established itself as the convening entity in identifying, prioritizing, and promoting issues of Houston Port region significance.
250 Private Sector Members, 11 Cities/Communities, Port Houston, and Harris CountyA driving force in the Houston Port region s economic prosperity due to participation by our 250 Private Sector Members, 12 Cities/Communities, Port Houston, and Harris County. A well- connected organization, convening a large, trusted network.
Facilitator to market Port Houston as a Global Gateway. Providing publicity to Port Houston programs and initiatives through - Website Enhancements, Events, Newsletters and Economic Development Project work. Forum for Executive Leadership to discuss the Foreign Trade Zone as an Economic Development Tool, State of Port Operations, Impact as a Growth Engine, Supply Chain Solutions, and the Ports effort moving toward Sustainability and development of economic opportunities through SMWBE and DEI efforts.
A leader in workforce development initiatives to address the growing skilled workforce gap in the Houston Port region. Conducting over 400+ Career Path Presentations exceeding 50,000 Potential Workers/Students. A diverse audience exposed to our workforce development/job opportunity discussion and aligning with Port Houston’s efforts in DEI.
Convening entity in identifying and promoting issues of Port Houston significance. Working to improve our economic development assets, transportation infrastructure, workforce development entities and Port Houston investment protections. Port Houston Executives and staff are participants at our Board level and key members of our Public Policy, Transportation/Infrastructure and Workforce Development taskforces. Established thought leader through relevant and well attended events. Anticipating over 3,700 participants at 11 events that will produce an average of 335 attendees for each planned gathering in 2023.
Located within Deer Park, TX and making an impact on residents and businesses within proximity to the 25 Mile Houston Ship Channel.
It is Port Houston’s support and participation that contribute to Economic Alliance’s successes that you find outlined in this document. Our Board, Members and Staff look forward to enhancing our relationship and working together to not only advance Port Houston but also our region globally.
The Economic Alliance is an exempt organization for federal income tax purposes under the Section 501 (c)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Revenues are derived primarily through contracts with area governments, membership dues and fundraising events. Expenses that are directly associated with a particular activity are charged to that activity.
*See the attached audited financial statements of Economic Alliance Houston Port Region comprise the statements of financial position as of December 31, 2021, and 2020, and the related statements of activities, functional expenses, and cash flows for the years then ended, and related notes to the financial statements.
Every year the Economic Alliance organizes a leadership team to travel to Washington DC and advocate for issues important to the Houston Port Region. This annual federal advocacy trip provides our industry members and community leaders exclusive access to members of the US Senate, Congress and their staff, executive branch policymakers, and representatives from key federal agencies.
Economic Alliance supports policies to enhance Port Houston/supply chain infrastructure, skilled worker growth, industry partnerships, and coastal protections for critical economic assets.
Allocations in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, USACE Work Plan, and Inland Waterway Trust Fund for Houston Ship Channel upgrades and maintenance.
Reforms to Surface Transportation Board policies to impact product movement and enhanced partnerships with industry to use the most innovative technologies/materials for infrastructure rebuilds.
Increased training funds via the Department of Labor, reforms to Pell Grant eligibility and appropriations from the U.S. Department of Transportation to establish a Maritime Center of Excellence at San Jacinto College
Phased appropriations through the U S Army Corp of Engineers for the design/construction of a coastal barrier protecting the Texas/Louisiana portion of the U S Gulf Coast, impacting our national supply chain/economy
When Port Houston seeks opportunities to secure funding and grants from Federal and State initiatives, providing letters of support from local communities and industries is a key element for consideration. Over the years Port Houston has requested local support in these efforts, and the Economic Alliance has been proud to submit Letters of Support on behalf of the Port.
PHA PIDGP Grant Proposal – Port Infrastructure Development Grants (PIDG) April '23
Pete Buttigieg, Secretary of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation
Reduction of Truck Emissions at Port Facilities Grant Program Grant (RTEP) Proposal July '23
Pete Buttigieg, Secretary of Transportation U.S. Department of Transportation
Economic Alliance is making certain the Houston Port region is connecting mobility, safety, environmental issues, economic opportunity with Port Houston unprecedented growth.
Transportation Infrastructure Task Force Member: Bruce Mann, Director, Freight Mobility, Port Houston Member: Bruce Mann, Director, Freight Mobility, Port Houston
The mission has been to deliver TxDOT and key leadership a prioritized transportation/infrastructure project list based on stakeholder consensus and critical investment need. Economic Alliance convenes a collection of local/state elected officials, Port Houston, petrochemical association partners and private sector members.
PEL Studies
I10 East Expansion/San Jacinto River Bridge
SH 225 - 610 Expansion
Critical Priority Projects
146 Expansion – Fairmont to Red Bluff – under construction
Beltway Bridge/225 Direct Connectors – designed need funding 225/146 DC for Barbours Cut Blvd into Port Terminal
Beltway 8 Direct Connector Support Letters
Marketing Port Houstonas a Global Gateway Economic Alliance is currently conducting a major upgradeto our website. Putting forth a more profound presence of highlighting to businesses the potential of direct access to Port Houston.
Port Houston has aided in this process by supplying visuals and pictures to enhance the message that the Houston Port region is an ideal hub for companies needing worldwide distribution for their products, worldclass infrastructure, and a supply of workers to minimize time, transportation, and distribution costs domestically and internationally.
The enhanced website will include sections (scheduled to go live 4th Qtr. ’23)
Unparalleled Global Access via Port Houston Terminals Improvements and Investments by Port Houston Impact of Port Houston as a Growth Engine Foreign Trade Zone Benefits to Existing and New Operations
Economic Alliance’s Economic Development services provide a professional relationship to navigate the multiple facets of the site selection/expansion process, including the facilitation to the Houston Port region economic development support network.
Currently there are 23 economic development projects totaling over $6 Billion of capital investment and creation of over 3,000 new jobs in our project pipeline '23.
These projects have received an overview of support programs they may be eligible to support new, expanding and relocating operations.
Economic Alliance staff assists in the identification of incentive programs that may be applied to projects. Providing FTZ program insight/eligibility potential, monetary value overview and facilitation to Port Houston representatives.
FOREIGN TRADE ZONE AS AN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TOOLThe Gulf Coast Industry Forum continues to be a vital point for knowledge sharing, networking and thought leadership around issues facing Port Houston.
The conference began due to Houston Port region leaders recognizing the need for a forecasting conference in the industry. They asked the Economic Alliance to produce a conference that would provide information for the overall industrial economy. The Petrochemical and Maritime Outlook Conference (PMOC) was first introduced in 2010 and later became known as the Gulf Coast Industry Forum (GCIF) in 2016.
In its first year, PMOC had an attendance expectancy of 200 people. Economic Alliance finished the conference with over 450 attendees and with Port Houston support since 2010 the event has consecutively grown with more people in attendance each year. In 2019, GCIF had over 1,000 people attend.
The Gulf Coast Industry Forum since its inception in 2010 has given Past Chairman and the Director opportunities to highlight Port Houston activities/growth/investments and position as a world class trade operation.
GCIF 2022
RIC CAMPO KEYNOTE SPEAKER
MV SAM HOUSTON DINNER & PORT
HOUSTON TOUR
PORT HOUSTON EXHIBITOR BOOTH IN FRONT OF 800+ ATTENDEES
PLATINUM LEVEL SPONSORSHIP
Charlie Jenkins, Sr. Director, Assets Management and Strategic Coordination, Port Houston participated in a Goods Movement Expansion and Infrastructure Protection Project panel discussion.
Charlie Jenkins with Port Houston participated an unprecedented tri-organization event to bring awareness to and prioritize critical infrastructure projects in Southeast Texas and specifically the Houston Port Region. Over 350 attendees heard from experts in the petrochemical, supply chain and logistics industry, as well as key Federal Elected officials and TxDoT leadership.
- Goods Movement Expansion & Infrastructure Protection Project Panelist, Speaker Charlie Jenkins
- Port Houston Silver Sponsorship
- 350 Attendees
Port Houston was a Gold Sponsor of our Annual Membership Banquet that recognizes Economic Alliance stakeholders and installs officers for the upcoming year.
Port Houston Gold Sponsorship highlights the recognition of current ship channel stakeholders and highlights the importance of the years accomplishments that have impacted the growth of the Houston Port region economy.
- 440 Attendees - Gold Level Sponsorship
Economic Alliance distributes a quarterly newsletter highlighting Houston Port region businesses, partners, industry news/events, upcoming classes and workshops, and resources our office and partners provide.
Economic Alliance newsletters have a distribution of more than 10,000+ recipients that provides an opportunity for Port Houston to submit articles about current news and promotion of programs.
Highlighting Port Houston Sustainability Action Plan/Q3-2021: MOU collaborative agreement with Shell to identify decarbonization opportunities at the port that will support the goal to be carbon neutral by 2050.
Port Houston Improvements and Investments to Keep the Houston Port Region Competitive/Q4-2022: Highlighting Port Houston infrastructure investments.
Bruce Mann, Director of Freight Mobility at Port Houston participated in the Gulf Coast Growth Show Season 8. The Economic Alliance produced 33 podcasts in 2022, bringing the latest news and updates in the petrochemical, manufacturing, maritime, transportation, and workforce related industries.
Bruce offered insight on the importance of freight mobility in the region noting:
The unprecedented growth of container activity and his role in their movement to the end destination
The high-profile infrastructure projects in the works at Port Houston
His personal passion to end human trafficking and how everyone can play a role
ECONOMIC ALLIANCE CONVENES LOCAL/STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS, PORT HOUSTON, PETROCHEMICAL ASSOCIATION PARTNERS AND PRIVATE SECTOR MEMBERS TO DELIVER TXDOT A PRIORITIZED PROJECT LIST
The Economic Alliance is committed to working with Port Houston to advance policies and initiatives promoting the energy transition to a more sustainable future that will benefit our communities
Trae Camble, Director of Environmental Affairs at Port Houston participated in the Gulf Coast Growth Show Season 7 Ep 18.
Trae highlighted what Port Houston is doing to leave a more environmentally friendly footprint across the Houston Port region and highlighting:
Sustainability efforts and goals; the Environmental Social Governance (ESG) report they are working on.
Reduction of the ports carbon footprint~55% over the last 5-6 years.
Importance and impact of Project 11.
Role as a Board Member for the Galveston Bay Foundation.
Sustainability Leadership Panel at the Gulf Coast Industry Forum featured industry and higher education leaders that discussed advanced plastics recycling and how our region is leading in sustainability.
Quarterly newsletter “The Current” Q1/2023
primary focus highlighted “Advanced Recycling” advancing plastics circularity through technology and collaboration
Women in Alliance Committee
Mission “To provide a platform that highlights the exceptional women leaders and empower women in the Houston Port Region”.
3 annual lunch events
Keynote speakers featuring local accomplished women who share their journeys to leadership.
Past speakers: San Jacinto College Chancellor Brenda Hellyer, State Representative Carol Alvarado, and Exxon Plant Manager Kate Lightfoot. Port Houston and women owned businesses participated in exhibitor booths highlighting services and business offerings.
The Economic Alliance is partnering with the East Harris County Empowerment Council to promote a “Back to School Supply Drive” to provide school supplies to economically disadvantaged students in the East Harris County/ Port Houston region.
The Economic Alliance is partnering with the East Harris County Empowerment Council to promote a “Back to School Supply Drive” to provide school supplies to economically disadvantaged students in the East Harris County/ Port Houston region.
Effectively coordinate and carry out activities to communicate to the future workforce the path to obtain skills needed for skilled employment in the Houston Port region.
Activities by staff facilitate the promotion of workforce development initiatives to address the growing skilled workforce gap. Focused on marketing high paying careers in the petrochemical, maritime, logistics, and construction industries to local students to connect life changing employment opportunities.
Economic Alliance leverages partnerships with EHCMA and 9 community colleges to recruit and train a qualified workforce that is needed in the Houston Port region.
Filling a key role with industry partners in identifying and prioritizing the high-demand, high-paying careers that support the petrochemical, maritime, and construction industries.
Economic Alliance Workforce Development Manager serves on the Port Houston’s “Partners in Maritime Education” Board of Directors where she brings her knowledge and classroom experience to the board offering best practices suggestions in program initiative outreach.
Economic Alliance staff is currently working in collaboration with Houston Community College (A Port Houston Grant Recipient) James Mable - Director, Career & Job Placement Services. Economic Alliance will participate in the Northeast and East campus HCC Career & Job Placement Services upcoming 2022- 2023 Career & Hiring Fairs.
A driving force in the Houston Port region’s economic prosperity and successes are growing faster than ever due to the participation by our members We convene a large, trusted network and well-connected organization
11 ORGANIZED AND HOSTED EVENTS in addition to our monthly taskforce and board meetings, provide members, industry leaders, and community stakeholders opportunities to network, gain knowledge, and engage in information sharing
Events such as the Industrial Procurement Forum provides insight to small and midsize businesses on how to do business with large industries including Port Houston. The aforementioned Women’s Leadership event empowers women to succeed in industry, and the aforementioned Gulf Coast Industry Forum have been well represented by key Port Houston team members.
Economic Alliance has established itself as the convening entity in identifying and promoting issues of Houston Port region significance With our member input Economic Alliance works to improve our economic development assets, transportation infrastructure, workforce development entities and investment protections
Port Houston Board Level Participation
Board of Directors Member: Roy Mease, Port Houston Commissioner
As an active member of the Board of Directors Mr Mease represents Port Houston and attends the bi- monthly board/membership meetings with voting responsibility
Board of Directors Member: Roger Gunther, Executive Director, Port Houston
As an active member of the Board of Directors Mr Gunther represents Port Houston and attends the bi-
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
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To the Board of Directors of the Southeast Harris County Economic Development Council, Inc. dba Economic Alliance Houston Port Region:
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of the Southeast Harris County Economic Development Council, Inc. (the “Council”) dba Economic Alliance Houston Port Region (a nonprofit organization), which comprise the statements of financial position as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the related statements of activities, functional expenses, and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Council as of December 31, 2021, and the changes in its net assets and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors’ Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are required to be independent of the Council and to meet our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the relevant ethical requirements relating to our audit. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, management is required to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the Council’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are available to be issued.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditors’ report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting in error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Misstatements are considered material if there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate, they would influence the judgment made by a reasonable user based on the financial statements.
In performing an audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, we:
Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.
Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.
Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Council’s internal control. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.
Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluate the overall presentation of the financial statements.
Conclude whether, in our judgment, there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the Council’s ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time.
We are required to communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit, significant audit findings, and certain internal control related matters that we identified during the audit.
Belt Harris Pechacek, LLLP Certified Public Accountants Houston, Texas August 5, 2022See notes to financial statements.
STATEMENTS OF ACTIVITIES For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
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For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
Southeast Harris County Economic Development Council, Inc. (the “Council”) is a Texas not-for-profit organization chartered on November 1, 1985. Its purpose is to promote the common interest of the people of southeast Harris County, Texas and surrounding areas in Harris and Galveston Counties, Texas, by compiling information relative to the resources available to prospective commercial and industrial type businesses; to identify those types of commercial and industrial businesses that could best utilize the available resources of the area in harmony with the existing environment; and to encourage such businesses to establish and operate commercial and manufacturing facilities and other industrial activity in the southeast Harris County area designed to provide additional employment, expand commerce, increase the economic strength and stability of the community, and improve all types of business conditions. The Council operates as the Economic Alliance Houston Port Region and is designed to promote knowledge and understanding of the communities to prospective merchants and visitors.
Revenues are derived primarily through contracts with area governments, membership dues, and fundraising events. Expenses that are directly associated with a particular activity are charged to that activity. Other expenses are allocated to the various activities based on methods approved by management.
The financial statements have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
The financial statements of the Council have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (US GAAP), which requires the Council to report information regarding its financial position and activities according to the following net asset classifications:
Net assets without donor restrictions: Net assets that are not subject to donor-imposed restrictions and may be expended for any purpose in performing the primary objectives of the organization. These net assets may be used at the discretion of the Council’s management and board of directors.
Net assets with donor restrictions: Net assets subject to stipulations imposed by donors and grantors. Some donor restrictions are temporary in nature; those restrictions will be met by actions of the Council or by the passage of time. Other donor restrictions are perpetual in nature, whereby the donor has stipulated the funds be maintained in perpetuity.
Donor restricted contributions are reported as increases in net assets with donor restrictions. When a restriction expires, net assets are reclassified from net assets with donor restrictions to net assets without donor restrictions in the Statements of Activities.
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
Gifts of cash and other assets received without donor stipulations are reported as revenue and net assets without donor restrictions. Gifts received with a donor stipulation that limits use are reported as revenue and net assets with donor restrictions. When a donor-stipulated time restriction ends or purpose restriction is accomplished, net assets with donor restrictions are reclassified to unrestricted net assets without donor restrictions and reported in the Statements of Activities as net assets released from restrictions. Gifts having donor stipulations, which are satisfied in the period the gift is received, are reported as revenue and net assets without donor restrictions.
Cash equivalents consist of short-term, highly liquid investments, which are readily convertible into cash within 90 days of purchase.
Capital assets consist of a building, building improvements, and equipment, mainly office equipment. All capital assets are valued at cost or at acquisition value at date of a gift, if donated. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives of assets:
Deferred Revenue
Advance income from membership dues, contracts, and other revenues is deferred and recognized over the periods to which it relates.
The Council utilizes the allowance method for writing off bad debts. Management has set the allowance for doubtful accounts based on historical rates of nonpayment relative to revenues, and the adopted policy is to write off receivables if not received within 18 months. As of December 31, 2021, the allowance for doubtful accounts was $1,000.
The costs of providing various programs and other activities have been summarized on a functional basis in the Statements of Activities. Cost benefits have been allocated according to respective programs and support services. Advertising expenses are expensed in the period incurred.
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
The Council is an exempt organization for federal income tax purposes under Section 501(c)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code.
The last three years of informational tax returns, 2020, 2019, and 2018, filed with the IRS remain subject to examination.
The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
On January 5, 2016, the Council acquired a loan from Community Bank of Texas, N.A. in the amount of $135,000 with an interest rate of 4.75 percent to purchase a building. The building has been pledged as security as a part of the loan agreement. The loan is to be paid in monthly installments of $1,055 through December 2020 with a balloon payment of $100,931 due January 5, 2021. This loan was refinanced in January 2021 at the same interest rate and a new monthly payment of $1,061 beginning February 5, 2021 through December 2025 with a balloon payment of $57,325 due January 5, 2026.
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Council applied for and was approved for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EID Loan”) through the U.S. Small Business Administration in June 2020. The EID Loan was for $150,000 with a 30-year term at an interest rate of 2.75 percent. The EID Loan can be used for working capital and normal operating expenses. At the time of funding, payments were deferred for one year. The EID Loan is to be paid in monthly installments of $641 starting in December 2022. Interest accrues from the date of funding.
On February 3, 2021, the Council received Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) proceeds from Moody Bank in the amount of $106,090. The PPP, established as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”), provided for loans to qualifying organizations for amounts up to 2.5 times the average monthly payroll expenses of the qualifying organization. The PPP loan was forgiven on June 28, 2021.
On June 1, 2021, the Council received PPP proceeds from Associated Credit Union of Texas in the amount of $124,700 with a 1% interest rate. The PPP, established as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, provided loans to qualifying organizations for amounts up to 2.5 times the average monthly payroll expenses of the qualifying organization. The PPP loan was forgiven on February 2, 2022.
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
The Council maintains its cash balances predominantly in one financial institution located in La Porte, Texas. The balances are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation up to $250,000. At December 31, 2021, and 2020, the Council’s uninsured cash balances totaled $388,278 and $263,043, respectively.
The following represents the Council’s financial assets at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
not available to be used within one year:
The Council’s goal is generally to maintain financial assets to meet 90 days of operating expenses (approximately $268,599). As part of the Council’s liquidity plan, excess cash is invested in savings and money market accounts.
All support and contributions are considered without donor restrictions unless specifically restricted by the donor.
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
The Council, from time to time, receives corporate contributions and foundation grants that are restricted to designated programs. Net assets with donor restrictions consist of funds received from the Transportation Task Force. These funds are to be used to provide relief to the Houston Port Region transportation corridors and to construct highly visible aesthetic enhancements on highly traveled road corridors within the Houston Port Region and its international port facilities. As of December 31, 2021, all the funds had been used.
The Council restated the employee 401(k) plan (the “Plan”) on February 1, 2017. The Plan is administered by Ascensus, Inc.. All employees are eligible to participate and, currently, four employees have elected to do so. The Council matches contributions dollar for dollar up to four percent of the employee’s salary. In 2021, contributions totaled $24,453. Contributions made in 2020 totaled $22,021.
During the year, the Council leased space in its building at 203 Ivy Avenue, Deer Park, Texas. Occupants at the building consist of various businesses, including advertising, a community college, a congressman, local governments, industrial services, metalworking, advisory services, and marketing.
Rental income for fiscal years 2021 and 2020 were as follows:
Future expected rental income based on current leases is as follows:
Property and equipment at December 31, 2021 and 2020 is as follows:
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
The Council has entered into contract agreements with Harris County, Port of Houston Authority, and other various city governments.
Under the contract agreement with Harris County (the “County”), the Council has agreed to provide the following services:
1. To develop and hold workshops, seminars, or programs designed to assist and promote the efforts of local businesses and entrepreneurs to form new business ventures or to expand existing business ventures within the County;
2. To organize and conduct coordinated marketing and sales programs to positively influence attitudes among local, national, and international business decision makers by drawing attention to the County’s strengths and by overcoming negative attitudes. The marketing and sales program should target groups and senior executives most likely to result in business relocations and expansions in the County; and
3. To organize and conduct coordinated communications programs designed to encourage the dissemination, on a local, national, and international level, of accurate and detailed information on business opportunities with the County and on successful businesses and the local business climate.
The Council received contract revenue from the County for 2021 and 2020 in the amount of $112,500 each year.
Under the contract agreement with the Port of Houston Authority (the “Port”), the Council has agreed to provide the following services:
1. Promulgating information related to the Port and its facility by including accurate and detailed information on the Port in promotional material produced to market Houston’s business environment; and
2. Publicizing Port activities in each issue of its quarterly newsletter and providing special mailing and promotions to support Port-related issues.
The Council received contract revenue from the Port in 2021 and 2020 in the amount of $40,000 each year.
Under the contract agreements with various area cities (the “Represented City”), the Council has agreed to provide the following services:
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
1. Interact with local, state, and federal officials, local economic development organizations, and chambers of commerce on a regular basis;
2. Promote or advertise the Represented City’s area to attract conventions, visitors, and businesses;
3. Compile and disseminate economic and business-related data to the Represented City;
4. Interact with the Office of the Governor of Economic Development and Tourism on behalf of the Represented City;
5. Present the Represented City in the Council’s marketing materials, including its regional website;
6. Provide access to the information in its library and databases, with the exception of company economic development prospects who are not seeking to locate to the Represented City;
7. Provide copies of the Council’s publications;
8. Extend invitations to the Represented City officials and staff to events organized under and/or hosted by the Council; and
9. Provide full membership on its Board of Directors for a designee of the Represented City.
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
The Council received contract revenue from the Represented Cities as follows:
Year 2021
For the Years Ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
US GAAP require disclosure of concentrations in the volume of business transacted with a particular customer, supplier, lender, grantor, or contributor that meet certain criteria. The following concentration with particular contributors was present at the financial statement dates:
Approximately 27 percent and 29 percent of the Council’s revenues for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, were provided by Harris County, the Port of Houston Authority, and a limited number of local governmental entities. These contracts are renewable every one to three years at the option of the governments involved. If one or more entities decided not to renew the contract, the Council’s revenues and ability to operate effectively could decrease. Due to the limited area in which the Council operates, there are limited entities with which the Council could enter into agreements to replace any non-renewed contracts.
Net assets were reclassified to correctly reflect ending balances. In addition, net assets were restated to correct prior year government contracts receivable.
The Council has evaluated subsequent events through August 5, 2022, the date which the financial statements were available to be issued.
The Council’s PPP loan in the amount of $124,700 was forgiven on February 2, 2022.
The Economic Alliance Houston Port Region is a regional economic development organization representing the world’s most influential energy corridor and trade port. The following narrative will provide a brief description of our Mission, Partners, Economic Activity, Impact Needs and Policy Priorities:
To grow and market a vibrant regional economy through economic development, public policy, infrastructure, workforce development, and quality of life initiatives.
25 mile Houston Ship Channel.
11 cities, Harris County and Port Houston.
250 Private Sector members that include global industry leaders in manufacturing, logistics, maritime and petrochemicals.
FEDERAL POLICY PRIORITIES
#1 Busiest Exporting & Energy Port in the U.S. —World’s largest Petrochemical Complex.
3.2M U.S. Jobs
1.3M Texas Jobs
$5.7B in Local and State Tax Revenues.
20% of the Texas GDP.
The combination of our members, industries, institutions, and economic assets makes our footprint the most sought-after region in the entire world for petrochemical, manufacturing, maritime and logistics operations.
1 Houston Ship Channel Infrastructure Investment and Widening Community College Federal Priorities for Workforce Opportunities
2 3 4
Support for Innovation in Petrochemical Production, Sustainability/Use and Advanced Recycling Techniques
Coastal Barrier - Hurricane Surge Protection
The Houston Ship Channel is the busiest waterway in the nation and has seen a 37% increase of container activity in the last year. To address national supply chain issues Port Houston installed new neo-Panamax STS Cranes to increase services offered, speed of cargo movement and is utilizing PIDP grant funding for a new container yard. Along with these enhancements, it is critical the Houston Port region obtains support for a wider, deeper channel to deliver everyday goods and petrochemical products more safely and efficiently.
The $1.1 billion Houston Ship Channel Expansion (deepening & widening) known as Project 11 has been authorized to begin construction through the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) passing in December 2020.
First and foremost, THANK YOU for your leadership to ensure Port Houston received funding in the IIJA 22 Work Plan. We appreciate your advocacy to fund the next stage of our channel expansion project with $142 million, which will allow larger container vessels to access our Barbour’s Cut terminal.
$250 million is still needed in federal construction funds for Project 11. Supporting this funding request through the President’s FY23 Budget that will impact critical aspects of Port Houston improvements and national supply needs. The funding will accelerate the President’s priority of improving our supply chain and several sectors will benefit, including but not limited to, general cargo, steel, and liquid bulk/plastic/resin production and trade. Supporting supply chain congestion challenges will enable the ship channel to send critical fuels to our allies across the world during international conflict, like the one taking place in Ukraine.
These investments not only improve our supply chains of container trade, but also protect our national security and support our allies abroad.
Houston Port region community colleges are integral to building a strong Texas workforce by making high-quality education and training aligned with industry needs available to all individuals. Community colleges hope to see this become more fully integrated in the federal workforce system.
With the expansion of Port Houston, continued local industrial growth that requires skilled training and the recovery from COVID displacement, it is more important than ever that Houston Port region colleges can continue to offer quality public education to its students. Our local community colleges have identified several critical federal advocacy issues to ensure a solid foundation of workforce readiness and making certain individuals have access/support to life changing educational opportunities.
Support for Apprentices, Career/Training Programs, Federal Student Aid through the following Policy, Funding and Appropriation measures:
Strengthening Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs is a key tool to help Americans get back to work. The WIOA ‘22 introduced by the House Ed and Labor Committee reauthorizes and strengthens our nation’s workforce development system. The Houston Port region seeks support for legislation that will:
Fully fund WIOA programs by authorizing $74 billion over six years, which will allow the workforce system to serve one million workers per year by 2028.
Codify partnerships between employers and community colleges to provide high-quality job training.
Strengthens industry and sector partnerships to better meet the needs of both employers and job seekers.
Provide funding for innovative approaches to workforce development.
Extend Federal Financial Aid Eligibility to Students and Workers Enrolled in Short-Term Programs. Under current law, most postsecondary programs that are less than 600 clock hours over 15 weeks of instruction are not eligible for federal financial aid (PELL). The Houston Port region seeks support for:
JOBS Act (S.864, H.R. 2037) to allow PELL grant eligibility to students enrolled in qualifying short-term programs. This will ensure the placement of more people into good jobs.
The House and Senate have appointed conferees to negotiate the final version of the America COMPETES Act. The Houston Port region appreciates the support from the conference committee and specifically Senator John Cornyn (R-TX), Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS), and Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-TX). A filed amendment to H.R. 4521, the Bioeconomy Research and Development Act of 2021will allow $200 million to establish a grant to fund the Domestic Maritime Centers of Excellence program, authorized by Congress under the National Defense Authorization Act of FY 2018. The Houston Port region seeks support to:
Establish a Maritime Center of Excellence at San Jacinto College that will in turn allow funding to pass through the College and increase competitive grant opportunities to enhance the maritime program.
Houston Port region petrochemical companies are part of an ecosystem that contributes to the development of critical innovative materials and techniques needed to make America’s manufactured products (automobile, construction materials, etc.) more resilient and sustainable.
The chemical industry invests more in research and development than other more mainstreamed industries of electronics, automobiles, and healthcare. In 2019, more than $10 billion was invested in R&D by the chemical industry in innovative production techniques for sustainable materials and advanced recycling standards across many sectors of the U.S. economy.
Support the following legislation and recognition of the Houston Port region petrochemical industry through:
The Innovative Materials in American Growth and Infrastructure Newly Expanded (IMAGINE) Act. Designed to encourage the research and use of innovative materials and techniques to speed up the deployment and extend the life of transportation, construction, and water infrastructure.
Resolution of differences between the “America COMPETES Act” (“COMPETES”) and the Senate-passed “United States Competition and Innovation Act” (“USICA”). Ensure both bills provide support for key technology/ advanced materials research and development, supply chain resilience and provisions vs China ensuring intellectual property and unfair trade protections.
Recognition of the role of plastics and polymer composites in AV/EV/infrastructure related legislative efforts, to advance the role of our industry’s position as a solution provider for more advanced automobile safety and alternative production materials impacting fuel efficiencies.
Recognizing the need for a modern regulatory system that enables rapid scaling of advanced recycling for plastics while continuing to grow and modernize mechanical recycling. It’s important that legislation clearly define advanced recycling as a manufacturing process, distinguish it from solid waste disposal, and clarify that converting plastic to fuel is defined as advanced recovery. Policies which treat advanced recycling as “waste disposal” mischaracterize the activities being undertaken and will continue an outmoded regulatory pathway for siting a facility, making it more difficult for companies to invest in modern, advanced recycling technologies.
The Texas Gulf Coast Region is a vital economic artery with the Houston Port region being home to the largest petrochemical complex and export port in the United States. Hurricane Ike made landfall along the Texas Gulf Coast and accounted for over $30B in damages to the region, most of which was a direct cause of storm surge/ flooding. The Houston Port region proposed Coastal Barrier will protect more that 4 million residents, industry, and infrastructure from storm surge associated with hurricanes.
The Coastal Barrier, which includes a series of navigable gates between Galveston Island and the Bolivar Peninsula, create sand dunes along the coast to hold back storm surge, creating a barrier of seawalls around Galveston, and more. The 87th Texas Legislature created the Gulf Coast Protection District comprising five counties, including Harris and Galveston, that will act as an avenue through which the Coastal Barrier and its related projects can be funded federally and locally. In conjunction with the Army Corps of Engineers, the State of Texas General Land Office has already invested major state funding, conducted extensive academic research, and has developed a preliminary plan to protect our region.
The Houston Port Region seeks Project Support, Authorizations and Appropriations that protects our regional assets that have an immense local and national economic impact:
Project authorization in the 2022 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA).
Funding of environmental review and design of the Coastal Barrier such that the design achieves the following main objectives:
Providing the intended protection from storm surge
Maintaining an environmentally responsible footprint
Sustaining current levels of continuous two-way navigation/anchorage with accommodation of projected future economic growth
Support the USACE Chief’s Report (2022).
ELECTED OFFICIALS
Larry Taylor - Texas Senator, District 11
Adrian Garcia - Harris County Commissioner, Precinct 2
Mike Lykes - Chief of Staff, Harris County
Michel Bechtel - Mayor, City of Morgan's Point
Brian Moran - Assistant City Manager, City of Baytown
Thom Kolupski - Mayor, City of Seabrook
David Robinson - Council Member, City of Houston, At-Large 2
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS & ASSOCIATIONS
Bob Mitchell - President, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
Amy Skicki - Executive Director, BayTran
Elizabeth Hale - General Manager/CEO, Gulf Coast Authority
Patrick Anderson - GCA Federal Lobbyist, Proventure Consultants
EDUCATIONAL PARTNERS
Jim Griffin - Associate Vice Chancellor, San Jacinto College
PORT INFRASTRUCTURE
Captain Robert Thompson - Presiding Officer, Houston Pilots
JJ Plunkett - Port Agent & COO, Houston Pilots
Captain Bill Diehl - CEO, Houston Port Bureau
INDUSTRY SECTOR
Connie Tilton - Public & Government Affairs, ExxonMobil
Phillip Fordham - Federal Government Relations, LyondellBasell
Russell Carter - Business Development, Bohler Engineering
ECONOMIC ALLIANCE HOUSTON PORT REGION
Chad Burke - President/CEO, Economic Alliance
Chad Carson - VP of Economic Development, Economic Alliance
Karen Gregory - Contracts Manager, Economic Alliance
For the last several years, the Economic Alliance has established itself as the convening entity in promoting issues of Houston Port region significance to federal legislators and agencies through our annual trip to Washington, D.C. This signature federal advocacy trip provides our members/businesses and community leaders with exclusive access to members of the U.S. Senate, Congress and their staff, executive branch policymakers, and representatives from several key institutions.
The Economic Alliance’s efforts continue to eliminate unnecessary procedures so that representatives, government agencies and our members/businesses can work together seamlessly. Our strategic approach directly impacts the growth and maintenance of the most sought-after region in the entire world for petrochemical, manufacturing, maritime and logistics operations.
Goals of the Houston Port region annual trip to D.C. is to:
Communicate the region’s legislative priorities clearly and succinctly
Obtain more federal funding for local projects
Advocate for legislation or policy changes that will benefit the Houston Port region
Support our legislators by meeting with their community leaders/constituents to understand projects and issues relevant to the Houston Port region
Each year, the Economic Alliance’s Public Policy Taskforce compiles a Federal Policy White Paper to allow our members and partners to advocate as one region with one voice, both during the D.C. trip held annually and throughout the year. The 2022 Federal Policy White Paper centered on:
1. Houston Ship Channel Infrastructure Investment and Widening
2. Community College Federal Priorities for Workforce Opportunities
3. Support for Innovation in Petrochemical Production, Sustainability/Use and Advanced Recycling Techniques
4. Coastal Barrier- Hurricane Surge Protection
This strategic and unified approach is positively recognized at the federal level and is viewed as a means of assisting our federal representatives to identify and prioritize policy/projects that will have the most impact on the Houston Port region.
The Economic Alliance has been encouraged to continue this collaborative approach and build upon the relationships and communication channels established with our federal representatives. The trip has not only successfully organized high-level meetings with access to key decision makers but has also given participants a clear understanding of regional priorities and invaluable connections.
A leadership team organized by the Economic Alliance travelled to D.C. (April 26 -28) and was led by Local Elected Officials, Business Organizations & Associations, Educational Partners, Port Houston Advocates and the Private Sector
Over 3 days the 20-person Economic Alliance Leadership Team conducted 23 meetings with Senate, Congressional and Association representatives, along with a Congressional Dinner to discuss the Houston Port regions Federal Policy Priorities
The trip began with a welcome dinner hosted by the Economic Alliance in partnership with the Greater Houston Partnership, Dallas Regional Chamber and Fort Worth Chamber to receive updates from Texas' U.S. senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz on current federal issues Keynote speaker, Roman Popadiuk, first United States Ambassador to Ukraine, serving under President George H.W. Bush. offered historical insight leading up to the current Ukraine/Russian conflict and its impact on the global economy.
Just recently the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure voted to move the Water Resources Development Act of 2022 toward the full House for a floor vote. This follows a vote two weeks ago by a similar committee in the Senate, which also included language in its bill approving legislation that gives the go-ahead for our Coastal Barrier- Hurricane Surge Protection proposal. This reinforces the value of our convening, consensus building and continued face to face communication between our federal representatives, our local officials and industry leaders
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Sen. John Cornyn TX Sen. Ted Cruz TX
Sen. John Kennedy LA
15 – Congressional Delegation Meetings/Texas
Dan Crenshaw TX-2
Lizzie Fletcher-TX-7
Kevin Brady TX-8
Michael McCaul TX-10
Randy Weber TX-14
Jody Arrington TX-19
Troy Nehls TX-22
Michael Cloud TX-27
4 – Congressional Delegation Meetings/U.S.
Kelly Armstrong ND
David Rouzer NC-7
John Curtis UT-3
Bob Gibbs OH-7
Sylvia Garcia TX-29
Eddie Bernice Johnson TX 30
John Carter TX-31
Collin Allred TX-32
Brian Babin TX-36
Sheila Jackson Lee TX-25
Lance Gooden TX-5
3 – Major U.S. Associations focused on Petrochemical, Manufacturing and Maritime
American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers
Texas Engineering Extension Service – Cyber Security
American Chemistry Council
The congressional dinner is where team members had the opportunity to network with local U.S Representatives in a more informal setting. This year Congressman Brian Babin, his wife Roxanne Babin, and members of his Washington DC office attended the dinner. Also as a special bonus this year, several members of the team were treated to a tour of the Capital Dome hosted by Mrs. Babin.
20 – Houston Port Region Leaders/Economic Alliance Leadership Team (including EA staff)
Elected Officials & Gov’t Staff Private Sector
Sen. Larry Taylor - Texas Senate, District 24
Rep. Dennis Paul - Texas House of Reps, District 129
Adrian Garcia - Harris County Commissioner Pct 2
Mike Lykes – Commissioner Garcia Chief of Staff
Michel Bechtel - Mayor, Morgan's Point
Brandon Capetillo - Mayor, Baytown
Brian Moran - Baytown Asst City Manager
Thom Kolupski- Mayor Seabrook
Connie Tilton – ExxonMobil
Russell Carter - Bohler
Phillip Fordham – LyondellBasell
Patrick Anderson – Proventure Consultants
Port Houston Advocates
Capt. Robert Thompson - Houston Pilots
JJ Plunkett - Houston Pilots
David Robinson - Council Member, Houston, At-Large 2 Bill Diehl – Houston Port Bureau
Kaitlyn Murphy - Government Relations, GHP
Elizabeth Hale - Gulf Coast Authority
Amy Skicki - Executive Director, BayTran
Jim Griffin - Vice Chancellor, San Jac College
Economic Alliance Leadership Team & SponsorsThe Houston Ship Channel is a United States economic asset consisting of the world’s largest petrochemical complex and Port Houston. The economic impact of Manufacturing and Supply Chain/Logistics of the Houston Port Region interfaces with every Congressional District in the nation.
25 Mile Houston Ship Channel
250 Private Sector Members Petrochemical, Manufacturing, Maritime, and Logistics
12 Cities, Harris County, Port Houston, and Educational Institutions
ECONOMIC IMPACT
#1 Busiest Exporting and Energy Port in the U.S. –World’s Largest Petrochemical Complex
3.2M U.S. Jobs | 1.3M Texas Jobs
$802B U.S. Economic Impact
$32B U.S. Tax Revenues
$5.7B State and Local Tax Revenues
ECONOMIC ASSETS
Houston Port Region economic activity impacts the nation’s:
Supply Chain Efficiencies
Export Goods Production
High Paying Skilled Jobs
Allocations in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, USACE Work Plan, and Inland Waterway Trust Fund for Houston Ship Channel upgrades and maintenance.
Reforms to Surface Transportation Board policies to impact product movement and enhanced partnerships with industry to use the most innovative technologies/ materials for infrastructure rebuilds.
Economic Alliance supports policies to enhance port/supply chain infrastructure, skilled worker growth, industry partnerships, and coastal protections for critical economic assets. 1 2 3 4
Increased training funds via the Department of Labor, reforms to Pell Grant eligibility and appropriations from the U.S. Department of Transportation to establish a Maritime Center of Excellence at San Jacinto College.
Phased appropriations through the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers for the design/construction of a coastal barrier protecting the Texas/Louisiana portion of the U.S. Gulf Coast, impacting our national supply chain/ economy.
The Houston Ship Channel receives over 8,000 deep draft vessels a year, half of all deep draft vessels in Texas. Couple that with 200K barge movements per year and the Houston Ship Channel interfaces with every Congressional District in the nation.
Impact on the U.S. economy is immense, creating over 3.2M jobs, $802B in economic impact and $32B in tax revenue each year.
Economic Alliance supports the allocation of funds in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the USACE FY ’23 Work Plan for the following Port Houston upgrades and maintenance. The funds will keep the deepening and widening (Project 11) on schedule, on budget and within air emission limits. Improving one of the nation's most critical commerce waterways.
Construction Funding for Project 11
Funds to support the deepening and widening on schedule for completion in Dec. 2025 - $178M
Earmark Requests for Project 11 Segments
Dredged Material Placement Site for Package 8 - $27.3M
Bayport ATONS Relocation Project - $3.5M
Segments 5 & 6 Design - $5.1M
Operations and Maintenance Funding
Funding to keep the ship channel operational and avoid draft restrictions. This is an annual request.
The floodgates are a component of the Houston Port region’s maritime infrastructure, with $117B of cargo navigation each year, including 23M tons of agriculture, manufactured and petrochemical goods. Built in 1940, the floodgates are outdated, damaged and not adequate for modern boat and barge movements. A cause of delays, increased emissions, and additional costs for shippers.
Economic Alliance supports a $260M allocation of the Inland Waterway Trust Fund (IWTF) in FY24 for improvements to the floodgates. The upgrades can be fully funded in FY 24 ($260M) and leave $192M in the IWTF to fund all other eligible project requests with the remaining balance.
TRANSPORTATION/FREIGHT & RAIL
U.S. chemical manufacturers ship approximately 992M tons of products per year via marine, rail and truck. Transportation needs are growing as the result of the resurgence of chemical manufacturing.
Economic Alliance supports policy to rebuild the nation's supply chain and keep products moving efficiently.
The Surface Transportation Board must address freight rail issues through reforms, including Final Offer Rater Review and access to Competitive Switching. It has been 4 decades since the Surface Transportation Board has updated its freight rail policies.
The U.S. government provides aid to municipalities to rebuild infrastructure and must incorporate innovative technologies/ materials for sustainable infrastructure that will last generations.
Economic Alliance supports policy to modernize the procurement process and eliminate outdated material restrictions. Allowing engineers to select the best material for the job and best use of taxpayer dollars.
Houston Port region community colleges are building a strong Texas workforce by aligning quality education/training with our industry needs. With the expansion of Port Houston and continued industrial growth it’s important that our colleges meet job demand, attrition and skill enhancement that provides economic opportunity to students.
Economic Alliance supports policy that fully addresses our community college’s unique student/curriculum funding needs and integrates them into the federal workforce training system.
Increase funding for the Strengthening Community College Training Grants program. Administered by the Department of Labor, now entering its fourth year.
Extend Pell Grant eligibility to high-quality, workforce-oriented short-term programs offered by community colleges in high demand areas as introduced in the JOBS Act (H.R. 793, S. 161). Increase lifetime Pell Grant eligibility to 14 semesters (full-time equivalent) End the taxation of Pell Grants - impacts low-income students. Responsible student borrowing by linking borrowing limits to enrollment intensity.
Economic Alliance supports establishment of a Domestic Maritime Center of Excellence in the Houston Port region (San Jacinto College) through an appropriation of $30 million in FY24 U.S. DOT, Maritime Administration (MARAD) Maritime Centers of Excellence Grant Program.
A coastal barrier will protect immediate residents and the nation’s largest economic engine. The Houston Port region includes the world’s largest petrochemical complex and busiest export port in the United States. Protecting a commerce highway critical to the nations supply chain and a high standard of living due to the direct/indirect economic activity in the Houston Ship Channel. National economic benefits include 3.2M jobs, $802B in economic impact and $32B in tax revenue each year.
Economic Alliance supports funding for the design and construction of a coastal barrier protecting the Texas/Louisiana portion of the U.S. Gulf Coast.
Phased appropriation amounts through the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers for the design/construction of a coastal barrier protecting economic assets/workers/residents impacting our national supply chain/economy. The phased funding will include $100 million in the first year and $500 million in the second year.
ELECTED OFFICIALS & ADMINISTRATORS
Dawn Buckingham, M.D - Commissioner of the Texas General Land Office
Adrian Garcia - Harris County Commissioner, Precinct 2
David Martin - Mayor Pro Tem, City of Houston
David Robinson - Council Member, At-Large 2, City of Houston
Brandon Capetillo - Mayor, City of Baytown
Jacob Powell - Council Member, City of Baytown
Michel Bechtel - Mayor, City of Morgan's Point
Thom Kolupski - Mayor, City of Seabrook
Carl Joiner - Mayor, City of Kemah
Mike Lykes - Chief of Staff, Harris County Comm, Precinct 2
Rick Guerrero - Executive Director, City of Pasadena EDC
Jason Reynolds - City Manager, City of Baytown
Brian Moran - Assistant City Manager, City of Baytown
Thomas Reeves - Director Public Affairs, City of Baytown
BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS & ASSOCIATIONS
Coalter Baker - Senior Director Transportation/Infrastructure Policy, Greater Houston Partnership
MaryJane Mudd - Executive Director, East Harris County Manufacturing Association
Elizabeth Hale - Chief Executive Officer, Gulf Coast Authority
Shareen Larmond - President, West Gulf Maritime Association
Robert Hawn - Vice President, West Gulf Maritime Association
EDUCATIONAL PARTNERS
Robert Baker - Assistant Professor - Maritime, TAMU Galveston
Teri Crawford - Vice Chancellor, San Jacinto College
Kenneth Tidwell - Interim Associate Vice Chancellor, Maritime, San Jacinto College
Jeff Pearce - Coordinator, Education & Workforce, CPET, San Jacinto College
PORT INFRASTRUCTURE
Roger Guenther - Executive Director, Port Houston
Cam Spencer - Government Affairs Director, Port Houston
Clint Winegar - Presiding Officer, Houston Pilots
JJ Plunket - Chief Operating Officer, Houston Pilots
Christine Schlenker - Vice President, Greater Houston Port Bureau
PRIVATE SECTOR
Aaron Stryck - Public & Government Affairs Manager, ExxonMobil
Louis Dehaes - KAH VP, Kaneka
Stacy Putman - Manager of Advocacy, Leadership & Strategic Tech, INEOS
Vincent DiCosimo - Corporate Vice President, Targa Resources
Stephanie Pizzoferrato - Director U.S. Government Affairs, Covestro
David Gosnay - Operations Manager, Training & Logistics, LyondellBasell
Devin Sears - Policy Manager, LyondellBasell
Jeff Milstein - Vessel Operations / Director of Security, Vitol Inc.
Russell Carter - Director of Business Development, Bohler Engineering
Kippy Caraway - Chief Executive Officer, Caraway Group
ECONOMIC ALLIANCE HOUSTON PORT REGION
Chad Burke - President & CEO, Economic Alliance
Chad Carson - Vice President of Economic Development, Economic Alliance
Karen Gregory - Government Contract Manager, Economic Alliance THANK YOU
Every year the Economic Alliance organizes a leadership team to travel to Washington DC and advocate for issues important to the Houston Port Region. This annual federal advocacy trip provides our industry members and community leaders exclusive access to members of the US Senate, Congress and their staff, executive branch policymakers, and representatives from key federal agencies.
The Economic Alliance’s efforts continue to eliminate unnecessary procedures so that representatives, government agencies and our members/businesses can work together seamlessly. Our strategic approach directly impacts the growth and maintenance of the most sought-after region in the entire world for petrochemical, manufacturing, maritime and logistics operations.
Goal of the Houston Port region annual trip to D.C is to:
1. Communicate the region’s legislative priorities clearly and succinctly
2. Obtain more federal funding for local projects
3. Advocate for legislation or policy changes that will benefit the Houston Port region
4. Support our legislators by meeting with their community leaders/constituents to understand projects and issues relevant to the Houston Port region
The Economic Alliance’s Public Policy Taskforce compiles a Federal Policy White Paper each year to allow our members and partners to advocate as one region with one voice, both during the D.C. trip held annually and throughout the year. The 2023 Federal Policy White Paper centered on:
1. Houston Ship Channel Supply Chain Improvements
2. Petrochemical Industry Efficiencies/Partnerships
3. Community Colleges Workforce Development Support
4. Coastal Barrier Economic Asset Protections
This strategic and unified approach is positively recognized at the federal level and is viewed as a means of assisting our federal representatives to identify and prioritize policy/projects that will have the most impact on the Houston Port region.
The Economic Alliance has been encouraged to continue this collaborative approach and build upon the relationships and communication channels established with our federal representatives. The trip has not only successfully organized high-level meetings with access to key decision makers but has also given participants a clear understanding of regional priorities and invaluable connections.
A leadership team organized by the Economic Alliance travelled to D.C. (March 27-29) and was led by Local Elected Officials, Business Organizations & Associations, Educational Partners, Port Houston Advocates, and the Private Sector
▪ Over 3 days the 44-person Economic Alliance Leadership Team conducted meetings with Senate, Congressional and Association representatives, along with an Orientation Dinner, and a Congressional Dinner to discuss the Houston Port regions Federal Policy Priorities
John Cornyn TX Ted Cruz TX
Roger Wicker MS MarkWayne Mullin - OK
Dan Crenshaw TX-2 Randy Weber TX-14 Sylvia Garcia TX-29
Brian Babin TX-36
Lizzie Fletcher TX-7 Jody Arrington TX-19 Tony Gonzales-TX-23 Sheila JacksonLee TX-18
Morgan Lutrell TX-8
Michael McCaul TX-10
Nathaniel Moran TX-1
Troy Nehls TX-22
John Carter TX-31
Monica DeLa Cruz TX-15 Collin Allred TX-32
Wesley Hunt TX-38 Kay Granger TX-12
Kelly Armstrong- ND
Tom Emmer-MN-7 Steve Scalise LA-1
David Rouzer NC-7 Virginia Foxx-NC-5 Troy Carter LA-2
John Curtis UT-3 Bruce Westerman AR-4 Sam Graves MO-6
Lance Gooden TX-5
Al Green-TX-9
August Pfluger TX-11
– Major U.S. Associations focused on Petrochemical, Manufacturing and Maritime
American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers American Chemistry Council Environmental Protection Agency US Army Corp of Engineers National Manufacturers Association
The congressional dinner offered team members the opportunity to network with local U.S Representatives in a more informal setting. This year Congressman Brian Babin, his wife Roxanne Babin, and a key member of his Washington DC office attended the dinner. Congressman Babins office also hosted a Capitol tour for member of the team as well as coordinated Library of Congress tours.
44 –
Economic Alliance Leadership Team (including EA staff)
Elected Officials & Administrators Educational Partners (+ four San Jacinto students)
Adrian Garcia -Harris County Commissioner Pct 2
David Martin- Mayor Pro Tem, City of Houston
David Robinson – Council Member, City of Houston
Brandon Capetillo-Mayor,City of Baytown
Jacob Powell, Council Member, City of Baytown
Michel Bechtel- Mayor, City of Morgans Point
Carl Joiner, Mayor, City of Kemah
Thom Kolupski- Mayor, City of Seabrook
Mike Lykes- Chief of Staff, Harris County Comm, Pct 2
Rick Guerrero- Exec Director, Pasadena EDC
Jason Reynolds – City Manager Baytown
Brian Moran – Assistant to City Manager Baytown
Teri Crawford- Vice Chancellor San Jacinto College
Kenneth Tidwell – Assoc Vice Chancellor San Jacinto
Jeff Pearce- Coordinator CPET San Jacinto College
Robert Baker – Assistant Professor TAMU Galveston
Port Houston Infrastructure
Roger Guenther – Exec Director Port Houston
Cam Spencer- Director Govt Affairs Port Houston
Christine Schlenker – V Pres. Houston Port Bureau
Clint Winegar – Presiding Officer Houston Pilots
JJ Plunket – COO Houston Pilots
Thomas Reeves-Director Public Affairs Baytown Private Sector
Mark Havens – Deputy Commissioner Texas GLO
Mary Elen Williams- Dir Govt Relations Texas GLO
Business Organizations
Coalter Baker- Government Relations, GHP
MaryJane Mudd – Exec Director EHCMA
Shareen Larmond – President West Gulf Marine Assoc
Robert Hawn – VP West Gulf Marine Assoc
Aaron Stryck – Govt Affairs Mgr, ExxonMobile
Louis Dehaes – KAH Vice Pres, Kaneka
Stacy Putman- Mgr Advocacy, Strategic Tech INOES
David Gosney – Ops Mgr Training LyondellBasell
Devin Sears- Policy Manager LyondellBasell
Jeff Milstein- Director Security Vitol, Inc.
Russell Carter – Director Bus Dev Bohler Engineering
Vincent DeCosimo- Corp VP Targa Resources
Kippy Caraway – CEO, Caraway Group
Economic Alliance Houston Port Region
Chad Burke – President & CEO Economic Alliance
Karen Gregory- Govt Contract Mgr – Economic Alliance
Chad Carson – VP Economic Dev Economic Alliance
Federal Priorities ‘23
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Support environmental policies that are conducive to creating economic opportunity and preserving a sound business environment.
TEXAS 88th LEGISLATIVE SESSION
THE HOUSTON PORT REGION IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT INDUSTRIAL AND LOGISTIC BASES IN THE WORLD.
Economic Alliance, representing over 200 private sector companies, Port Houston, 12 cities, Harris County and several educational institutions support policies that create an attractive business climate for business and skilled workers to grow.
Objectives of our 88th legislative session priorities are to highlight the following issues related to the Houston Port region:
TCEQ SUNSET
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVES
ELECTRIC RELIABILITY
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT/COLLEGES
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS
ASSET PROTECTIONS
Economic Alliance asks for your insight and support to advance solutions that strengthen the long-term growth of the most sought-after region in the world for petrochemical, manufacturing, maritime and logistics operations.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT INCENTIVES
Support the creation of a new school property tax abatement program (Chapter 313) that attracts new investment and ensures our long-term competitiveness.
ELECTRIC RELIABILITY
Support solutions that improves the operational performance of our existing electric generation fleet and provide targeted incentives to attract new generation.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT/COLLEGES
Continued support for the Texas Commission on Community College Finance revised model for funding community colleges.
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
Support measures to ease the property tax burden and a complete reformation of the industrial and residential property appraisal system.
Maintenance of municipal authority and oppose any measure which jeopardizes the ability to make decisions that impact businesses and quality of life.
TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS
Support the funding and completion of documented transportation projects impacting the state’s most vital economic corridor.
ASSET PROTECTIONS
Support legislation to fund the design and construction of the Coastal Spine Project.
TCEQ SUNSETScience-based environmental policy results in measurable improvement to human health and the environment. Economic Alliance supports environmental policies that are conducive to creating economic opportunity and preserving a sound business environment.
Competitive economic development tools are critical to bringing new businesses to the Houston Port region and growing our economy. Economic Alliance supports the creation of a new school property tax abatement program (Chapter 313) that attracts new investment and ensures our long-term competitiveness.
A sustainable and affordable energy supply for all forms of energy promotes the Houston Port region as an economicaly viable location for investment and the creation of jobs. Economic Alliance supports a solution that improves the operational performance of our existing electric generation fleet and provide targeted incentives to attract new generation, rather than just increasing profits for the existing generation fleet.
Creation of a Texas Grid Reliability Fund to provide low-cost financing for new generation.
Lowering investment costs to spur construction of dispatchable generation with temporary tax abatement. Targeted Market Design Changes to Improve Real-Time Reliability.
Community colleges are an important contributor to the health and vitality of our economic base in the Houston Port Region. Economic Alliance supports the Texas Commission on Community College Finance revised model for funding community colleges.
Shift to funding based on outcomes (degrees, certifications, etc.) and support to high demand fields vs. growth. Financial support for dual credit programs that expediates students into the workforce.
Incentives for community colleges to transfer students to four-year institutions.
Foundational support to smaller community colleges (often in rural areas with smaller business bases). Increase post-secondary learning opportunities to lower-income students.
THE LARGEST GROWTH ENGINE OF ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY OF ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD! The Houston ship channel is our priority based on the economic impact and the unique needs that come along with sustaining investment activity.
opportunity of anywhere in the world! The Houston ship channel is our priority based on the economic impact and the unique needs that come along with sustaining investment activity.
Some of the highest standards of living in the state of Texas and the U.S. are afforded by the direct and indirect jobs that Houston Port region creates:
SOME OF THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF LIVING IN THE STATE OF TEXAS AND THE U.S. are afforded by the direct and indirect jobs that the Houston Port region creates:
1.3M TEXAS JOBS
3.2M U.S. JOBS
A fair and equitable tax system facilitates economic investment and job creation in the Houston Port region. Economic Alliance supports measures to ease the property tax burden and a complete reformation of the industrial and residential property appraisal system.
Expansion of the local residence homestead exemption from 20 percent of a property’s appraised value to at least 30 percent. Government can play a critical role in securing a competitive business environment and a stellar quality of life through legislation that fund core services and critical projects. Economic Alliance supports the maintenance of municipal authority and opposes any measure which jeopardizes the ability to make decisions that impact businesses and quality of life.
Transportation infrastructure investments are critical to meeting the mobility needs of our industries and residents. Economic Alliance supports the funding and completion of documented transportation projects impacting the movement of product and people through the state’s most vital economic corridor.
Beltway 8 Ship Channel Bridge and State Highway 225 – Funding and completion of all 8 direct connectors.
State Highway 225 to Barbour’s Cut Blvd – Engineer, fund and complete a direct connector from State Highway 225 to Barbour’s Cut Blvd.
Grand Parkway/99 - Completion of segments A, B and C and policies that will eliminate the tolls for some heavy haul and truck traffic.
Toll Roads: Protect and grow existing financing mechanisms with no elimination of toll road projects.
Eliminate TxDOT’s designation of SR146 as a truck route through residential portions in the City of Baytown.
Fund the San Jacinto River Bridge replacement, Cedar Bayou Crossing, and Garth Road improvements.
Investments are needed to address the Houston Port region vulnerability during natural disasters to protect uninterrupted production of commodities, products, and shipping commerce vital to the region, state, and nation. Economic Alliance supports legislation to fund the design and construction of the Coastal Spine Project.
Volunteer Jeff Pearce and Tyler SJC and Stacy from College of the Mainland
============================
=============== Over 1500 attendees attended the 2023 Conference per Vera Lewis
====================== 24 sponsors: ExxonMobil; Worley; Arkema, BASF, ChevronPhillips, Clean Harbors, Dow Chemical Company, Dream It. Do It., Freeport LNG, Galveston County Chamber of Commerce, INEOS, LyondelBasell, Occidental, Olin, PCL Construction, Phillips 66, Rotary Club of Galveston, Shell, Tech Labs, Turner Industries, Union Pacific, United Airlines, Wood, and Workforce
As of 7.18.23
12 of 24 events ... 16Named Volunteers ...9 x companies at GCIF/Construction Expo/Mfg
As of 12.31.22
30 of 64 events ... 14 Named Volunteers ...9 companies ... 40 companies at GCIF/Construction Expo/Mfg Day
VIEWED BY CLASSROOM * per DIDI Board 5.5.22 mtg (est. 18 in each class)
DIAMONDBACK WORKS, LP
CiMA SERVICES, LP
LBC TANK TERMINALS
McCARTHY BUILDING COMPANIES
PASADENA EDC
HOUSTON METHODIST CLEAR LAKE/BAYTOWN
COASTAL ICE & WATER
SEABROOK EDC
McDONOUGH ENGINEERING CORPORATION
BOHLER ENGINEERING
BARTLETT COCKE INDUSTRIAL
TURNER INDUSTRIES
INEOS OLEFINS & POLYMERS USA
TEXAS JDC DIVING, INC.
TARGA RESOURCES
KELSEY-SEYBOLD CLINIC
EAST HARRIS COUNTY MANUFACTURES ASSOCIATION
COVESTRO
Wednesday, June 22, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Sylvan Beach Pavilion, 1 Sylvan Beach Dr. La Porte, TX 77571
Women’s
Women’s Leadership Luncheon
ForRaffle
On-Site Registration
TICKETS: $40 for members $55 for non-members
Presenting Sponsors
Event Sponsors
Attendee Gift Sponsor
Highlighting Charity
Valet Sponsor
Pop-Up Shop
20% of sales go to Homemade Hope
Thursday,
PRESENTING SPONSOR
EVENT SPONSOR
PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
BRONZE SPONSORS
TOLUNAY WONG ENGINEERS INC.
HOUSTON PILOTS
GULF COAST AUTHORITY
MCCARTHY BUILDING COMPANIES, INC.
LBC TANK TERMINALS
KURARAY AMERICA INC.
SATTERFIELD & PONTIKES CONSTRUCTION, INC.
INEOS OLEFINS & POLYMERS USA
HOUSTON METHODIST
HEALTH AND SAFETY COUNCIL
UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD
CITY OF BAYTOWN
ECONOMIC INCENTIVE SERVICES, LLC
HARGROVE ENGINEERS & CONSTRUCTORS
RINER ENGINEERING
VALERO ENERGY CORPORATION
DIXIE CHEMICAL COMPANY
TURNER INDUSTRIES
$25 Economic Alliance & BIC Alliance Members
$50 for non-members
$500 Booth Space, includes 2 tickets
Sponsorship Opportunities Event Sponsors ...............$1,500
Thursday, February 9, 2023 6:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Reception 6:00 / Dinner 7:00
Location: Sylvan Beach Pavilion 1 Sylvan Beach Drive, La Porte, TX 77571
Leif Babin
President, Echelon Front
Former U.S. Navy SEAL officer, co-author of #1 New York Times bestseller Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win, and co-founder of Echelon Front
Gold Sponsor
Individual $150
Table of 8 $1,000
Silver Sponsors
Registration Sponsorships
Gold $5,000
Silver $2,500
Bronze $2,000
Board Gift Sponsor
Bronze Sponsors
CIMA SERVICES, L.P.
HOUSTON PILOTS
STATE SENATOR MAYES MIDDLETON
KELSEY-SEYBOLD CLINIC
WEST GULF MARITIME ASSOCIATION
WOOD
BURNS & MCDONNELL ENGINEERING COMPANY, INC
LEE COLLEGE
Presenting Sponsor
Event Sponsors
Host Sponsor
Sponsorship
REGISTRATION & SPONSORSHIPS
Ticket
$25 Economic Alliance & BIC Alliance Members
$50 for non-members
$175 Member Table (8)
$350 Non-Member Table (8)
$500 Booth Space, includes 2 tickets
Sponsorship Opportunities
Presenting Sponsor.........$2,500
Event Sponsors ...............$1,500
EVENT SPONSORS
COFFEE SPONSOR
PRINTING SPONSOR
Registration
Individual Tickets..... $65
Table of 8................$500
Booth Space...........$300
Sponsorships
Presenting Sponsor............ $2,500
Event Sponsors.................. $2,000
Attendee Gift Sponsors....... $500 Pop-Up
20% of sales go to highlighted charity