Port of Houston Moves to Improve Security, Recoup Security Expenses

    Jan. 26, 2005
    Mobile command center, access control and perimeter fencing are part of planned security Improvement

    Source PrimeZone via NewsEdge Corporation

    HOUSTON - The Port of Houston Authority (PHA) commission approved several recommendations involving contract awards, bids and proposals, professional services and general administrative and operational matters during its public meeting on Monday, Jan. 24, 2005, including the following security measures. Chairman Jim Edmonds presided over the meeting with Vice Chairman Kase Lawal, Commissioner Steve Phelps, Commissioner Jim Fonteno, Commissioner Jimmy Burke, Commissioner Cheryl Thompson-Draper, and Commissioner Janiece Longoria.

    (Agenda item G1) The commission awarded a contract to Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC) for a mobile coordination center. SAIC will provide the equipment, the trailer unit to house and transport the equipment, and a truck for towing the unit by no later than July 29, 2005 at a cost not to exceed $1.2 million.

    In August 2004, the commission authorized PHA to advertise and receive proposals from vendors interested in and capable of providing a mobile security unit to enhance security at PHA facilities following the awarding of a $1.136 million grant from the Transportation Security Administration's Office of Domestic Preparedness. The federal grant expires on July 31, 2005.

    (Agenda item G11) The commission evaluated and ranked qualifications for a potential $1.5 million contract to install access controls, fencing and lighting on the south side of the Turning Basin. Black & Veatch received the commission's top ranking followed by Adesta L.L.C. and NetVersant-Texas, respectively. A $978,793 federal grant for the project expires on February 23, 2006.

    (Agenda item M6) In another matter related to security, the commission authorized the PHA to amend Tariffs No. 8 and No. 14 to implement port security fees as follows:

    • All vessels (including barges) will be assessed five percent of total dockage per port call.
    • Break-bulk cargo will be assessed at 10 cents per ton.
    • Bulk cargo (dry or liquid) will be assessed at 2 cents per ton.
    • Containers will be assessed at $2 per loaded box.
    • Vehicles will be assessed at $1 per unit.
    • Passengers will be assessed at $1 per embarking passenger.