Please make a donation to support The Leukemia Cup Regatta on October 1-2, 2010. By doing so, you’ll be helping save lives. If you’re interested in learning more about The Leukemia Cup Regatta or participating in one of the many Leukemia Cup events throughout the country, please visit our 14th Annual Leukemia Cup Regatta fund-raising page!
February 2, 2009
State Ports Authority Reform Bill
Even with great numbers for Charleston’s shipping industry over the past few years, the CEO has recently decided to leave, stating basically, “it ain’t what it used to be” – actually him and Gov. Sanford didn’t see eye to eye – and then we learned Maersk said they’re leaving too.
In a move to reshape the SPA Board, this bill was introduced by Senators Ford, Grooms, and McConnell this past Thursday.
S.351 proposes to reform the SPA Board by requiring Board member candidates to meet five criteria relating to port operation knowledge and experience. A new legislative screening committee would ensure candidates were qualified for appointment to the Board. The Governor is empowered to remove Board members for cause.
S.351 also establishes an Advisory Board to be composed of eight members:
- Class 1 Railroad Companies providing freight service to the port,
- the Charleston Harbor Pilots Association,
- the International Longshoreman’s Association,
- the Propeller Club of Charleston,
- the S.C. Chamber of Commerce,
- the S.C. Manufacturer’s Alliance,
- the S.C. Stevedores Association, and the
- the S.C. Trucking Association.
In making Board appointments, the Governor must ensure representatives of certified public accountants, the Charleston harbor community, port users such as manufacturers, shippers, and importers, economic development interests, as well as someone with CEO experience, and representatives of other regions of the State. The Board is authorized to control salaries and expenses of each board member, assist in strategic planning, and comment on each board member’s nomination during the qualifications screening. Organizational structure for SPA operations would be implemented by an Executive Director. An annual review of the performance of the Executive Director of the SPA is also required.
S.351 will be considered this afternoon by a Senate Transportation Subcommittee and is scheduled to be placed on the Committee’s full agenda tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3, 2009.
Related Post(s)
What do you think about that?
