PORT GOVERNANCE
I am also especially proud of helping establish the Joint Use Agreement between the Port of Hueneme and the U.S. Navy- a landmark partnership that allows the Port and the Navy to collaboratively utilize portions of Naval Base Ventura County in support of both commercial maritime operations and our nation’s military readiness. This agreement exemplifies the unique role of the Port of Hueneme as an asset that is essen- tial to our local economy and critical to our national defense. Developing the agreement required years of collaboration with numerous partners, including Navy leadership and the Secretary of the Navy at the time. That cooperative effort has strengthened the Port’s long-term capabilities while con- tributing to the creation of approximately 6,000 direct jobs, delivering lasting economic benefits for our region while reinforcing the Port’s strategic importance. Q. What skills or experience are most valuable in serving effectively as a Commissioner? Serving as a Harbor Commissioner begins with a genuine commitment to serving your community. It is a responsibil- ity that should always be approached with integrity, humil- ity, and a desire to make decisions that benefit the public rather than any individual interest. Equally important are having a positive outlook, a clear vision for the future, and the ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders. Having served as a Harbor Commissioner for 32 years, I have developed a deep understanding of the Port’s role in our regional economy and the importance of balancing eco- nomic growth, environmental stewardship, and community partnership. That experience has reinforced my belief that thoughtful leadership, steady collaboration, and a long-term perspective are essential to serving the public effectively.
Jess Herrera, Port of Hueneme Q. What legacy would you like to leave through your service? I hope my legacy is one of meaningful accomplishment and lasting service to our community. Q. What accomplishment during your tenure are you most proud of? One of the accomplishments I am most proud of is help- ing preserve the South Terminal for the Port’s long-term operational use. At one point, there were discussions about repurposing the property for uses outside of the Port. I believed strongly that maintaining this land as a strategic maritime asset would better serve our region’s economic future, and I worked diligently to ensure it remained avail- able for Port operations. Today, the South Terminal has become an important part of the Port’s growth and development, supporting expanded cargo operations and positioning the Port to meet future industry demands. Seeing that vision become a reality has been incredibly rewarding.
Port of Hueneme Commissioners: Jess Herrera (Secretary), Mary Anne Rooney (Vice President), and Jason Hodge, President)
30 — PACIFIC PORTS — July 2026
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