PORT UPDATES
William Trezza, Port of Stockton T he role of a Port Commissioner is very simple — advise and consent. We act in an advisory capacity to review and approve all poli- cies governing Port operations. The Commission also approves and rati- fies all business transactions exceeding the policy limits of the Port Director’s authorities. The Commission is not involved in any way with day-to-day operations. Personally, I find that hav- ing had a career in executive level com- mercial banking has assisted in gaining familiarity with the Port’s business operations and strategic positioning. The Commission influences stra- tegic vision and leadership in a var- iety of ways. We review and approve the Port’s Strategic Plan as well as any revisions promulgated by the Director and staff. The Commission is regu- larly involved in reviewing strategic opportunities. Ports will always have The legacy I hope to leave is helping establish a strong, sustainable strategic plan that guides the Port’s long-term priorities and ensures we are ready to capitalize on major opportunities as they arise. I believe that success will be measured not only by the Port’s finan- cial strength, but also by its reputation as an innovative, responsible partner for the greater Stockton region. with a clear understanding of both its economic benefits and its impact on our region. Personal Perspective
Margaret Stephens, Port of Stockton A s a commissioner, I believe it’s important to look ahead and welcome innovative business opportunities that prepare the Port for the future. Areas of particular interest to me include opportunities that sup- port California’s energy supply chain, including renewable fuel feedstocks, biomass products, hydrogen, bat- tery materials, critical minerals, and other strategic bulk commodities. By expanding the Port’s role in the move- ment, storage, and distribution of these products, we can create high-qual- ity jobs, diversify the Port’s revenue base, and build long-term economic resilience. At the same time, I’ve come to learn that growth must be balanced with meaningful community engage- ment. As a commissioner, I strongly support the Port of Stockton’s leader- ship team in engaging community residents, local businesses, labor, environmental organizations, ten- ants, city and county governments, and regulatory agencies through ongoing public outreach and meet- ings. I have learned that these con- versations are essential and can demonstrate to the greater Stockton community that every new oppor- tunity is being carefully evaluated Port of Stockton Commissioner Margaret Shea Stephens
Port of Stockton Commissioner William Trezza
a strategic economic position since global trade continues to flourish. Our Port has great potential for growth for two reasons. Our boundaries include a significant amount of acreage which is developable for current and future ten- ants. We’re also amid assuming control of a nearby former army base which has significant rail capacity. The immens- ity of capital investment required to operate Ports is daunting and for cer- tain is a tong-term area of concern. Our Port is very sensitive to the surrounding community. The oper- ation is a boon for our local market because it creates significant direct and indirect employment opportun- ities, as well as meaningful economic impact. We commit significant resources to educate the local mar- ket about the benefits generated by the Port. The Port also extends itself in numerous ways to assist the low- income neighborhood abutting our property. We hold a monthly meet- ing with community stakeholders to
July 2026 — PACIFIC PORTS — 33
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