The bill amends the Special District Local Laws Code to change the composition and election process of the board of the Calhoun Port Authority. Specifically, it increases the number of commissioners from six to seven, with one commissioner elected at-large by the voters of the entire district and one commissioner elected from each of the six navigation commissioner precincts. The bill also establishes that the six precinct commissioners will draw lots to determine their terms, with three serving two-year terms and three serving four-year terms. Additionally, it clarifies the residency requirements for applicants seeking to represent either a precinct or the district at large.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that the first election for the newly created at-large commissioner position will take place in May 2027. In the interim, the governor is required to appoint an at-large commissioner to serve until the elected candidate qualifies for office. The appointed individual must meet the qualifications outlined in the amended law. The bill includes provisions to ensure compliance with legal notice requirements and outlines the effective date, which is immediate upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Special District Local Laws Code 5003.051, Special District Local Laws Code 5003.053, Special District Local Laws Code 5003.054 (Special District Local Laws Code 5003)