Lake Charles port tables stevedoring permit after union and applicant speak

The Lake Charles Harbor and Terminal District board voted Nov. 27 to table consideration of a five-year stevedoring permit application from Associated Terminals (Pangea Logistics). Staff said applicants submit a $7,500 fee and required insurance; if approved, permits run five years with annual insurance updates.

Gerald Lewis, representing ILA Local 2047, urged caution, saying new companies have historically promised work but undercut local employers and benefits. “We haven't had a raise ... in about 15 years,” Lewis said, and said he would bring local-employment numbers to the next meeting. Reese Wilson, general manager at Associated Terminals (JL Logistics), introduced himself and offered to answer questions from the board.

Board members debated whether to table the item with or without a date and agreed to table it to allow additional review of impacts on port operations and employees. The chair noted that tabling typically prevents public commenters from speaking on the item unless it is called from the table.

The board did not adopt or deny the permit; the item was tabled by majority vote and can be recalled at a future meeting.