Port Freeport Welcomes Returning Commissioners; Port Commission Elects New Officers

Recently sworn-in Port Commissioners Ravi Singhania and Dan Croft are joined by Phyllis Saathoff, Executive Director and CEO of Port Freeport, and Executive Assistant Missy Bevers. Photos courtesy of Port Freeport.

Port Freeport marked a day of leadership transition and continuity as Commissioners Dan Croft and Ravi Singhania were sworn in prior to the regular port commission meeting on Thursday, May 29. During the meeting, the port commission elected new officers for a two-year term.

Commissioner Dan Croft, first elected in 2019, begins his second term after running unopposed for Position 5, Precinct 3. Commissioner Ravi Singhania, initially elected in 2007, begins his fourth term representing Position 3, Precinct 1.

 Following the swearing-in, the port commission elected its officers for the new term: Rob Giesecke as chairman, Rudy Santos as vice chairman, Kim Kincannon as secretary, and Dan Croft as assistant secretary. Also serving on the port commission are Commissioners Ravi Singhania and Barbara Fratila.  

“I’m honored to take on the role of chairman and remain committed to supporting the priorities of the Navigation District’s voters and taxpayers,” said Rob Giesecke, chairman of the Port Freeport commission. “Port Freeport continues to be a powerful economic engine for our region. I look forward to guiding the Commission as we build on our progress, maintain our zero-tax rate, and deliver lasting value to the communities we serve.” 

Commissioner Giesecke was elected to the port commission in 2021 and most recently served as vice chairman. A Brazoria County native, he works as a commercial real estate broker and remains actively engaged in civic and business initiatives. Giesecke serves as PAC treasurer and precinct chair with the Brazoria County Republican Party.  Commissioner Croft, a resident of Jones Creek, is retired from The First State Bank Sweeny, where he served as senior vice president. He continues to be active in community and economic development efforts through the Sweeny Rotary Club, the Economic Development Alliance of Brazoria County, the Brazoria County Cattleman’s Association, and the State Board of CCA Texas.

“It’s a privilege to continue serving during such a dynamic period of growth,” said Commissioner Dan Croft. “Port Freeport plays a vital role in creating opportunity throughout our region, and I look forward to supporting infrastructure development and community partnerships that advance that mission.”

Reelected Commissioner Singhania, a retired senior vice president of BASF Corporation, has held every officer position during his tenure on the port commission. He brings extensive industry expertise and a deep commitment to public service, contributing to organizations including the Brazosport Rotary Club, the Community Foundation of Brazoria County, Brazosport College Foundation Board, St. Lukes – Brazosport Hospital Advisory Board Chair, and the University of Houston executive Leadership Board. As the past chairman, Singhania helped guide a collaborative, communicative commission focused on outcomes that serve the Navigation District.

“The Port’s momentum reflects years of strategic planning, which led to us achieving zero tax rate last year, and I’m excited to keep building on that foundation,” said Commissioner Ravi Singhania. “From improving channel capacity to enhancing our environmental stewardship, I remain committed to ensuring Port Freeport grows responsibly while upholding our dedication to a zero-tax rate for the Navigation District.”  

The Port Freeport Commission is composed of six publicly elected members who serve staggered six-year terms. The commission is responsible for setting policy and guiding Port Freeport’s strategic direction to promote sustainable development, ensure fiscal responsibility, and strengthen economic prosperity across Brazoria County and the surrounding region.