Thomas Jones, Jr. Appointed Port Houston Commissioner

Highly respected business and civic leader embarks on two-year term.

Houston Mayor John Whitmire administered the oath of office on March 22 to Thomas Jones, Jr., to serve a two-year term as a port commissioner of the Port of Houston Authority. 

“Port Houston is the busiest waterway in the nation, and I am confident that my new appointment will improve City and Port working relations and help bolster Port Houston’s legacy as an economic hub and innovative waterway,” said Houston Mayor John Whitmire.

 A host of local, state, and federal officials and business and community leaders were in attendance, showing their support for Commissioner Jones.  State Senator Carol Alvarado delivered greetings, emphasizing the importance of the Houston Ship Channel to the state, and remarked to Mayor Whitmire that “Commissioner Jones was a smart appointment.”

Commissioner Jones is a highly respected business and civic leader who leads and champions the causes of community development, higher education, and the arts.  He is a founding partner of McConnell Jones, LLP, believed to be the largest African American public accounting firm in the United States, and recognized as one of the largest CPA practices in the Southwestern U.S.  Now retired, Commissioner Jones continues to serve the firm as a consultant. “I am blessed and honored to have this opportunity to serve the people of Houston.  The port is a critically important business and economic engine for Houston, Texas, and the nation,” Commissioner Jones said. “I am excited to help lead and guide Port Houston’s current and future plans for growth and expansion.”

Commissioner Jones has served as chairman, president, and director on many community boards, including among many others the Greater Houston Convention & Visitors board (past chairman), Greater Houston Partnership, co-founder and board president of Dominion  Community Development Corporation (a church-based CDC), Houston Fund for Social Justice  and Economic Equity, the Florida A&M University Foundation board, Jazz  Houston, and Trees for Houston.

“As Mayor Pro Tem and chair of the City of Houston Economic Development committee, we must recognize the Port of Houston as the vital gateway for trade and commerce in our city and region,” said Houston Mayor Pro Tem Martha Tatum-Castex.  “I look forward to collaborating with Commissioner Jones as we continue to invest in this critical asset while also fostering inclusivity and empowering women in our maritime economy.”

Commissioner Jones fills the seat of former Port Commissioner Cheryl Creuzot, who chose not to seek a third term. “We welcome Mr. Jones to the Port Commission and look forward to the perspective he brings,” says Ric Campo, chairman of the Port Commission.  “His strong background in finance coupled with his long history of commitment to philanthropic endeavors makes him well prepared to help guide Port Houston to serve our region.”

The City of Houston-appointed Port Commissioners, as all others, serve for two-year terms without pay, and may serve a maximum of 12 years.

Photo: Houston Mayor John Whitmire (at podium) administers the Oath of Administration to Thomas Jones, Jr. to serve as Port Commissioner of the Port of Houston Authority. Commissioner Jones is flanked on stage by his wife, K'Netha Jones (center), and their daughter, Jessica. Photo courtesy of Port Houston.