Mercedes mayor takes helm at Port of Port Mansfield as coastal growth accelerates

Willacy County leaders have named a new director to guide the Port of Port Mansfield through its next phase of growth, turning to a longtime public official whose experience spans law enforcement, disaster response, and municipal development.

“In a move poised to steer the Port of Port Mansfield toward expansive yet mindful growth, the Willacy County Navigation District (WCND) has named Oscar Montoya Sr. as its new Director,” the district said in a news release about the Mercedes mayor’s appointment.

Montoya’s background includes overseeing major public budgets, coordinating hurricane and flood response across Hidalgo County, and managing large investigative teams — experience that could shape how the coastal port approaches infrastructure, risk, and long-term development, district officials said.

His appointment comes as port activity expands across a regional network that includes the Port of Brownsville, Port of Harlingen, and Port of Corpus Christi.

The district described the timing as critical, calling it “a pivotal time for the modest yet vital Texas harbor, where rising demands from bustling sister ports” are increasing pressure across the region.

From emergency response to coastal operations

Montoya brings more than 38 years of experience across law enforcement, emergency management, and municipal government.

At the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, where he has served as division chief since 2014, he oversees roughly 100 investigators handling cases ranging from homicides to organized crime, while also commanding SWAT operations.

As mayor of Mercedes, he has managed about $18 million in municipal spending tied to public safety, infrastructure, and economic projects.

The district said he has “consistently demonstrated the ability to lead large teams through complex challenges.”

That experience extends to disaster response — a key consideration for a Gulf Coast port.

Montoya previously served as director of Hidalgo County Emergency Management, where he coordinated planning and response for hurricanes, floods, and public health emergencies.

“In hurricane-prone South Texas, this experience is invaluable for safeguarding the port’s operations and ensuring rapid response to environmental threats,” the release said.

His background also includes private-sector security work, where he “slashed fraud losses by 50% through innovative data strategies and security upgrades,” the announcement said.

Balancing growth, access, and environmental constraints

The Port of Port Mansfield supports recreational activity, commercial fishing, and limited maritime operations.

“As Director, Montoya is set to chart a course that amplifies the port’s potential while preserving its charm,” the release said.

District officials outlined priorities that include improving navigation through dredging, coordinating with environmental agencies, and engaging the community as development plans move forward.

The release also pointed to environmental priorities, including “eco-conscious initiatives, such as wetland restoration and green infrastructure.”

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