HANCOCK COUNTY PORT AND HARBOR COMMISSION HONORS LEGACY DIRECTORS AT PORT BIENVILLE APPRECIATION LUNCHEON

May 14, 2026

BAY ST LOUIS, MS – On April 27, 2026, Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission (HCPHC) hosted its annual Port Appreciation Luncheon at the McDonald Business Center, bringing together industrial tenants, community leaders, and stakeholders to celebrate the ongoing growth and historical foundation of Port Bienville Industrial Park.

The event featured an update from Executive Director Blaine LaFontaine, who briefed tenants on the current trajectory of the Commission’s projects and infrastructure improvements. Highlighting the luncheon was a special dedication ceremony, where HCPHC officially named its two primary conference rooms at the McDonald Business Center in honor of past Executive Directors Woodrow W. Webre and Hal W. Walters, recognizing their transformative contributions to Hancock County’s industrial landscape.

Former Chancery Clerk Michael Necaise spoke during the ceremony, offering reflections on the leadership of both men. Mr. Necaise emphasized the vision required to establish Port Bienville as a premier industrial hub, noting that the groundwork laid by Webre and Walters remains the backbone of the county’s economic success today.

Hal W. Walters, who served as Executive Director from 1994 to 2007, was in attendance to receive the honor. During his tenure, Walters was instrumental in securing major developments, including the arrival of Wellman, Inc. in 1996, which required the acquisition of an additional 1,300 acres to expand the industrial park. Addressing the attendees, Mr. Walters shared brief remarks expressing his gratitude and his pride in the continued evolution of the Port and the local manufacturing community.

The Commission also paid tribute to the late Woodrow W. Webre, who led the Commission from 1972 to 1983. Webre is remembered for his pivotal role in bringing Borg-Warner Chemicals, Inc. to the Port Bienville Railroad system and for his extensive history of public service throughout Hancock County, including serving as past president of the Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the City Planning Commission. Mr. Webre's daughter also spoke during the ceremony, sharing personal reflections on her father's dedication to the growth and prosperity of the region.

“Today, Port and Harbor is a unique organization throughout the Southeast with our scope of responsibility, including operations and development of Port Bienville Railroad, Port Bienville and Stennis International Airport. We feel it is important to honor the leadership and contributions of past professionals that executed a vision and helped make us who we are today. We hope to extend sincere gratitude to Mr. Walters and Mr. Webre’s impact on helping grow Port Bienville and Hancock County.”

- Blaine LaFontaine, Executive Director

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About Hancock County Port & Harbor Commission  

As the county economic development authority, the Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission is committed to fostering business investment and job creation. Their focus lies in attracting manufacturing, defense, aviation, and aerospace-related projects to the county. The organization manages the Stennis International Airport and Port Bienville Industrial Park, while also providing support to the Stennis Space Center, NASA’s leading facility for rocket engine testing.