Business

Port disparity study to benefit MWBEs

DEFENDER NEWS NETWORK — Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis applauded the Port of Houston Authority’s recent decision to conduct a disparity study of its procurement practices to ensure that the agency is equitably contracting with minority- and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs).

Published

7 years ago

April 5, 2019

Oakland Post

By Defender News Service

Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis applauded the Port of Houston Authority’s recent decision to conduct a disparity study of its procurement practices to ensure that the agency is equitably contracting with minority- and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs).

A disparity study is a critical step in establishing an MWBE program. It compares the availability of MWBEs in the sectors where government contracts and procures with the level of participation of those businesses in the government’s contracting and procurement processes. When disparities exist, a gender or race-conscious approach is appropriate and allowable.

“I applaud the Port of Houston Authority on approving a disparity study,” Ellis said. “This is an important first step in ensuring that all businesses have an equal opportunity to contract with the Port of Houston.

“Harris County is among the most diverse communities in the country. For our entire economy to thrive, contracting opportunities with government entities, including the Port of Houston, should reflect that diversity.”

Disparity studies and MWBE programs are powerful economic development tools that can help remove roadblocks to inclusion, strengthen and diversify the region’s economy, and help create wealth and jobs where they are needed the most.

Recognizing the economic and social benefits of such programs, Ellis last year led the effort to initiate a disparity study for Harris County Commissioners Court. That study is currently underway and should be completed later this year.

Ellis also joined advocates in successfully urging Metro and the Port of Houston to conduct similar disparity studies.

This article originally appeared in the Defender News Network.

Oakland Post

Posts by Oakland Post

Up Next

Roundtable participants address challenges, opportunities

Don't Miss

Jasmine Crowe’s tech company raises awareness about socioeconomic issues

Oakland Post

Click to comment

Alameda County

Seth Curry Makes Impressive Debut with the Golden State Warriors

Seth looked comfortable in his new uniform, seamlessly fitting into the Warriors’ offensive and defensive system. He finished the night with an impressive 14 points, becoming one of the team’s top scorers for the game. Seth’s points came in a variety of ways – floaters, spot-up three-pointers, mid-range jumpers, and a handful of aggressive drives that kept the Oklahoma City Thunder defense on its heels.

Published

1 day ago

December 4, 2025

Oakland Post

Seth Curry is a point guard on the GSW team.Photo courtesy of the Golden State Warriors.

By Y’Anad Burrell

Tuesday night was anything but ordinary for fans in San Francisco as Seth Curry made his highly anticipated debut as a new member of the Golden State Warriors. Seth didn’t disappoint, delivering a performance that not only showcased his scoring ability but also demonstrated his added value to the team.

At 35, the 12-year NBA veteran on Monday signed a contract to play with the Warriors for the rest of the season.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening came before Seth even scored his first points. As he checked into the game, the Chase Center erupted into applause, with fans rising to their feet to give the newest Warrior a standing ovation.

The crowd’s reaction was a testament not only to Seth’s reputation as a sharpshooter but also to the excitement he brings to the Warriors. It was clear that fans quickly embraced Seth as one of their own, eager to see what he could bring to the team’s championship aspirations.

Warriors’ superstar Steph Curry – Seth’s brother – did not play due to an injury. One could only imagine what it would be like if the Curry brothers were on the court together. Magic in the making.

Seth’s debut proved to be a turning point for the Warriors. Not only did he contribute on the scoreboard, but he also brought a sense of confidence and composure to the floor.

While their loss last night, OKC 124 – GSW 112, Seth’s impact was a game-changer and there’s more yet to come. Beyond statistics, it was clear that Seth’s presence elevated the team’s performance, giving the Warriors a new force as they look to make a deep playoff run.