~ Galveston, Texas - Governor Greg Abbott has recently announced the reappointment and naming of Roger Guenther as chair of the Gulf Coast Protection District (GCPD) Board of Directors. Along with this, he has also reappointed Sally Bakko, Michel Bechtel, Sharon Hulgan, and Lori Traweek to the GCPD Board of Directors for terms set to expire on June 16, 2029.

The GCPD was created with the purpose of overseeing the implementation of an integrated and comprehensive coastal resilience strategy for the upper Texas coast. This is a crucial step in protecting the Gulf Coast from potential natural disasters and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

Roger Guenther, a resident of Galveston, brings a wealth of experience to his role as chair. He recently retired as executive director of the Port of Houston Authority after serving in various positions for over 35 years. Guenther's extensive background in maritime operations and management makes him well-equipped to lead the GCPD Board.

In addition to his role at the Port of Houston Authority, Guenther has also served on several boards including the Texas Department of Transportation Freight Advisory Committee, National Association of Waterfront Employers, Greater Houston Port Bureau, and Texas A&M University at Galveston Board of Visitors. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Texas A&M University and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of St. Thomas.

Sally Bakko, a resident of League City, has been reappointed as a member of the GCPD Board. She currently serves as director of policy and government relations for the City of Galveston and is also a non-voting liaison member to the Texas Water Development Board San Jacinto Regional Flood Planning Group.

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Bakko brings a diverse range of experience to her role on the board. She has previously served as a senior policy analyst for the Harris County Commissioner's Court Analyst's Office, legislative coordinator for the City of Galveston Attorney's Office, director of intergovernmental relations for Arlington County, Virginia, and federal funds analyst for the Texas Legislative Budget Board. Bakko holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications from Mount Vernon College at George Washington University and dual Master's degrees in Business Administration and Public Administration from the University of Phoenix.

Michel Bechtel, a resident of Morgan's Point, has also been reappointed to the GCPD Board. He is the president of Bechtel Exploration and Blue Moon Exploration and retired as Mayor of the City of Morgan's Point after five terms.

Bechtel brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the energy industry to his role on the board. He is a member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists and the New Orleans Geological Society. He also serves on the Board of Pilot Commissioners for Harris County Ports and is a port commissioner for the Port of Houston. Additionally, he is involved with various organizations such as Bay Area Coastal Protection Alliance, Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership, and Harris County Mayors and Council Association. Bechtel holds a Bachelor's degree in Geology and Geophysics from Louisiana State University (LSU) in New Orleans and a Master's degree in Petroleum Geology from the University of New Orleans.

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Sharon Hulgan, a resident of Friendswood, has been reappointed to her role on the GCPD Board. She currently serves as lead site manufacturing director for Dow Houston Hub Operations.

Hulgan brings extensive experience in chemical engineering to her role on the board. She is also a board member and treasurer of East Harris County Manufacturers Association. In addition to this, she has previously served as a board member for Deer Park Chamber of Commerce and LSU Chemical Engineering Industrial Advisory Committee. Hulgan holds a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from LSU.

Lori Traweek, a resident of Seabrook, has been reappointed to the GCPD Board. She recently retired as the CEO and general manager of the Gulf Coast Authority after serving for over 27 years.

Traweek's experience in water conservation and management makes her a valuable member of the board. She is a board member of Texas Water Trade, member of Texas Water Conservation Association, and past chair of Galveston Bay Estuary Program. She is also involved with various organizations such as San Jacinto Galveston Basin and Bay Area Stakeholder Committee, Economic Alliance Houston Port Region, Water Environment Association of Texas, and Flower Gardens National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Council. Traweek holds a Bachelor's degree in Aquatic and Fisheries Biology from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

The reappointments and naming of Roger Guenther as chair bring a strong leadership team to the GCPD Board. With their diverse backgrounds and expertise, they are well-equipped to oversee the implementation of an effective coastal resilience strategy for the upper Texas coast. Their dedication to protecting the Gulf Coast will ensure its long-term sustainability for generations to come.

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