Author : Dennis Culnan

PUBLIC NOTICE

SOUTH JERSEY PORT CORPORATION

SPECIAL MEETING

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, in accordance with the Open Public Meetings Act, N.J.S.A 10:4-6, that the South
Jersey Port Corporation Board of Directors will hold a Special Meeting on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at
11:00 a.m. EST, prior to its previously scheduled and noticed regular Board of Directors meeting on this date.
The meeting will be held in person at the South Jersey Port Corporation offices located in the Ferry Terminal
Building, 2 Aquarium Loop Drive, Suite 100, Camden, New Jersey 08103. The meeting is open to the public.
A portion of this Special Meeting will be closed to the public. Members of the public may attend via Zoom.
Those who wish to attend the meeting, via Zoom, may do so through the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86108587083?pwd=V3ZWMm1PY VpzQm1BbXlVQkY1Wk8rdz09
Meeting ID: 861 0858 7083
Passcode: 498320

You may also attend the meeting using Zoom audio within the US +13126266799,,86108587083#,,,,*498320#
Formal action will be taken during the open portion of this Special Meeting. Members of the public who wish to
comment during the public comment portion of this Special Board Meeting will be unmuted or placed on speaker
and allowed to enter his or her comment on the record. A non-public private feed will be used by the Board of
Directors for the executive session (closed) portion of the meeting.

South Jersey Port Corporation
Victoria D’Amico
Board Secretary

South Jersey Ports is committed to driving economic growth in the region and fostering strong community connections through a robust outreach program. This program, designed to engage host communities, includes various initiatives aimed at educating, supporting, and collaborating with residents across South Jersey.

One of the cornerstones of South Jersey Ports’ outreach efforts is active engagement with local schools. By organizing port visits and career days, they offer students a unique opportunity to learn about the maritime industry and the array of careers it offers. Additionally, internships provide hands-on experience, helping students and young adults gain valuable skills and insights into potential career paths. Job fairs further reinforce this commitment by connecting residents with employment opportunities within the port and its partner organizations.

Beyond educational initiatives, South Jersey Ports also focuses on environmental stewardship and community beautification. Neighborhood tree plantings contribute to greener, more sustainable communities and help foster a sense of pride and ownership among residents. Participation in community events, whether through sponsorships or active involvement, underscores the port’s dedication to being a positive presence in the area.

Most recently, South Jersey Ports actively participated in the Camden Strong Community Cleanups, a city-wide initiative led by Mayor Vic Carstarphen. These cleanups, which involve partnerships with neighborhood leaders, are part of a broader effort to “clean and green” Camden. Through its participation, South Jersey Ports demonstrates its commitment to improving the quality of life in Camden, contributing resources and labor to ensure the success of these community-driven efforts.

As South Jersey Ports continues to grow, its community outreach program remains a vital part of its mission, reflecting its belief that a thriving port goes hand-in-hand with a thriving community.

South Jersey Ports recognizes and celebrates the vital role of the International Wood Products Association (IWPA) in advancing the global trade and sustainability of wood products. This edition of our newsletter highlights the IWPA, a crucial partner in enhancing the efficiency and environmental stewardship of ports.

The IWPA promotes responsibly sourced wood products and fosters a sustainable wood trade industry. Their mission includes advocating for fair trade policies, supporting sustainable forest management practices, and providing valuable resources and education to industry stakeholders.

The IWPA has been a strong voice in shaping policies that support sustainable wood trade practices. Their lobbying efforts for fair trade regulations and sustainable sourcing standards have been instrumental in driving positive change across the industry. A significant element of the IWPA’s advocacy is its support for the Lacey Act, a key piece of U.S. legislation that prohibits the import, export, transport, or sale of plants and plant products that are illegally harvested. The IWPA ensures that its members comply with Lacey Act requirements, helping to safeguard forests worldwide and enhance the integrity of the global wood products market.

One of the IWPA’s key accomplishments is its comprehensive educational initiatives. The association offers various training programs, webinars, and workshops designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of industry professionals. These resources cover critical topics such as compliance with environmental regulations, best practices in sourcing and trade, and the latest advancements in sustainable wood products. By equipping professionals with up-to-date information and skills, the IWPA helps ensure that industry practices align with evolving sustainability standards. Currently, IWPA holds a grant from USDA that ensures that their Lacey Act training is free for the duration of the grant; you can visit their website here for more information.

The IWPA regularly hosts events that bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders. These events, such as the annual IWPA Convention and regional workshops, provide platforms for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaborative problem-solving. These gatherings are pivotal in fostering relationships and advancing collective goals in the wood products sector.

South Jersey Ports is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, values that align closely with those of the IWPA. Our port operations minimize environmental impact through efficient logistics, reduced emissions, and support for sustainable practices. Partnering with the IWPA enhances our ability to meet these goals, as we share a common vision of promoting sustainable wood products and responsible resource management.

Consumer design trends increasingly influence the wood products industry, and the IWPA is at the forefront of addressing these changes. As demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products rises, consumers are driving the industry toward greener practices. Trends such as the preference for reclaimed wood over plastics, sustainable sourcing, and eco-conscious design are reshaping how wood products are manufactured and traded.

The IWPA’s work in promoting transparency and certification of sustainable wood sources is critical in meeting these consumer expectations. By supporting these trends, the IWPA helps ensure that the wood products supplied through South Jersey Ports are not only high-quality but also environmentally responsible.

“We are proud to partner with South Jersey Ports, which share our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices,” said IWPA Executive Director Ashley Amidon. “The quiet, often unrecognized service that ports provide is particularly important to the supply chain, and together, we are setting a standard for the industry and ensuring that our products meet the highest ethical and environmental standards.”

Brendan Dugan, Assistant Executive Director and Chief Commercial Officer at South Jersey Ports and IWPA Chair of the Supply and Logistics Committee and IWPA Board member adds, “Our collaboration with the IWPA has been invaluable in aligning our operational goals with broader sustainability objectives. The educational resources and advocacy provided by the IWPA help us maintain our commitment to sustainable practices and ensure that our port operations support the global effort to protect our environment.”

The International Wood Products Association stands out as a key ally in our mission to promote sustainable practices within the wood products industry. Through their advocacy, educational efforts, and alignment with consumer trends, the IWPA contributes significantly to the success and sustainability of South Jersey Ports. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the IWPA and working together toward a more sustainable future for the wood products sector.

For more information on the IWPA and its initiatives, please visit their website.  

South Jersey Ports is reporting strong activity through the first half of 2024, driven by high demand and record rail volume. To support this sustained growth and enhance infrastructure, South Jersey Ports has invested nearly $10 million in new infrastructure and equipment, reinforcing its commitment to efficient and reliable rail service with additional major capital improvements planned.

Key Highlights:
Strong Cargo Activity: South Jersey Ports experienced robust activity levels, with significant demand propelling operations to new heights. This includes record-breaking rail volume, highlighting the importance of rail connectivity to the overall logistics network. Year-to-date wood products cargo is more than double the volume moved in all of 2023. Steel saw a 50% increase at the Camden Terminals, while cement is 25% higher than in 2023. Overall cargo activity at the Camden Terminals is up 15%.

Investment in Infrastructure: South Jersey Ports has allocated nearly $10 million to enhance rail capabilities to support this growth, ensuring it meets and exceeds customer needs.

Sustainability Initiatives: South Jersey Ports has implemented several sustainable initiatives, including investments in rail infrastructure, transitioning to a sustainable fleet, and adopting green practices in operations. These advancements reduce the port’s environmental footprint and offer a compelling incentive for companies to prioritize sustainability.

For example, businesses like Tata Steel find that South Jersey Ports’ commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with their environmental goals. “South Jersey Ports’ sustainability initiatives resonate deeply with Tata Steel’s commitment to reducing our carbon footprint,” said Andy Taylor, Head of Logistics Sourcing, Outbound Logistics, Business Planning & Supply Chain at Tata Steel. “Their personalized services and dedication to green practices make them an exceptional partner for our operations.”

Future Growth and Capacity Expansion: South Jersey Ports is dedicated to meeting future demand and seizing new opportunities. It is actively exploring ways to develop additional indoor and outdoor storage capacity at the Camden terminals. This expansion is crucial for handling the increasing demand from current and new customers for steel and forest products, key commodities that drive the port’s success.

South Jersey Ports’ strategic investments not only respond to current market demands but also proactively secure its position as a leading port in the region. By enhancing infrastructure and expanding storage capacities, South Jersey Ports aims to provide unparalleled service to its clients and foster economic and job growth in the South Jersey region.
“Our commitment to continuous improvement and investment in infrastructure is essential to maintaining the high standards of service our customers expect,” said Andrew Saporito, CEO & Executive Director of South Jersey Ports.”The record rail volumes and strong demand we’ve experienced so far this year are a testament to the hard work of our team and the strategic vision we have for the future. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and remain dedicated to supporting our clients’ needs through innovation and expansion.”

The South Jersey Port Corporation proudly welcomes Richard F. Altomare to its team as the newly appointed General Manager for Security, Public Safety, and Emergency Management and Facility Security Officer. As the former head of the TSA’s Federal Air Marshal Service in Philadelphia, Altomare brings a wealth of law enforcement expertise and decades of experience to his new role.

“We’re delighted to have Rich’s extensive and impressive decades of law enforcement expertise leading our security team and emergency management efforts,” said Andrew Saporito, SJPC’s Executive Director and CEO. “He not only enforced the regulations, tactics, strategies and policies to protect America’s air flights and borders, he wrote them at the TSA and taught them as an adjunct professor.”

Altomare’s career spans from a military policeman in the Army, to a police officer in Brigantine, New Jersey, and then rising through the ranks at the Transportation Security Agency. In 2023, he was awarded the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security’s Exceptional Service Gold Medal in recognition of his exceptional leadership.

He led law enforcement and security operations over numerous maximum transportation security/mass-attendance events, including Super Bowl LI, 2016 NCAA Final Four Championship Game, and “Operations Allies Welcome.”

While simultaneously performing his duties with the Transportation Security Administration, from 2013 to 2023, he served as Adjunct Professor/Course Developer at Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Florida, delivering graduate-level lectures on Homeland Security and Criminal Justice studies.

Altomare holds a Master of Science in Administrative from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Stockton University.

We are thrilled to congratulate our very own South Jersey Ports board member, Sheila Roberts who recently received the prestigious Camden Hero Award at the Camden Community Partnership’s Annual Meeting. 

The Camden Hero Award is a testament to Sheila’s lifelong dedication to her beloved city and its residents. It recognizes her unwavering commitment to making Camden a better place for everyone, and her impact has left an indelible mark on the community.

Sheila Roberts is not just a resident of Camden; she is a true community leader. Her journey has been defined by selfless service and advocacy, as she has tirelessly championed the causes she holds dear.

For over two decades, Sheila has served as the President of the Cooper Lanning Civic Association, tirelessly advocating for the Cooper Plaza neighborhood and partnering with the adjacent Lanning Square neighborhood. Her dedication extends far beyond her role in the association; she contributes to area food banks, supports homeless shelters, and collaborates with organizations to provide essential items to those in need throughout the year.

Sheila’s commitment to social determinants of health is evident in her partnership with the Food Bank of South Jersey, where she facilitates regular food distributions. She has also played a pivotal role in establishing and maintaining a community garden in Cooper Plaza, providing a source of fresh produce for neighbors.

Sheila’s involvement in youth sports underscores her commitment to providing recreational opportunities for Camden’s youth. Her dedication to the Camden Promise Neighborhood Initiative further highlights her passion for creating opportunities and resources for children and families.

Her dedication to improving the quality of life for Camden residents has led her to volunteer and serve on numerous boards and committees. Her background as a retired teacher from the Camden City Public Schools and her education at Rutgers University-Camden have equipped her with the knowledge and passion needed to effect positive change.

Sheila Roberts is not just a board member; she is a Camden hero. Her unwavering commitment to the city and its residents has made a profound and lasting impact, exemplifying the spirit of resiliency, selflessness, and betterment that the Camden Hero Award celebrates.

“We are immensely proud to have Sheila as a part of the South Jersey Ports family, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved honor. Sheila’s dedication is an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to continuing to make a positive impact alongside her in the city,”  said Andy Saporito, South Jersey Ports Executive Director & CEO.

The team at South Jersey Ports recognizes that its presence in the communities of Camden, Paulsboro, and Salem is not just about business and the supply chain; it’s about people. This understanding has fueled our commitment to community outreach efforts, which have become an integral part of our mission.

One of the standout initiatives is our participation in local job fairs. We recognize the importance of providing employment opportunities to residents in the area. It is our mission after all to foster regional economic development and that means creating local jobs. We partner with local organizations and schools to ensure we are actively recruiting from the local talent pool.

South Jersey Ports’ outreach efforts extend far beyond just job fairs. We understand that the youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow. That’s why we regularly organize student tours and career days at port facilities. These events provide students with an up-close look at the maritime industry and the career possibilities it holds. They inspire young minds to consider careers in logistics, engineering, and various other fields, paving the way for a brighter future for our communities.

Participation in neighborhood clean-ups is another crucial aspect of the ports’ community involvement. We recognize that a clean environment is essential for the well-being of our neighbors. By actively participating in clean-up initiatives, we hope to not only contribute to a healthier living environment but also foster a sense of togetherness with our neighbors. Our teams roll up their sleeves, put on gloves, and work side by side with residents and other stakeholders demonstrating our shared commitment to being responsible stewards of the environment.

Moreover, the ports’ commitment to the community goes beyond the physical boundaries of our facilities. We actively engage with local organizations and support various community projects and events throughout the year.

The philosophy behind all these efforts is clear: our organization views itself as an integral part of the South Jersey community. We don’t just want to coexist with our neighbors; we want to thrive together. We understand that our success is intertwined with the well-being of the communities we call home.

In the end, our commitment to community outreach efforts isn’t just about being a good neighbor; it’s about being a true partner in the growth of our host cities. By fostering relationships, providing opportunities, and making a positive impact, we are not only helping build a stronger community but also setting a standard for responsible corporate citizenship. Our mission isn’t just about shipping goods; it’s about building bridges of goodwill and collaboration that benefit everyone involved.

A Remarkable Half-Century of Collaboration

Forging lasting partnerships can be a challenging feat for any organization, often discussed but not always realized. The collaboration between Macsteel International and South Jersey Ports (SJP) is a shining example of such partnerships and a remarkable testament to the enduring power of strong alliances.

For over 116 years, Macsteel International has been a leading manufacturer, merchandiser, and distributor of steel and value-added products. With a global presence encompassing cities around the globe such as Amsterdam, Dubai, New York, Houston, Camden, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Hong Kong, Sydney, and Melbourne, Macsteel has firmly established itself as a key player in the steel industry, boasting $244 million in revenues and a dedicated team of 500 employees.

A Handshake Deal That Lasted 50 Years

The partnership between Macsteel and SJP began in the mid-1970s when William (Bill) Matteo, an executive at the time, forged a connection with the port’s then-executive director, Joseph Balzano. Remarkably, the deal was sealed with a handshake, and it has stood strong for half a century.

According to Michael J. Purpura, International Domestic Shipping and Logistic Manager for Macsteel International, who now oversees the SJPC-Macsteel partnership, “We’ve forged a very close relationship through a succession of natural management iterations. Currently, we are working closely with Brendan Dugan, Assistant Executive Director/Chief Commercial Officer who shares the same commitment, focus, and attitude that we do—ensuring excellence in customer service.”

The South Jersey Ports’ Advantages

For Macsteel, the port’s facilities are ideal. Purpura notes, “South Jersey Ports allow easy access to our customers in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and the Midwest. It’s centrally located on the U.S. East Coast and offers excellent facilities, warehousing, laydown areas for our cargo, and superb highway and rail connections from the port to our customers.”

Moreover, it’s the seamless, “hand-in-glove” relationship that has flourished over five decades that truly sets South Jersey Ports apart. The no-nonsense, “let’s get to it” approach of the port team members resonates deeply with Macsteel, emphasizing the shared commitment to delivering cargo promptly to customers.

Market and Tonnage

Macsteel’s imports through South Jersey Ports vary between 5,000 to 10,000 tons of diverse steel products, largely driven by customer demand. While the Biden infrastructure plan promises a significant surge in steel demand over the next decade, immediate concerns, such as labor issues and supply chain disruptions, are at the forefront of customer priorities.

Purpura explains, “Right now, customers are cautious, managing inventories, and awaiting resolution of labor issues.  However, Macsteel and South Jersey Ports remain steadfast in our commitment to delivering, as we have for years.”

As Macsteel and South Jersey Ports continue to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the steel industry, their enduring partnership serves as a beacon of stability, dedication, and collaboration. Here’s to the next 50 years of success and shared achievements.

“Over the past 50 years, we’ve built a relationship based on trust and a shared goal of superior customer service and meeting supply chain demand. It’s a true honor to celebrate this remarkable milestone together as we look forward to the future,” said Andy Saporito, Executive Director & CEO of South Jersey Ports.

Celebration Commemorating the City’s Role in the International Supply Chain Held on October 24, 2023
CAMDEN, NJ – Clipper Bulk Shipping Ltd, a renowned international shipping company, honored the City of Camden, New Jersey, by naming one of its state-of-the-art vessels, the “Norse Camden,” in recognition of Camden’s vital role in the global supply chain. This remarkable tribute underscores the deep and enduring partnership between Clipper Bulk Shipping and the South Jersey Port Corporation, as well as the significance of Camden as the company’s largest U.S. port of call.

For more than three decades, Clipper Bulk Shipping has been a steadfast partner in Camden City, importing steel from Northern Europe, with a focus on tinplate in coils, steel coils, and structural steel. This enduring relationship has not only been beneficial for trade and commerce but has also contributed to Camden’s reputation as a pivotal gateway in the international maritime industry.

Camden Mayor, Vic Carstarphen expressed his enthusiasm for this symbolic gesture, stating, “We are honored to have our city’s name associated with Clipper Bulk Shipping’s Norse Camden vessel. This event highlights the importance of Camden in the global supply chain and reinforces our commitment to fostering strong international partnerships.”
State Senator Nilsa Cruz Perez also emphasized the significance of this occasion, saying, “Clipper Bulk Shipping’s decision to name a ship after Camden showcases Camden’s integral role in international trade. It reflects the commitment of our local, state, and international partners to the prosperity and economic growth of our community and state.”
Camden County Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli, Jr. added, “This event is a testament to the dedication of our stakeholders, the City of Camden, South Jersey Port Corporation, Delaware River Stevedores, and Terminal Shipping, who have tirelessly worked together to strengthen our relationship with Clipper Bulk Shipping. We’re proud to be a part of this partnership.”

Clipper Bulk Shipping Ltd, a privately held company founded by Torben G. Jensen in 1972, continues to thrive under the leadership of Chairman Frank G. Jensen and Partner and Member of the Board Niels G. Jensen. Clipper Bulk Shipping is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, with operational offices in Houston, Hong Kong, and Cape Town and operates a fleet of approximately 90 vessels.

Andy Saporito, Executive Director & CEO of South Jersey Ports, highlighted the significance of the Norse Camden, stating, “The Norse vessels are a remarkable addition to the international supply chain and symbolize a more modern and eco-friendly approach to shipping which aligns with our sustainability and port modernization goals. We are proud to host the Norse Camden and are excited to continue our partnership with Clipper Bulk Shipping as we embark on a new chapter in our shared maritime history.”

NJ State Assemblyman Bill Moen expressed his excitement for the celebration of this milestone for Camden saying, “The Norse Camden is not only a testament to the ingenuity of maritime engineering but also a reflection of the global partnerships that drive our state’s economy. It’s inspiring to witness this ship’s journey from its construction in Japan to its vital role in our port in Camden, New Jersey.”

The Norse Camden is the fifth vessel in a series of eco-friendly ships, constructed primarily in Japan. This series, named after main steel ports worldwide, emphasizes the connection between global trade and the dedicated ports that facilitate it.
The official berthing of the Norse Camden at Balzano Terminal in Camden came on October 22, 2023, and was celebrated at Balzano Terminal in Camden on Tuesday, October 24. This event was a significant moment in the maritime history of Camden, celebrating its rich legacy and vibrant future in the global supply chain.

“South Jersey Port Corporation has been a great business partner for us for many, many years,” said Peter Svensson, senior vice president and head of Clipper Americas. He emphasized the incredible milestones achieved through this enduring partnership, “The millions of tons of steel that our ships have moved over three decades through Balzano Marine Terminal in Camden are a testament to the trust and reliability that defines our relationship. This is a great way to celebrate The Norse Camden and the tremendous growth and success we’ve made together.”

About the Norse Camden: The Norse Camden, a remarkable addition to Clipper Bulk Shipping’s fleet was meticulously constructed at the renowned Shikoku Dockyard Company Ltd. in Takamatsu, Japan. With a displacement of 48,617 metric tons and a deadweight of 40,020 metric tons at a draft of 35.52 feet in full load condition, the vessel boasts impressive dimensions. Her overall length extends to 600 feet, while her beam spans 99.7 feet, providing ample capacity for the transportation of cargo. Powered by a robust Mitsui-Man B&W engine producing 6,120 kW of power at 99 revolutions per minute, the Norse Camden cruises at a maximum speed of 14.2 knots. Launched on September 7, 2021, and delivered on January 17, 2022, this state-of-the-art vessel is registered in Singapore.

About the South Jersey Port Corporation: The South Jersey Port Corporation (SJPC) provides world-class facilities and beneficial services that support and accommodate the transportation of goods and commodities, both by water and land. It is the mission of the SJPC to foster regional economic development through revenue generation in a financially and environmentally sustainable manner to support facility, staffing, and infrastructure investment for the benefit of our Port District, including the cities of Camden, Paulsboro, and Salem, New Jersey.

U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today announced $750,000 in new funding that the congressman secured in the FY 2023 omnibus package. The money will be used to stabilize Berth 1 at the Balzano Marine Terminal so the port can meet increasing business activity.
“The ‘liquid highway’ that is the Delaware River is an economic lifeline for South Jersey and the surrounding region,” said Congressman Norcross. “By investing in our critical infrastructure, we are increasing the capacity of our ports and local businesses to access markets not just here in South Jersey, but across the country. Additionally, this funding will create good-paying jobs. I’m proud to have fought for this funding in Congress and look forward to seeing the positive economic impact this project has on our region.”

“We want to thank Congressman Norcross for his advocacy in Washington and his ongoing support of our mission at the South Jersey Ports,” said Andy Saporito, executive director and CEO of the South Jersey Port Corporation. “This investment directly translates into job retention and creation – from the construction workers who will build it, to the dockworkers loading and unloading ships, to the truckers hauling the cargo, to jobs in the industries on the end of the supply chain. It’s a multiplier that is great for our link in the global supply chain.”

“The Port of Camden is one of the busiest along the east coast, so this funding will go a long way to ensure it remains an economic engine,” said Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen. “I am grateful to Congressman Donald Norcross for fighting for this critical funding, grateful for his commitment to invest in much-needed infrastructure upgrades, and grateful for new employment opportunities coming to Camden and this region.”

The funding is one of 15 local projects Congressman Norcross secured funding for in the FY 2023 omnibus funding package. In total, he brought back over $10 million in community project funding for New Jersey’s 1st Congressional District.