Governor Greg Abbott has recently made a series of appointments to the Jefferson and Orange Counties Board of Pilot Commissioners. According to the Governor’s office. Dr. Brandy Bergeron and Dr. Amy Townsend have been appointed to the board, with their terms due to expire in August. Shawn Sparrow has been reappointed, and Craig Sherlock, along with Charles “Charlie” Holder, have also been appointed, their terms set to expire the following year.
The five board members bring diverse professional backgrounds, contributing to the collective expertise in overseeing pilot services in the area. Dr. Bergeron is the chief of staff and medical director at Christus Southeast Texas – St. Elizabeth. Dr. Townsend, based in Orange, owns Magnolia Direct Primary Care. Sparrow serves as vice president of The Houseman Companies. Sherlock has experience as president of the school board at Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School and in the insurance and legal fields. Holder is the owner of Home Instead Senior Care and has experience in various business and community service roles.
The appointments come at an important time for the regulation of the area’s navigable waterways, as the Board of Pilot Commissioners holds exclusive authority over these issues. The newly appointed and reappointed board members will be responsible for overseeing the safe and efficient handling of vessels in Jefferson and Orange Counties.
Each board member brings significant community involvement. Dr. Bergeron is a member of the Texas Medical Association and the Symphony League of Beaumont. Sherlock has participated in various community activities, including roles with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Beaumont and as a former board member of the YMCA of Southeast Texas. Holder has contributed through volunteer work, including with Meals on Wheels of Southeast Texas.
