Port of Miami names security personnel

Port of Miami names security personnel

Port of Miami director Bill Johnson Thursday said he has named an assistant port director for safety and security and a chief of seaport safety and security as his first act since he himself was officially named port director.

      James Maes, who was a Coast Guard captain of the port for a six-port area that extended from Miami-Dade to Fort Pierce, was named assistant director for seaport safety and security.

   He will be responsible for the day-to-day operational management of security'directing, managing and coordinating security enforcement, police and fire services, and facilities management related to security. He will also be in charge of tactical planning, execution and operating management for coordinated security services, and other duties as approved by the director.

   Denise Minakowski, who was the chief investigator at the City of Miami Civilian Investigative Panel, is the chief of seaport safety and security. She will be responsible for managing seaport security enforcement operations, including the ID/Credentialing Unit Operations.    Additionally, she will serve as a liaison with the U.S. Coast Guard, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Miami-Dade Police Department and other agencies.

   'Miami-Dade County conducted an extensive national search for the best possible candidates. Mr. Maes' and Ms. Minakowski's experience and knowledge of maritime operations will be valuable assets toward making the Port of Miami as safe and secure as possible,” Johnson said. 'While the Port of Miami now meets all public safety standards, we must continue to look for new ways to enhance seaport security by taking advantage of new technology and ideas. Both newly appointed security officials will help ensure the successful implementation of security measures put in place by the federal government.'