Ep 24: Commissioner Mike Rahn & Carlos Burqueras, Seaport Manatee Executive Director

In this episode of Chambers, Changes, and Conversations, Commissioner Mike Rahn and Port Manatee Executive Director Carlos Buqueras join the conversation to unpack one of Manatee County’s most powerful economic drivers - and reminds us it does so without any tax payer dollars.

We explore the port’s enormous economic impact, why its location matters as the closest deepwater seaport to the Panama Canal and to Cuba (Havana, anyone?), and how global trade directly shapes our local economy. From one billion in bananas moving through the port each year to the international relationships Carlos Buqueras navigates daily, this episode brings the global supply chain close to home.

Commissioner Mike Rahn also explains the proposed 2026 legislation to create a special district for Port Manatee, why he believes it’s the right step forward, and what it could mean for long-term growth, competitiveness, and local governance.

If you’re curious how Manatee County connects to the world and why Port Manatee plays such a critical role in our future, this episode delivers insight, perspective, and a few surprises along the way.

Learn more:

Seaport Manatee Website

Why Southwest Florida

Port Statistics