FMC PLANS CLOSED-DOOR MEETING ON FLORIDA PORTS? EXCLUSIVE TUG FRANCHISES

FMC PLANS CLOSED-DOOR MEETING ON FLORIDA PORTSÆ EXCLUSIVE TUG FRANCHISES    The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission will hold a closed meeting at Cocoa Beach, Fla., Sept. 19-20, to further its investigation into exclusive tug arrangements in Florida ports.
   The FMC said witnesses at the meeting will include officials from the Canaveral Port Authority and representatives from the maritime industry.
   Other persons who wish to testify or to provide information should contact FMC Commissioner Antony M. Merck at (202) 523-5712.
   While Port Canaveral has an exclusive tug franchise, Port Everglades last month ended a 43-year monopoly held by Seabulk International Inc., formerly Hvide Marine Inc., by awarding a tugboat and towing service franchise to Tugz International.