The Port Arthur Economic Development Corporation has appointed Kyrstle Villarreal Muller as its new chief executive officer, promoting a longtime internal leader to guide the organization’s next phase of economic development efforts.
Muller, who joined the organization in 2008, has held multiple leadership roles during her 17-year tenure. Most recently, she served as acting deputy director. A graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, Muller said her connection to the city will shape her approach to the role.
“I am honored and excited to officially step into this role,” Muller said. “As a hometown girl, this work is personal to me. I look forward to continuing as a catalyst for growth and a stronger future for Port Arthur.”
Located in Southeast Texas along the Gulf Coast near the Louisiana border, Port Arthur is one of the region’s key industrial and logistics hubs. The city is home to major energy and petrochemical operations, including refineries, LNG infrastructure, maritime shipping facilities, and manufacturing assets connected to the broader Gulf Coast energy corridor.
The region continues to benefit from growing investment in energy exports, petrochemicals, logistics, and industrial infrastructure. Port Arthur is also positioned near the Sabine-Neches Waterway, one of the busiest shipping channels in the United States, supporting trade activity and industrial development throughout Southeast Texas.
Recent infrastructure and port-related investments have strengthened the city’s position within the U.S. energy supply chain, particularly as demand for liquefied natural gas exports and petrochemical production continues to increase. Economic development leaders in the region have also been working to diversify the local economy through tourism, recreation, workforce development, and small business initiatives.
Muller’s appointment comes at a key time for the organization following voter approval of a referendum in November that allows the EDC to allocate a portion of collected sales tax revenue toward economic development, recreation, and infrastructure initiatives. Approximately 63% of voters supported the measure, expanding the organization’s ability to fund community and business growth projects.
Muller said a key priority moving forward will be re-energizing the organization and strengthening its role in supporting long-term investment and development opportunities across Port Arthur.
With growing industrial activity across the Gulf Coast and continued infrastructure investment in Southeast Texas, the Port Arthur EDC is expected to play an increasingly important role in supporting business attraction, workforce development, and regional competitiveness.
