(a) For a port having a population and circumstances that do not warrant the appointment of a pilot board in this chapter the governor may authorize the county judge of the county to appoint a provisional pilot committee of not less than three and not more than five persons of good character and maritime experience.
(b) In accordance with this chapter, the committee may:
(1) adopt rates of pilotage and rules for governing pilots;
(2) examine the qualifications of pilots and pilot applicants; and
(3) investigate any case of a pilot charged with misconduct or inefficiency and suspend that pilot if sufficient cause is found.