In acting on a pilotage rate change application, the board shall consider:
(1) characteristics of vessels to be piloted;
(2) the average number of hours spent by a pilot in performing pilot services;
(3) costs to pilots to provide the required pilot services;
(4) the effect, including economic factors affecting the shipping industry in the area, that the granting, refusal, or modification of the application would have on Galveston County ports and the persons residing in the board's jurisdiction;
(5) an adequate and reasonable compensation for the pilots and a fair return on the equipment and vessels that the pilots employ in connection with pilot duties; and
(6) the relationship between the pilotage rates in Galveston County ports and the rates applicable in other ports of this state and in competitive ports in other states.