City Council Moves Toward Major Water Rights Purchase
Corpus Christi eyes $169M brackish groundwater deal as city officials move closer to securing a major water rights purchase. On August 12, the City Council unanimously approved negotiations to buy nearly 23,000 acres in the Sinton area for up to $169 million.
The proposed project, known as the Evangeline Laguna brackish groundwater plan, has been in discussion for years. City staff will return in the coming weeks with final contract terms for the council to review and possibly approve.
A Strategic Shift from Surface Water
For decades, Corpus Christi has relied heavily on surface water sources. However, recent droughts and population growth have prompted leaders to explore diversified solutions.
City Councilman Everett Roy emphasized the importance of finding new water sources that reduce dependence on reservoirs and rivers.
“Any time we’re getting away from surface water, it’s a good day,” Roy said. “We just have to keep looking at every option that strengthens our water security.”
If approved, the deal could give the city access to up to 24 million gallons of water per day — a significant step toward ensuring a stable supply during dry years.
Funding Options and Potential Rate Increases
The Evangeline Laguna project’s price tag is substantial. City Manager Peter Zanoni told the council that one funding option involves issuing 30-year revenue bonds. These bonds would be repaid through water rates, meaning customers could face increases if the plan moves forward.
Other potential funding sources include:
- State Grants – Possible assistance from the Texas Water Development Board.
- Industrial Drought Surcharge Exemptions – Revenue from voluntary participation could help offset infrastructure costs, such as pipelines.
- Alternative Financing – Exploring partnerships or other public funding mechanisms.
City Water Chief Operating Officer Drew Molly added that these combined strategies could make the project financially viable without placing the whole burden on ratepayers.
A Controversial Context
This proposal comes amid ongoing debate over another major water project — the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant. Initially projected at a lower cost, estimates for the plant have now reached $1.2 billion, sparking concerns over rising costs and environmental impacts.
Brackish groundwater generally costs less to treat than desalination and the city could implement it more quickly. Some council members view it as a more practical short-term solution while long-term projects like desalination remain under review.
What Happens Next
City staff will soon present a finalized contract for council consideration. While the council has not guaranteed approval, the August 12 vote shows strong interest in moving the deal forward.
Before any agreement is signed, officials will need to determine:
- Exact Rate Impact – How much residents’ water bills could rise.
- Infrastructure Timeline – When the city could complete new pipelines and treatment facilities.
- Environmental Impact – Ensuring sustainable withdrawal of brackish groundwater.
Council discussions followed a closed session, leaving some questions unanswered for now. However, leaders expressed optimism that the project could be operational “in a relatively short period.”
The Bigger Picture for Corpus Christi
Securing additional water sources is critical for a region that supports both residential growth and significant industrial activity. From refineries to manufacturing plants, reliable water access underpins the local economy.
The Evangeline Laguna deal, if finalized, would not only serve households but also strengthen resilience against drought and supply interruptions.
In summary, Corpus Christi Eyes $169M as it moves closer to securing a transformative brackish groundwater contract that could reshape the city’s water future. With potential rights to 24 million gallons daily and funding plans under review, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining if this vision becomes reality.