Investigation Finds No Intentional Wrongdoing
The Nueces River Authority (NRA) Board of Directors concluded that Executive Director John Byrum did not intentionally engage in wrongdoing after an external review examined allegations regarding a proposed regional water project. However, the investigation highlighted communication problems within leadership that board members believe need immediate attention.
The board announced its findings during a May 21 meeting, ending weeks of questions surrounding concerns raised by former Chief Operations Officer Travis Pruski. The claims that officials may have shared inaccurate information about future water resources and project planning with local government leaders drew attention to the leadership issue.
Board President Eric Burnett explained that investigators did not uncover evidence of deliberate misconduct by Byrum or any other individuals connected to the organization.
At the same time, Burnett emphasized that internal communication failures among executives had created operational difficulties.
Although the investigation cleared Byrum of intentional wrongdoing, the board signaled that organizational improvements remain necessary.
Leadership Dispute Raises Questions
The controversy originated in a leaked letter from Pruski to board members. In the letter, he expressed concerns regarding Byrum’s leadership approach and decision-making process.
Claims Related to Water Sales Information
Among the issues raised, Pruski alleged that Byrum had overstated projected water sales figures when communicating with board members and regional entities, including local governments.
Those concerns became especially significant because the city of Corpus Christi paid approximately $2.7 million to reserve future water supplies connected to the Harbor Island seawater desalination project planned by the river authority.
Large-scale water infrastructure projects often involve long-term planning and substantial financial commitments. Therefore, questions about projections and reporting naturally attracted the attention of stakeholders across South Texas.
The Harbor Island project itself represents part of broader efforts to develop additional water resources for the region as communities prepare for future demand.
However, after reviewing the allegations, the external investigation did not conclude that Byrum intentionally provided inaccurate information.
Unexpected Resignation During Board Meeting
One of the most surprising developments during the May 21 board meeting was Pruski’s unexpected resignation from his position.
Officials originally scheduled him to discuss a separate agenda item involving a master services agreement for a flood infrastructure project. Instead of presenting the item, Pruski announced his resignation and left the meeting.
During his remarks, he expressed frustration with the organization’s leadership and stated that he no longer wished to remain with the agency.
Pruski later reflected on his departure, recognizing the staff and communities he had served throughout his career.
He described his years with the Nueces River Authority as a significant part of his professional journey. He stated that he intends to continue working toward flood prevention, water quality improvements, and long-term water supply solutions throughout South Texas.
Because of the unexpected resignation, officials tabled the flood infrastructure item scheduled for discussion.
Board Approves New Oversight Measures
While the investigation closed one chapter of the leadership issue, the board also moved quickly to strengthen accountability and improve organizational operations.
Earlier in the meeting, members unanimously approved several motions designed to address concerns raised during the review process.
Personnel Committee Created
The newly established personnel committee will examine leadership concerns identified during the investigation.
Board members expect the committee to evaluate internal practices and identify areas where management structures can improve.
Transparency Task Force Aims to Build Trust
The board also approved a transparency task force intended to strengthen public confidence and improve communication practices.
According to the approved motion language, the task force will develop recommendations focused on:
- Increasing accountability
- Improving public communication
- Strengthening transparency efforts
- Building trust among stakeholders
Officials hope these steps will help prevent similar disputes in the future.
Regional Leaders Express Confidence
Following the meeting, Byrum said he was pleased to continue serving as executive director.
Support also came from regional leadership.
Corpus Christi City Manager Peter Zanoni attended the board meeting and expressed confidence in the authority’s leadership and ongoing operations.
Zanoni had previously recommended that city leaders approve funding to reserve water from the Harbor Island desalination project. Following the investigation’s conclusion, he stated that he remains confident in both the board’s direction and Byrum’s leadership.
As South Texas continues confronting future water supply challenges, the Nueces River Authority now faces another important task beyond infrastructure development: rebuilding trust and improving internal communication.
The board’s latest actions suggest leaders intend to address those concerns while continuing efforts to secure long-term water resources for the region.