At Tuesday’s regular Corpus Christi City Council meeting, environmentalists urged most of the council to refrain from approving a memorandum of understanding with the Port of Corpus Christi. Three council members drafted this memorandum without input from the entire Council. Arman Alex from the Texas Campaign for the Environment commented, “They’ve engaged in secretive deals away from public view. We’re facing an MOU crafted by three unauthorized city council members who made a covert agreement with the industry.”
During the memorandum discussion, council members debated temporarily at the RTA building opposite city hall.
“Mayor, I won’t tolerate being chastised about agenda submissions. Items can be added to the agenda until Friday afternoon, as stated weekly,” argued Councilman Mike Pusley.
“Councilman, we’re talking about water!” retorted Mayor Paulette Guajardo.
“It could be milk for all I care,” he replied, frustrated. “The point remains.”
The memorandum of understanding was initially introduced in March, supported by councilmen Mike Pusley, Michael Hunter, Dan Suckley, and Gil Hernandez, who wanted the council to collaborate with the port on constructing a desalination plant.
However, it wasn’t approved then and was reintroduced for discussion during Tuesday’s meeting.
Councilwoman Sylvia Campos didn’t just oppose the memorandum; she’s against the city pursuing the construction of a desalination plant altogether. “It’s not the right timing, location, or moment,” she commented.
What’s her proposal to ensure an adequate water supply for Corpus Christi?
“People should practice conservation, which encompasses the industrial sector as well,” she remarked.
While most council members support the construction of a desalination plant, they disagree with the port’s chosen location.
Councilman Roland Barrera expresses reservations about the Harbor Island site near Port Aransas and prefers the city’s Inner Harbor location.
Pusley believes the city has invested more than $6 million in developing its desalination strategies.