American Bank Center naming rights have sparked a heated public debate in Corpus Christi. With American Bank ending its two-decade sponsorship in 2024, the city faces the decision of selecting a new naming partner. Among the bidders, high-profile personal injury attorney Thomas J. Henry has reignited the conversation by offering $1.25 million annually for 10 years, totaling $12.5 million.
Henry has long expressed interest in acquiring the naming rights. For over a year, he has publicly campaigned for the opportunity, recently criticizing the process as being “mired in needless delay and political interference.”
“Each month the city delays this process, it loses revenue that could support the hardworking families of Corpus Christi,” Henry stated in his June 5 news release.
Tensions Between Transparency and Politics
Henry alleges that political bias may obstruct a “significant public-private opportunity.” In contrast, Mayor Paulette Guajardo emphasized that the city is committed to a transparent and fair process, with the final decision requiring collaboration between OVG (Oak View Group), the City Council, and City staff.
“Any assertions otherwise are patently false and designed to receive media attention,” Guajardo responded.
The Process Behind the Name
Renaming the American Bank Center involves multiple stakeholders, but much of the responsibility lies with OVG, the center’s management company. According to City Manager Peter Zanoni, OVG has reviewed proposals from nearly 100 entities over the last two years. Only a dozen were considered serious.
With American Bank ending its partnership, officials expect to decide on a new naming rights partner by late August or September 2025. ` The deadline for proposals was May 31.
Zanoni has organized meetings between OVG and council members to clarify the selection process and review the merits of all proposals. While the public only knows about Henry’s offer, officials confirmed that another company submitted a second proposal, though they have not disclosed the details.
Council Members Divided
City officials hold mixed opinions. Councilman Eric Cantu has voiced full support for Henry, calling the offer a “transformational deal” for a city facing a $7 million budget deficit.
“This man wants to invest in Corpus Christi,” Cantu said. “We should be happy he wants to give us that much money.”
However, not everyone is convinced.
Councilman Mark Scott urges patience, questioning the push for a rapid decision. “Whatever is the best solution today will still be the best solution next week or next month,” he said.
Henry’s public criticism of officials like Guajardo, Scott, and Councilman Roland Barrera has further inflamed tensions. In his release, Henry accused them of “standing in the way of progress.” Barrera fired back, accusing Henry of using the media to manipulate public perception and the negotiation process.
“I don’t know how you negotiate in good faith with a partner painting themselves as the victim,” Barrera stated.
What’s Next?
Councilman Cantu wants the American Bank Center naming rights discussed publicly at the June 10 meeting, saying the City Council should decide, not OVG. Councilman Scott adds that all decisions should be based on complete and accurate information.
While the name may change, the real issue is ensuring transparency, fiscal responsibility, and fairness in shaping Corpus Christi’s future.