On Tuesday, a significant decision was made by the Corpus Christi City Council regarding the city’s water infrastructure. The council voted to advance the development of a desalination plant at the Inner Harbor site. This move involves seeking permits, grants, and loans to bring this project to fruition.
The approved plan outlines an ambitious scope for the desalination plant, aiming to process 30 million gallons of water per day, a significant increase from the initial proposal of 20 million gallons. This decision, resulting from a 6-2 vote, followed extensive discussions and a failed motion to postpone the vote.
Council Members Jim Klein and Sylvia Campos were the dissenting voices in this decision. Klein expressed his opposition, citing concerns about the environmental impact of the desalination process, which he believes has not been thoroughly examined. Council Member Gil Hernandez chose to abstain from the vote.
Despite these objections, most of the council, including all other members, endorsed the project, which now carries a budget of $757 million. This endorsement also included the approval of issuing $211 million in bonds. These bonds are part of the low-interest State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT) loans, an initiative by the state to support water-related infrastructure projects.
Mayor Paulette Guajardo commented on the efficiency and urgency of this decision, emphasizing the need to promptly progress with the plant’s design. This approach is strategic to ensure that once the draft permit is upgraded to a permanent one, the project can move forward without delay.
Council Member Mike Pusley highlighted this project’s long-term benefits, particularly in securing a reliable and drought-resistant water source for the city. This foresight aims to reduce Corpus Christi’s dependency on rainfall for its water supply. The council meeting also featured extensive public commentary, reflecting diverse opinions on this significant decision. Many residents expressed concerns about the suitability of bay water desalination for the city’s water needs. One of the speakers, Patricia Jones, articulated this viewpoint clearly before the Council.
There were also calls from the public for more comprehensive education about desalination. Shawn Flanagan, representing a segment of public opinion, pointed out that while there is a group of informed individuals, a larger portion of the city’s population may need to understand the intricacies of desalination fully. He urged the Council to engage in broader public education to elucidate the available options and the rationale behind choosing desalination as the path forward.
In summary, the Corpus Christi City Council’s decision to move ahead with the desalination plant at the Inner Harbor site marks a pivotal step in addressing the city’s water supply challenges. While there are differing opinions on the project, particularly concerning its environmental impact and public understanding, the Council’s majority decision underscores a commitment to securing a sustainable and reliable water source for the future of Corpus Christi.