Corpus Christi Cityhall Protest on May 21 brought tensions to a head as around 20 residents—joined by elected officials—gathered to voice their dissatisfaction with City Manager Peter Zanoni. Specifically, the demonstration, which included a petition for his dismissal, underscored growing discontent among local leaders and community members.
Zanoni, who has served as city manager since 2019, is currently undergoing an annual performance review—a standard procedure that has become more scrutinized.
Councilwoman Campos Cites “Toxic” Workplace Culture
Among the critics was City Councilwoman Sylvia Campos. She expressed serious concerns about the workplace environment at City Hall, calling it “toxic” under Zanoni’s leadership. Campos also accused Zanoni of appointing what she described as unqualified individuals to high-level management positions.
“We need someone who prioritizes a healthy work culture and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars,” Campos stated firmly during the press conference.
City Officials Defend Zanoni’s Record
In contrast to these criticisms, city spokesperson Cassandra Hinojosa issued a written response highlighting the “transformative progress” made during Zanoni’s tenure. The statement emphasized improvements in public safety, infrastructure, and regional water supply initiatives—including steps toward desalination.
“With the support of the Mayor and City Council, alongside an exceptional leadership team and dedicated employees across 29 lines of business, our city has realized substantial improvements,” the statement read.
Disputes Over Leaked Grievance Information
Campos and Councilman Jim Klein’s allegations further inflamed tensions. They accused Zanoni of leaking a grievance filed by a city employee. The grievance reportedly stemmed from an incident involving Campos’s health.
Zanoni flatly denied the accusations, calling them “completely false.” He clarified that the city released the grievance document only after receiving formal open records requests, as the law requires.
Salary and Budget Practices Questioned
Critics also targeted Zanoni’s salary, which was increased by 10% last year to approximately $409,000. Klein labeled the salary “bloated” and said the raise, passed by a narrow 5-4 council vote, sends the wrong message amid rising city expenses.
Zanoni responded that the idea he controls his salary is a “huge misperception,” pointing out that compensation decisions are entirely in the hands of the City Council.
Klein also criticized Zanoni’s use of COs, which let the city incur debt without requiring direct approval from voters. Though COs fund vital projects, Klein argued their increased use now burdens utility ratepayers with growing financial pressure.
Zanoni defended the practice, explaining that COs are legal tools used conservatively to bridge funding gaps. “We are within our rights under state and federal law,” he said.
Desalination Efforts Continue to Stir Debate
Environmental concerns also surfaced during the gathering. Klein accused Zanoni of pursuing desalination projects without properly considering long-term ecological impacts. The city stated a small group keeps undermining progress and trying to disrupt efforts to secure the region’s water supply.
The email concluded that critics “build their arguments around inaccurate information and a disregard for constructive conversation.”
Final Thoughts
As the City Council conducts its performance review of Peter Zanoni, Corpus Christi residents remain divided. On one hand, some praise improvements in safety and infrastructure. On the other hand, others—fueled by the recent Corpus Christi Cityhall Protest—are calling for new leadership to rebuild trust and ensure transparency. Ultimately, the outcome of this public pressure and internal evaluation could shape the city’s direction for years to come.