Corpus Christi Council eyes potential hikes in water, wastewater, stormwater, and recycled water service bills. On Sept. 2, council members will make preliminary decisions on proposed rate increases and property tax revenues that shape the city’s $1.2 billion budget. While some fees may rise, the council stresses that residents’ voices will play an important role in the final adoption process.
Water Rates May Rise in 2026
Corpus Christi Council eyes water rate hikes that could begin in January. For example, a typical household using 6,000 gallons a month would see bills rise from $37.29 to $42.07—an increase of $4.78. Moreover, the 9% to 14% bump impacts all customer classes, including industrial users. In addition, officials link the proposed hike to efforts to secure new water sources, pay off stormwater debt, and offset reduced consumption caused by the ongoing drought.
Wastewater Rates Also Targeted
Wastewater services face a similar fate. Residents consuming about 5,000 gallons per month would see bills rise from $59.32 to $63.52, adding $4.20 to monthly costs. Businesses would also feel the impact.
City Manager Peter Zanoni noted that the adjustment would pay off federal compliance requirements and base operating costs. He emphasized that consumption reductions and environmental obligations drive these hikes, not just local policy decisions.
Stormwater Fees Expected to Increase
For stormwater services, fees will also rise. Typical residential customers with 3,000 to 4,000 square feet of impervious cover would pay $11.59 monthly, up from $10.32.
The additional revenue will help expand street sweeping programs and fund drainage improvement projects. City leaders argue that these measures are crucial to addressing frequent flooding concerns, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
New Fees for the Recycled Water Program
A popular recycled water program could soon cost residents more. Currently, users pick up reclaimed water free of charge from the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant. Staff warned, however, that continued distribution is unsustainable without additional funding.
Proposed rates would charge $15 for up to 300 gallons and $30 for between 301 and 600 gallons. For many residents, this change means weighing the convenience of greener lawns against the added monthly cost.
Property Taxes: Same Rate, Higher Bills for Some
City leaders plan to keep the property tax rate at 59.9 cents per $100 valuation. Yet, homeowners with rising appraisals and no exemptions will still pay more.
According to city documents, projected property tax revenue totals $169 million for the fiscal year—about $6 million more than the current year. Roughly $2.7 million of that growth comes from new properties on the tax rolls.
Although council members could opt for a lower rate, such a move would require rebalancing the budget to match reduced revenue.
What’s Next for Residents
The council must finalize its decisions by Sept. 30, ahead of the new fiscal year beginning Oct. 1. That means two votes: one on Sept. 2 and another on Sept. 9.
The council set aside public comment periods, including a 5:30 p.m. slot on both dates, giving residents the opportunity to voice their concerns.
Conclusion
Corpus Christi residents should brace for potential increases in utility rates and property tax bills starting in 2026. While these adjustments aim to secure resources and comply with regulations, they also highlight the city’s balancing act between fiscal responsibility and affordability.
As the meetings on Sept. 2 and Sept. 9 approach, public participation will be crucial in shaping the final decisions.