A Drought Lifeline Faces Possible Price Tag
Corpus Christi may add fee to a popular city program that has revived drought-stricken lawns, offering free treated wastewater for irrigation. City officials praised the program’s success during an Aug. 13 budget discussion, but whether it should stay free or include a fee sparked debate among City Council members.
Sustainability Concerns Lead to Fee Talks
The city’s wastewater division currently runs the program, with technicians pulled from other maintenance work staff. Wes Nebgen, director of water systems infrastructure, warned that this model is unsustainable.
“Our current model is not sustainable,” Nebgen said. “Without additional employees, we may have to shut down the station or limit hours.”
To keep it running, city staff requested seven more wastewater positions. Officials also floated the idea of charging a small fee to permit holders — residents and businesses — to help offset costs.
Councilwoman Carolyn Vaughn supported the concept, saying, “It’s not fair for everyone else to have to pick that up.”
The Program’s Growing Popularity
The program gained popularity after Stage 3 drought restrictions took effect in December, banning the use of potable public water for turf watering. With limited options, many residents and landscapers turned to the reclaimed water as a way to protect lawns and gardens.
The reclaimed wastewater is treated to a safe irrigation standard, but is not drinkable. Permit holders can collect water from the Oso Wastewater Treatment Plant during designated hours:
- Monday to Friday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: 8 a.m. to noon
However, demand is so high that the supply often runs out before closing time. The city distributes about 20,000 gallons daily, with each of the roughly 500 permit holders averaging 500 gallons per visit. Residents make up about 70% of users, while commercial businesses account for the remaining 30%.
From Free Service to Potential Revenue Stream
The program, in place for about two years, was initially free to encourage participation, City Manager Peter Zanoni said. While staff isn’t yet recommending a fee, several council members believe it may be inevitable.
Some of the debate centered on the benefits commercial businesses have gained. Councilman Everett Roy pointed out that the free water has indirectly created a business opportunity.
“When we made this water available, we created a new job classification out there,” Roy said. “Companies are collecting the water, driving to areas like Calallen, watering lawns, and charging hefty fees.”
Possible Fee Structures
CCW Assistant Director Kamil Taras proposed a phased approach, beginning with a small fee and gradually increasing it, without specifying an amount.
Councilman Mark Scott agreed, noting that while residents appreciate the free service, charging later may be necessary for sustainability. “It’s not their fault we ran out of water,” Scott said, “but it makes sense to charge a nominal amount a few years into the program.”
Balancing Costs and Community Needs
The discussion mirrors other recent proposals to raise or introduce fees for city-run resources, such as after-school programs. Corpus Christi may add fee considerations to the water reclamation program as officials work to balance accessibility with the financial realities of staffing and maintenance. For now, the program remains free, but the Aug. 13 discussion signaled potential changes in the near future — especially if drought conditions persist and demand continues to rise.