Corpus Christi City Council again votes down proposed desalination plant

The Corpus Christi City Council voted 5-3 on Tuesday to reject a desalination plant that had been pursued for ten years, leaving the city’s future water security in doubt. Governor Greg Abbott’s chief of staff Robert Black praised the project as a chance to address long-term water challenges, noting state loans already provided. Although recent rainfall boosted reservoir storage from about 15% to 48% capacity, projections still show a possible water emergency in fall 2028, with the plant slated to begin operations in 2030.

Council members Gil Hernandez and Carolyn Vaughn opposed the project over its expense, site in the historically Black Hillcrest area, and concerns about salty discharge affecting the bay. The council also heard about an alternative Harbor Island Desalination Project, which could supply multiple coastal cities, and some members expressed support for that option. The debate is becoming a central issue in the upcoming November council elections, with several members facing re-election or challenges.