Public Meetings - Corpus Christi, Texas

The Corpus Christi City Council convened on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 11:30 AM in Council Chambers. The meeting included an invocation by Pastor Rick Milby, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Adam Black, roll call, the city manager's comments with an end-of-summer parks update, public comments, consent agenda items, a public hearing, individual consideration items, a water supply briefing, and executive sessions. Key actions included tabling an annexation, approving a new employee health clinic contract, amending homeless service grant allocations, and receiving a detailed water supply update with discussion on drought restrictions. Consent Calendar - Items 2 through 12 were considered en bloc with the exception of items 3, 7, and 11, which were pulled for individual discussion. The remaining items were approved unanimously. - Item 2: Approval of the August 11, 2026 regular meeting minutes. - Item 4: Zoning case ZN9184 (rezoning at 1753 Gollihar Road from RS-6 to RM-1). - Item 5: Annual update to the Whitecap Public Improvement District assessment. - Item 6: Amendment to service agreement with Concentra Health Services (up to $365,053.75). - Item 8: Purchase of gas meter valves from A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. ($138,120.00). - Item 9: Two tire supply agreements combined up to $1,211,145.00 (potential $3,633,435.00). - Item 10: Resolution reaffirming the Investment Policy for FY 2026-2027. - Item 12: Ordinance amending the Roadway Master Plan (removing a proposed collector). Public Comments & Testimony - Kristen Stanzel (Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program) opposed any change to the agreed order not developed through the established process, citing salinity impacts on the bay. - Bradley Bartelson called for process reforms and criticized water management and economic development practices, advocating for cost-benefit analysis and campaign finance limits. - Vidal Conde (District 1) discussed North Beach tourism potential and requested police and fire substations. - Valerie Robles, Bridget Vela, Gabrielle Longoria, Marilena Garza, Candice Cloud, Kristen Heslip, Candace Cardin, and Brianna Davis spoke in support of HHSP funding for homeless services, sharing personal stories and advocating for continued and increased support for organizations like Esperanza de Tejas, Mother Teresa Shelter, Mission 911, and others. - Susie Luna Saldaña criticized council for belittling citizens and urged focus on water and homelessness. - Scott Barraza strongly criticized the city's groundwater pumping, calling it unsustainable. - Amanda Gomez thanked staff for recommending Mother Teresa Shelter for HHSP funding but asked for additional resources to meet needs. - Candice Cloud (Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse) thanked council and outlined services for substance use and homeless youth. - Christina McKay accused the city manager of misleading statements on drought exemption fees and a state agency characterization. - Bruce Switela raised concerns about lack of transparency in the Inner Harbor desalination project planning. - Lauren Cargill (Mission 911) emphasized the importance of prevention funding. - Johnny Lathan and Sammy Lugo reported unsafe living conditions at an apartment complex, including fire hazards, mold, and security issues, prompting a commitment from the city manager and council to investigate. - Robin Cox requested a crosswalk or pedestrian bridge at the Shea Parkway/Saratoga intersection and clarification on sidewalk ownership. - Sean Merritt (via Webex) made self-deprecating remarks about his past. Discussion Items - City Manager's Comments – End of Summer Parks Update (Item 1): Parks Director Robert Dodd reported 105,000 pool visitors (60,000 at Bill Witt Aquatic Center), 40,000+ preventative beach interactions, 186 medical aids, 84 rescues, zero drownings, and extended splash pad operations through Sept 7. Summer camps, senior centers, and ongoing events (Bay Jamming, Health Fair) were also highlighted. Councilmember Hernandez praised the Bill Witt pool investment. - Item 7 – Next Level Urgent Care Contract: HR Director Rebecca Castillo explained the selection process, two clinic locations (Everhart/SPID and Saratoga/Cimarron), and services (primary, urgent, chronic care, virtual). Estimated savings: $1 million in emergency spend annually, with a guarantee. Councilmembers Barrera, Vaughn, Campos, and Scott discussed costs, employee responsibility, and savings. Approved unanimously. - Item 11 – HHSP Subrecipient Grants: Staff pulled the item because Timon’s Ministries withdrew. Revised allocations: General set-aside ($51,072.25 each to Mother Teresa Shelter, Salvation Army, Mission 911, Esperanza de Tejas); Youth set-aside ($26,903 each to Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse and Esperanza de Tejas). Several councilmembers advocated for increased city funding for homelessness and discussed accountability. Motion to approve as amended carried. - Item 13 – Zoning Case ZN9265 (Rhodes Development): Staff recommended rezoning 69.28 acres from RS-6 to RS-4.5. Councilmember Roy moved to amend to RS-6 with a special permit for a setback deviation. Motion passed. - Item 14 – 1525 N. Shoreline Property Acquisition: Resolution to authorize purchase ($657,375 total) for economic development. Approved without discussion. - Item 15 – Water Supply Update: Chief Operating Officer Nick Winkleman reported reservoir levels: Lake Corpus Christi 91.7% (from 18.4% a year ago), Choke Canyon 24.1% (12.4%), combined 42.9% (14.1%), Lake Texana 94% (92%). Inflows have ceased; Stage 2 restrictions continue. Projects: Western Well Field conveyance line, Greenwood- Valero wastewater reuse (Valero to take 3 MGD soon), Evangeline groundwater construction, Inner Harbor desal (model review pending), Barney Davis and CC Polymers seawater desal, and the NRA project (30% design, cost $6.2 billion). The city, NRA, and Three Rivers jointly applied to TCEQ to temporarily suspend environmental releases until combined capacity exceeds 50%. Discussion included disagreement on moving to Stage 1. Councilmember Cantu pushed for Stage 1, but staff and other members recommended staying at Stage 2 given weather outlook and agreed order uncertainty. No action taken. Key Outcomes - Item 3 (Annexation): Motion to table to the August 25, 2026 meeting carried. Staff corrected the number of notices sent from 23 to 7. - Item 7 (Next Level Urgent Care): Approved unanimously as presented. - Item 11 (HHSP Grants): Approved as amended in the following allocation: General set-aside ($51,072.25 each to Mother Teresa Shelter, The Salvation Army, Mission 911, Esperanza de Tejas); Youth set-aside ($26,903 each to Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse – Coastal Bend and Esperanza de Tejas). - Item 13 (Zoning ZN9265): Approved with amendment to rezone to RS-6 with a special permit for a setback deviation (4.5). - Item 14 (1525 N. Shoreline): Approved authorizing the property acquisition program project. - Item 19 (Executive Session action): Motion to set the expiration date of September 30, 2026 for the City of Sinton and St. Paul Water Supply Corporation agreements carried unanimously. - Directives: City Manager to investigate apartment complex complaints (Lathan/Lugo) and provide a report; to coordinate with public works on the Shea Parkway/Saratoga intersection safety; staff to bring options for homeless services funding in the FY 2027 budget; City Council to receive a briefing from NRA and IDE on the seawater desalination project (scheduled for September 1).

On August 13, 2026, the City Council of Corpus Christi held a workshop to review the City Manager's Proposed FY 2027 Budget. The workshop focused on the All Funds Budget Overview and the General Fund Proposed Budget. No formal actions were taken, but council members provided feedback on several proposed fee adjustments, expenditures, and funding priorities. Discussion Items - Budget Presentation – Amy Rodriguez, Director of Management and Budget, presented the FY27 proposed budget totaling $1.4 billion ($1 billion operating, $450 million capital). The General Fund budget is $360 million, a 3.5% increase over FY26. The budget is balanced despite an initial $900,000 revenue shortfall, achieved through sales tax forecast improvements, reduced costs, and increased fees. - Property Tax and Revenue Trends – Property tax values remained flat; sales tax growth is forecast at 1% for FY27. The city’s property tax rate has not increased for four years and remains lower than before the four-cent residential street dedication. A homestead property in CCISD pays 27 cents per dollar of property tax to the city. - Proposed Fee Changes – Several departments proposed fee adjustments: Fire department new fees for battery energy storage systems review, emergency radio system plan review/inspection, high-piled storage plan review, early assistance meetings, and hazardous materials cleanup (minimum $100). Code compliance proposed a $20 citation fee increase (from $25 to $35) for a projected $55,000 revenue. Parks and Recreation proposed reducing natural grass field rental rates (from $60 to $35 per hour without lights; $80 to $55 with lights) and establishing separate rates for artificial turf ($55 without lights, $75 with lights). Solid Waste proposed a $30 minimum disposal fee for residential loads exceeding two cubic yards, and new fees for compost/mulch sales. - Mandated Expenditures – Police and fire CBA increases (4% each), final phase of police initiative (adding 2 positions, $235,000), digitization of birth records ($2.4 million, from state-established reserves), and November election costs. - Enhancements and Reductions – Police academy (July 2027, $552,000), fire academy (9 months), net-zero repositioning of a heavy vehicle mechanic. General fund reductions include transferring two planning positions to HOT fund, one planner to Development Services, and creating a Gulf Beach Operations Fund for beach costs. - Abatement Funding Debate – Multiple council members (Scott, Campos, Cantu, Vaughn) emphasized the need for code enforcement abatement (vacant lot cleanup, demolition). Currently no funding in FY27. Staff proposed increasing the solid waste fee by $0.25/month ($300,000) or $0.50/month ($500,000) to fund abatement. Councilmember Cantu noted a backlog of 2,600 properties requiring mowing at $250 per occurrence. Councilmember Vaughn opposed a city-wide fee and supported revisiting a vacant property fee. Councilmember Hernandez also opposed the binary choice. - Parks Field Rental Fees – Council questioned the reduction in natural grass rates (from $60 to $35) despite high tournament revenue earned by users. Parks staff stated the rates are based on market studies and are subsidized at 20% after the change. - City Care (Health Benefits) Fund – The fund is running a deficit due to 63% claims increase since FY22. The city is implementing a 15% premium increase for civilians, reducing HSA contributions, and introducing a new clinic (NextLevel) to reduce costs. The projected ending fund balance is $6.4 million, down from an anticipated $11 million deficit. - Miscellaneous – Council discussed street maintenance and residential street reconstruction fund projections (next workshop for details); HOT and SHOT fund balances; convention center complex fund decrease; and the proposed COLA vs merit pay for civilian employees (Councilmember Hernandez preferred merit pay; staff noted insufficient funds for performance system). Key Outcomes - Abatement Funding – Council indicated strong support for restoring code enforcement abatement funding. Two options were discussed: a $0.25–$0.50 per month solid waste fee increase (staff recommendation) or a vacant property fee (previously rejected). Council directed staff to bring back a vacant property fee proposal, along with possible cuts to other departments if needed. - Fee Proposals – Council members expressed mixed views: - Councilmember Scott supported increasing the after-school kids' program fee from $25 to $35 (mostly state-funded). - Councilmember Vaughn opposed the solid waste minimum disposal fee, fearing it would discourage proper disposal and increase illegal dumping. - Councilmember Cantu opposed the Parks & Rec nonprofit field rental fee increase and the after-school program fee increase. - Future Budget Workshops – Staff will provide separate line-item budgets for the Mayor’s office and City Council (currently combined). Additional workshops on street funds and other topics are scheduled. - Municipal Court and Other Funds – The Parking Improvement Fund will be closed out in FY27. The Golf Beach Operations Fund is a new special revenue fund. The City Care fund health plan changes will be discussed at a future council meeting. - Next Steps – Council will continue budget deliberations, with a final vote on the FY27 Budget expected later in the year. Staff will resend the line-item budget to council members and will revisit the format for public budget input sessions due to low attendance.

The City Council convened on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 11:30 AM. Mayor Pro Tem Kaylynn Paxson presided due to the suspension of Mayor Paule Garhardo. The meeting focused heavily on the validated citizen petition for the "Fair Water Amendment," which the council ultimately voted to place on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot. Other major actions included setting the maximum proposed ad valorem tax rate for FY 2027, approving a beach parking permit fee increase, and receiving detailed updates on city operations and the ongoing water supply diversification projects. Consent Calendar - Routine motions, resolutions, and ordinances (Items 4-24) were approved en bloc, with several items pulled for individual consideration. - Approvals included: - Item 11: Ordinance increasing the annual beach parking permit fee from $12.00 to $20.00. Staff cited 22 years without an increase and the need to fund beach maintenance and lifeguard operations. - Item 6: Ordering a special election to renew the Crime Control and Prevention District sales tax for 10 years, funding 78 police officer positions. - Item 8: 10-year lease renewal with Harbor Playhouse. A $4 million capital rehabilitation project is forthcoming. - Items 16 & 17: Supply agreements for cold-mix and all-weather asphalt. Public commenter Amanda Short questioned the single-bid nature of the all-weather mix contract. - Item 21: Construction contract for the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant. Public Comments & Testimony - Fair Water Amendment: The vast majority of public commenters urged the council to place the Fair Water Amendment on the ballot. Isabel Araiza, co-organizer of the petition, called the climate charter designation "disingenuous," arguing it is a "fairness charter" meant to address industrial water subsidies. Several residents highlighted the 11,588 verified signatures collected and the Texas Secretary of State's approval of the ballot language. Marilena Garza linked water equity to the affordable housing crisis. Chloe Torres detailed the history of the 2018 exemption fee as a "sweetheart deal" for industry. - Pedestrian Safety: A video highlighted Vision Zero initiatives. CCISD returned to school, prompting reminders for motorists. The city maintains 167 school zone beacons. - Stage 2 Water Restrictions: Nick Winkleman (COO, Corpus Christi Water) detailed the transition and rules. Councilmember Cantu criticized the failure to trigger Stage 1 restrictions despite combined reservoir levels reaching 43.3%. - Animal Shelter: Cheryl Martinez questioned the efficiency of current animal control spending, noting $40,000 in out-of-shelter veterinary costs and a lack of competitive bidding for local veterinary services. - Public Decor Concerns: A speaker criticized the council's decorum rules as unconstitutional, citing court precedents. Discussion Items - Item 28: Fair Water Amendment: This was the central, most debated item of the meeting. - Legal Recommendation: Interim City Attorney Buck Bryce recommended the council declare the petition a "Climate Charter" under Texas Government Code Chapter 9, arguing it addresses climate change by regulating water use during "increasingly severe drought conditions," which would require legislative approval before a vote. - City Manager Position: Peter Zanoni noted the $6 million annual revenue from the industrial exemption fee would need to be recouped from other customer classes if eliminated, potentially raising residential rates. - Council Debate: Councilmembers Campos, Hernandez, Roy, Cantu, and Mayor Pro Tem Paxson argued for placing it on the ballot, stating the petition met all legal requirements. Councilmembers Barrera and Scott supported the city attorney's recommendation. Councilmember Vaughn expressed significant conflict over the revenue implications and legal questions. - Outcome: Councilmember Campos made a motion to adopt the ordinance ordering a special election. It was seconded by Councilmember Cantu and passed. The Fair Water Amendment will appear on the November 3, 2026 ballot. - Item 25: FY 2027 Ad Valorem Tax Rate: The city's maximum proposed tax rate was set at $0.599774 per $100 valuation (the current rate). The no-new-revenue rate is $0.596985. The public hearing on the budget and tax rate is scheduled for September 1, 2026, with adoption on September 8, 2026. - Item 29: Water Supply Update: Nick Winkleman reported combined reservoir capacity at 43.3% (up from 14.5% year-over-year). Construction has begun on the Nueces groundwater conveyance line. An update on the Inner Harbor desalination project was provided. Progress on wastewater reuse with Valero and Flint Hills was detailed. Key Outcomes - Fair Water Amendment: The City Council voted to place it on the November 3, 2026 ballot, rejecting the climate charter designation. - Ad Valorem Tax Rate: Set a maximum proposed rate of $0.599774. - Beach Parking Fee: Increased to $20.00 per year. - Elections Ordered: A general election for Mayor and Council, and a special election for the Crime Control District tax renewal, were ordered for November 3, 2026. - Appointments Confirmed: Reappointments to the Civil Service Board/Commission, Construction Trade Advisory Board, and Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee.

The Corpus Christi City Council convened a special meeting on August 7, 2026, sitting as the tribunal for the removal hearing of Mayor Paulette Guajardo. The final day of the proceedings included public comment, a rebuttal witness, closing arguments, and executive session deliberation. Following the deliberation, the council returned to vote on the specific charges and penalties. Public Comments & Testimony - Samuel Andre Freyer urged the council to proceed forthrightly and without ulterior motives, emphasizing the importance of getting facts on the record regardless of the outcome. - An unnaned speaker cited “red flags” in the process—including altered screenshots, fund disparities, and procedural irregularities—and called for truth and transparency. - Kathy Fulton of Port Aransas cited an online KRIS News poll indicating that an estimated 72–74% of voters opposed the council’s actions and only 14% supported continuing the removal process, urging the council to listen to constituents. - Sean Merritt described the hearing as a cleansing of the “body politic,” urged the council to follow the city charter, and alleged a history of impropriety involving the mayor. Discussion Items - The hearing addressed three articles of impeachment: (1) Aiding a fraud upon the taxpayers regarding an altered FEMA flood-map narrative for a hotel incentive; (2) Perjury during her August 6, 2025 deposition; (3) Breach of confidentiality regarding confidential information from the Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development Corporation (CCREDC). - Respondent’s counsel (Mr. Flood) objected to calling Councilmembers Sylvia Campos and Gil Hernandez as witnesses because they served as judges in the proceeding. The tribunal sustained the objections. Flood made proffers that their testimony would have covered bias, outside communications, and private knowledge. - Petitioners’ counsel (Mr. Allison) called Dr. Brian Gully as a rebuttal witness, testifying remotely from St. Lucia. Dr. Gully stated that during a November 2023 CCREDC meeting, he informed the mayor that the cited FEMA rules were years old, not newly released, contradicting the project’s central narrative. The defense objected that the rebuttal was improper and cross-examined Dr. Gully extensively on his personal and professional relationship with petitioners’ counsel. - In closing, Mr. Allison argued the mayor was aware of the fraud, promoted the incentive despite warnings, committed perjury, and violated her confidentiality pledge. He urged removal, stating, “what we tolerate, we become.” - Mr. Flood argued the evidence was based on speculation and did not meet the preponderance standard, noting the mayor did not create the slide, the council was similarly misled, and perjury allegations misconstrued her deposition testimony. He urged the council to allow voters to decide. Key Outcomes - The council returned from executive session and clarified the voting thresholds: removal requires five votes; other penalties require a simple majority. - Charge 1 (Aiding Fraud / Misconduct): Sustained (5–1). Motion for removal failed. Motion to suspend for 30 days passed (5–1). - Charge 2 (Perjury / Misconduct): Sustained (5–1). Motions for removal and suspension failed. Motion for a formal reprimand passed (5–1). - Charge 3 (Breach of Confidentiality / Misconduct): Sustained (4–2). Motions for removal, suspension, and reprimand all failed. - Result: Mayor Paulette Guajardo was suspended from office for 30 days and issued a formal reprimand by the City Council.

The City Council continued the hearing into the removal of Mayor Paulette Guajardo on August 6, 2026, following sessions that began July 22, 2026. The day focused on evidentiary disputes, a contested subpoena for the Mayor's phone records, and live testimony regarding the approval of a $2 million Type B economic incentive for the Homewood Suites project. Central to the testimony was the allegation that the council was given a false narrative—that the funds were for general FEMA compliance—rather than the actual reason (street-level activation) as decided by the Type B board. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Savod expressed strong support for Mayor Guajardo, condemning the removal action as a 'charade' and noting her three consecutive electoral victories. - Shelley Hinahosa urged the council to respect the voters and allow the electoral process to determine the Mayor's leadership. - Melinda de los Santos argued that evidence of altered documentation by the applicant supported the case for finding misconduct and that the council should consider the matter. Discussion Items - Evidence and Subpoena Rulings: The tribunal overruled objections from the Mayor's legal team regarding the admission of several late-filed exhibits. A motion to quash a subpoena for the Mayor's phone records and text messages was denied. The Mayor subsequently filed an affidavit of compliance, although Petitioners argued it was incomplete. - Testimony of Leah Olivery (Former Type B Board Chair): Olivery testified that the Type B board rejected the FEMA compliance rationale and approved the $2 million incentive specifically for 'street-level activation,' grey box finish-out, and outdoor dining to catalyze downtown economic development. She stated the presentation and agenda memo given to the City Council on February 20, 2024, inaccurately reflected the board's decision by focusing on FEMA costs. She testified to being 'stunned' by the inaccuracy and actively worked with city staff to correct the narrative for the second reading. She denied having any knowledge of the altered FEMA slide before April 2024 and stated she had no contact with the Mayor regarding the project during the application process. - Testimony of Councilman Everett Roy: Roy testified that the City Council received inaccurate information during the first reading of the ordinance. He supported a full investigation into the document alteration allegations and stated the city later issued a notice of default to the applicant for making material misrepresentations. He described the process as a 'mess,' using the analogy of 'toothpaste out of the tube.' He stated that if intentional wrongdoing was proven, the funds should not have been awarded. Attempts by the defense to question Roy about the potential bias of other council members were largely blocked on sustained objections. Key Outcomes - The hearing was recessed and scheduled to continue on August 7, 2026, with additional witnesses expected. - The tribunal denied the Mayor's motion to quash a subpoena for her communications records. - Witness testimony established a significant discrepancy between the narrative presented to the council during the first reading (FEMA) and the actual findings of the Type B board (street-level activation), creating a central fact dispute for the tribunal regarding the accuracy of information the Mayor received and relayed.

The City Council of Corpus Christi met on July 28, 2026, at 11:30 AM, to address a comprehensive agenda including water supply updates, the retirement of the City Attorney, acceptance of federal grants, public hearings on the budget and zoning, and individual actions on elections, charter reform, major development proposals, and a lengthy executive session. The consent agenda contained routine items, several of which were pulled for individual consideration. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to lengthy debate on the approval of an unrestricted donation for the Inner Harbor desalination project and discussions on amending the city charter. Consent Calendar - Item 3 (Minutes): Approved. - Items 4 & 7 (Crime Control Budget & Zoning): Approved individually after being pulled. Councilwoman Campos voted against the Crime Control & Prevention District Budget, citing a need for more funding for homelessness initiatives. - Items 9 & 10 (Water & Wastewater Rates): Approved. Council members discussed the drivers of the rate increase, clarifying it was not related to the Inner Harbor project or a specific grant, but rather to past debt service and operational costs. - Item 15 (Beach Parking Fee): Approved. The annual permit fee was increased from $12.00 to $20.00, the first increase in 22 years. Several council members expressed concern over the steep hike for low-income families, while staff explained it was needed to cover operating costs and beach maintenance. Public Comments & Testimony - Inner Harbor Desalination: Multiple speakers, including Vidal Conde, Brad Bartelson, and Christina McKay, opposed the Inner Harbor project, citing high costs, environmental risks, and advocating for alternative sites like Barney M. Davis. Concerns were raised about accepting donations from undisclosed sources (Voices for Coastal Bend Energy), with speakers calling it an attempt by industry to influence the process. - Homelessness: Martilena Garza and Amanda Gomez advocated for increased city funding for homeless services. Garza requested restoring a dedicated homelessness department, while Gomez asked the council to support Mother Teresa Shelter through ESG and CDBG funding. - Water Rates & Rural Wells: Stephen Clepper requested transparency in water rate modeling by rate class. Scott Panassa criticized the city's well mitigation program and data collection for rural well owners, stating the program failed to meet its advertised scope. - Charter Amendments & City Governance: Susie Luna Saldania, Melody Cooper, and Joseph Gore commented on the mayor's removal proceedings and the proposed charter amendments, criticizing the process and calling for fair treatment. Cooper characterized the amendments as a power grab. Discussion Items - City Manager Comments & Water Dashboard (Items 1-2): Nick Winkleman reported the projected date for a Level 1 Water Emergency was extended to September 2028. The City Manager also recognized retiring City Attorney Miles Risley, who was praised for his 12 years of service. - HUD Annual Action Plan (Item 16): Council adopted the FY27 Action Plan for $7.44 million in HUD funding. The plan includes a $1 million allocation for a new citywide sidewalk program, a first for the city. - Charter Amendments (Item 20): Council debated placing ten charter amendments on the November ballot. Proponents (Councilman Hernandez) argued for sending the recommendations from the 2020 Charter Commission to voters. Opponents (Councilman Scott, Councilwoman Paxson, Councilman Bonetta) argued for a new, transparent, community-led process. Council voted to create a committee for the next council, tabling the immediate ballot proposition. - Inner Harbor Grant Application Donation (Item 21): Council considered a $60,000 unrestricted donation from Voices for Coastal Bend Energy to prepare a federal grant application for the Inner Harbor desalination project. Councilman Scott supported the donation, seeing it as removing a financial hurdle. Councilwoman Vaughn and others raised concerns about the donor's anonymity and the lack of an approved project. The motion failed 4-5. - Nueces Agreed Order & Temporary Relief (Items 22 & 23): Council received an update and passed a resolution supporting staff efforts to apply for a temporary suspension of environmental flow releases from TCEQ to conserve water in the reservoir system. - Drought Stage Change (Item 24): Staff recommended waiting for reservoir levels to naturally exceed 30% before moving from Stage 3 to Stage 2. Council members pushed for a swift declaration once levels stabilize. Councilwoman Campos requested the drought plan be updated to account for all new water supplies. - Bass Pro Shops Update (Item 25): City staff provided an update, confirming the company is still seeking a site. No formal proposal or incentive request has been made. - Far Field Study Briefing (Item 26): Staff reported that the three scientists from local entities (UTMSI, Harte Research Institute, Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program) have withdrawn from directly facilitating an independent review of the model. Council expressed frustration and directed staff to work with the Bays & Estuaries Program to find an independent peer reviewer from outside the state, de-emphasizing city involvement in the selection. Key Outcomes - No Minutes: Official minutes for the previous meeting were unavailable. - Approved: FY27 HUD Annual Action Plan, General & Special Election ordinances, Water/Wastewater rate increases ($20 Beach Permit increase). - Failed (4-5): Acceptance of a $60,000 donation from Voices for Coastal Bend Energy for the Inner Harbor grant application. - Deferred/Tabled: City Charter amendments were referred to a committee to be formed by the next City Council. - Passed: Resolution supporting temporary and long-term relief from the Nueces Agreed Order environmental flow requirements. - Next Steps: City Manager to declare drought stage change when combined reservoir levels exceed 30%. Staff to find an independent academic modeler for blind peer review of the Far Field study, guided by the Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program. - Discrepancy Noted: The meeting start time on the agenda is 11:30 AM. The prompt's metadata states the meeting occurred at 17:30:00+00:00. The date used in this summary is July 28, 2026, as instructed by the prompt.

The City Council convened a special meeting on July 23, 2026, to conduct a removal hearing for Mayor Paulette Guajardo under Article II, Section 11 of the City Charter. The hearing focused on allegations of misconduct, malfeasance, and willful neglect stemming from a $2 million incentive for the Homewood Suites project, specifically concerning a PowerPoint slide where dates on a FEMA flood map screenshot were obscured. The meeting recessed without a vote, set to resume on August 6, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Melinda de los Santos (District Two) urged the council to focus on the evidence of misconduct rather than the mayor's personal qualities. She stated the proceedings were not being handled properly and were harmful to the city. Discussion Items - Deposition of Developer Philip Ramirez: Testimony from Philip Ramirez, the architect and project applicant, was presented. Ramirez stated the missing April 2022 dates on the FEMA slide were an accidental formatting error, denying any intent to deceive. He refused to answer questions about the Texas Penal Code's forgery statute on advice of counsel. He testified to explaining the error to multiple council members, including the Mayor, before the final vote. - Testimony of Mayor Paulette Guajardo: Mayor Guajardo testified in her defense. She agreed with police and investigator findings that the slide was altered and intentionally so. She maintained this did not constitute a crime or misconduct on her part, asserting she was not formally told the investigation had concluded the document was fraudulent at the time of her actions. She defended her vote, her text communication with the developer during a confidential meeting, and her numerous phone calls (over a dozen calls on February 25th and 26th prior to the second reading). She disputed City Manager Peter Zanoni’s testimony that he explicitly warned her the supporting document was an illegal forgery. - Evidence on the FEMA Narrative: The hearing covered evidence that the FEMA flood maps were preliminary in October 2020 and finalized in April 2022, contradicting the narrative in the altered slide that the requirements were "new" or "unexpected." The timeline showed that following a complaint from a competitor, the original ordinance was withdrawn on February 27, 2024, before a second reading could occur. Key Outcomes - No final action on the removal resolution was taken during this session. - The hearing was adjourned until August 6, 2026, at 9:00 AM.

The Corpus Christi City Council convened a special meeting on July 22, 2026, to conduct a hearing on the removal of Mayor Paulette Guajardo. The day was dedicated to procedural motions, debate over evidence admissibility, opening statements, and the presentation of deposition testimony from four witnesses. The hearing is scheduled to resume on July 23, 2026. Procedural Actions and Key Rulings - Motion for Continuance: Denied. Respondent's counsel John Flood requested a continuance based on the late addition of 1,922 pages of exhibits. The motion was denied, with the recommendation to strike the late-filed exhibits rather than delay the proceedings. - Exhibit Admission: A significant portion of the day was spent arguing over exhibits. The council admitted the vast majority of documents. A contested 4-1 vote allowed the use of deposition transcripts from the Ajeet David lawsuit over strong hearsay objections from the respondent. Councilmember Vaughn dissented, citing her opposition to the June 2nd rule changes that permitted their use. - Due Process Objections: Mr. Flood entered a global objection that the panel members were material witnesses and could not act as impartial adjudicators. This objection was overruled. The respondent also preserved objections related to hearsay and lack of foundation. Public Comments & Testimony All ten public commenters who signed up spoke in strong opposition to the removal of the mayor. Several speakers highlighted that five separate law enforcement agencies found no criminal or ethical wrongdoing. Others criticized the role of attorney Douglas Allison, noting his representation of a party suing the city created a conflict of interest. A common theme among speakers was that the decision to remove an elected official should be left to the voters, especially given the proximity of the next election. The chair limited public comments to one minute per speaker, contrary to the three minutes stated in the published agenda. Discussion Items and Evidence - Petitioner's Opening Statement (Douglas Allison): Alleged the mayor engaged in misconduct and willful neglect by advocating for a $2 million hotel grant. Allison argued the process was tainted by an altered FEMA floodplain slide, describing it as a "scheme" hatched to tie the project to an infrastructure requirement. He maintained the mayor knew about the forgery but pushed forward anyway. - Respondent's Opening Statement (John Flood): Argued the allegations were based on speculation and not on evidence. Flood stated the mayor supported the project for legitimate economic development reasons and relied on staff recommendations. He criticized the proceeding as politically motivated and warned of the dangerous precedent it set. - Mayor's Statement: Mayor Guajardo made brief remarks defending the integrity of her office and the democratic process, stating the office belonged to the citizens. - Witness Testimony (via Depositions Played into Evidence): - Mike Colbertson (CCREDC CEO): Testified the FEMA floodplain narrative presented to the council was false. He stated the slide was deliberately altered and that he would not have tolerated it. He agreed the reasons provided for the $2 million request were misleading and met the definition of a forgery. - Alan Wilson (Type B Board Member): Testified that the highest standards of integrity are required when handling public funds and that altering a federal document to solicit taxpayer money lacks integrity. He stated the board would not have voted for the grant had it known about the alteration. - Heather Holbert (Assistant City Manager): Testified the altered slide was "horrible". She confirmed the justification for the $2 million shifted entirely between the first reading (FEMA flood costs) and the second reading (street-level retail and dining). - Peter Zanoni (City Manager): Testified he did not recommend the grant and informed the mayor and other council members that the document had been forged, calling it a "scheme". He stated the mayor and other members continued to support the item despite this information. He conceded that the first and second readings of the ordinance were not the "same" under the City Charter, violating the two-reading rule. Key Outcomes - No Final Decision on Removal: The council did not reach a verdict. The proceedings concluded for the day following the petitioners' initial presentation of evidence. - Resumption of Hearing: The hearing will reconvene on July 23, 2026. The respondent is expected to present its case, with August 6 and 7 reserved for this purpose. - Evidentiary Precedent Set: The admission of depositions from a separate civil lawsuit established a contested procedural precedent for the remainder of the removal hearing.

The Corpus Christi City Council met on July 21, 2026, at 11:30 AM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including updates on transportation projects, library operations, crime prevention budget, water and wastewater rate increases, data center regulation, and proposed charter amendments. Public comment lasted over two hours with many residents expressing concerns about data centers, water rates, library communication, and the Inner Harbor desalination project. Several votes were taken, including approval of water and wastewater rate increases despite a dissenting vote from the mayor. A motion to direct staff on data center classification and parameters passed, and items 19–22 were tabled to the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Approved items 3–8, including: minutes, Red Cord Initiative interlocal agreement, military preparedness grants, rental and maintenance agreements, and pipeline equipment purchase. - Item 9 (Airport grant) was pulled and deferred to the next meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Library advisory board communication: Several speakers (Marlena Garza, Tom Taglebut, Julie Rogers) criticized city staff for withholding updates on the Janet F. Harte Public Library and failing to involve the board. They demanded full transparency and a long-term restoration plan. - Data centers (HUT 8 Beacon Point): Multiple residents (Hope Malkin, Pam Matlock, Shannon Ross, Jim Klein) expressed strong opposition to the data center near Calallen, citing noise, light, water use, and proximity to an elementary school. They asked the council to preserve remaining authority and protect residents from cost-shifting. - Water rates and desalination: Many speakers (Vidal Conde, John Dugan, Carrie Meyer, Mark Munster, Amanda Breland, Rachel Caballero) opposed the Inner Harbor desalination plant, urging the council to reject Item 20 and pursue alternatives like Barney Davis. Others criticized the water rate increases and called for industry to pay its fair share. - Charter amendments and police: Some speakers (Samuel Fryer, Maria Rosa Suarez) supported charter amendments, while others (Robin Cox) accused the mayor of using paid attackers and criticized police accountability. A speaker also questioned the lack of communication about data center development. Discussion Items - City Manager’s Comments: - TxDOT Projects: Eric Martinez provided updates on major road projects including the Crosstown Extension (54% complete, $79M), SPID ramp reconfiguration (25% complete, $58M), FM 624 widening (7% complete, $31M), and bridge maintenance. Completion dates ranged from 2028 to 2029. - Janet F. Harte Public Library: Laura presented an update on the joint-use library with Flour Bluff ISD. A pre-design assessment for a permanent partition wall is 90% complete. The city and school district are working on safety compliance. Council members emphasized the need for better communication with the library board and a long-term solution. - Public Hearings: - Crime Control & Prevention District Budget (Item 10): Approved with $11,189,046 for 78 police officers and equipment. Councilwoman Campos asked for crime reduction statistics; staff agreed to provide data. - Zoning Cases: Items 11–13 were approved unanimously, including rezoning for a single-family home, a vintage retail store, and a telecommunications tower. - Individual Consideration: - Judicial Appointments (Item 14): Approved reappointment of Jacqueline Del Llano Chapa and appointment of Carlos Omar Reyna. - Water Rate Increase (Item 15): Ordinance approved (with mayor voting no) to raise water rates by $2.48/month for an average residential customer starting January 1, 2027. The increase covers 36% new water supply debt, 21% prior CIP debt, 22% debt service coverage, and 21% operations. Debate centered on impacts to residents and industry. - Wastewater Rate Increase (Item 16): Approved, raising average residential bill by $1.87/month. The increase is driven by debt service coverage (52%) and prior capital projects (48%). Councilman Hernandez criticized the debt levels but supported the vote. - Data Center Briefing (Item 17): Ryan Skarbarchuk presented an overview of data center types, resource demands (power, water, land), and state/federal policy trends. The briefing included details on the HUT 8 Beacon Point project, which uses closed-loop cooling and will consume about 11,000 gallons per day for non-cooling purposes. - Motion on Data Center Regulation (Item 18): Council members Paxson, Hernandez, and Vaughn proposed a motion to direct staff to develop land-use definitions, zoning restrictions, and IDA policies for data centers. After debate, the motion passed, directing staff to prioritize UDC amendments but not to proceed with a moratorium at this time. - Charter Amendments (Item 19) and Other Items (20–22): Discussion was initiated but the council voted 5-3 to table items 19–22 to the next meeting due to the late hour. The items include proposed charter amendments (term limits, at-large seats, salary increase, tax for streets) and a grant application for desalination. Key Outcomes - Approved: - Consent agenda items 3–8. - Crime Control and Prevention District Budget ($11,189,046). - Zoning cases 11, 12, 13. - Judicial appointments (Item 14). - Water rate increase (Item 15) – passed 7-1 (Mayor Guajardo voted no). - Wastewater rate increase (Item 16) – passed unanimously. - Motion to direct staff on data center regulation (Item 18) – passed 7-1. - Deferred/Postponed: - Item 9 (Airport grant) – deferred to July 28. - Items 19, 20, 21, 22 – tabled to July 28 meeting. - Directives: Staff instructed to bring forward UDC amendments for data center definitions, zoning restrictions, and IDA policies. Staff also asked to provide crime statistics for the Crime Control budget and to improve communication with the library board. - Next Steps: The council will reconvene on July 28, 2026, to discuss the tabled items and consider a one-reading ordinance for charter amendments.