Public Meetings - Corpus Christi, Texas

The Corpus Christi City Council met on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, beginning at 11:30 AM in Council Chambers. The meeting included an invocation, pledges, roll call, city manager's report, public comments, board appointments, consent agenda (with items pulled for discussion), public hearings, individual consideration items, briefings on crime statistics and the 89th Texas Legislative Session, and an executive session. Key actions included approval of a raw water purchase from Formosa Plastics, a reclaimed water infrastructure design contract, an affordable housing project, and a municipal management district. Consent Calendar - Approved consent agenda items 3-15, except items 7 and 12 which were pulled for individual consideration. Public Comments & Testimony - Rolando Garza (District 1 resident) expressed full support for the affordable housing project at Lamar (Prospera), emphasizing the promise made to the community. - Robin Sanders (Corpus Christi resident) raised concerns about wastewater billing methodology, specifically winter quarter averaging and meter malfunctions. - Shirley Thornton (Flower Bluff resident) urged support for Item 24 (Holly Road Train Trestle to Tourism Trail Project), noting the history of the effort and the need for the city match. - Susie Saldania (District 2 resident) defended the city manager and employees, urging council to focus on facts and service rather than firing personnel. - Adam Rios (owner of Pony Boy Skate Company) announced the West Guth Skate Games competition on May 4th and advocated for a skate park at Billish Park as a budget priority. - Janie Carrasco and Ramona Reyes (Hacienda Senior Apartment residents) spoke in support of Prospera's affordable housing projects, describing positive experiences with services. - Joshua DeLeon (Corpus Christi resident) reported results from Project Hope's third annual community cleanup (4,637 cigarette butts collected) and advocated for a citywide smoking ban in parks and proper e-cigarette disposal sites. - Joshua Frederick (Corpus Christi resident) questioned a recent change to the public comment procedure posted online, asking who authorized the language stating that questions are inappropriate. - Sharin Del Seuss (District 5 resident, via video) supported the Holly Road Trestle Bridge project, highlighting health benefits of bikeable/walkable communities and citing obesity statistics (40% of residents, $2.8 million city health budget). - Alena Martinez (Corpus Christi resident, via audio) advocated for her appointment to the Ethics Commission, citing her passion for ethics and transparency. Board & Committee Appointments - Airport Board: Reappointed Travis Patterson; appointed Jesse Noyola and Sarah Azali to fill two vacancies. - Civil Service Commission & Civil Service Board: Postponed one week for additional interviews. - Ethics Commission (one vacancy): Stephen McClure appointed by a 6-2 vote (two-thirds required). Alena Martinez also nominated. - Landmark Commission (two at-large vacancies): Appointed Underwood and Bikay unanimously. - Watershore and Beach Advisory Committee (two at-large vacancies): Appointed Garcia and Holland by vote. Discussion Items - Item 7 – NewGen Strategies Contract Amendment: Councilmember Paxson questioned the number of amendments and total cost. Staff explained the shift to annual rate modeling and increased face-to-face time with council. Approved unanimously (8-0). - Item 12 – Affordable Housing Program (Prospera/Palms at Morris): Councilmember Hernandez raised concerns about Prospera's outstanding loans ($6.4 million), land sold for $10, and perception of unfair advantage. Staff and Prospera representatives defended the project, noting common industry practice, cash-flow loans, and the need for affordable senior housing. Councilmembers Roy and Guajardo supported the project. Councilmembers Scott and Barrera recused themselves. Motion carried 6-0-2 (with recusals). - Item 21 – Raw Water Purchase from Formosa Plastics: Authorized up to 10,000 acre-feet at $900/acre-foot ($2.76/thousand gallons), with a take-or-pay of 2,500 acre-feet. Drew Molly noted drought conditions reducing interruptible water from LNRA. Councilman Scott praised the innovation. Councilman Hernandez requested a mid-year rate adjustment to reflect higher raw water costs. Motion carried unanimously. - Item 22 – Garver Reclaimed Water Infrastructure Design: Authorized a professional services contract up to $1,291,550 for a 12-month feasibility study and source water characterization. Councilwoman Paxson asked about expediting timelines; Dan Olson explained regulatory requirements. Councilman Hernandez supported indirect potable reuse and urged collaboration with industry. Motion carried unanimously. - Item 23 – Municipal Management District (The Reserve at Oso Creek): Approved consent for creation of an MMD and development agreement for 930 homes. Developer Paul Garza presented the self-funded project, supported by West Oso ISD and Commissioner Gonzales. Motion carried unanimously. - Item 24 (Holly Road Train Trestle to Tourism Trail Project): Pulled by staff to allow more time for council questions; will be on next week's agenda. Key Outcomes - Raw Water Purchase with Formosa Plastics (Item 21): Approved. Authorizes City Manager to execute contract up to 10,000 acre-feet for 2025 with a one-year option, at $900/acre-foot, using $4.5 million from FY25 budgeted operating transfer to CIP. - Reclaimed Water Infrastructure Design (Item 22): Approved. Contract with Garver, LLC not to exceed $1,291,550, funded from Water Capital Fund. - Affordable Housing Project (Item 12): Approved (6-0-2). City will provide a $1,160,100 loan (3%, 40-year, cash-flow) to TG 110 Palms at Morris for 72 senior rental units at Morris and 19th Streets. - Municipal Management District (Item 23): Approved. Resolution consenting to creation of MMD and approving development agreement for The Reserve at Oso Creek (930 homes, self-funded, 7-8 year build-out). - Crime Statistics Briefing (Item 25): Council requested more detailed data monthly or quarterly, including by district, gang-related stats, dismissal/prosecution rates, and community engagement metrics. Police Dept. committed to provide a dashboard online this week and return with expanded presentations. - Legislative Update (Item 26): Ryan Skrobarczyk briefed on key bills, including those affecting annexation, parking minimums, non-conforming uses, third-party review, drone procurement, and water funding. Council took no action. - Executive Session (Item 27): Council went into closed session to discuss legal issues related to groundwater, desalination, and property rights. No public action reported.

The Corpus Christi City Council held a Special Meeting on April 1, 2025. The meeting began with staff recognition for the historic upgrade of the Mary Rhodes Pipeline to Schedule 4 (70 million gallons a day), with a design goal of 79 million gallons a day. Following a lengthy public comment period focused on the proposed Inner Harbor desalination project and a leak of a council member's medical condition, the council approved a consent agenda item and a package of engineering contracts, debated and ultimately postponed a staffing increase for the Engineering Services Department, and received briefings on the residential street paving program and the 89th Texas Legislative Session. Consent Calendar - Item 2 (25-0359) – Ordinance accepting the 2025 TDHCA Homeless Housing and Services Program (HHSP) grant totaling $217,309. An amendment was approved to reallocate funds: decreasing the allocation for the Nueces Center for Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities (MHID) by $25,000 (to $142,309) and increasing the allocation for Mission 911 by $25,000 (to $75,000). The motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Desalination (Inner Harbor): Multiple speakers addressed the proposed desalination project. - John Weber reported that city and outside legal counsel recommended against pursuing a formal Farfield model, stating it was unnecessary for permitting, too costly ($50,000-$100,000), and would not advance the project. He argued this decision proves the Inner Harbor is an unsuitable location. - Blanca Parkinson, citing the expertise of her father, a desalination engineer, argued the city's amended permit application shifts the disposal of sludge back into the bay, contradicting previous council discussions. - Rachel Caballero expressed support for a Farfield model. Isabel Riza criticized the city's decision not to perform the model, calling the project corporate welfare. - Matt Manning, an attorney for Councilwoman Campos, cautioned the council about due process issues related to an open HUD complaint in the district. - Mark Minster argued the city's water strategy primarily serves industrial demand (citing Valero's daily usage) rather than residential needs. - Council Culture and Workplace Conduct: Several speakers, including Jim Klein, Michael Miller, Jason Hale, and Aileen Chavez, strongly condemned the leak of Councilwoman Sylvia Campos's medical condition to the media. Jim Klein explicitly called for the termination of City Manager Peter Zanoni, accusing the administration of orchestrating the leak. - Climate: Sean Flanagan presented a study disputing the scientific consensus on anthropogenic climate change. Discussion Items - Item 3: Professional Engineering Services Contracts (25-0240): Jeff Edmonds (Engineering Services Director) presented a resolution authorizing negotiations with 15 engineering firms for up to $22,022,500. The funding supports Bond 2024, Proposition E, and FY 2025 CIP street projects. Councilman Hernandez requested the individual scoring data from the selection process to ensure transparency. The motion carried. - Item 4: Engineering Services Staffing Increase (25-0341): A proposal to add 20 full-time positions and equipment ($2.49M in FY25, $2.08M recurring in FY26) to the Engineering Department was debated extensively. Funding is sourced from the capital improvement program (bond funds), not the general fund. - Supporters (Mayor, Councilmembers Barretera, Campos, Scott, City Manager Zanoni) argued the staff is critically needed to manage over $500 million in newly awarded contracts and prevent delays and quality issues in public infrastructure projects. - Skeptics (Councilmembers Vaughn, Hernandez, Roy, Paxson) voiced concerns about increasing the city's permanent headcount versus expanding existing contractor agreements (e.g., AGCM), citing the potential for a future budget deficit and the timing of the request outside the normal budget cycle. - Councilman Roy motioned to postpone the item to the April 15, 2025 meeting to allow staff to provide a comparative analysis of in-house staffing versus contracted services. The motion to postpone carried. - Item 5: Rapid Pavement Program Briefing (25-0316): Public Works Director Ernesto Delagarza briefed the council on the residential street program. The program is delivering projects five times faster than historical rates. Contractors are 35% complete on FY25 planned streets, and in-house teams are 32% complete. Council members broadly praised the program's success. City Manager Zanoni noted that sustaining this funding level will be a challenge for the FY26 budget without the street user fee, though bond funding provides some offset. - Item 6: 89th Texas Legislative Session Update (25-0452): Ryan Skrobarczyk (Intergovernmental Relations) provided a detailed update on several state bills, including: opposition to bills preempting local zoning authority (SB 840, HB 23); the city's inclusion in legislation related to beach access (SB 2188, specific to another county); the status of water funding bills (SB 7, HJR 7); efforts to protect military flight paths; and proposed restrictions on Certificates of Obligation (HB 1453). Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent Item 2 (Homeless Grant) and Engineering Services Contracts (Item 3) were approved by the council. - Postponed: The Engineering Services Staffing Increase (Item 4) was postponed to the April 15, 2025 meeting. - Presentations Received: The council heard and discussed briefings on the Rapid Pavement Program and the 89th Texas Legislative Session. - Announcement: Councilwoman Sylvia Campos acknowledged the passing of her brother, strongly condemned the leak of her medical condition as an act of bullying, and expressed gratitude for community support.

The Corpus Christi City Council met on March 25, 2025, for a regular meeting that included the city manager’s first quarter budget report, public comments on multiple items, and significant discussion on far field modeling for the proposed inner harbor desalination plant. The council also approved consent agenda items, debated homeless services funding, and approved resolutions for CDBG amendments and a submerged breakwater project. Consent Calendar - Items 3 through 19 were approved on the consent agenda with the exception of Item 7 (pulled by Councilwoman Vaughn) and Item 19 (pulled by Councilman Hernandez). Item 7 was later approved after brief discussion (two council members voted no). Item 19 was debated and amended. Public Comments & Testimony - A substantial number of residents and organizational representatives spoke in support of conducting an independent far field modeling study for the desalination plant, urging the council to vote for Item 1. Elizabeth McKay (Eli McKay) read a letter signed by 12 community groups, including Surfrider Foundation, Sierra Club, and Texas Campaign for the Environment, calling for a consultant without financial ties to the project. - Several speakers questioned the city’s transparency and cited previous cost estimates from city staff that ranged from $50,000 to $1 million. They also raised concerns about environmental impacts on the bay, including brine discharge and potential harm to marine life. - Patricia Anderson provided a detailed analysis of water supply alternatives and expressed concern about the cost burden on fixed‑income residents, urging the city to explore groundwater options before moving forward with desalination. - Supporters of the project, including Susie Saldania, emphasized the urgent need for water and urged the council to stop delays. Ginny Cross from the Chamber of Commerce commended the city’s efforts to support Naval Air Station and water infrastructure improvements. - Public comment on Item 19 included statements from Lauren Cargill (Executive Director of Mission 911) and Marilyn Garza (CEO of the Free Store). Garza criticized the lack of city staff support for smaller nonprofit organizations and requested more equitable distribution of homelessness funding. - Other comments addressed plans to bring the X Games to Corpus Christi, recognition of Texas historical dates, and concerns about beach access legislation (SB 2188 and HB 4660). Discussion Items - City Manager’s First Quarter Budget Report: Peter Zanoni presented the financial summary for the first three months of fiscal year 2025 (October–December 2024). General fund revenues were $128 million, exceeding the $124 million budget, while expenditures were $76.3 million against a budget of $85.9 million. Sales tax collections were on target. The hotel occupancy tax showed a slight shortfall, but spring break was expected to improve the outlook. The manager also updated capital program bonds and provided a preview of the fiscal year 2026 budget schedule, including a council retreat, financial forecast, and goal‑setting workshop. Councilwoman Campos requested details on which industries had challenged property appraisals and suggested sending a letter opposing tariffs. - Item 1 – Far Field Modeling for Inner Harbor Desalination: Staff and consultants presented an extensive overview of the environmental studies, near‑field and far‑field modeling already completed, and the work being performed by the project team (Kiewit and GHD). They argued that far‑field calculations and hydrodynamic models have already been conducted and that the design‑build contract includes far‑field modeling as part of its scope. Council members Cantu and Hernandez expressed frustration that a far‑field study had been portrayed as unnecessary and costly, and that they had not received clear cost and timeline information. Councilman Cantu attempted to motion for engaging an outside firm (LRE Water) to perform an independent far‑field model, but the city attorney indicated it would require a certificate of funds. The item concluded with discussion but no formal vote on the motion; the council acknowledged the existing work by Kiewit and the need for continued modeling. - Item 19 – Homeless Housing and Services Program Funding: The council considered an ordinance to accept and appropriate funds from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Staff recommended awarding $164,198 to MHID (the regional mental health authority) and $50,000 to Mission 911. Some council members questioned the disparity in awards and the lack of support for smaller organizations. After public comment, the council moved to increase Mission 911’s allocation by $25,000, pending negotiations with MHID. The motion passed on first reading. - Item 20 – Substantial Amendment to FY25 Annual Action Plan (CDBG): Daniel McGinn presented a proposal to reprogram $1.4 million in CDBG funds toward park improvements, basketball courts, pool repairs, cemetery improvements, and playground designs. The amendment was approved. - Item 21 – Submerged Breakwater Lease: The council heard a presentation from Palacios Marine Agricultural Research on a 2,500‑foot submerged breakwater off Doddridge Park to combat coastal erosion and create habitat. The project has Army Corps permits and requires a statement of no objection from the city. The council approved the resolution with an amendment that the structure shall have no lighting. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved with Items 7 and 19 pulled. Item 7 approved after discussion (passed with two dissenting votes – nature of item not specified). Item 19 approved as amended. - Far Field Modeling (Item 1): No formal action taken. Council discussion highlighted that the design‑build contract already includes near‑field and far‑field modeling by Kiewit and GHD. Councilman Cantu’s motion to directly engage LRE Water was ruled not actionable without a certificate of funds. The item was left without a vote, and the mayor stated the council will move forward with the desalination project. - Homeless Funding (Item 19): Approved on first reading with an amendment to negotiate an increased allocation of $25,000 for Mission 911, with final amounts and metrics to be determined before second reading. - CDBG Amendment (Item 20): Approved. - Submerged Breakwater (Item 21): Approved, with the condition that no lighting be installed on the structure. - Mayor and council members apologized for exchanges during the meeting and emphasized the need for professionalism and collaboration. At the end of the meeting, Councilman Hernandez requested that future budget reports include total debt information, and the city manager acknowledged the request.

The Corpus Christi City Council convened on March 18, 2025, for a business meeting lasting over six hours. The primary focus was the adoption of the updated Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) following extensive public comment and deliberation. The council also confirmed board appointments, approved a contested change order for the Alameda Street project, received a briefing on the American Bank Center, and reviewed state legislation. Public Comments & Testimony - A coalition of residents, led by Isabel Riza, Andrea Puyol, and others, strongly opposed the DCP, calling it a 'draining our community for profits plan'. They presented a petition with over 400 signatures demanding mandatory curtailment of water for heavy industrial users (which they stated consume roughly 28,000 gallons per minute), an end to the industrial drought surcharge exemption, and transparent monitoring. - Several speakers, including Jason Hale and John Weber, criticized the Inner Harbor desalination project as an 'experimental' venture with insufficient far-field hydrodynamic modeling. Blanca Parkinson and Rachel Caballero accused the city and TCEQ of misleading the public on the project's viability and permitting. - Elena Martinez detailed the findings of an investigation into City Auditor George Holland, alleging a toxic work environment, interference with the investigation, and unwelcome physical contact with an employee, urging the council to remove him. - Sean Flanagan expressed support for a compromise on library book policies. Becky Moeller raised concerns over federal actions eliminating collective bargaining for TSA screeners, impacting local airport safety. Marty Lena Garza and Susie Saldania urged the council to address utility affordability. Discussion Items Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) Adoption: Drew Molly (CCW) presented the final DCP, incorporating changes from previous meetings. Modifications included raising the residential surcharge threshold to 7,000 gallons, moving the water meter moratorium to a Water Emergency stage, and defining Water Emergency triggers (Level 1: 180 days out, Level 2: catastrophic event). Council discussion revealed divisions. Councilwoman Cumbles proposed an amendment to add a 15% lake level trigger for mandatory curtailment; it failed for lack of a second. Councilman Cantu stated that overselling water by previous councils and staff, not industrial users, created the crisis and stressed the need for the DCP to secure well permits. Councilwoman Vaughn made the motion to adopt the DCP with its highlighted changes. The motion carried. American Bank Center Briefing (OVG360): Daniel Melissa reported strong operational metrics, including $6M in food & beverage gross revenue and $1.3M in global partnerships. Council members sharply noted discrepancies between the presentation and the agenda packet. Councilman Scott expressed strong frustration. Councilman Cantu questioned the status of an offer from Thomas J. Henry for naming rights. Councilman Badada and the Mayor cautioned against open session discussion of the negotiations to protect the bargaining position. The council requested standardized quarterly reports. Other Items: - Item 14 (Alameda Street): Approved a $1.5M change order to correct pavement issues (jointed plain concrete cracking). - Items 12/13 (Water Line Contracts): Approved contracts for IDIQ water line repairs. - Item 19 (UT Austin Internship): Approved $12,500 in Type B funds over opposition. - Item 17 (Speed Limits): Approved speed reductions on Weber Rd and Ennis Joslin Rd. Consent Calendar The council approved the bulk of the consent agenda, which included police equipment purchases, IT fiber agreements, grants, and engineering service agreements, pulling specific items for individual questions and votes. Board & Committee Appointments Appointments to the Arts & Cultural Commission, Building Standards Board, Crime Control & Prevention District, Island Strategic Action Committee, and Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee were confirmed en masse. Key Outcomes - Adopted the 2025 Drought Contingency Plan (effective March 19, 2025). - Approved Change Order No. 3 for the Alameda Street project ($1,524,245.99). - Unanimously approved Annexation Cases ZN8474 and ZN8481. - Directed OVG360 to provide standardized quarterly financial reporting. - Confirmed appointments to five city boards and committees.

The City Council of Corpus Christi held a workshop on March 6, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM to receive briefings and discuss a range of alternative water supply projects aimed at addressing the ongoing drought and enhancing long-term water security. The workshop featured presentations from project proponents and city staff, followed by extensive council member questions. No formal actions were taken, but key directions for future focus emerged. Discussion Items Alternative Water Supply Project Presentations (10:00 AM - 12:15 PM) - EV Ranch (Catahoula Aquifer): Presented by Dr. Mike Mince and Dr. Brownlow. Proposed to supply 28.5 MGD (million gallons per day) from a brackish aquifer via a 46-mile pipeline to Kingsville, at an estimated cost of $6.50 per thousand gallons (potable). Timeline: 24-30 months, including feasibility and permitting. Water quality TDS range 1,000-5,000 ppm. - Evangeline Brackish Groundwater Project: Presented by Ed Cross. Proposed 25.4 MGD from fresh groundwater (TDS 750 ppm, potable without treatment) with existing permits for 28,486 acre-feet/year. Timeline: 28-30 months for full buildout; emergency option of 3-4 wells in 6 months. Cost dependent on financing (public vs. private). - Barney Davis Seawater Project: Presented by Stacy Barna and Ruben Munoz (CDM Smith). Concept to co-locate desalination at an existing power plant, leveraging its intake (640 MGD permitted) and cooling pond discharge. Potential capacity up to 100 MGD, but requires further feasibility study, especially for environmental impacts and discharge to Gulf instead of Oso Creek. No cost estimates provided. - Port of Corpus Christi Harbor Island Permit: Presented by Sarah Garza. Update on permits: discharge permit for 50 MGD in hand; water rights pending; federal permits in process. Proposed 100 MGD facility (two 50 MGD mirrors) with tunneled intake/discharge to Gulf, avoiding wetlands. Distribution to Nueces County and San Patricio municipal water districts. - Solar Panel Installation (Noria Energy): Presented virtually by Tate Tusing and Alex Cagle. Proposed floating solar on Lake Corpus Christi to reduce evaporation (potential savings of millions of gallons/year) and generate revenue for the city through energy sales. No capital cost to city; feasibility study 6 months, construction 12 months. Permits expected within 12 months. - Nueces River Authority (NRA) Desalination Project: Presented by John Byrum. Proposed to use Port of CC permit at Harbor Island and build a 100 MGD (expandable to 450 MGD) seawater desal plant serving a larger region. Estimated cost $12/thousand gallons (TWDB class 5 estimate), with $3.5 billion total cost (today's dollars). Timeline: 2030. Seeking reservation fees from off-takers. Planned and Approved Water Supply Projects (12:35 PM - 2:00 PM) - Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus (Drew Molly): City's 30 MGD desalination project, near final permitting (TCEQ final permit expected next week), design-build contract with Kiewit, delivery in Q2 2028. Drought-proof supply; cost not detailed but with low-interest TWDB financing. - La Quinta Water Treatment Project (Estella An Ramos): 40 MGD seawater desal site near San Patricio MWD, intake permit granted, discharge permit in review. Timeline 2030, cost $1.1 billion ($10.62/thousand gallons). - Wastewater Reuse (Dan Olson, Garver): Evaluated reuse options (non-potable, indirect potable, direct potable). City produces 25 MGD effluent from six plants. Feasibility study for potable reuse would require 12-month source water characterization and pilot testing. Non-potable reuse (type 1 water) already offered free to public. - Mary Roads Pipeline Improvements (Nick Winklman): Capacity upgrade from current 55 MGD (Schedule 3) to 75 MGD (Schedule 4) by March 24, 2025. Project cost $13 million; additional $1.8 million change order expected. Pipeline condition assessment found obstructions and pressure exceedances, requiring future maintenance. Short-Term Emergency Water Supply Projects - Wells Along Nueces River: City drilling 7 new wells on city-owned property, targeting 10-15 MGD. First well test pumping by end of next week. Emergency authorization of $10 million received. Water from the Gulf Coast Aquifer (Evangeline formation). - CC Polymers Desalination Plant: Existing 9.4 MGD plant (never used), could be operational in 9-12 months with one-pass RO for non-potable (raw) water. Cost $7-$7.50/thousand gallons. City negotiating term sheet. Would offset industrial demand, freeing potable water. Council Member Questions and Discussion - Council members asked about timelines, costs, environmental impacts, permits, water quality, and feasibility of each project. Key themes included the urgency of short-term solutions (Mary Roads upgrade, wells, CC Polymers) to avoid Stage 4 drought restrictions, the need for a clear water supply model incorporating all new sources, and the importance of focusing staff resources on the 'today' (short-term) and 'tomorrow' (Inner Harbor desal) before pursuing other long-term options. - Several council members expressed support for groundwater projects (Evangeline, EV Ranch) and noted the value of diversifying supply. Concerns were raised about environmental impacts of desalination (Barney Davis, Harbor Island) and the need for caution. - Council asked for detailed cost per thousand gallons for all sources and requested a comprehensive water supply forecast including all new sources be presented at the next council meeting. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken, but a clear consensus emerged to prioritize the following: 1. Immediate implementation of Mary Roads Schedule 4 (75 MGD) by March 24, 2025. 2. Acceleration of the Nueces River wells and CC Polymers to add up to 20 MGD within 12 months. 3. Continued progress on the Inner Harbor desalination plant (target 2028). - City Manager Peter Zanoni and staff will present a consolidated water supply model showing demand vs. supply with all new sources at the next council meeting (anticipated in two weeks). - Council requested that future alternative water supply discussions be structured through a formal RFI/RFP process, with staff vetting and recommendations, rather than ad-hoc presentations. - The Port of Corpus Christi and Nueces River Authority are to continue negotiations regarding water rights and CCN protection. - Mayor Guajardo emphasized the need for clarity and focus, noting the train is moving on the Inner Harbor project, and future decisions should be data-driven.

This meeting of the Corpus Christi City Council on February 25, 2025, began at 11:30 AM with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. The council heard a briefing on the 89th Texas Legislative Session, received public comments on water issues, city governance, and redevelopment proposals, and approved appointments to several boards and committees. The consent agenda was approved with the exception of three items (vehicle acquisition, dock replacement, and a demolition contract) which were individually discussed and passed. The meeting concluded with a recess for lunch and an executive session on property acquisition for a water storage tank project. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from February 18, 2025 (Item 3). - Second Reading Ordinance: Zoning Case ZN8539 (Item 4). - Contracts and Procurement: Service agreement for CCTV camera repair (Item 5); acquisition of 72 replacement and additional vehicles for the Police Department (Item 7); service agreement for two dock replacements (Item 8, later pulled for discussion); construction contract for Morgan Elevated Storage Tank demolition (Item 9, later pulled). - Capital Projects: Demolition contract for Morgan Elevated Storage Tank (Item 9, pulled). - General Consent: Real estate acquisition for detention center expansion (Item 10). - First Reading Ordinances: Grant acceptance for Red Cord Initiative (Item 11); gas pipeline grant acceptance (Item 12); audit appropriation for Terminal Building Rehabilitation (Item 13). Public Comments & Testimony - Bruce Goulet (District 3, landscape business owner): Expressed gratitude for a small business grant program and voiced concern over Stage 3 drought restrictions affecting his business. He asked how the city plans to address water supply if Stage 4 restrictions become necessary. - Susie Luna Saldania (District 2): Strongly criticized proposed amendments to limit public comment, arguing that council should listen to citizens. She also called for immediate action on water supply projects, stating, "If you did not get us water, we will die." - John Weber (Corpus Christi): Supported the idea of an alternative water supply workshop and specifically proposed placing floating solar panels on Lake Corpus Christi and other retention ponds to reduce evaporation and generate revenue. He suggested the city lease the space to a developer rather than owning the solar project. - Ryan Zeller (Corpus Christi): Proposed a landfill reclamation project for a closed landfill adjacent to the JC Elliott transfer station, transforming it into a recreational park with trails, green spaces, and an energy site. He highlighted that the landfill is already capped and met EPA guidelines, reducing costs. He suggested using effluent water from a nearby treatment plant for irrigation. - Brandon Garrett (District 4): Presented a video demonstration of an atmospheric water generator that captures water from cooling tower exhaust, using the MGM Grand in Las Vegas as an example. He noted the system generated over 20,000 gallons in 34 days and suggested it could be integrated at the American Bank Center. - Isabel Ariza (District 2, co-founder of For the Greater Good): Accused the Coastal Bend Coalition of spending $719,000 on the 2024 local elections, supported by donors including Valero, Gulf Coast Growth Ventures (Exxon and Saudi Arabian partners), Coke Industries, and chemical industry PACs. She criticized the council for not ending drought exemptions for high-volume water users and for supporting an experimental desalination plant. She stated, "Greedy, insatiable water guzzling corporations won in this last local election." (She was warned by the city attorney for using profanity during her remarks.) - Adam Rios (Corpus Christi): Announced that a previously anticipated contest was postponed due to weather and rescheduled. He also proposed bringing the X Games or Velocity Games to Corpus Christi, citing Venice, California's success with a similar event generating $45 million over three days. Discussion Items - Briefing on 89th Texas Legislative Session (Item 1) : Ryan Skrobarczyk, Director of Intergovernmental Relations, provided an update on the legislative process, key deadlines (March 14 filing deadline), committee appointments, and the state budget outlook. Topics included House Appropriations subcommittees, funding for military facilities (DAG funding), and the status of water-related bills. No council questions were asked. - Board and Committee Appointments (Item 2) : The council unanimously approved appointments and reappointments to the Committee for Persons with Disabilities (six members), Corpus Christi Downtown Management District (Michael Islava), Senior Corps Advisory Committee (Kathleen John Jocelyn and Sansas Workthen), and the Sister City Committee (Robert Voorhees and Avalos). All motions passed without opposition. - Consent Agenda Item 6 – Vehicle and Equipment Acquisition: Councilwoman Paxon pulled this item to question pricing and the sourcing process. Fleet staff explained the use of cooperative purchasing agreements (BuyBoard, Sourcewell, TIPS) to achieve 5-10% savings. Discussion included vehicle upfitting (generators, lift gates, lighting) and the need for four-wheel drive in water department and parks vehicles. Councilwoman Paxon requested future packets include a cost comparison analysis showing cooperative savings. The motion to approve passed unanimously. - Consent Agenda Item 8 – Dock Replacement at Municipal Marina: Councilmember Gunther pulled this item to ask why a Florida company (Bellingham Marine) was selected. Marina Manager Jonathan Atwood explained that the company originally supplied docks in 2006 and is already replacing five other docks. Only two U.S. manufacturers (Bellingham and Meco Sullivan) meet the city's standards for concrete, foam-filled docks designed to withstand the saltwater environment. The new docks are expected to last 40-50 years. Councilwoman Vaughn and Councilwoman Paxon asked about alternatives and warranty. The motion to approve passed unanimously. - Consent Agenda Item 9 – Morgan Elevated Storage Tank Demolition: Councilman Kentuck pulled the item to confirm that the Rochelle Foundation would reimburse the city $160,000 for the demolition as part of a property swap for the new fire station. City Manager Peter Zanoni confirmed a verbal agreement and that the contract was being finalized. Councilman Hernandez praised the Rochelle Foundation for their contribution. Discussion included deed restrictions on the old fire station property. The motion to approve passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - The council approved all consent agenda items not pulled (Items 3,4,5,7,10,11,12,13) by a single motion. - Items 6, 8, and 9 were each approved individually by unanimous consent after discussion. - All board and committee appointments were approved without opposition. - The council took no public action on the briefing. - The meeting recessed for lunch at approximately 1:30 PM and later reconvened in executive session (Item 14) under Texas Government Code §§ 551.071 and 551.072 to discuss legal and real estate matters regarding property acquisition for the Calallen Elevated Storage Tank Project. The meeting adjourned without further public action.

This meeting began at approximately 9:30 AM and concluded after 6:00 PM, covering city manager reports, public comments, committee appointments, consent agenda, public hearings, and individual items including a controversial proposal to limit public comment time. The meeting was marked by extensive public opposition to the proposed restrictions. Consent Calendar - Approved items 4–14 with item 10 (zoning case ZN-8501) pulled due to Councilmember Roy's abstention; item 10 was later approved separately. Public Comments & Testimony - John Weber suggested running meetings more efficiently, citing charter requirements and Robert's Rules of Order violations. - Rachel Caballero opposed the drought contingency plan changes and the proposed limitation on public comment (Item 25-0259), calling it a violation of First Amendment rights. - Alena Martinez criticized the council for weaponizing decorum rules and limiting public comment to 75 minutes, arguing it stifles citizens' voices. - Mari Lena Garza urged better communication regarding homelessness services and cold weather shelters, noting a lack of follow-up from the city. - Blanca Parkinson spoke against the city's desalination plans, stating residents are being used as guinea pigs for experiments, and called for ending the drought exemption for large water users. - Isabel Arisa referenced Gramsci, accused the petrochemical cartel and port of driving policy, and condemned the attempt to limit public comment. - Adam Rios promoted a free skate contest at West Goose Skate Park and advocated for a skate park on Padre Island. - Andrea Puyol read demands from a resident-first DCP, including measurable triggers for stage 4 and mandatory curtailment of top 10 water users; noted the city hasn't responded to park adoption requests. - Brandon Garrison proposed atmospheric water generation technology as a solution to water challenges. - Cheryl Secrets urged a sooner-than-later skate park on Padre Island, citing youth safety and existing resolutions from PRAC and ISAC committees. - Amanda Breland called the proposed public comment limit a step toward fascism and vowed to take comments directly to council members. - Sammy Andre Fryer opposed limiting public comment and also urged removal of sexually explicit materials from the children's section of the library. - Eli McKay detailed statistics of recent meetings (37,46,44 speakers) and argued the 75-minute limit would reduce time per speaker; suggested large-city models instead. - Michael Aradias (Alfredo Miguel et al.) defended the right to public comment, stating the council works for the people. - Catherine Oler praised animal care services for their response to abandoned dogs and requested adequate funding for the department. - Tom Whitehurst Jr. noted that public comment enabled a response to cold-weather shelter needs and warned against limiting people who cannot attend due to fear or work. - Albert Zartuce (virtual) opposed limiting public comment, warning that voting for it would be remembered at the next election. Discussion Items - City Manager's Report - North Padre Island Beach Nourishment: Approximately 21,000 tons of sand moved via 900 truckloads from north to south side of Packery Channel over 10 days, restoring 150-foot beach width critical for vehicle access and the upcoming Barefoot Mardi Gras parade. - Trust Fund/Impact Fees Update: Development Services Director Michael Dice reviewed the history of trust funds (1982) and state impact fees (395). The City has spent $3 million on consultant studies. The Capital Improvement Advisory Committee (CIAC) is comparing trust fund and impact fee models, with recommendations expected after subcommittee meetings. Council member Campos questioned the delay; Hernandez clarified that the $3 million also funded master plan updates and that costs came from developer fees, not general taxpayer funds. - Investment Committee Appointment: Mayor Guajardo and Councilmember Vaughn were appointed to the investment committee. - Item 17 – Public Comment Time Limit (Motion to limit each speaker to up to 3 minutes or 75 minutes total divided by number of speakers, whichever is less): - Councilmember Vaughn explained she requested the item for meeting efficiency, emphasizing the city needs to hear public input. She moved to amend to 60 minutes between 12:00 and 1:00 p.m. That amendment failed. - Councilmember Hernandez proposed a substitute motion: 3 minutes per speaker; if more than 25 speakers, 2 minutes each; service-area residents get same time as residents; non-service-area speakers get 1 minute. This motion also failed. - After procedural confusion, the original motion (75 minutes or per-speaker reduction) was put to a vote and failed. No time limit change was adopted. - Item 18 – HVAC Contract for American Bank Center Arena: Awarded $4,024,000 to Central Air and Heating Service LLC. Hernandez proposed an amendment to include condensate capture for water features/landscaping. Staff noted the condensation is minimal in phase 1 but more significant in phase 2 (dehumidifiers); they will explore it. The amendment failed. The original motion passed. - Legislative Update: Ryan Skrbarczyk reported on committee assignments (Rep. Villalobos on appropriations and natural resources; Rep. Lozano on appropriations; Chairman Todd Hunter as House Calendars Chair). Key bills: Senate Bill 7 (statewide water authority), Senate Bill 1250/HB 2877 (allowing modification of project financing zone boundaries on land), HB 21/SB 867 (limiting housing finance corporations' power without local consent). Property tax relief bills moving quickly. The city's legislative agenda will be posted for transparency. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda (items 4–14) approved, item 10 approved separately. - Rezoning request (Item 16) approved. - Proposed public comment time limit (Item 17) rejected; no change to existing rules. - HVAC contract for American Bank Center Arena (Item 18) approved as presented. - Investment committee appointments approved. - Staff directed to explore condensate capture for future phases of HVAC projects. - Legislative update received; next briefing scheduled for the following week.

The Corpus Christi City Council convened on February 11, 2025, for a lengthy meeting dominated by the ongoing Stage 3 drought, small business relief, library board appointments, and drought contingency. The session ran late into the evening, defined by passionate public testimony and sharp divisions on the council, particularly regarding the proposed Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) update, which ultimately failed to advance. Consent Calendar - The majority of the consent agenda was approved. Items were pulled for individual consideration, including Item 8 (Airport audit, withdrawn for review), Item 23 (Upbring Head Start lease), and Item 27 (Drought Resilience Program, later passed under Individual Consideration). Public Comments & Testimony - Drought Contingency Plan (DCP) Oversight & Equity: Numerous residents, including Claudia Michelle, Brendan Hazelton, and Jake Hernandez, expressed frustration over the city council and mayor’s low attendance at the DCP listening session. Speakers demanded a delay to the vote to incorporate mandatory industrial water curtailment and the removal of the drought surcharge exemption for large-volume users, arguing residents are unfairly bearing the burden of conservation. - Irrigation & Landscape Industry: Robert, Ricky, and Paul Schmitchel (ABC Irrigation), Sean Christopher (Seascapes), and Jesse Jenkins (Gill Garden Center) urged the council to allow drip irrigation and hand watering in the new drought plan. They stated the current restrictions were devastating their businesses and leading to widespread layoffs, and argued that professionally installed drip irrigation is a scientifically proven conservation method. - Library Board Appointments: The library board was a central topic. Alex Fluke, Sue Wong, Eli McCain and others spoke strongly in favor of reappointing Dora Wilburn, praising her commitment to equitable access. Melinda de los Santos defended her conduct on the board, stating her controversial statements were direct readings from city code and explicit books. Sean Flanagan argued the current policy fails to protect children from harmful material. - City Management & Hiring Practices: Elizabeth Lilly alleged the Animal Care Services director was hired without required state certifications due to a personal friendship with the city manager’s wife, citing specific cases of animals not being properly logged or held. Elena Martinez highlighted a news report on cronyism in city hiring. Rachel Caballero formally called for the termination of City Manager Peter Zanoni. - Water Policy & Infrastructure: Blanca Parkinson, Mark Minster, and Albert Zertuche criticized the city’s management of water resources, the viability and purpose of the EV Ranch Desalination project, and the lack of a clear plan for Stage 4 water emergency. - Cemeteries: John Hendricks pleaded for action on the neglected New Bayview Cemetery and the 1919 hurricane memorial, leading to a response from the city manager detailing plans for fencing and restoration using existing project funds. Board & Committee Appointments - Library Board: Dora Wilburn was reappointed by a 6-2 vote after Councilwoman Campos recused herself, following intense public lobbying from both sides. - Other Boards: Appointments were approved for the Capital Improvements Advisory Committee, Coastal Bend COG, Crime Control & Prevention District (with a nominee substitution by Councilman Roy), Marina Advisory Committee, and Watershore & Beach Advisory Committee. Discussion Items - City Manager's Report: - Hooks 20th Season: General Manager Brady Ballard unveiled the team's new branding and logo, highlighting significant economic impact, including over 700 room nights generated by upcoming collegiate baseball games and a new community scholarship program for local nursing students. - Foresight Golf Update: Director Robert Dodd reported that the new Firefly nighttime golf course drove record rounds (125,000 total) and revenues, generating nearly $500,000 in returns to the city at no taxpayer expense. - Briefing: EV Ranch Groundwater Desalination (Item 4): CC Water COO Drew Molloy presented a potential water supply project from the Catahoula aquifer, offering up to 25 MGD at a low royalty fee ($0.30/1,000 gal). The Port of Corpus Christi is considering funding a $3 million feasibility study. High pipeline costs were noted as a challenge. - Upbring Head Start Lease (Item 23): Councilman Cantu questioned delays in opening Head Start centers. An Upbring representative stated licensing and hiring are in process, expecting to open within 60-90 days. City staff confirmed they did not cause any delays. - Small Business Drought Resilience Program (Item 27): A $2.38 million package was debated to provide $2 million in grants (up to $50k per business) via LiftFund. The $380,000 (19%) administrative fee and tax delinquency rules were heavily criticized. A motion to allow tax-delinquent applicants to apply failed 4-4. The program was ultimately approved as an emergency measure. - Drought Contingency Plan Update (Item 29): The most contentious item. The council first voted to postpone the vote by two weeks (5-4). This vote was immediately reconsidered and the postponement then failed 4-4. A subsequent motion to approve the DCP with staff amendments (drip irrigation, meter moratorium moved to emergency, surcharge increases for large users) also failed on a 4-4 tie. The council then adjourned without passing the second reading, leaving the existing stricter plan in place. Key Outcomes - Drought Contingency Plan Update (Item 29): FAILED. The second reading of the updated DCP was not approved. The existing plan remains in effect. The item is expected to be placed on a future agenda. - Small Business Drought Resilience Grant Program (Item 27): APPROVED as an emergency measure. $2 million in grants will be distributed by LiftFund to help drought-affected small businesses. An administrative fee of $380,000 will be paid to LiftFund. - South Texas Alliance of Indigenous People (STAIP) Agreement (Item 28): APPROVED. An agreement for a commemorative Native American artwork project at the Hans & Pat Suter Wildlife Refuge. - Library Board: Dora Wilburn was reappointed to the library board. - Rezonings/Annexations: Items 24 (Padma Estates), 25 (Mandel Family Homes), and 26 (Cross Timbers/County Road 52) were all approved.

The City Council met on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, beginning at 11:30 AM in Council Chambers. The meeting opened with an invocation, the pledge, and a moment of silence for former Municipal Court Judge Mike Alanese. It included an Arctic cold front operations briefing, 55 public comment sign-ups, board and commission appointments, a Texas legislative session update, the consent agenda, a public hearing, a Corpus Christi Housing Finance Corporation special meeting, and water-supply and drought items. After a lunch recess and executive session, the council reconvened at 4:03 PM and adjourned at 9:27 PM. Consent Calendar - The council approved consent agenda items 5 through 25 by one motion without separate discussion. No items were pulled for individual consideration. - Approved items included the January 14, 2025 special and regular meeting minutes; multiple grant acceptances and applications, including $32,016.60 for Gulf of Mexico Alliance radios, $39,993.25 and $186,309 in Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grants, $106,017 for body-worn cameras, $94,634 for ASPCA animal shelter improvements, $2,500 from the Banfield Foundation, $322,260 from the U.S. Department of Energy, and a $12,223,173 RAISE grant application; contracts for traffic modem communications, home-delivered meals, gas pipeline equipment, and landfill generator replacement; a wastewater trunk-line reimbursement agreement with MPM Development up to $77,285.28; zoning case ZN8425; a USGS joint funding agreement; a $240,000 Recreational Trails Grant application; and a $970,624.05 appropriation for the North Padre Island Force Main Bypass Project. Public Comments & Testimony - Winter shelter response: Several speakers praised the city for opening refuge centers during the Arctic cold front. Tony Reyes gave an A-plus grade to the response. Carol Murfree of Good Samaritan Rescue Mission said Good Samaritan reached 311 occupants during the freeze and praised city coordination, adding that shelters, not the city, are responsible for housing homeless people. Marilena Garza of The Free Store criticized the city for initially allowing her organization inside the refuge center and later keeping volunteers outside in cold weather, and she called for better planning and showers. - Library board: A large group urged the council to appoint Marcus Haas and Samuel Fryer to the Library Board and opposed reappointing Alice Upshaw Hawkins and Dora Wilburn, arguing sexually explicit books should be moved out of children and young adult sections. Vincent Ward displayed excerpts from the book Tilt checked out from the library and said it was shelved for ages 12 to 17. Alan Rickardson said he filed an ethics complaint against Hawkins. Another group, including Dara Rickers, urged reappointment of Jennifer Anderson, Carol Matthews, Dora Wilburn, and Alice Upshaw Hawkins, saying the board had not banned books and that sexually explicit materials should be relocated, not removed; Rickers presented a petition with more than 350 signatures. Josh Shelton, an applicant for the board, said the conversation had become too polarized and asked for transparency and common-sense solutions. - Desalination and water supply: Multiple speakers opposed the Inner Harbor desalination plant. Claudia Michel said a proposed 68 million gallons per day brine discharge threatened redhead ducks and the bay. Brendan Hazelton, a fly-fishing guide, said the coastal bend is a destination fishery, tourism generates about $1.6 billion and over $50 million in tax and fee revenue, and he urged conservation, rainwater catchment, and graywater recycling instead. Becky Moeller voiced concern about North Beach jobs and tourism. Sean Christopher said he supports desalination but opposes putting brine back into the bay, favoring a Gulf pipeline and renewed groundwater well development. - Drought contingency plan and local businesses: Landscape and irrigation business owners urged the council to approve revised watering rules or add more drip and hand-watering allowances. Mike Garcia said his landscape and irrigation business had lost 75 percent of its revenue since stage two. Robert Schmitchel argued drip irrigation one to three times per week is better for foundations on clay soils than watering every 14 days. Alicia Casperitis, representing the Coastal Bend Home Builders Association, said the organization supports updating the plan but could not support the version presented because it was not included in stakeholder conversations and asked for collaboration. - Alternative water workshop: Several residents supported a public workshop on alternative water supplies. Jason Hale said all feasible options should be examined and warned that an Inner Harbor desalination plant could create hypoxia. Jake Hernandez supported the workshop and called for placing drought curtailment requirements on high-volume users rather than residents. - Other comments included support for more bike infrastructure, North Beach improvement priorities, appointment of former Councilman Jim Klein to the Port of Corpus Christi board, and complaints about city vehicle washing subscriptions during drought restrictions. Discussion Items - City Manager comments and retirements: City Manager Peter Zanoni announced the retirements of David Lehfeldt, Director of Solid Waste Services, who served nearly 40 years in solid waste and about six years with the city, and Eddie Houlihan, Director of the Office of Management and Budget, who prepared budgets for the city for 25 years. Council members thanked both for their service. - Emergency refuge center briefing: Staff reported that planning for the Arctic cold front began January 10 with National Weather Service briefings and that the emergency refuge centers operated January 19-24. The primary site was the Corpus Christi Gym, with the Delmar College FEMA Dome as the backup. The centers served 168 clients and 7 pets; 258 city employees participated; more than 20 community partners contributed; approximately 725 meals were provided; RTA supplied an estimated 500 free rides; and estimated labor costs were 2,775 hours and about $119,841. City Manager Zanoni stressed that these were emergency refuge centers, not homeless shelters, and that the city has zero general-fund homeless services budget and about $500,000 in state and federal grants passed through to partner agencies. - Board and committee appointments: The council removed from the table the issue of the Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development Corporation, reappointing Vishnu Ready and appointing Larry Elizondo to the second vacancy. On the Landmark Commission, the council approved changing Gordon Landreth's category to architect, reappointed James Pruitt and Michelle Wanzer, and appointed three applicants. For the Library Board, the motion to reappoint Dora Wilburn, Carol Matthews, and Jennifer Anderson failed after a split vote. The council then appointed Jennifer Anderson, Carol Matthews, and Alice Upshaw Hawkins. A runoff for the fourth seat between Dora Wilburn and Samuel Fryer ended in a 4-4 tie, and the council deferred that decision to the February 11 meeting. Councilwoman Campos recused herself from the Library Board process because Alice Upshaw Hawkins is her sister. The council reappointed the incumbent Port of Corpus Christi nominee, reappointed Councilman Everett Roy to Reinvestment Zone No. 3, and appointed Kaylin Paxson, Heather Hurlbert, Stephen May, and Jeffrey Blackard to Reinvestment Zone No. 6, with Paxson named chair. - 89th Texas Legislative Session update: Ryan Scribarchuk of Intergovernmental Relations said the session will run through June 2 and that 2,877 bills had been filed as of the briefing, with eight to nine thousand expected. He said House and Senate base budgets are about $330 billion all funds, with a $23.7 billion surplus, and that state leaders announced $2.5 billion for water and flood infrastructure in the supplemental budget. He noted a bill filed by Representative J.M. Lozano to increase Port of Corpus Christi board appointments and give two additional appointees to San Patricio County, which the city will oppose as part of its local-control agenda. - Corpus Christi Housing Finance Corporation meeting: The council recessed into the CCHFC special board meeting. It elected officers, including Everett Roy as president and Roland Barrera as vice president, and approved future participation terms for the sale of Costa Tarragona I and II. Staff and legal counsel said the sale could generate roughly $500,000 to $1 million net for the corporation, the properties must remain low-income housing for another 20 years, and continued participation would keep the properties on the tax-exempt structure with a payment in lieu of taxes starting at 15 percent and increasing 2 percent annually to 35 percent. - Drought contingency plan and water supply discussion: Corpus Christi Water staff reported current reservoir levels of Choke Canyon at 16.5 percent, Lake Corpus Christi at 24.8 percent, and combined storage at 18.8 percent, a historic low. Staff outlined short-term projects, including increasing Mary Rhodes Pipeline flow from 55 to about 75 million gallons per day by mid-March, potential Nueces River groundwater wells, CC Polymers desalinated water discussions, and expanded wastewater reuse. The proposed plan adds a water shortage watch below 50 percent, clarifies stage rules, allows drip irrigation and hand watering for trees and gardens in stage three, renames stage four as a water emergency, and proposes surcharge structures based on average use plus 25 percent. Councilman Hernandez objected to language allowing the city manager to implement measures after notifying council, saying the city manager should receive council authorization before implementing measures. Other council members requested more time for public and industry input. The first reading was approved as amended after reconsideration and after a final public comment session. - Alternative water supply workshop discussion: The agenda item requested a workshop on February 4, 2025 at 11 AM. City Manager Zanoni said staff already had a critical two-day Inner Harbor Desalination project workshop scheduled that date with consultants flying in, and rescheduling could delay water projects. Council members debated whether the workshop should be an and conversation or an or conversation. Councilwoman Vaughn defended the request for transparency and said citizens should hear directly from water-source presenters. The council ultimately approved a motion to hold the workshop no later than 45 days, with staff and council coordinating the date and topics. - Severe weather and homeless shelter discussion: Councilman Cantu said the initial refuge center operation had issues, including no showers, RTA drop-offs at a nearby high school, and a volunteer group being kept outside. He asked the city to plan better and consider a permanent city-run shelter. City staff, the fire chief, and the emergency management coordinator acknowledged imperfections, explained that the operation was an emergency refuge rather than a homeless shelter, and said an after-action review will be conducted. RTA Deputy CEO Miguel Rendon said the bus drop-off issue was corrected immediately. Councilman Hernandez asked that future shelter locations include backup generators and requested that council-initiated agenda items be placed earlier in the meeting. - Executive session and litigation: After returning from executive session, the council authorized the city manager to execute documents to settle Samantha Huerta v. City of Corpus Christi et al. in an amount not to exceed $198,500. Key Outcomes - Approved the consent agenda items 5 through 25. - Approved the public hearing item authorizing a wastewater trunk-line construction and reimbursement agreement with Horizon Land Properties, LLC up to $524,660 for Waldron Estates. - Reappointed and appointed board members as listed above, with the final Library Board seat deferred to February 11. - Approved Corpus Christi Housing Finance Corporation officers and the Costa Tarragona I and II future participation terms. - Accepted a $25,000 OxyChem First Responder Donation for repair and refurbishment of an aerial ladder fire truck. - Passed the drought contingency plan ordinance on first reading as amended, setting the enforcement date to February 17, 2025, with a second reading scheduled for February 11, 2025. Staff agreed to continue community and industry engagement before that date. - Approved the alternative water supply workshop to be held no later than 45 days, with specific topics and date to be coordinated by staff and council. - Authorized the Samantha Huerta lawsuit settlement in an amount not to exceed $198,500. - Moved executive session items 34 and 35 to the February 11, 2025 meeting. No formal action was taken on the severe-weather and homeless-shelter discussion beyond directing staff to complete the after-action review and provide future planning briefings.