Corpus Christi Council approves $2M drought resilience program for small businesses

The Corpus Christi City Council took significant steps to address local housing and economic challenges during their meeting on February 11, 2025. The council approved a rezoning request that will pave the way for a new medium-density residential subdivision on a 15.64-acre property in District 1. This development, which proposes 84 dwelling units, aligns with the city's Northwest Area Development Plan and received no public opposition, indicating community support for the project.

In a separate initiative, the council also approved a $2 million funding agreement aimed at supporting small businesses affected by recent drought-related water restrictions. The funding will be administered through LiftFund, Inc., providing grants of up to $50,000 to eligible businesses that demonstrate a revenue loss of at least 20% due to the restrictions. This program is designed to help businesses retain employees and stabilize their operations during challenging economic conditions.

City officials emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that many local businesses, particularly in landscaping and irrigation services, have faced significant financial strain due to the drought. The council discussed the importance of immediate relief while also considering longer-term solutions, such as incentivizing water conservation practices like drip irrigation.

Despite some concerns regarding the administrative costs associated with LiftFund's services, the council ultimately recognized the necessity of swift action to support local businesses. The program is expected to launch soon, with applications being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.

As the city moves forward with these initiatives, the council remains committed to fostering economic resilience and addressing the housing needs of the community, ensuring that Corpus Christi can navigate these challenges effectively.