Corpus Christi Council Faces Strong Opposition to Inner Harbor Desalination Plant Proposal

The City Council meeting held on September 2, 2025, in Corpus Christi, Texas, was marked by intense discussions surrounding the proposed desalination plant at Inner Harbor. Residents expressed significant concerns about the project's escalating costs, environmental impacts, and potential risks to the community.

Brad Bartelson, a resident from District 5, raised alarms about the design flaws of the desalination plant, particularly its location in a "Dead Leg Channel." He argued that the plant's discharge could harm local water quality and that the project was not the best solution for the city's water needs. Bartelson emphasized the importance of alternative water sources, such as the Merry Roads Pipeline, which he claimed could provide more reliable and cost-effective water solutions.

Carolyn Cavula, a District 2 resident, echoed these concerns, highlighting the project's ballooning budget from an initial estimate of $300 million to a staggering $1.18 billion. She questioned the plant's potential noise and pollution impacts on the Hillcrest neighborhood, which is already burdened by industrial activity. Cavula urged the council to reconsider the desalination project, suggesting that other water sources should be explored.

Elida Vasquez, another resident, criticized the city for its management of water resources and reiterated that the majority of community feedback has been against the desalination project. She emphasized the need for parks and libraries over industrial projects, arguing that the desalination plant would not benefit the community.

Rachel Caballero also voiced her opposition, stating that the community has been misled about the project's intentions and costs. She questioned why local industries have not taken the initiative to build the desalination plant themselves if it is deemed necessary. Caballero called for better partnerships between the city and local industries, urging the council to prioritize the community's needs over industrial expansion.

The meeting highlighted a growing discontent among residents regarding the desalination project, with many calling for a halt to its progress. As the council weighs the future of the Inner Harbor desalination plant, the voices of concerned citizens underscore the need for transparency and community engagement in decision-making processes. The council's next steps will be crucial in addressing these concerns and determining the direction of the city's water management strategy.