City Council Members Oppose Hillcrest Desalination Project Due To Environmental Concerns

During the City Council meeting held on September 2, 2025, in Corpus Christi, significant discussions emerged surrounding the controversial Hillcrest Water Treatment Plant and its associated desalination project. The meeting highlighted deep community concerns regarding environmental justice and financial implications tied to the proposed $1.2 billion project.

Jake Hernandez, a representative from District 2, passionately voiced his opposition to the desalination project, urging council members to reconsider their support. He emphasized that the project perpetuates a legacy of environmental racism, arguing that it would further harm the Hillcrest community, which has historically faced neglect. Hernandez called for a halt to the project, not only on moral grounds but also due to the financial burden it would impose on taxpayers. His remarks resonated with many residents who feel marginalized in the decision-making process.

Michael Miller, another council member, echoed Hernandez's sentiments, presenting a critical analysis of the project's viability. He pointed out that the costs have escalated dramatically from an initial estimate of $220 million to the current projection of $1.2 billion, raising questions about the project's financial prudence. Miller argued that the combination of a poor location and high costs makes the project untenable. He urged his colleagues to reconsider their commitment to the desalination plant, likening the situation to being on the wrong train and advocating for a timely exit before further financial losses occur.

Dan McQueen also contributed to the discussion, expressing frustration over the lack of accountability from local industries regarding their contributions to the water crisis. He called for a clearer vision for Corpus Christi's future, urging council members to focus on sustainable solutions that benefit the community as a whole.

The meeting underscored a growing divide between community advocates and city officials regarding the direction of water management and infrastructure projects. As the council deliberates on the future of the Hillcrest Water Treatment Plant, the voices of concerned residents highlight the need for a more inclusive approach to urban planning that prioritizes environmental justice and fiscal responsibility. The council's upcoming decisions will not only shape the immediate future of water management in Corpus Christi but also set a precedent for how community concerns are addressed in future projects.