During the City Council meeting held on September 9, 2025, in Corpus Christi, significant discussions centered around water management and treatment solutions, particularly in light of ongoing drought conditions affecting the region. The meeting featured presentations from representatives of the Gulf Coast Authority and Ardura, focusing on innovative approaches to water reuse and treatment.

Jonathan Sander from the Gulf Coast Authority provided an overview of the organization's mission to protect Texas waters through advanced wastewater practices. He highlighted the authority's operation of five treatment plants, which primarily handle industrial wastewater from various sectors, including refineries and chemical plants. Sander emphasized the importance of compliance with environmental regulations, noting that the authority holds some of the most complex wastewater discharge permits in the state. He explained the cost-effective model of regional treatment, which allows multiple industries to share resources, thereby reducing operational costs.

Following Sander's presentation, Chris Cananico from Ardura discussed the potential for utilizing reclaimed water to address the city's water supply challenges. He outlined two primary options for the use of reclaimed water: either to supplement the Oasis River or to supply large-volume industrial users. Cananico presented data indicating that the city could potentially deliver between 11 to 16 million gallons of reclaimed water daily, with costs projected to be competitive compared to other water supply options.

The discussions underscored the urgency of developing sustainable water solutions for Corpus Christi, particularly as the city grapples with the impacts of drought. The proposed reclaimed water initiatives not only aim to enhance the city's water supply but also align with environmental goals by promoting water reuse.

As the meeting concluded, the council members expressed interest in further exploring these water management strategies. The next steps involve drafting memorandums of understanding (MOUs) to facilitate collaboration between the city and the Gulf Coast Authority, setting the stage for potential partnerships that could lead to innovative water solutions for the community. The outcomes of these discussions could significantly influence the city's approach to water sustainability in the coming years.