Pleasure Island operator finds sewer pipe discharging into Sabine Lake; city staff to investigate

Pleasure Licks LLC, the new operator of the Pleasure Island marina, told the Port Arthur City Council on Tuesday that it discovered a sewer line from Building B that “was engineered to discharge directly into the marina,” and that raw sewage had been entering Sabine Lake for years.

At a council presentation, Salim Kralp, who identified himself as representing Pleasure Licks, described the finding and showed members photos of the property and recent community events. “We sent the plumber's camera down the pipe to trace it. What we discovered was shocking. The sewer pipe is not connected to any sewer line. It was engineered to discharge directly into the marina,” Kralp said.

Kralp also reviewed the operator’s local hiring and programming since taking possession, saying Pleasure Licks hosted Juneteenth/Father's Day and Fourth of July events that drew hundreds of attendees, and that its watercraft fleet and other infrastructure have arrived. He said the company installed a new sewer line and pump station at its own expense at a cost “approximately $31,000,” and described other investments to ready buildings and open a cigar lounge and restaurant.

Council members asked for specifics and sought to protect the public. Council member Kinlaw asked whether the disconnected pipe dated to the former Port Arthur Yacht Club; Kralp confirmed Building B had been used previously and that city records showed no sewer connection for that structure. Council member Lewis pressed staff for help getting the water slide and other amenities moved forward; the city manager said the waterpark matter would be discussed in executive session and that utilities would lead any investigation into the sewer finding.

City Manager (name on file with the city) said the city had responsibility to address the public‑health hazard and would engage Utilities and Public Works. “It's our responsibility to make those corrections,” he said, noting TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality) rules for water quality and the city’s obligation to prevent unauthorized discharges.

Council member Beckham asked whether the lease terms allow a cigar lounge; the city attorney said he would review the executed lease and email the council the answer. Kralp told the council he would not pursue criminal charges over vandalism to jet skis but would focus on repairs and security camera footage; he said Pleasure Licks had purchased general liability and event insurance and hired local contractors and staff.

The council did not take a formal, binding vote on the marina lease or on remediation spending at Tuesday’s meeting. Council members asked staff to investigate the sewer connection Kralp described and to report back with findings and recommended next steps.

Kralp urged residents to support Pleasure Island events and said the operator plans a Halloween celebration and other community programming.

The council and manager directed the Utilities Department (Calvin, Utilities) to investigate the plumbing discovery at Building B, coordinate with relevant departments, and report back to council on public‑health risks and remediation options.