Aransas County accepts $2.43 million GLO contract amendment for Goose Island dredging project

Summary

Commissioners approved Amendment No. 1 to a General Land Office contract to transfer up to $2,430,050 for beneficial use of material in a Gulf Coast waterway project (Goose Island area); county staff said the county itself bears no direct cost and the funding will enable construction to proceed in summer 2026.

Aransas County Commissioners voted to accept Amendment No. 1 to a General Land Office (GLO) contract that will permit transfer of up to $2,430,050 to the county for a coastal beneficial‑use project tied to dredging and material placement near Goose Island.

Staff explained the original contract was limited to an initial engineering payment and the amendment increases the contract in stages up to the full $2.43 million to allow the GLO to transfer funds to the county. County staff said Aransas County will not bear direct cost for the project under the amendment and that the GLO requires evidence of funding before starting construction, which the amendment provides.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions about scope and local cost; staff responded the county's role is to receive and pass through the funds to project partners as part of the coastal project. The motion passed on a voice vote.

The project is intended to support beneficial use and shoreline stabilization; with the amendment approved, staff said the GLO plans to start construction next summer pending administrative steps and permits.