Rockport residents are bracing for potential water bill increases as city officials grapple with a looming 500% hike in raw water rates from Corpus Christi. At a recent community forum, City Council Ward 3 Representative Brad Brundrett detailed the city’s reliance on treated water from the San Patricio Water District, sourced from lakes including Corpus Christi, Choke Canyon, and Texana.
The city averages 2 million gallons per day, with higher summer usage. To mitigate costs, Rockport is exploring a reverse osmosis plant, modeled after Alice’s $18 million facility, which could tap ample aquifer supplies like the Jasper Aquifer’s estimated 800-year reserve. Partnerships with cities like Portland are also under consideration, with funding via bonds or grants.
Currently in Stage 3 restrictions, residents have achieved 32% conservation. The next stage may require 50% curtailments and exponential charges for non-compliers.
“We’ve conserved well, but it’s a big step,” Brundrett said.
Officials urged community support as Rockport seeks water independence amid regional shortages.