Mayor and Councilmember Eric Cantu respond to water concerns as $1B in city projects move forward to stabilize supply.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The mayor of Corpus Christi assured residents that the city is actively addressing water security, emphasizing that public safety remains a top priority. 

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In a Facebook post on Thursday, Mayor Paulette Guajardo said, “I hear you. I understand the concern in our community.” She said, “I will not back down and will continue pushing for the action our city needs to build our water supply.”

The mayor highlighted that while not every meeting or call is publicized, she has coordinated emergency discussions, met with potential water suppliers, and is calling on national water infrastructure experts to help secure the city’s water future.

On Wednesday the mayor called for an  emergency meeting of the City Council to vote on the proposed Inner Harbor desalination project after strong criticism from Governor Greg Abbott over the city’s handling of its water supply.

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Guajardo said the city operates under a council-manager government, meaning the City Manager and staff oversee water supply projects, with the full City Council providing oversight. 

She adds she is using every avenue within her authority to push for urgency, transparency, and stronger solutions, while welcoming support from state and federal authorities.

Councilmember Eric Cantu added context from the City Council perspective, reassuring residents that public safety comes first. “You are not going to turn on your faucet and have no water,” Cantu said, addressing fears circulating online.

Cantu outlined that the current council has approved over $1 billion in water projects to stabilize the system. 

He noted that previous city leadership delayed essential projects, focusing narrowly on the Inner Harbor desalination plant, which would not have immediately addressed current supply challenges.

He also spoke to council dynamics, noting the mayor’s leadership has created tension among members. 

Despite disagreements, Cantu emphasized his commitment to protecting residents, particularly seniors, single parents, and families living paycheck to paycheck. “I’m not going to support decisions that force families to choose between paying their water bill or buying medication,” he said.

Officials continue to push for decisive action, with ongoing projects aimed at securing a long-term solution for Corpus Christi’s water supply.