City managers say compromise discussions are moving forward after 3 News brought the two sides together.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — A contentious debate over water rights unfolded Friday morning in Sinton, as the San Patricio County Groundwater Conservation District’s board heard arguments over whether Corpus Christi should be allowed to drill new water wells in San Patricio County.
The request involves 22 permits that would allow Corpus Christi to tap into the Evangeline Aquifer, eventually supplying the city with up to 24 million gallons of water per day. Supporters say the water is critical for long term growth, while opponents fear loss of local control and future curtailment.
Emotions ran high during public comment, with several speakers clashing over time limits and the potential impact on the aquifer.
During petroleum geologist Bill Parmley’s public comment, he was told by the board to wrap his presentation up. That’s when someone in the audience told the board to let him talk.
“Let him speak. Why do you want to cut him off?” the audience member said. “He’s giving some good information that most of the people in San Patricio County don’t know.”
Industry leaders also addressed the board, urging protestors to withdraw their objections.
Paul Fritsch, Site Manager for Gulf Coast Growth Ventures, said Corpus Christi has shown it can responsibly manage the resource.
“We asked that the City of Sinton and other protestants withdraw their protests of this project,” Fritsch said. “The City of Corpus Christi has done a good job of demonstrating their commitment to protecting the aquifer and the neighbors in our county.”
But Sinton City Manager John Hobson told the board his opposition has not changed.
Hobson also raised concerns about comments made by Corpus Christi City Councilman Eric Cantu during a recent Channel 3 News interview.
“That desire to control was demonstrated yesterday when Councilman Eric Cantu stated the threat that if Corpus Christi enters curtailment, he will make sure that we on this side will be the first to go into curtailment and that we will feel the pain,” Hobson said.
Corpus Christi officials presented their case as well, arguing the permits are essential to securing the city’s water future.
In the end, the San Patricio County water district board declined to rule on the protests. Instead, members voted to let a judge decide whether the challenges to the permits will proceed.
Despite the stalemate, both sides say negotiations are ongoing.
Channel 3 News brought both city managers together, and they shook hands and each confirmed discussions continue.
“We are hoping in a couple of weeks that we will get something for Peter and his staff to review,” Hobson said.
Corpus Christi City Manager Peter Zanoni said the city is open to changes.
“We already have a baseline memorandum of understanding that our City Council approved, but we are open to readjusting it,” Zanoni said.
If no agreement is reached, the dispute could head to court, a process that could take up to two years.