U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez took Corpus Christi’s water crisis to the House floor Wednesday, calling on President Donald Trump and his administration to follow through on a promise to help the city secure federal funding.
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Gonzalez said Trump discussed the city’s request during a February visit to the Port of Corpus Christi and promised to help get the funding approved.
Gonzalez urged the administration to honor that commitment.
“When the president visited our city, he called our request for sustainable federal funding for water projects a serious money ask,” Gonzalez said. “He then went on to say to the people of Corpus, ‘We’re gonna take care of it.’ Today, I’m asking him to keep that promise.”
Gonzalez said Corpus Christi’s role in the energy industry makes its water supply a national concern.
“Corpus Christi is a leading energy hub for the country and the world,” Gonzalez said. “Water is not a partisan issue. It’s not a luxury. It cannot wait for another election or another round of political speeches. Reliable water for one of the most important energy hubs in our country is a national security concern, and the time to act is now.”
Gonzalez called on the administration to identify available federal funding, determine which agency would oversee it and provide a timeline for delivering support to Corpus Christi.
He said he is prepared to work with members of Congress and state and local leaders if congressional action is required.
Gonzalez’s office published his House floor remarks and request to the administration.