On October 21, 2025, the Corpus Christi City Council took a major step toward securing the region’s water future by voting to approve a $169.5 million groundwater purchase agreement. The deal, which passed by a 7–1 vote, centers on acquiring water rights from a private developer, Evangeline/Laguna LP, and could reshape how the city manages drought resilience and long-term supply.
The Vote Breakdown
The council voted 7–1 in favor of the agreement, with Councilman Roland Barrera casting the sole dissenting vote. Councilman Mark Scott was absent. While the vote authorizes the city to move forward with the agreement, it does not finalize the deal. Both the city and the developer must meet a series of conditions before closing.
Project Details
The Evangeline groundwater proposal would allow the city to purchase rights to up to 24 million gallons of groundwater per day—equivalent to roughly 28,000 acre-feet per year. The water would be drawn from a 23,000-acre tract in San Patricio County, located near the intersection of U.S. Highway 181 and U.S. Highway 77.
The developer, Evangeline/Laguna LP, is responsible for managing the land and water rights and coordinating with the city to meet the terms of the agreement. The project is designed to diversify Corpus Christi’s water sources, particularly as the region continues to face prolonged drought conditions.
What Happens Next?
Although the agreement has been approved, it is contingent on several performance benchmarks and compliance requirements. City officials emphasized that this is a strategic investment and not a final purchase. Public oversight and transparency will continue as the project moves forward.
Fact-Checking Notes
• The vote count and council member positions were confirmed via Corpus Christi City Council meeting records dated October 21, 2025.
• Project details were verified through city planning documents and public statements from city officials.
• Evangeline/Laguna LP’s involvement was confirmed via city contract disclosures and developer filings.
Sources
• Corpus Christi City Council Meeting Minutes (October 21, 2025)
• Caller-Times reporting on the Evangeline groundwater project
• City of Corpus Christi Water Utilities Department briefings
• Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) filings
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