Corpus Christi Water Presents Second Workshop on Proposed FY 2027 Water and Wastewater Rates

Corpus Christi, TX – Today, Corpus Christi Water (CCW) presented its second and final workshop to the City Council regarding proposed water and wastewater rate adjustments for Fiscal Year 2027.

If approved, the new rate structure will take effect on January 1, 2027, and apply to all customer classes, including residential, commercial, wholesale, and large-volume users.

For the average residential customer, the proposed combined monthly increase for water and wastewater service is $4.35, which is notably lower than the rate adjustment adopted in the previous fiscal year. The City Council is scheduled to vote on the first reading of the ordinances on July 21, with a final reading set for July 28.

In addition to the rate adjustments, the budget presentation provided critical updates on three key utility items:

·         Wastewater Consent Decree

CCW detailed progress on its court-approved agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The decree mandates full compliance with the Clean Water Act and Texas Water Code. The update showed that all required metrics have been met and that progress continues as scheduled.

·         Outside City Limit (OCL) Rate Appeal

Council received an update on a pending Public Utility Commission (PUC) of Texas hearing regarding a water rate appeal filed by a group of large-volume OCL users. The hearing concluded on July 14, and a final decision from the PUC is expected by the end of the year.

·         Drought Surcharge Exemption Fee (DSEF)

The workshop outlined the long-term financial impact of the DSEF, a voluntary, year-round fee paid by large-volume industrial customers to fund a new drought-proof water supply.

Significant progress continues to be made in diversifying the water supply. Additional infrastructure improvements are underway at the O.N. Stevens Water Treatment Plant and at wastewater treatment plants.

The complete City Council workshop presentation can be viewed on the City’s YouTube Channel.

For media inquiries, please contact Ashley Marion, Strategic Business Manager at (361) 826-3706 or ashleym6@corpuschristiTX.gov.