Read questionnaires of Corpus Christi mayoral candidates here.
Read questionnaires of Corpus Christi City Council district candidates here.
There’s one Corpus Christi City Council race that voters can choose not just one but three candidates.
The positions, known as “at large,” are citywide races — meaning that, like the election for mayor, any Corpus Christi voter can cast a ballot.
Serving as one-third of the nine-member body, their role is the same as the other six members — responding to constituents’ concerns; establishing budgets, rates and fees; and setting policy, such as determining which water projects to pursue or how to approach affordable housing.
Candidates are elected by plurality — the three highest vote-getters — as opposed to by majority,
as it is in all other City Council races.
This year there are 16 candidates vying for the job, two of them incumbents.
They serve in two-year terms and are paid $6,000 annually for service on the council. The role, like the rest of the City Council positions, is intended to be nonpartisan.
The Caller-Times asked each of the 16 at-large City Council candidates the same questions about their background, as well as priorities and positions on topics encountered in this past term — to include their stances on Inner Harbor desalination, the mayor’s removal hearing and tax incentives.
Each biographical answer was restricted to 20 words and each policy response restricted to 75. Organizational memberships were limited to three. Responses that exceeded the word limit were cut off once reaching the limit; cuts are indicated by ellipses.
Personal attacks and demonstrable factual inaccuracies were not included, and these cuts are also indicated by ellipses.
Responses were otherwise published unaltered, without edits, with the exception of minor formatting.
The biographical information was self-reported by candidates and not independently verified.
All candidates were requested to participate and given the opportunity to have their photo taken.
Fifteen of the 16 candidates participated in the questionnaire.
Candidates whose photo is not shown either did not schedule, reschedule or respond to requests.
Their names appear in the order that they will be on the ballot, with the exception of Jennifer Gracia, who is a write-in candidate.
Early voting is Oct. 19 through Oct. 30. Election Day is Nov. 3.
Anthem Powers
Age: 33
Occupation: Plumber with Malek inc and Plumber's Local Union 68
Professional experience: Plumbing, a little bit of HVAC, a little oilfield work in my 20s.
Political experience: Nothing of note.
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 17 years. I moved in on new years day 2009, and graduated from Flour Bluff in 2011.
Highest educational attainment: Graduation from the Houston Area Plumbing Joint Apprenticeship Committee (HAPJAC) apprenticeship program.
Organizational involvement/membership: Plumber's Local Union 68, Coastal Bend Labor Council, Corpus Christi Taxpayer's Association. Also Lynn's U.S. Gym, and Gracie Humaita BJJ.
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
Only if we use a low velocity filter system and we run a discharge piping system to the gulf.
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
It could have been handled better, any actual malfeasance should have been dealt with by the court system.
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
Local business development and dealing with abandoned/run down buildings.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
To encourage our churches, to drive membership, and to help point others to Christ.
To increase wages, achievable by nurturing new business growth and by encouraging new industries to come to our area.
City Beautification, tax incentives/penalties to fix, clean, or sell run down or abandoned properties.
Merida Nardone Mendoza
Age: 58
Occupation: Self Employed: Restaurant Owner & Insurance Sales
Professional experience: Farmers Insurance Agent for over 20+ Years and Bank of America Banker & Loan Officer for 5 Years
Political experience: N/A
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 51 Year Resident. I was born and raised, but left for 7 years while a Navy Wife
Highest educational attainment: Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration
Organizational involvement/membership: Chairwoman: United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, Lieutenant Governor: Kiwanis of South Texas, President: Padre Island Business Association
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
I support the Inner Harbor plant because it's the most practical and fully permitted site, with substantial funding already secured to help manage long‑term costs for residents and small businesses. Rejecting the Bureau of Reclamation funding was a missed opportunity, as it would have added $120 million in funding. I recognize environmental concerns, which is why I support monitoring by the Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program to ensure safe, transparent operations.
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
I did not agree with the Council’s decision to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing. The Council’s role is to set policy and provide oversight, not act as a law‑enforcement body. The process consumed significant time and resources and diverted attention from urgent long‑term issues, including securing a reliable water supply for the city. I believe the focus should remain on addressing core responsibilities and advancing priorities that impact residents daily.
(Editor's note: The mayor’s hearing was administrative, not a criminal proceeding.)
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
Tax incentives like TIRZ revenue and sales taxes should be reinvested into the communities that generate them. Funding should support projects that create jobs, grow wages, strengthen the local economy, and improve infrastructure. As economic activity increases, sales tax revenue grows, allowing the City to continue supporting essential services such as public safety, the Crime Control District, and the RTA. Smart, targeted investments today produce long‑term returns for the entire community.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
3 top priorities:
1. Secure a long‑term, affordable and drought‑proof water supply by evaluating all viable options, including a desalination plant that has strong environmental safeguards in place.
2. Improving and maintaining city streets to ensure safe, accessible and reliable infrastructure for all residents.
3. Supporting public safety by ensuring Police Officers have the staffing, training, equipment, and resources needed to keep neighborhoods secure and maintain a strong partnership with the community.
Scott F. Corliss
Age: 66
Occupation: Business Owner – CEO, Corliss Mechanical Inc. A commercial HVAC and Refrigeration Company that operates throughout South Texas Region and Energy …
Professional experience: 12 Years US Navy (Disabled Vet) 32 Year Business Owner Built a small business from 1 to nearly 40 employees
Political experience: Helped in various Campaigns from local Council campaigns, Community Bond elections, Served on Various Boards and Commissions
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 44
Highest educational attainment: Some College, 12 Yr Navy
Organizational involvement/membership: South Texas Military Task Force, Texas Coalition on Crime Prevention, Corpus Christi Mechanical board Chairman
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
I support the Inner Harbor Desalination Plant (IHDP). It is fully permitted, ecologically safe, and will have the least financial impact on ratepayers. The Harbor Island project is still in a developmental process and is projected to be almost twice the cost of recently presented Phases 1 & 2 of the IHDP. Evangeline has legal & cost issues and is pumped into the Mary Rhodes Pipeline which makes us rely on one line of failure.
(Editor’s note: Cost comparisons are not independently verified.)
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
No I do not support it. Multiple law enforcement agencies, along with an independent law firm, reviewed the information to look for any impropriety, and they all had the same conclusion. No illegal activity found. The Council is neither a court or law enforcement agency, so they should have trusted the law enforcement experts. This was a wild goose chase, and the Council should have been focused on finding us a long-term, reliable water source.
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
I believe TIRZ is a great program if facilitated correctly. Using these monies helps with investment for areas with infrastructure needs and other projects that do not have the investment necessary. This is especially needed for the development of struggling & growing areas. The criteria should be to help develop the economic and job growth in a specific area that would be a lightning rod for others to invest and produce additional growth and jobs.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
First, a diversified, independent, drought resilient water source for Corpus Christi to supplement what we have. Once this is accomplished, we need to rebuild the relationships, our credibility as a city, and our credit so badly tainted over the past 2 years. Next, our first responders need our support to enhance what we do for public safety. Lastly, once our credit is rebuilt, we need infrastructure investment in our city streets and parks.
Sammy Gonzales
Age: 28
Occupation: TAMUCC student/Full Time Managerial worker
Professional experience: Student Teacher at West Oso Jr/high school
Political experience: Activist for community
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 5yrs
Highest educational attainment: Senior TAMUCC Student
Organizational involvement/membership: N/A
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
I am against the development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant; a big project like this poses a negative impact on the community. The health risk alone is a non-starter for me I don’t want to enact ordinance that puts the people of Corpus Christi in a health risk, a desalination plant would expose nearby communities to long‑term health hazards as a result of “forever chemicals” discharge from the brine of the plant.
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
My opinion on the discourse surrounding the mayor is a direct correlation to what caused the community of Corpus Christi to no longer see our city officials that do not share the same vision as the residence. It made the people see their city officials as dysfunctional and unorderly. I do not support this type of governance it is better to focus on the needs of the people of Corpus Christi first and foremost.
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
Investment in manageable and efficient water system that would focus on the filtration and reusability of wastewater that would supply residence with quality water at a low cost of project investment. Also, the support of the fair water act big petroleum companies should be responsible for their involvement in siphoning water resources from the public.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
#1 Water independence
- Safe
- Productive
- Reliable/Reusable
- Cost efficient
#2: City infrastructure
- Fill potholes that have been neglected for to long.
- Update to traffic lights to have a more responsive approach for high volume traffic reduction
#3: Investing in Corpus Christi
- More of a push for investment in small business owners that strengthens the community involvement in the city’s growth.
Zoraida Basaldu
Age: 48
Occupation: Chemical Engineer currently serving as a consultant in utility systems with specialty in water treatment for the Energy sector.
Political experience: This is my first time in a political campaign, I have served the community through volunteerism, boards, and engagement.
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: My mother brought me to the United States at age 12. I have called Corpus Christi, my home since then.
Highest educational attainment: Through dedication and perseverance, I attained an engineering degree and established a successful career while raising three children.
Organizational involvement/membership: I have served on various boards throughout the years where valuable lessons were learned. Those include YWCA, Library, Team CITGO …
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
I support the Inner Harbor desalination project as it is critical to meet the growing demand, improve water security, and support our economic growth. As an engineer, I understand the environmental and regulatory impacts that come along with the project. This project will give the city the opportunity to supply water to an entire region plus have a more diversified water portfolio. Projects like groundwater wells, reclaimed water, and seawater desalination only help the city …
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
The mayor’s removal hearing has concluded, and the council’s decision reflects their most appropriate course of action. We can only continue to move forward by supporting our communities.
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
Designed to finance public improvements, tax incentives should be used for the city’s overall growth strategy. Funding projects that will enhance public areas, provide maintenance, and create improvements are some of the criteria that should be used for the projects. Tracking the projects to completion is also critical. Disclosures of progress, spending, and hurdles should be made known through reports. TIRZ projects should directly deliver benefits to our community.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
I am committed to serving as catalyst for transforming challenges into change.
• Water Projects – Investing in multiple solutions, including water reuse, groundwater, desalination, and infrastructure improvements are critical to our city versus relying on a single water source. Coordinating local, state, and federal support will be my main focus to secure funding for these projects while protecting our future.
• Economic Development – Investing in the long-term economic success of our city by leveraging our location, port …
Michael Miller
Age: 44
Occupation: Vice President, Teal Construction Company (Commercial Construction)
Professional experience: I have been in commercial construction for over 26 years in all roles from a laborer to the vice president.
Political experience: I have participated in many campaigns, but this is my first time running for office.
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 44 years of residency in Corpus Christi
Highest educational attainment: Some College
Organizational involvement/membership:
• Chairman, Planning Commission
• President, CC Metro Ministries
• Board Member, Goodwill Industries
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
Virtually all municipalities turn to experts in seawater desalination to provide water at a predetermined fixed cost. This is how the two similar projects in California and Florida were developed, and nearly every other municipal desalination project in the world. For this reason, and many others, I am a “no”. Also, Corpus Christi has a history of not maintaining assets. I advocate for leaving this level of highly technical water production up to the experts.
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
I was asked several times to sign the petition for removal, but I declined. That’s not my style. That said, I have read the charter, and the petitioner submitted their documentation within their rights as a citizen and the council reacted per the city charter. After listening to the witness testimony, I felt the outcome was appropriate, but I must say I was surprised that the tribunal chose suspension over removal.
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
There are different criteria for TIRZ versus Type B funds, however, in general I believe that incentives should be used for primary job growth, or salaries above the median income level. This encourages professionals to move to our area and grow our local economy. Nobody is going to move to Corpus Christi to work at a hotel or a retail store. For this, I have been critical of some of the recent proposals and incentives.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
• Identify and execute a sustainable and affordable, long-term solution to our water supply funded largely by State and Federal grants.
• Amend the infrastructure design manual to require that all arterial and collector streets be constructed from durable, less maintenance intensive, reinforced concrete pavement.
• Provide funding for additional staff within city government to assist with organizing local groups and donors in their efforts to stop the homelessness epidemic that has spread throughout the city.
Joshua Fraedrick
Age: 38
Occupation: Owner of CC-TX Lawn Care, a small lawn care and landscaping company.
Professional experience: More than 20 years of management experience and five years operating a local lawn care and landscaping business.
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: More than 30 years
Highest educational attainment: Some college
Political experience: Candidate for Corpus Christi mayor in 2024 and regular participant in City Council meetings for the past two years.
Organizational involvement/membership: Texas Democratic Women and Environmental Democrats.
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
No. The Inner Harbor plant is extraordinarily expensive, threatens our bay, and asks residents to assume enormous financial and environmental risks largely driven by industrial growth. I support examining every responsible water option, including conservation, reuse, leak reduction, water releases, and the Barney Davis site, provided its true costs are disclosed and the brine can be carried safely into the Gulf.
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
I believe this was an ethics matter that should have gone before the Ethics Commission. The Council acting as both judge and jury raises serious due process concerns, particularly when members involved in the decision have since filed to run for mayor. Although I understand why the allegations required review, I am not satisfied with the process or the punishment that resulted.
(Editor's note: The removal hearing was an administrative procedure, not a criminal proceeding.)
How should tax incentives, such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones or sales taxes, be used? What should be the criteria and types of projects?
Tax incentives should produce measurable public benefits, create good local jobs, and provide a clear return for taxpayers. TIRZ funding should be used to redevelop blighted or neglected areas, not subsidize new development on undeveloped land. Spending should follow each zone’s original purpose and primarily support public infrastructure and projects benefiting the broader community. Every agreement should include transparent performance requirements, regular reporting, and consequences when promised results are not delivered.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
First, take care of what we already have by properly maintaining streets, utilities, parks, and public facilities. Second, protect our water and bay through responsible, diversified water planning while rejecting the Inner Harbor desalination plant. Third, restore trust in city government through transparency, accountability, and meaningful public participation. Residents deserve honest explanations, careful tracking of public money, and a council that listens, works together, and puts service ahead of ego.
Willie Morales Jr.
Did not respond to questionnaire by the print deadline.
Mark Scott
*Incumbent
Age: 66 years young…
Occupation: Title Insurance
Professional experience: I have worked for San Jacinto Title for over 25 years.
Political experience: Corpus Christi City Council
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: I have been a Corpus Christi resident for over 40 years
Highest level of educational attainment: I have an MBA from Texas A&M-CC
Organizational involvement/membership: Current: Board Member-Texas Land Title Insurance Association, Executive Committee Member-Coastal Bend Blood Center
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
I support Inner Harbor: Fully Permitted, $750MM in low interest TWDB loans, provides needed treatment redundancy, and several additional modeling showing no negative impact to the bay.
(Editor's note: The Texas Water Development Board loans amount to about $757 million.)
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
I voted against the removal hearings as I didn’t see enough evidence. I voted against convictions as I didn’t see enough evidence to do so.
(Editor’s note: The mayor’s removal hearing was an administrative proceeding, not a criminal one.)
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
They should be focused on creating new tax base and/or additional jobs. There may an occasional opportunity to incentivize a project that provide other significant impacts.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
1) Water: moving forward with a drought proof water supply that also creates redundancy in our water treatment facilities. 2). Streets: past several councils have gutted the street maintenance funds. Enough kicking the can down the road. 3). Downtown: providing incentives to convert the vacant office buildings to residential (office to residential)
Nancy Vera
Age: 63
Occupation: Educator/Corpus Christi American Federation of Teachers (CCAFT) President
Professional experience: Educator, advocate, and educational professional; experience spans classroom teaching, labor grassroots leadership, curriculum and instructional design, and community organizing.
Political experience: Longtime community and public engagement advocate. Helped shape policy through public input on environmental health, industrial activity, housing, transportation safety
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 54
Highest educational attainment: Doctor of Educational Leadership with emphasis on Corpus Christi Mexican-American History
Organizational involvement/membership: (Current)
CCAFT President
AFT Latino/a Task Force Member
CCPD Training Board Chair
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
No. Our city needs a drought-proof water supply. I do not support the Inner Harbor project as proposed. I believe its nearly $1 billion cost would fall too heavily on working families' water bills, and Northside neighbors like Hillcrest deserve a real voice. I favor the regional Harbor Island option, plus conservation, reuse, and groundwater, with large industrial users paying their fair share.
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
I respect the process. Residents must hold officials accountable, and the mayor received due process, including counsel, witnesses, and a full hearing. Council did not choose removal, which was proportionate considering the facts in the case. However, months of proceedings pulled attention from our water crisis and cost taxpayers too much money. Every incentive vote must rest on accurate, verified information, so residents do not have to question how their money is spent.
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
Public dollars should build public good. Incentives should require living wages, local hiring, apprenticeships, and health benefits, with clawbacks when companies fall short. Priority projects should encompass affordable housing, water and drainage infrastructure, neighborhood revitalization on the Westside and Northside, and workforce training with our schools and Del Mar College. Every deal needs independent verification, full public disclosure, and a clear return for residents, not just developers.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
1. Water security: a reliable, affordable supply that protects families and small businesses, not just large users.
2. Good jobs: living wages, fair treatment for city employees, and training pathways for young people.
3. Honest, transparent government: accurate information before every vote, open budgets and real community input.
As labor leader, I will strengthen ties with our schools because strong schools build a strong city and schools are a mirror of our community’s future.
Julian Jacob Hernandez
Age: 51- Old enough to know better, but still young enough to occasionally do it anyway.
Occupation: Outage Planner, Actalent Services.
Professional experience: ASE-certified Mechanic, Plumbing Apprentice, construction remodeling, & 20+ years in EHV electrical utilities ( groundman to Superintendent) w/ NM journeyman's
Political experience: None. I started attending council meetings, asking questions, and apparently asked enough questions that I ended up running for Council.
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: Born & raised in Corpus Christi's Molina area. Work took me around the country, but Corpus Christi has always been …
Highest educational attainment: GED, some college, and decades of skilled trades and utility training. My education didn't end when I lent the classroom.
Organizational involvement/membership: Active Knights of Columbus member & utility safety committee participant. Also Sam's club, but i'm guessing that doesn't count.
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
No. I support securing Corpus Christi's water future, but I do not support the Inner Harbor location or putting residents further in depth for it. We need water, but we also need common sense. I want alternatives compared - honesty cost, location, environmental impact and price per gallon. If other options provide reliable water for less money and less risk, then it's where we should be looking
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
Yes, I supported moving forward with the hearing because the city charter provided a process that should be followed. I did not support the outcome. Council sustained three separate violations. In my view, three violations warranted three separate consequences, with the final consequence being removal If we have rules and consequences, we should follow them consistently even when doing so is uncomfortable
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
Tax incentives should produce a measurable benefit for the people paying the taxes, not simply making a good deal better for a developer. I'd look at jobs, wages, infrastructure needs, long term tax revenue and whether the project would happen without the incentive. Essential infrastructure and projects providing clear public benefit deserve consideration. If taxpayers assume the risk, taxpayers should see the benefit. Sometimes the best incentive is simply making Corpus Christi a great place
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
1. Stop wasteful spending: before spending taxpayers money, ask the same question we ask at home: do we really need this?
2. Hold people accountable: Writing the check Isn't the end of the city's responsibility. Follow the money, follow up with contractors, verify the work, and make sure taxpayers received what they paid for.
3. Bring services back: Residents keep paying more while getting less. If my grocery bag gets smaller, I notice. I think …
Carolyn Vaughn
*Incumbent
Age: 73
Occupation: Retired
Professional experience: My husband and I owned and operated an oilfield service company until we sold it in 2021.
Political experience: City Council dist 1, county commission precinct 1, City Council at large.
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 48
Highest educational attainment: GED and some Del Mar courses
Organizational involvement/membership: N/A
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
No, until the Farfield study is completed, we cannot fully understand the projects potential impact on the Bays environment. Moving forward w/o that info risks making an expensive decision before safety is established. The cost is too high for taxpayers, particularly when the project serves industry. Industry along w/ state & federal should fund it not local residents.
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
A petition was properly filed and council followed the charter. The mayor was found guilty on all 3 accusations. Now the citizens have seen the evidence and can make their own informed decision at the ballot box. Ultimately voters will have the final say.
(Editor’s note: The mayor’s hearing was an administrative procedure, not a criminal case proceeding.)
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
Tax incentive revenue should be used to benefit taxpayers and strengthen the community – not simply to subsidize private development. Projects should meet clear criteria – create quality jobs, increase tax base, provide measurable public benefits.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
Transparency and accountability, protect taxpayers, restore trust in city government through transparency and accountability.
Water desalination – Protect our Bay while pursuing a diversified water portfolio. This council has done more water projects than any other council – wastewater reuse, wells, groundwater.
Safety and infrastructure, prioritize public safety, infrastructure, animal control and most importantly water.
Richard Shelton
Age: 46
Occupation: Self-employed real estate investor and founder of FLIPCC – We Buy Homes Fast; primary focus is acquiring and remodeling distressed properties.
Professional experience: 22 years in automotive leadership followed by full-time real estate investing, value-add remodeling, and community redevelopment in Corpus Christi.
Political experience: None prior to filing as a candidate for Corpus Christi City Council At-Large in 2026.
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 20+ years Moved here in February 2000
Highest educational attainment: Highschool
Organizational involvement/membership: Corpus Christi Regional Economic Development Corporation (sponsor); Church Unlimited Westside Mission (volunteer).
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
Yes. It is the most realistic, permitted, and expandable near-term solution for reliable water. I support it as a city-owned project so residents, not private investors, control the supply. Water security for families must come first while still allowing responsible growth.
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
I respect the City Charter process that allowed the hearing to move forward. Voters and elected officials should be able to hold leadership accountable through established procedures. The outcome is now part of the public record; my focus remains on solving the city’s practical challenges going forward.
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
Incentives should require clear, measurable return for taxpayers: high-paying jobs, responsible water use, and lasting community benefit. Priority should go to projects that expand the tax base, support workforce development, or improve housing and infrastructure rather than open-ended or speculative deals.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
1. Secure reliable water for families through the city-owned Inner Harbor desalination project.
2. Attract high-paying jobs and close the income gap while protecting resources.
3. Practice strict fiscal responsibility and support public safety and core infrastructure.
Dan McQueen
Age: 66
Occupation: Air Force One engineer; Navy Special Operations SAR; CEO of MITI.
(Editor's note: The first two are past occupations, the third is current, according to candidate.)
Professional experience: Aviation engineering; Navy SAR; CEO MITI; startup mentor at Capital Factory; advanced tech development.
Political experience: Former U.S. Congressional Nominee, Mayor of Corpus Christi.
(Editor’s note: McQueen was sworn in as mayor of Corpus Christi on Dec. 13, 2016, and resigned in a Facebook post 37 days later. His resignation followed weeks of scrutiny over his stated education and social media posts, as well as questions about his relationship with his chief of staff.)
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 2007 started at CCAD until now which is 19 years.
Highest educational attainment: Master's in CIS/PM from Boston University.
Organizational involvement/membership: Capital Factory mentor; Break Addiction Partnership; CorpusWater.com.
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
Desalination must fit into a long-term systems plan. Water, energy, data, and communication are interconnected, and short-term fixes create long-term problems. Any desalination site should support sustainable infrastructure, protect the environment, and align with future technology growth. My focus is on system-level solutions that strengthen Corpus Christi’s long-range water security rather than isolated projects.
Do you support the council’s decision to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
Accountability is essential. When serious concerns arise, Council must investigate through the established process. Addressing misconduct, fraud, or corruption protects public trust and the integrity of the office. The community deserves transparency and a fair evaluation of the facts.
How should tax incentives be used? What should be the criteria and types of projects?
Tax incentives should support long-term economic growth, modern infrastructure, and future-focused industries. Projects must show measurable community benefit, sustainability, and clear return on investment. Priorities include aviation, autonomous transport, additive manufacturing, and technology development. Incentives should be transparent, performance-based, and aligned with strategies that strengthen Corpus Christi’s tech and business ecosystem.
What are your top three priorities if elected to City Council?
Comprehensive business growth; future-industry education; modernization of government operations. Corpus Christi must attract advanced technology industries, expand workforce training, and streamline outdated processes. A Fast Track Technology Academy downtown can help fill vacant buildings and support innovation. Modernizing operations reduces waste and strengthens long-term economic stability.
Alex Johnston
Age: 39
Occupation: Software Developer
Professional experience: I have worked in manufacturing, utilities, software, and supply chain in Italy, China and many cities around the US
Political experience: None
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 7
Highest educational attainment: MBA from UNC Chapel Hill, BS Engineering from Georgia Tech
Organizational involvement/membership: St. John the Baptist, 4th grade catechism teacher. St. Pius X School, mascot. GT President Scholars Alumni Group
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
No. I’m not opposed to desalination; I’m opposed to overpaying for it. Inner Harbor is the most expensive option, with additional concerns about PFAS found in fish near the proposed intake. Before spending billions, we should reduce waste, expand reuse and conservation, and pursue lower-cost innovations like floating solar. Corpus Christi has a water problem, not a money-burning problem. Let’s solve the first without creating the second.
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
No. I did not support the decision to pursue the removal hearing. The council spent nearly half a million dollars in legal fees to remove the mayor for 30 days, then celebrated allocating roughly half that amount to local philanthropic organizations fighting homelessness. I’ll let taxpayers decide whether that sounds like good government. I’d rather see City Hall spend our money solving problems and let voters decide on if the mayor should keep her job.
(Editor’s note: The dollar amount spent in the mayor's removal proceedings is unverified.)
How should tax incentives (such as revenue from tax incentive reinvestment zones, or sales taxes) be used — what should be the criteria and types of projects?
Tax incentives should be investments, not giveaways. If taxpayers are giving up revenue, the project should deliver a measurable public benefit that would not happen otherwise, such as meaningful long term job creation, infrastructure, increased tax base, or redevelopment of blighted property. Incentives should have clear performance requirements, expiration dates, and clawbacks when promises aren’t met. We should measure the return on every dollar, not just celebrate the ribbon cutting.
What are your top three priorities, should you win a place on the City Council?
• Water security. Diversify our water supply based on four things: lowest cost per gallon, shortest time to delivery, lowest implementation risk, and least environmental impact.
• Infrastructure that works. Build a data-driven strategy to optimize our city’s resources and deliver the most value possible for every taxpayer dollar.
• Smart, sustainable growth. Grow an innovation economy that creates meaningful employment opportunities for today’s residents and future generations.
Jennifer Gracia
*Write-in candidate
Age: 48
Occupation: Property Manager, Prospera Housing Community Services, managing affordable housing for elderly residents and persons with disabilities.
Professional experience: Property management, community advocacy, and ten years as a home health provider, with extensive experience serving elderly and disabled individuals.
Political experience: 2024 City Council At-Large candidate, earning 15,973 votes; 2023 graduate, University of Texas LBJ Women’s Campaign School.
Years of residency in Corpus Christi: 46 years
Highest educational attainment: Del Mar College, Associate of Arts in Public Relations and Advertising and Liberal Arts.
Organizational involvement/membership: TABPHE–Corpus Christi; American GI Forum; former Secretary, Corpus Christi City Committee for Persons with Disabilities.
Do you support development of the Inner Harbor seawater desalination plant? Why or why not?
No. Opposition to the Inner Harbor desalination plant has remained consistent since 2024. The project is extraordinarily expensive, energy-intensive, and located near an established neighborhood already burdened by industrial development. Corpus Christi needs a reliable and resilient water supply from multiple sources,, but alternatives should be fully explored before committing ratepayers to a project approaching $1 billion. Water security should be affordable, environmentally responsible, and equitable for residents across the city.
Do you support the council’s decision made earlier this year to move forward with the mayor’s removal hearing and its outcome? Why or why not?
Initially, moving forward with the hearing seemed unnecessary with an election approaching. As more information became public, however, allowing the process to proceed became reasonable. City government depends on checks, balances, professional guidance, and collective decision-making; no single official acts entirely alone. When serious questions arise, they should be examined fairly and transparently. Experienced council members should know when to seek legal and professional guidance rather than allowing uncertainty to become political chaos.
How should tax incentives, such as TIRZ revenue or sales taxes, be used? What should be the criteria and types of projects?
Tax incentives should produce measurable public benefit, not simply subsidize private development. Projects should demonstrate job creation, neighborhood improvement, infrastructure investment, economic growth, or meaningful community benefit. Decisions should include clear eligibility standards, transparency, accountability, and safeguards protecting taxpayers if promised results are not delivered. Incentives should also be distributed fairly throughout Corpus Christi so that investment reaches underserved neighborhoods as well as established commercial and development areas.
What are your top three priorities should you win a place on the City Council?
My priorities are improving the quality of life for everyday Corpus Christians, maintaining our city and infrastructure, and protecting our environment. Working families, seniors, people with disabilities, and residents who keep this city running should not continually get the short end of the stick. The people carrying the weight of the city shouldn’t be the people who continually bear the burden of its decisions. Growth matters, but so do affordability, dignity, basic services, and protecting ...
Reporters Olivia Garrett, Felicity Guajardo and John Oliva contributed to this article.
Kirsten Crow covers city government and water news. Have a story idea? Contact her at kirsten.crow@caller.com.
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This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: City Council at-large candidates' stances on desal, mayor's hearing
