Hurricane Hanna Special Collection Update
Beginning Monday, September 21, Solid Waste crews will resume regularly scheduled Brush collections beginning with area 1A (Flour Bluff and Padre Island).
Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI – The city’s Solid Waste Department is nearly complete with its special collection of Brush & Debris from Hurricane Hanna. Solid Waste crews are currently working in area 1B (Flour Bluff). More than 100,000 cubic yards, nearly half of the city’s normal annual volume, of Hurricane Hanna Brush & Debris have been collected thus far.
Beginning Monday, September 21, Solid Waste crews will resume regularly scheduled Brush collections beginning with area 1A (Flour Bluff and Padre Island). Regularly scheduled Brush collections in areas 9 (Annaville) and 10 (Calallen), are ongoing and will continue.
Former Texas ITT Students to Receive $27 Million in Debt Relief Settlement
When the temporary credit became due, ITT pressured and coerced students into accepting high-interest loans from PEAKS, including threatening expulsion.
Press Release
AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton announced a settlement agreement with PEAKS Trust, a private loan program run by ITT Tech and affiliated with Deutsche Bank entities, granting over $27 million in debt relief to former ITT students in Texas. This is the second settlement of its kind in just two years. In June 2019, Attorney General Paxton participated in a $168 million settlement with Student CU Connect CUSO, resulting in debt relief for 18,664 former ITT students.
“I am proud to hold ITT accountable for its deceptive trade practices and provide relief for students who were burdened with unfair student loan debt while pursuing and honest education,” said Attorney General Paxton. “Students should not face the choice of enrolling in unfair loans or dropping out and losing their hard-earned credits. Today’s victory sends a clear message that attempting to deceive and financially abuse students will not be tolerated in Texas.”
After the 2008 financial crisis, ITT developed a plan with PEAKS to offer students temporary credit to cover the gap in tuition between federal student aid and the full cost of the education. However, when the temporary credit became due, ITT pressured and coerced students into accepting high-interest loans from PEAKS, including threatening expulsion.
Under the settlement, PEAKS agreed to forgo collection of the outstanding loans and cease doing business. PEAKS will send notices to borrowers about the cancelled debt and ensure that automatic payments are cancelled. PEAKS is also required to supply credit reporting agencies with information to update credit information for affected borrowers. Students may direct questions to PEAKS at customerservice@peaksloans.com or (866) 747-0273, or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at (855) 411-2372.
Read a copy of the settlement here.
Essential Family Caregivers can now Visit Family in Long Term Care Facilities
HHSC is updating these rules after closely monitoring the COVID-19 outbreak, consulting with the Department of State Health Services, and receiving feedback from families, providers and other stakeholders.
Press Release
Governor Greg Abbott today directed the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to expand visitation options for eligible nursing, assisted living, and intermediate care facilities, home and community-based service providers, and inpatient hospice, effective Thursday, Sept. 24. HHSC’s updated emergency rules will allow a designated essential caregiver to provide supportive, hands-on care to facility residents who do not have COVID-19.
“It is critical to the health of residents that we provide opportunities wherever possible for families to reunite, while continuing to take all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of disease,” said HHS Executive Commissioner Cecile Erwin Young. “Safely visiting with family and friends is the best medicine and most reassuring act we can provide for our most fragile Texans during these challenging times.”
Under the new rules, residents will be allowed to designate up to two essential family caregivers who will be provided necessary training to allow them to safely go inside a facility for a scheduled visit, including in the resident’s room, to help ensure their loved one’s physical, social and emotional needs are being met. Designated caregivers will not be required to maintain physical distancing, but only one caregiver can visit a resident at a time.
A long-term care facility resident (or legal representative) can designate the essential caregiver, who can be a family member, friend or other individual. Facilities are required to train essential caregivers on the proper use of personal protective equipment and other infection control measures. Proper PPE must be used at all times during these scheduled visits, and the caregiver must test negative for COVID-19 within the previous 14 days before the initial visit.
HHSC is updating these rules after closely monitoring the COVID-19 outbreak, consulting with the Department of State Health Services, and receiving feedback from families, providers and other stakeholders.
For general visitors who are not a designated essential caregiver, these updated emergency rules will allow approved nursing facilities scheduled indoor visitation with the use of plexiglass safety barriers to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Physical contact between residents and general visitors is not permitted. Facilities also must continue to meet all additional visitation requirements outlined in the emergency rules.
Long-term care facilities, including nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities, that serve residents without COVID-19 but also have dedicated COVID-19 isolation units will be eligible for outdoor and indoor general visitation with plexiglass barriers. This visitation is only allowed for residents who are COVID-negative and must be held outdoors or in a COVID-free area of the facility. Facilities previously were required to be entirely COVID free to allow outdoor or indoor visitation.
The updated emergency rules will be posted on the HHSC COVID-19 provider web page.
For more information about how HHSC is helping Texans affected by COVID-19, visit the HHSC website.
Public Works to Conduct Week-Long Pothole Blitz
Public Works crews will be repairing potholes on City streets based on targeted corridors and customer service requests received by the Call Center.
Press Release
The City of Corpus Christi Public Works Department is gearing up for a week-long “Pothole Blitz”! This initiative aims at tackling as many potholes as possible with all available Street Maintenance Crews.
The Pothole Blitz begins Monday, September 21 and runs through Saturday, September 26. During that time, Public Works crews will be repairing potholes on City streets based on targeted corridors and customer service requests received by the Call Center.
All work will be done weather permitting and the City reminds drivers to use caution when driving near work zones and to follow traffic signs. To report potholes, residents should call 361-826-CITY(2489) or download the city app.
S.H.A.R.E Looking for Community Volunteers
Instead of a sit-down meal, S.H.A.R.E will be doing a drive-thru service at the First Baptist Church Kingsville’s parking lot.
Press Release
The SHARE “Community Thanksgiving Dinner” board is reaching out to those who have supported them in the past and those who would like to join in promoting a Spirit of Thanksgiving, Unity and Fellowship for the 5th annual meal.
This year’s dinner will look different because of the current circumstances of the threat of spreading COVID. Instead of a sit-down meal, S.H.A.R.E will be doing a drive-thru service at the First Baptist Church Kingsville’s parking lot.
The group is planning on donating 300 meals to those who are shut-in and are planning another 700 meals for those who will come to the drive through and pick up meals.
If you are interested in donating towards this cause or wanting to volunteer, please contact Jennifer Guyton at (361) 522-3957; Connie Cashen at (361) 522-8518; or Patti Troell at (575) 430-3112.
Public Input Wanted for Voluntary Buyout Program from Hurricane Harvey
These guidelines are the first step towards implementing buyout opportunities designed to assist single-two family residential developments impacted more than once because of natural disasters.
Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI – The City of Corpus Christi’s Engineering Services Department would like to remind the public that they are seeking public input on its DRAFT Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CBDG-DR) Voluntary Buyout Program Guidelines for Single-Family and Two-Family residences. CDBG-DR funds for this program are offered by the Texas General Land Office (GLO) through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
This is one of the programs identified for the 2017 Hurricane Harvey assistance. Funding for this program is in the amount of $1,319,559.00 from the CDBG-DR funds. Proposed Buyout sites will be selected based on the eligibility mentioned in the CDBG-DR Voluntary Buyout Program guidelines. The Recovery Volunteer Buyout program guidelines provide terms required by the laws and regulations surrounding the Hurricane Harvey event while outlining local priorities, eligibility requirements, and compliance period. These guidelines are the first step towards implementing buyout opportunities designed to assist single-two family residential developments impacted more than once because of natural disasters.
The public has thirty (30) days to comment on these proposed items. The 30-day period extends from Tuesday, September 1, 2020 through Wednesday, September 30, 2020. The CDBG-DR Voluntary Buyout program guidelines can be found on the City of Corpus Christi Engineering Services webpage: www.cctexas.com/eng.
For more information on these guidelines, contact Senior Public Information Officer Melanie Lowry at (361) 826-3837. Written comments can also be submitted by mail to Melanie Lowry: Engineering Services, 1201 Leopard Street, Corpus Christi, Texas, 78401, or by email at melaniel@cctexas.com.
Corpus Christi - $1 Billion Budget for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Approved
The balanced budget is designed to address the community’s top priorities including streets, public safety, and parks.
Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI – Corpus Christi Mayor Joe McComb and the City Council approved an operating and capital budget of $1 billion for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 which begins October 1.
There is no City property tax rate increase in the FY 2021 Budget.
No fee/rate adjustments.
No change in water.
No change in wastewater rate.
No stormwater fee enacted.
The balanced budget is designed to address the community’s top priorities including streets, public safety, and parks.
The budget includes:
Almost $80 million in Street Maintenance and Reconstruction and voters will have the opportunity to vote on an additional $61 million in street improvements in November with Bond 2020.
New $1 million to provide maintenance for concrete streets
Funding provided to rehabilitate over 14 miles of Ocean Drive
An additional five (5) police officers which will bring the total uniformed police force to 456.
Funding for Fire cadet classes. The Fire Department is expected to be at full strength for the first time in over a decade with 414 sworn firefighters in July 2021.
Additional hours for Library staff to better serve the public.
Two Neighborhood Code Compliance Officers for stronger neighborhood Code Enforcement.
As part of the FY 2021 budget process, Council Members and City Staff hosted five virtual public input sessions for residents to better understand the budget. Resident input was instrumental in finalizing the budget. The citizens’ feedback resulted in added funding to increase Public Library digital resources for patrons and a shade structure for a community park.
For more information and to view the approved budget, visit www.cctexas.com/departments/budget-strategic-management.
San Antonio to Lift Ban on Chick-fil-A at International Airport
The FAA reached an informal resolution with the City of San Antonio regarding its decision to exclude Chick-fil-A based on the religious beliefs associated with that company and its owners.
Press Release
AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton today announced that the United States Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reached an informal resolution with the City of San Antonio regarding its decision to exclude Chick-fil-A from a concession contract based on the religious beliefs associated with that company and its owners. Last year, on March 28, 2019, Attorney General Paxton requested Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation Elaine Chao to open an investigation into the city of San Antonio’s potential violation of federal law and Transportation Department regulations when the city banned Chick-fil-A from operating a restaurant in the San Antonio International Airport based on the company’s religious beliefs. After discussions with the City of San Antonio, the FAA announced that San Antonio International Airport will offer Chick-fil-A a lease opportunity for space in Terminal A.
“This is a win for religious liberty in Texas and I strongly commend the FAA and the City of San Antonio for reaching this resolution. To exclude a respected vendor based on religious beliefs is the opposite of tolerance and is inconsistent with the Constitution, Texas law, and Texas values,” said Attorney General Paxton. “Our great state deeply values the First Amendment, and I will defend those rights for all who live and work in Texas.”
Read a copy of the letter here.
Corpus Christi Bond Information Now Available
The guide contains general information about the City’s Bond Program and a list of City Council approved streets, parks, and public safety projects.
Press Release
The City of Corpus Christi’s Bond 2020 Program Information Guide is now available online for public viewing. The $75 million Bond package is being considered by voters on Tuesday, November 3, 2020. The year’s 2020 Bond Program will not require a property tax rate increase. The guide contains general information about the City’s Bond Program and a list of City Council approved streets, parks, and public safety projects.
The City of Corpus Christi has biennially approved and implemented two-year General Obligation Bond programs that consist of citywide infrastructure projects that are approved by the voters. It has been anticipated that this cycle would continue with Bond 2020.
The 2020 Bond Program Information Guide can be viewed at www.cctexas.com/bond2020.
Texas AG Files Appeal to Stop Harris County for Unsolicited Mail-In Ballot Applications
Under Texas election law, mail-in ballots are reserved for a few limited categories of qualified voters who are age 65 and older and voters who are disabled.
Press Release
AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton filed an appeal with the 14th Court of Appeals in Houston, urging the court to prevent Harris County Clerk Chris Hollins from sending over two million unsolicited mail-in ballot applications to registered voters in Harris County, many of whom do not qualify to vote by mail. Hollins’s plan to unlawfully send mail-in ballot applications circumvents the careful limits the Constitution places on county officials’ authority and blatantly violates Texas election law. Harris County is required to respond by 9 a.m. Monday, September 14, and the Office of the Attorney General requested relief be granted no later than 5 p.m. on the same day.
Under Texas election law, mail-in ballots are reserved for a few limited categories of qualified voters who are age 65 and older and voters who are disabled. The proposed mass mailing would sow confusion because applications would go to all registered voters, regardless of whether they legally qualify to vote a mail ballot and regardless of whether they even want to vote by mail. Texas law requires the clerk to send applications to voters who specifically request them.
Read a copy of the appeal here.
"Ready. Check. Vote." Coming to South Texas
The "Ready. Check. Vote." grassroots tour will travel approximately 3,000 miles and visit 46 cities across the Lone Star State, beginning September 10th and ending October 8th.
Press Release
(PHOTO: Office Of The Texas Secretary Of State, 9/10/2020)
AUSTIN – Texas Secretary of State Ruth R. Hughs today announced a new statewide grassroots tour as part of the "Ready. Check. Vote." initiative to safely educate Texas voters about what they need to bring to the polls when they cast their ballot. The contactless tour will utilize a 16-foot box truck that is wrapped in attention-grabbing messaging in both English and Spanish that will generate awareness and direct voters to VoteTexas.gov, the State of Texas' official election website. There, Texans will find the seven approved forms of photo identification and what to do if they do not possess and cannot reasonably obtain one of these seven forms.
“Although COVID-19 may have changed how we approach outreach, it has not changed our commitment to ensuring that Texas voters are informed, prepared, and ready to cast their ballot,” said Secretary Hughs. “This contactless grassroots tour will help educate Texas voters on the approved forms of photo ID and ensure that Texans are able to make their voices heard this November.”
The "Ready. Check. Vote." grassroots tour will travel approximately 3,000 miles and visit 46 cities across the Lone Star State, beginning September 10th and ending October 8th.
South Texas Dates:
Three Rivers – October 5
Corpus Christi – October 6
Kingsville – October 6
Texas voters who possess one of the seven approved forms of photo ID must present that ID at the polls. Voters who do not possess and cannot reasonably obtain one of the seven forms of approved photo ID may execute a Reasonable Impediment Declaration form, available to them at each polling location, and provide a supporting form of identification. In addition, some voters may qualify for an exemption to presenting an acceptable form of photo identification or following the Reasonable Impediment Declaration procedure.
The seven forms of approved photo ID are:
Texas Driver License issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)**
Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS
Texas Personal Identification Card issued by DPS
Texas Handgun License issued by DPS
United States Military Identification Card containing the person’s photograph
United States Citizenship Certificate containing the person’s photograph
United States Passport (book or card)
Voters with questions about how to cast a ballot in the upcoming November 2020 General Election can call 1-800-252-VOTE or visit VoteTexas.gov for more information.
AG Paxton Warns Brownsville Against Unlawful Order Limiting Restaurant Capacity
As it stands, the city’s order directly contradicts Governor Greg Abbott’s orders and exceeds the city’s lawful authority.
Press Release
Austin - The City of Brownsville is limiting all restaurant capacity to less than 25 percent of total listed occupancy. As it stands, the city’s order directly contradicts Governor Greg Abbott’s orders and exceeds the city’s lawful authority. Executive Order GA-28 expressly allows certain restaurants to “operate at up to 50 percent” and allows restaurants, and not cities, to decide whether to operate at a capacity at or below this limitation.
“The City of Brownsville’s order clearly conflicts with Governor Abbott’s order. It is imperative that we remain consistent in our application of limitations, and that the restaurants operating within the state’s limitations are allowed to do so,” said Attorney General Paxton. “The city should immediately review and revise this unlawful order.” - Attorney General Ken Paxton
Read a copy of the letter here.
Delay in Rig Repairs near Bob Hall Pier
The company handling repairs at the oil platform involved in an offshore incident last week on North Padre Island near Bob Hall Pier says the fix will take longer than anticipated.
Press Release
The company handling repairs at the oil platform involved in an offshore incident last week on North Padre Island near Bob Hall Pier says the fix will take longer than anticipated.
Upon a closer, on-site evaluation of the wellhead, it was determined that it had experienced greater damage than originally anticipated. As a result, the company was unable to replace the valve that was leaking, and additional equipment is being mobilized to address the full repair requirements necessary to return the rig to normal operation. The inspection also revealed the cause of the release was a failed seal on the wellhead.
Crews were unable to replace the valve that was leaking, and additional elements of the wellhead will need to be repaired before the replacement can be completed. The company is hopeful a definitive estimation of the repair schedule can be determined as soon as they locate the necessary equipment and materials needed to complete the repairs.
Last week, the US Coast Guard (USCG) received a report of white smoke billowing with a loud sound from an unmanned platform. The white plume consisted of natural gas, naturally occurring condensate and water. Since then, the plume has significantly diminished to an estimated 5% of its original size.
According to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), there has been no change in the composition or amount of material leaking from the rig, and assures residents the air quality, beach and citizens remain safe and no action is needed. Aggressive air quality monitoring will continue.
Out of an abundance of caution, the USCG has established a Temporary Flight Restriction zone (TFR) for aircraft of any kind including drones that extends one mile around and 500-feet above the platform. In addition, they have identified an 800-meter safety zone around the platform which must not be crossed by any vessel without the permission of the Coast Guard. Due to safety issues, the company is asking the public not to fly any drones over the area. Citizens are also reminded beach access from the Bob Hall Pier parking lot is temporarily closed by Nueces County for heavy equipment to conduct debris removal from Hurricane Hanna.
The City of Corpus Christi, Nueces County, Magellan E&P, USCG, TCEQ, the Texas General Land Office (GLO) and the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) continue overlooking the incident and say the City - County beaches on Padre Island are safe and there is no danger to the public. As repairs are made, all these public and private entities will continue to work together to ensure that there is a constant emphasis on environmental safety and the safety of residents and visitors of the surrounding communities.
FEMA approved the TWC's request for Lost Wages Assistance
The funding is through the week ending September 5, 2020 and may provide an additional $300 in payments to qualified claimants.
Press Release
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved the Texas Workforce Commission’s (TWC) request for Lost Wages Assistance (LWA) funding for the week ending September 5, 2020. This funding provides for an additional $300 in payments to qualified claimants.
FEMA’s process for releasing funds does not line up exactly with TWC’s payment system. TWC must request the funds weekly and must ensure that funds are available each week before the $300 in benefits is released. Claimants should continue requesting payments on their scheduled payment request day.
Texas was one of the first states to apply and be approved. TWC will continue to provide Texas claimants with updates when FEMA approves requests for LWA funding. Since all states are drawing monies from the same fund, the exact date that FEMA funding will run out is not known.
CCIA Outpacing the National Average
While the numbers are still lower than they were last year, more people are not only confident enough to fly again, they are also showing a lot of confidence in future travel.
Press Release
Corpus Christi International Airport (CCIA) is experiencing a steady increase in the number of people traveling and is outperforming the national average when it comes to future bookings.
For the month of August, a total of 13,193 people flew out of CCIA which represents a 20% increase over July. While the numbers are still lower than they were last year before the pandemic hit, the numbers show that more and more people are not only confident enough to fly again, they are also showing a lot of confidence in future travel.
During the last week of August, future air travel bookings in the nation were 30% what they were back in 2019. This means that nationally, these bookings were down -70%. In the Coastal Bend, air travelers were booking at a much higher rate; 66% of what was booked around the same time the year before, down only -34%. “Future bookings are just one indication of how the market is rebounding during the coronavirus pandemic, said Kevin Smith, Asst. Director of Aviation at CCIA. “As long as CCIA is doing better than other airports in Texas and across the nation, we have a better shot at getting the kind of attention from the airlines that we would like to attract,” said Smith.
CCIA has gone from a low of 2,000 passengers a month back in April to more than 13,000 passengers in August. When combined with the optimism in future bookings, “this is a good story to tell the airlines as we work with them on future planning.” said Smith.
While the airlines have responded to the soft future bookings nationwide by pulling back on capacity (fewer seats and flights offered overall), all three of the airlines that serve CCIA are still flying in and out of the community each day. The one thing that local travelers can do to make things even better is to consider flying CCIA once they are ready to take to the skies again.
“In the wake of COVID-19, the rebound of the airline industry will rely heavily on consumer confidence,” said Smith. “When people feel they can stay healthy and safe while flying, they’re more likely to take a trip. The speed with which travelers come back to airports will determine the rate of recovery for the airlines and the entire industry.”
“We know that not everyone is ready to fly right now. All we ask is that when you’re ready to travel again, you consider investing in your own airport and make the choice to FlyCCIA,” said Smith.
Texas Officials Recommends big Tech to Stop Censorship of Freedom of Speech
“The improper expansion of Section 230, which was intended to promote free speech, competition, and enforcement of criminal laws online, has inflated to a point where it grants the largest companies in the world the ability to violate state laws, exclude rivals, and squash political speech,” said Attorney General Paxton.
Press Release
AUSTIN – Attorney General Ken Paxton sent a comment letter to Secretary Marlene Dortch of the Federal Communications Commission, supporting the National Telecommunications and Information Agency’s Petition (the Petition) to the Federal Communications Commission to clarify provisions of Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. Section 230 provides online platforms liability protection for third-party content posted on their sites, and for decisions by those platforms to moderate obscene, lewd, and similarly objectionable content. Overly broad judicial interpretations of Section 230, however, have threatened to expand that immunity to cover broad categories of misconduct by some of tech’s largest players that the plain text of Section 230 does not reach. As a result, the reforms and clarification provided by the Petition are necessary to protect states’ ability to enforce their laws and prevent undue censorship of protected speech.
“The improper expansion of Section 230, which was intended to promote free speech, competition, and enforcement of criminal laws online, has inflated to a point where it grants the largest companies in the world the ability to violate state laws, exclude rivals, and squash political speech,” said Attorney General Paxton. “Reforms must be made to ensure that states are empowered to properly enforce their laws. First Amendment rights, penalties for criminals, and transparency must be maintained for a truly free online community to operate and thrive.”
Read a copy of the letter here.
Ship to Assist on Natural Gas Rig Repairs
There has been more progress today involving an unmanned natural gas rig located two miles from North Padre Island’s shoreline near Bob Hall Pier.
Press Release
There has been more progress today involving an unmanned natural gas rig located two miles from North Padre Island’s shoreline near Bob Hall Pier. The owner of the platform Magellan E&P said the natural gas, water and naturally occurring condensate plume has diminished to only an estimated 5% of what it was originally on Tuesday and the loud hissing noise continues to be nearly eliminated.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) reports a greater number of air monitors set up at key locations throughout the area have not detected any level of hazardous materials in the air. Additionally, the ocean and beaches continue to remain safe. There is no threat to citizens and no action is required by residents.
A ship is on its way to Port Aransas from Galveston to pick up a well control team and equipment to make repairs this weekend. Personnel will use sonar to scan the ocean floor around the platform to make sure it can safely accommodate the vessel, equipment and workers. Once security has been confirmed, equipment will be hoisted onto the rig and the valve repairs will begin.
The City of Corpus Christi, Nueces County, Magellan E&P, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), TCEQ, the Texas General Land Office (TGLO) and the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) continue to monitor the incident and say the City – County beaches on Padre Island are safe and there remains no danger to the public.
Out of an abundance of caution, the USCG has established a Temporary Flight Restriction zone (TFR) for aircraft of any kind including drones that extends one mile around and 500-feet above the platform. In addition, they have identified an 800-meter safety zone around the platform which must not be crossed by any vessel without the permission of the Coast Guard. Due to safety issues, the company is asking the public not to fly any drones over the area. Citizens are also reminded beach access from the Bob Hall Pier parking lot is temporarily closed by Nueces County for heavy equipment to conduct debris removal from Hurricane Hanna.
On Tuesday, the Coast Guard responded to a natural gas, condensate and water leak from the unmanned offshore natural gas production platform. No injuries were reported. The cause of the leak will be identified as soon as repair personnel can board the platform – weather and water conditions have prevented access since the start of the incident.
High School Varsity Basketball League Registration Is Open
The six-game season will run from September 28 through the week of October 18, 2020.
Press Release
The Corpus Christi Parks & Recreation Department is now accepting registration for its Fall 2020 High School Varsity Basketball League. This league is for boys varsity division and girls varsity division teams. The six-game season will run from September 28 through the week of October 18, 2020. Girls will play on Mondays and Saturdays. Boys will play on Tuesdays and Saturdays. There is a limit of 12 players per team. Only the first six teams per division will be accepted, so sign up early.
REGISTER ONLINE now through September 13, 2020, for $250/team at https://register.ccparkandrec.com. LATE ONLINE REGISTRATION will run from September 14–20, 2020, for $275/team.
New safety processes have been implemented to comply with COVID-19 prevention. Players and spectators will have their temperatures taken at the door prior to entering. The game ball, provided by the City, will be sanitized per each quarter and during timeouts. Players, including referees, on the court are not required to wear a face-covering but is optional. Physical contact, such as high fives, hugs, sitting next to each other for water breaks, etc. are not allowed. Sidelines will be expanded to provide social distancing. Players are allowed two spectators per game and must observe six-foot spacing in bleachers. Visit Play It Safe Covid-19 Updates for additional restrictions and safety guidelines which apply.
Participants will gain a better understanding of the game through practice and while testing their skills against other teams in the league. This structured sport also provides life skills that include teamwork, discipline, goal setting and good sportsmanship.
For more information about this league, call the Athletics Office at (361) 826-3588 or visit www.ccparkandrec.com (SPORTS).
Reasonable accommodations are provided upon request and in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. For assistance or to request a reasonable accommodation, please call (361) 826-3478 at least 48 hours in advance.
Progress Advancing at Gas Rig Incident near Bob Hall Pier
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) continues monitoring the air quality and assures City leaders there are no hazardous materials being detected in the air, water, or on the beach.
Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – The City of Corpus Christi continues to keep a close eye on the offshore incident involving a Magellan E&P platform located two miles from North Padre Island’s shoreline near Bob Hall Pier. A natural gas plume from the unmanned rig has diminished and a loud hissing noise has nearly been eliminated. A sheen that could be seen on the water near the rig yesterday currently is no longer visible.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) continues monitoring the air quality and assures City leaders there are no hazardous materials being detected in the air, water, or on the beach. There is still no threat to citizens and no action is required by residents.
Wind and surf conditions are preventing a survey team from landing a helicopter on the rig or for boats to approach the platform to investigate the incident. Magellan E&P is bringing in a large vessel from Galveston to repair the rig. The vessel is expected to arrive at the rig by the weekend, weather permitting.
The City of Corpus Christi Nueces County, Magellan E&P, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), TCEQ, the Texas General Land Office (GLO) and the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) continue to monitor the incident and say the City – County beaches on Padre Island are safe and pose no danger to the public because of this incident.
Due to safety issues, the company is asking the public to refrain from flying drones over the rig incident area. Citizens are also reminded beach access from the Bob Hall Pier parking lot is temporarily closed for heavy debris removal from Hurricanes Hanna and Laura.
Traffic Management Plan on the Island for Labor Day Holiday
To address possible traffic congestion and safety concerns of the traveling public, the City will be implementing changes to traffic operations at the intersection of Aquarius Street and Park Road 22.
Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI – In advance of the Labor Day holiday weekend, the City will be implementing a plan to address additional visitors who may come to the Island via Park Road 22.
To address possible traffic congestion and safety concerns of the traveling public, the City will be implementing changes to traffic operations at the intersection of Aquarius Street and Park Road 22. These traffic measures will be implemented beginning on the morning of Friday, September 4, 2020 at 8:00 a.m. and remain in effect thru 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2020.
Below is a summary of traffic changes drivers can expect to see:
The traffic signal at the intersection of Park Road 22 and Aquarius Street will function as “GREEN” only for northbound and southbound traffic along Park Road 22.
The left-turn lanes at the intersection of Park Road 22 and Aquarius Street will be closed to traffic.
The median opening at the intersection of Park Road 22 and Aquarius Street will be closed to traffic.
Left-turns will be prohibited off of Aquarius Street. Motorists approaching the intersection of Park Road 22 will only be allowed to turn right onto Park Road 22 and are advised to follow detour routes.
The Police Department will assist in monitoring Aquarius Street and other key intersections along Park Road 22 at SH 361, Whitecap Boulevard and Commodores Drive. Safety is a top priority, so motorists and pedestrians are reminded to take safety precautions when driving on roads and follow all traffic control devices in the area.