Texas Governor Greg Abbott has threatened to intervene in Corpus Christi’s water crisis, but has not taken similar action with the troubled Nueces River Authority. The city, with a population of over 500,000, is facing unprecedented water restrictions due to a drying water supply.

Water Crisis in Corpus Christi

The state had committed $750 million in low-interest loans for a desalination plant, but the project has stalled. Abbott has placed the burden of responsibility on the Corpus Christi City Council and the Nueces River Authority board, which he appoints.

Experts say the region needs to develop new infrastructure projects to secure its long-term water supply. The city’s current water emergency plan would require residents and businesses to cut water use by 25% if supplies drop below certain levels.

Nueces River Authority’s Finances

The Nueces River Authority’s finances are also unstable, with funding for a desalination plant expected to run out by the end of August. The agency’s chief financial officer confirmed that the NRA could be out of money for the project if certain contracts don’t materialize.

Abbott’s office has said that the governor expects accountability from appointed boards, but has not directly intervened in the NRA’s day-to-day operations. The governor has the power to publicly pressure the board and can remove members for inefficiency or misconduct.

Original reporting: Texas Tribune (HLL/CB) — read the source article.