Governor Abbott Joins South Texas Leaders to Address Water Crisis at McAllen Meeting

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Governor Greg Abbott met with South Texas leaders at the McAllen Convention Center for their quarterly South Texas Alliance Cities meeting, where they focused on addressing the region’s ongoing water crisis. The discussion centered around ensuring Mexico fulfills its obligations under the 1944 water treaty and exploring new water management strategies for the area.

1944 Water Treaty and Mexico’s Obligations

One of the central issues raised was Mexico’s responsibility to deliver water under the 1944 water treaty. Governor Abbott emphasized the state’s efforts to ensure that the Mexican government complies with the treaty, which is critical for South Texas water supply.

“The state is working to make sure the Mexican government follows through its end, and delivers the water supply required by the 1944 water treaty,” said Abbott during the meeting.

McAllen’s Approach: Desalination

McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos outlined the city’s plans to combat water scarcity, focusing on desalination through wells as a long-term solution.

“We’re going to desalination. It’s going to be through wells, and that’s what we’re looking at. We’ve already studied it,” said Villalobos. “I think we’ve already probably hired some engineers for the purpose of looking into it. So it’s something that we are going to have to do. No two ways about it.”

The city’s proactive approach involves studying and investing in desalination technology to ensure a sustainable water source for the future.

Regional Leadership in Attendance

The quarterly meeting was attended by mayors and leaders from several cities across South Texas, including Edinburg, Mission, Brownsville, Harlingen, San Antonio, and Laredo. Their collective efforts are aimed at tackling water scarcity and finding regional solutions to the crisis.

Next Meeting

The next South Texas Alliance Cities meeting will take place in Laredo, with the date yet to be announced. As the water crisis continues to be a pressing issue, regional collaboration and innovative solutions like desalination will play a key role in the months ahead.

Conclusion

The quarterly meeting in McAllen highlighted the ongoing struggle with water scarcity in South Texas and showcased the leadership of Governor Abbott and local mayors in finding solutions. As desalination projects move forward and Mexico’s treaty obligations are reinforced, the region looks toward securing its water future.