Line In The Sand!

Battle Lines Are Drawn!












Corpus Christi City Council
Passes Beach Driving Ban,
Calls For Charter Amendment

On Tuesday, March 28, The Corpus Christi City Council voted to pass an ordinance banning vehicular traffic over a 7,200 foot section of beach within the city limits. This ordinance, spearheaded by Councilman Mark Scott, is a gift to Austin developer Paul Shexnailder who has demanded that access should be limited to foot traffic only. He says this is a requirement of the Canadian development company Intrawest which is reported to be planning a huge resort for the area.
This item passed with a 7-1 vote with one, Councilman Bill Kelley, abstaining. John Marez was the only no vote.
A separate ordinance was also passed, over strong objections from Terry Carter, president and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce, which would call for public elections if other beach closures are proposed in the future.
It is a certainty that future controversy awaits.
The charter amendment was an attempt to appease the Beach Coalition and others in opposition to the beach driving ban. Spokesmen for the coalition have not been impressed and said plans for a petition to force the ban to a public vote will go forward.

Council Beach Vote, March 28, 2006

Council Member, vehicle ban, charter amendment
Mayor Garrett, yes, yes
Brent Chesney, yes, no
Melody Cooper, yes, yes
Jerry Garcia, yes, no
Bill Kelly, abstained, no
Rex Kennison, yes, no
John Marez, no, yes
Jesse Noyola, yes, yes
Mark Scott, yes, yes

It is crystal clear, judging from the above vote on the ban, which council members support the interests of big money, big development and the giving away of our beach.
It is clear which one is on our side.
John Marez for mayor!