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Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz Announces Formation of the South Texas Water Working Group

MCALLEN, Texas, August 6, 2024 | Ryan Saylor (771-200-0819)

Congresswoman Monica De La Cruz (TX-15) is proud to announce the formation of the South Texas Water Working Group, a collaborative effort aimed at addressing and resolving the water challenges faced by South Texas communities. This initiative underscores Congresswoman De La Cruz's commitment to working with local leaders to develop and implement long-term, community-driven solutions to ensure water sustainability and security for the region.

"Water is a critical resource for our agricultural sector, businesses, and families. The South Texas Water Working Group will bring together diverse stakeholders to address our water challenges head-on and find sustainable solutions," said Congresswoman De La Cruz. "As we continue to press Mexico to adhere to the 1944 Water Treaty obligations, it's essential that we also look inward and develop strategies that will serve our communities for generations to come."

The formation of this group comes at a crucial time, as Mexico now owes the United States more than 900,000 acre-feet of water under the 1944 Water Treaty. Ensuring compliance with this treaty remains a top priority, but proactive, localized efforts are equally important to mitigate the impact of water shortages.

The South Texas Water Working Group's first meeting is planned for later this month. The group will consist of community and industry leaders, including:

  • Dante Galeazzi, CEO/President, Texas International Produce Association
  • Dale Murden, President, Texas Citrus Mutual
  • Eric Ramos, Brooks County Judge
  • Donna Dodgen, Mayor of Seguin
  • Ricardo Villarreal, Mayor of Palmview
  • Jim Darling, Former McAllen Mayor
  • Richard Cortez, Hidalgo County Judge
  • Bobby Salinas, City Manager, City of Alamo
  • Alma Salinas, Mayor of Sullivan City
  • Norie Garza, Mayor of Mission
  • Roel Roy Rodriguez, McAllen City Manager
  • Pedro "Pete" Trevino, Jr., Jim Wells County Judge
  • Cynthia Carrasco, Mayor of Alice
  • Homer Lott Jr., Mayor of Runge
  • Wade Hedtke, Karnes County Judge
  • James Liska, Live Oak County Judge
  • Hank Whitman, Wilson County Judge
  • Brian Jones, Texas Farm Bureau
  • Terry Canales, Texas State Representative, District 40
  • Juan “Chuy” Hinijosa, Texas State Senator, District 20