By JACQI LEYVA-HILL
Special to the PRESS
The South Padre Island Economic Development Corporation (SPI EDC) met Tuesday, Jan. 20, at 9 a.m. in the South Padre Island Municipal Building/City Council Chambers, approving consent items before hearing updates on artificial reef development and offshore fishing initiatives.
Curtis Hayungs, speaking on behalf of Friends of RGV Reef, provided an overview of the group’s reef projects and their environmental and economic impact. Hayungs described how reef structures—built using materials such as concrete and repurposed railroad ties—create habitat for marine life. He explained that artificial reefs can provide shelter for juvenile fish, attract a broader ecosystem that includes sea turtles, and help reduce wave energy during storms, providing additional coastal protection.
Hayungs also shared that Friends of RGV Reef is working on additional reef development through permitting and future expansion, including plans for multiple reef sites. Board members asked questions regarding reef locations, offshore rigs, and the possibility of converting out-of-service platforms through a “rigs-to-reef” concept coordinated with the state.
During discussion, Friends of RGV Reef emphasized its Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) program, which uses offshore devices designed to create structure in open water and attract baitfish and sport fish. Speakers said the program has drawn interest from tournament boats and visiting anglers but noted the devices require ongoing maintenance due to offshore conditions.
South Padre Island City Council Member Aarin Hartwell raised a question regarding the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Interactive Maps, noting the website appeared to show only two sunk vessels listed since 2017. The Friends of RGV Reef speaker responded that TPWD’s reefing information is being updated and said the online map does not reflect the full reef inventory. According to the group, there are currently nine to 10 vessels deployed within the RGV Reef area, with additional items not yet reflected online.
Following discussion, SPI EDC directors approved a motion to contribute $50,000 to Friends of RGV Reef to assist with reef development in 2026.
In other business, Gayle Hood provided an update on the Causeway Marine Park effort, including ongoing water quality work and endangered bird surveys. Darla Lapeyre, Economic Development Center Director, reviewed economic indicators, reporting November 2025 sales tax revenue of $288,832 (down 5.91%) and hotel occupancy tax revenue of $483,224 (up 11.96%), which she attributed to late tax payments being caught up.
The SPI EDC entered executive session at 9:49 a.m. to discuss real property matters, returned to open session at 10:17 a.m., approved extending a letter of intent for the Rampart tract for 90 days, and adjourned.
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