CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Voters have amended the Texas Constitution 517 times.
On Nov. 7, they will be going to the polls for a chance to do it again.
There are 14 state constitutional amendments on the ballot in the upcoming election. One of those is Proposition 7, something both Republicans and Democrats in Nueces County are asking residents to vote against.
Proposition 7 would create the Texas Energy Fund, which would provide financing for low-interest loans to build plants powered by natural gas.
It stems from worry that still exists over the Texas power grid – not only because of the way it failed during the winter storm of 2021, but also because of this summer’s record demand for electricity.
Those in favor of Prop 7 say gas-fueled power would give ERCOT a reliable option beyond just wind and solar energy by creating emergency supplies.
Former Nueces County Republican Chair Michael Bergsma agrees.
He says Prop 7 offers a practical option for when the wind is not blowing, and the sun is not shining.
“They still need a special supply that’s only used in an emergency,” Bergsma said. “And so what this bill does is provide the financial incentive to do that. I think it’s a good idea and necessary.”
Opponents say it creates a permanent fund favoring the fossil-fuel industry, and that giving out cheaper loans is not a good use of taxpayer money.
In Nueces County, you can find voting recommendations on the websites of the local Republican and Democratic parties. Both urge voters to reject Proposition 7.
Still, Bergsma believes that it is worth a second look, even though he knows that many of his friends might disagree.
“This is a situation where it is a public good, an emergency situation that we have to prepare for,” he said.
If Prop 7 passes, the Texas Energy Fund would be administered by the Public Utilities Commission.