The South Padre Island City Council held a workshop on July 2, 2025, focusing on the future of the Convention Center and its surrounding environment. The meeting highlighted community concerns regarding the preservation of local wildlife habitats, particularly for bird species, and the importance of incorporating local expertise into development plans.

The session began with discussions on the Convention Center's proposed improvements. Community members expressed frustration over the perceived lack of engagement from the council in previous planning stages. Several speakers emphasized the Convention Center's significance as a premier birding destination, noting that it attracts visitors from around the world and contributes significantly to the local economy.

One speaker, a conservationist and birder, urged the council to prioritize local input, stating that the community's knowledge of the area's ecology is invaluable. They criticized the council for not adequately considering local expertise in their planning processes, suggesting that the council should form a committee that includes local birding and environmental experts to guide future decisions.

Council member Blake Henry reassured attendees that there are no plans to convert the circular area around the Convention Center into a parking lot. He acknowledged the need for emergency access and mentioned ongoing collaboration with the National Audubon Society to ensure that any new designs are bird-friendly. Henry emphasized the council's commitment to preserving native habitats and expressed a desire for community input as plans develop.

Gloria Galindo, another speaker, echoed the call for local involvement, stating that the community deserves a formal seat at the table in discussions about the Convention Center's future. She highlighted the economic impact of birding tourism and urged the council to recognize the importance of local voices in the planning process.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to improve communication and collaboration with the community. They acknowledged past shortcomings and expressed a willingness to incorporate feedback into future plans. The council aims to ensure that the Convention Center remains a vital asset for both the local community and the diverse bird populations that inhabit the area.