Imperial County, CA – May 12, 2026 – The Imperial County Board of Supervisors voted today during its regular Board meeting to adopt the Lithium Valley Construction Workforce Ordinance, establishing workforce, hiring, and labor standards for specified land uses within the proposed Lithium Valley Specific Plan Area.
The ordinance received its first reading by title only on May 5, 2026, followed by the second reading and adoption on May 12, 2026.
The ordinance promotes high-quality construction jobs, strengthen local workforce participation, support apprenticeship utilization and workforce training, and encourage local hiring and subcontracting opportunities associated with specific land uses in the Lithium Valley Specific Plan Area.
The Board Chambers saw strong attendance from local union workers and labor representatives in support of the ordinance, reflecting significant community interest in ensuring local residents benefit from emerging economic opportunities.
Also in attendance were Chris Hannan, President of the State Building and Construction Trades Council of California, and Danny Machain, Assistant Business Manager for IBEW Local 569 and California State Building Trades Imperial County Business Manager, who joined local labor organizations, trades representatives, and community members in support of the ordinance.
“This ordinance builds pathways to long-term careers, workforce development, and economic mobility for local families, not just for today, but for generations to come,” said Peggy Price, Chairwoman of the Imperial County Board of Supervisors. “Today’s action prioritizes our residents, strengthens workforce development, and positions Imperial County to lead as we create a vibrant and prosperous future.”
The ordinance establishes requirements for covered projects to submit workforce plans addressing local hiring efforts, apprenticeship utilization, and workforce implementation strategies. The ordinance also encourages opportunities for local subcontractors and small businesses to participate in Imperial County’s future.
In addition, the ordinance supports career pathways for local workers, including apprentices and individuals from disadvantaged communities, helping expand access to middle-wage jobs and long-term economic opportunity within Imperial County.
“The State Building and Construction Trades Council is proud to support the Imperial County Building Trades, and the work they have done with the County on this Construction Workforce Ordinance. This Ordinance will provide career opportunities for Imperial residents, centered around safety and quality. The apprenticeship requirements are opportunities to learn skills not just for the first projects located in Lithium Valley, but for lifelong careers with outstanding wages and benefits. The reporting requirements and strong compliance, will provide the local community and workers with the information needed to maintain confidence,” said Chris Hannan, President of the State Building and Construction Trades Council of California.
For more information regarding the Lithium Valley Construction Workforce Ordinance, please contact the Imperial County Executive Office.
