Eddie Lopez
Eddie Lopez

Imperial County Extends Application Deadline for Data Center Advisory Committee

The Imperial County Board of Supervisors has extended the application deadline for individuals interested in serving on the Data Center Advisory Committee.

The committee will provide input and recommendations to the Board regarding potential land use and zoning options related to data center development within the unincorporated areas of Imperial County. The committee will serve in an advisory capacity, with all final policy and land use decisions remaining with the Board of Supervisors.

The Data Center Advisory Committee will consist of 19 members representing a variety of local agencies, sectors, and community perspectives, including local government, community interests, environmental expertise, organized labor, healthcare, education, nonprofit organizations, business, and the energy industry sector. Individuals interested in applying may request an application through the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by visiting 940 W. Main Street, Suite 209, El Centro, CA, or by calling 442-265-1020.Applications may also be obtained through the Clerk of the Board’s website.

Completed applications must now be submitted to the Clerk of the Board’s Office no later than 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026. Applications may also be submitted by email to cynthiamedina@co.imperial.ca.us.

For additional information, please contact the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors at 442-265-1020

Data Center Committee Application

Imperial County Reminds Residents to Celebrate Safely and Follow Fireworks Regulations

Imperial County Reminds Residents to Celebrate Safely and Follow Fireworks Regulations

As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, the County of Imperial encourages residents and visitors to celebrate safely and responsibly by following local fireworks regulations and avoiding the use of illegal fireworks.

The Imperial County Fire Department and Office of Emergency Services remind the public that the sale and use of “Safe and Sane” fireworks are prohibited in the unincorporated areas of Imperial County, including Bombay Beach, Heber, Niland, Ocotillo, Palo Verde, Salton City, Seeley, and Winterhaven.

Under County of Imperial Ordinance 8.24, no person may possess, offer for sale, sell, use, or display fireworks of any kind within the unincorporated territory of Imperial County. Violations may result in a fine of up to $1,000, up to six months in jail, or both.

The sale and use of “Safe and Sane” fireworks may be allowed within incorporated cities, including Brawley, Calipatria, Calexico, El Centro, Holtville, Imperial, and Westmorland. Residents are encouraged to check with their city for local fireworks ordinances before purchasing or using fireworks.

The County also reminds residents and visitors, especially those living or celebrating within a 5-mile radius of the Imperial County Airport, to avoid using illegal fireworks or pyrotechnics near the airport. Illegal fireworks can disrupt airport operations, create dangerous conditions for pilots and passengers, and put the community at risk.

Illegal fireworks in California include any fireworks that explode, rise into the air, move along the ground, or are not approved and labeled “Safe and Sane” by the California State Fire Marshal.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a professional show. The County encourages everyone to celebrate responsibly, follow local regulations, and help keep neighborhoods, families, and skies safe this Fourth of July holiday.

Fireworks Safety Social Media Toolkit

Help us keep Imperial County safe this Fourth of July. Download and share these fireworks safety graphics with your family, friends, neighbors, and community networks. Together, we can remind residents to follow local fireworks regulations, avoid illegal fireworks, protect children and pets, and choose safer ways to celebrate.

Choose a Professional Show

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The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a professional show.

Fireworks are not safe in the hands of consumers and can cause thousands of injuries each year. Celebrate responsibly by choosing safer activities such as professional fireworks shows, drone shows, BBQs, glow sticks, music, or light shows.

This Fourth of July, enjoy the celebration while keeping your family, pets, neighbors, and community safe.

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La forma más segura de disfrutar los fuegos artificiales es asistiendo a un espectáculo profesional.

Los fuegos artificiales no son seguros en manos de consumidores y pueden causar miles de lesiones cada año. Celebre de manera responsable eligiendo actividades más seguras como espectáculos profesionales, espectáculos de drones, parrilladas, pulseras luminosas, música o espectáculos de luces.

Este 4 de Julio, disfrute la celebración mientras

protege a su familia, mascotas, vecinos y comunidad.

How Hot Does a Sparkler Burn?

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Sparklers may look harmless, but they can burn up to 1,200°F.

That is hot enough to cause serious burns, especially for young children. Never allow small children to handle sparklers or fireworks, and always keep a safe distance from anything that burns, sparks, or explodes.

This Fourth of July, celebrate safely and help prevent injuries.

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Las bengalas pueden parecer inofensivas, pero pueden arder hasta aproximadamente 1,000°C.

Esa temperatura puede causar quemaduras graves, especialmente en niños pequeños. Nunca permita que los niños pequeños manipulen bengalas o fuegos artificiales, y mantenga siempre una distancia segura de cualquier artículo que queme, produzca chispas o explote.

Este 4 de Julio, celebre de manera segura y ayude a prevenir lesiones.

6 Quick Tips for a Safe 4th of July

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Celebrate safely this Fourth of July by following a few simple fireworks safety tips.

Know the law, use fireworks responsibly where permitted, keep children at a safe distance, respect pets and neighbors, and report illegal fireworks to your local non-emergency number. Call 911 for injuries, fires, or emergencies.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by attending a professional show.

Have a safe and happy 4th of July!

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Celebre de manera segura este 4 de Julio siguiendo algunos consejos importantes sobre el uso de fuegos artificiales.

Conozca la ley, use fuegos artificiales de manera responsable donde estén permitidos, mantenga a los niños a una distancia segura, respete a las mascotas y vecinos, y reporte el uso ilegal de fuegos artificiales al número local que no sea de emergencia. Llame al 911 en caso de lesiones, incendios o emergencias.

La forma más segura de disfrutar los fuegos artificiales es asistiendo a un espectáculo profesional.

¡Que tengan un seguro y feliz 4 de Julio!

Imperial County Sheriff’s Office Launches New Smartphone App to Better Connect with Residents and Visitors

Imperial County, CA – The Imperial County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the launch of its new smartphone application, providing residents, visitors, and community members with a convenient and accessible way to stay connected with the Sheriff’s Office directly from their mobile devices.

The new app is designed to serve as an additional communication tool for the Sheriff’s Office, offering quick access to public safety information, important updates, resources, and services. Through the app, users can access features such as contact information, notification history, tip submission, forms, recruitment information, corrections and jail resources, concealed carry weapon information, sex offender information, and other public safety-related services.

“This app gives our office another valuable tool to connect with the community and share information in a timely and accessible way,” said Imperial County Sheriff Fred Miramontes. “We are always looking for ways to improve communication, increase transparency, and better serve the residents and visitors of Imperial County.”

The Imperial County Sheriff’s Office app was developed by TheSheriffApp.com, a brand of OCV, LLC., which specializes in mobile app development for sheriffs’ offices and public safety organizations across the country. The app was created to provide a user-friendly platform that helps public safety agencies share information quickly, efficiently, and directly with the public.

“Over 80 percent of people in the United States own and use smartphones as their primary means of communication,” said Kevin Cummings, OCV Partner and Chief Revenue Officer. “Mobile apps offer agencies a better way to alert, inform and prepare the public. Apps allow public safety agencies the ability to reach and serve their citizens where they are: their smartphones.”

As part of the launch, the Sheriff’s Office has also released a companion promotional flyer with a QR code to make downloading the app easier for the public. The flyer highlights the app’s availability, provides a preview of the app interface, and directs users to download it from the App Store or Google Play.

The app is available to download for free by searching “Imperial County Sheriff, CA” in the App Store or Google Play. Residents and visitors are encouraged to download the app to stay informed, access Sheriff’s Office resources, and receive public safety information from the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office.

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Imperial County Invites Applicants to Serve on Data Center Advisory Committee

The Imperial County Board of Supervisors is seeking interested individuals to serve on the Data Center Advisory Committee.

The committee will provide input and recommendations to the Board regarding potential land use and zoning options related to data center development within the unincorporated areas of Imperial County. The committee will serve in an advisory capacity, with all final policy and land use decisions remaining with the Board of Supervisors.

The Data Center Advisory Committee will consist of 19 members, representing a variety of local agencies, sectors, and community perspectives. Committee membership will include:

  • Two members of the Board of Supervisors;
  • Seven members appointed by the incorporated cities within Imperial County, with each city having one appointment;
  • One representative from local government that is not an incorporated city;
  • Two representatives of community interests;
  • One representative with an environmental background or expertise;
  • One representative from organized labor;
  • One representative from the healthcare community;
  • One representative from the education community;
  • One representative from a nonprofit organization;
  • One representative from the business community; and
  • One representative from the energy industry sector.

Individuals interested in applying may request an application through the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by visiting 940 W. Main Street, Suite 209, El Centro, CA, or by calling 442-265-1020. Applications may also be obtained through the Clerk of the Board’s website.

Advisory Board Application

Completed applications must be submitted to the Clerk of the Board’s Office no later than 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026. Applications may also be submitted by email to cynthiamedina@co.imperial.ca.us.

For additional information, please contact the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors at 442-265-1020.

Imperial County Leaders Advocate for Infrastructure, Border Improvements, and Economic Opportunity During Washington, DC Visit

Imperial County Leaders Advocate for Infrastructure, Border Improvements, and Economic Opportunity During Washington, DC Visit

June 15, 2026

El Centro, CA. – Members of the Imperial County Board of Supervisors, Chairwoman Peggy Price, Supervisor Jesus Escobar, Supervisor Ryan Kelley and Supervisor John Hawk, accompanied by County Executive Officer Dr. Kathleen Lang and Assistant County Executive Officer Bari Bean, recently traveled to Washington, DC to advocate for regional priorities and participate in the Benchmarks Conference, an international gathering focused on critical minerals and battery supply chains. 

The trip provided an opportunity for County leaders to engage directly with federal officials, congressional representatives, industry stakeholders, and communities across the country to advance initiatives that support economic growth, improve quality of life for residents, and position Imperial County as a leader in America’s emerging clean energy economy. 

Among the delegation’s priorities was addressing border wait times at the Calexico East Port of Entry. County officials met with Mary Hyland, Deputy Executive Director for the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs at U.S. Customs and Border Protection Headquarters, to discuss the impacts that extended wait times have on Imperial Valley workers, businesses, and families. The delegation explored opportunities to expand services and staffing during peak morning hours to help reduce delays for those who cross the border each day for employment and commerce. 

County leaders also met with Senator Alex Padilla, Senator Adam Schiff, and Congressman Raul Ruiz to discuss federal funding opportunities that support Imperial County’s most pressing needs. Conversations focused on infrastructure investments necessary to sustain safety and security, quality of roads and accessibility, economic growth, strengthen regional connectivity, and support community priorities. The delegation also highlighted the importance of continued support for veterans services, while emphasizing the transformative potential of Lithium Valley to create jobs and strengthen domestic supply chains. 

As part of the County’s ongoing efforts to advance clean energy opportunities, the delegation met with leadership from the Bureau of Land Management, including Deputy Director Bill Groffy, to discuss geothermal development and critical minerals throughout the region. With approximately 64 percent of Imperial County under federal ownership, collaboration with federal agencies is essential to realizing the area’s full economic potential. 

County representatives emphasized that Imperial County possesses unique assets capable of supporting national priorities related to energy independence and supply chain security. Through responsible geothermal development and domestic lithium production, the region has the potential to create high-quality jobs while strengthening America’s access to critical minerals needed for advanced technologies. 

The delegation also attended the Benchmarks Conference, where they engaged with international leaders, investors, and industry representatives focused on developing resilient battery supply chains. Imperial County’s participation provided an opportunity to discuss the region’s abundant geothermal resources, significant lithium reserves, strategic location, and commitment to workforce development. 

As part of the Washington, DC trip, members of the delegation also visited Loudoun County, Virginia, home to one of the world’s largest concentrations of data centers, to observe firsthand how a historically rural community has evolved alongside this rapidly growing industry. 

The visit was intended to support informed decision-making as Imperial County continues to evaluate emerging industries and their potential impacts on local communities. As part of the County’s ongoing due diligence related to data center development, delegation members toured the area, observed how data centers have been integrated into the broader community, and spoke with residents about their experiences living in a region shaped by significant digital infrastructure investment. The visit represents one of several efforts by the County to gather information, examine best practices, and better understand both the opportunities and challenges associated with this evolving sector. 

Loudoun County maintains one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation at approximately 2.5 percent and continues to sustain a strong agricultural sector, with more than 800 farms, 40 wineries, and roughly 180,000 acres of farmland in production. Although many know Loudoun County as “Data Center Alley”, they have been diligent in balancing agriculture with technology sectors using policies such as their Rural Policy Area (RPA), which encompasses approximately 60% of Loudoun County and is intended to preserve agriculture, open space, historic landscapes, and their rural economy. Their County’s General Fund revenues exceed $2.3 billion annually, with approximately 38% generated through data center-related tax revenues that help support schools, public safety, parks, libraries, transportation improvements, and other essential community services.  

For Imperial County, where unemployment rates have historically remained among the highest in California and local governments face ongoing fiscal constraints, understanding how communities have leveraged emerging industries to expand economic opportunity and strengthen public services is an important part of evaluating future development pathways. The experience illustrated how communities can preserve traditional industries and neighborhoods while accommodating emerging sectors through thoughtful planning and clear community priorities. 

The tour provided Imperial County Supervisors with an opportunity to better understand both the opportunities and challenges associated with data center development. As discussions continue locally, the County hopes to explore opportunities for interested residents to visit Loudoun County, hear directly from those who live and work there, and develop their own informed perspectives through firsthand experience. 

“Imperial County continues to demonstrate that our region can play a leading role in advancing national energy and economic priorities while creating meaningful opportunities for our residents,” said Chairwoman Peggy Price. “These conversations in Washington and beyond help ensure that Imperial County’s voice is represented as important decisions are made, while also allowing us to learn from other communities as we thoughtfully plan for our own future.” 

The County remains committed to advocating for the resources, partnerships, and investments necessary to improve the quality of life for residents while advancing a future built on agriculture, innovation, energy leadership, and economic opportunity. Imperial County looks forward to continued collaboration with federal, state, local, and private-sector partners to address shared challenges, unlock new opportunities, and ensure that the benefits of future growth are realized by the communities we serve. 

Imperial County Planning & Development Services Launches New Online Permitting Portal

Imperial County Planning & Development Services to Launch New Online Permitting Portal

The Imperial County Planning and Development Services Department has launched Civic Access, a new online permitting platform designed to make the application process more convenient, accessible, and efficient for the public.

Applicants can now use Civic Access to submit building permit and planning applications, track application status, pay fees securely, and request permit inspections online.

All active permits have been transferred into the new system with their current project number and information. While use of the online platform is highly encouraged, physical applications will continue to be accepted.

Civic Access provides applicants with 24/7 digital access to permitting services and real-time updates throughout the permit process.

Online Permitting Portal

A recorded training session on how to use the Civic Access portal is available here:

For questions or additional assistance, please contact the Imperial County Planning and Development Services Department.

Imperial County Highlights (May 2026)

A Message from the Chair

Chairwoman

Peggy Price

This month’s Sunshine Moments remind us that meaningful progress comes in many forms, from improving roads and expanding access to services, to celebrating professional excellence, strengthening emergency preparedness, and even helping a beloved pet find his forever home.

One of the most heartwarming stories this month was Kielbasa’s journey from the Board Meeting to a forever home. Just days after being featured as our Pet of the Month, Kielbasa was adopted, reminding us of the power of community visibility, compassion, and partnership. Stories like his reflect the heart of Imperial County and the difference we can make when we come together.

We are also proud to recognize the many accomplishments highlighted this month, including Dr. Bushra Ahmad’s distinguished recognition in psychiatry, the continued success of the CalWORKs Welfare-to-Work VITA Program, the renovation of the Calipatria Library Branch, regional emergency preparedness efforts, roadway improvements in the Imperial Townsite, and the ongoing transformation of community behavioral health services through Imperial County Behavioral Health Services.

On behalf of the Board of Supervisors, thank you to our County departments, community partners, employees, and residents who continue to move Imperial County forward. These moments reflect our shared commitment to service, progress, and the well-being of our communities.

From Board Meeting to Forever Home

Empty heading

Within just a couple of days of being featured at the Board of Supervisors meeting as our Pet of the Month, Kielbasa found his forever home! His adorable lowrider legs, playful personality, and sweet love for belly rubs quickly won over everyone who met him. We are so happy to share that this lovable pup has been adopted, and we wish Kielbasa and his new family all the best as they begin this exciting new chapter together.

Adopt a pet

March’s Sunshine Moments

Behavioral Health Services

Recognizing Excellence in Psychiatry: Dr. Bushra Ahmad

We would like to recognize Dr. Bushra Ahmad, Medical Director for Imperial County Behavioral Health Services, for being named a Distinguished Fellow by the American Psychiatric Association. This prestigious recognition honors Dr. Ahmad’s significant contributions to the field of psychiatry and reflects the highest level of professional excellence and dedication to behavioral health. Congratulations to Dr. Ahmad on this well-deserved achievement and for representing ICBHS and Imperial County with distinction.

Social Services

ICDSS CalWORKs Welfare-to-Work VITA Program

The Imperial County Department of Social Services is proud to recognize the continued success of the CalWORKs Welfare-to-Work Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, which completed its 24th year of providing free tax preparation services to families across Imperial County.

Through a strong partnership between ICDSS, IVROP, and the IRS SPEC program, free federal and state tax preparation services were offered in Calexico, El Centro, and Brawley. During the 2025 filing season, the program served 148 families, helping generate $580,804 in total tax refunds and saving participants an estimated $32,560 in tax preparation fees.

These refunds provide more than a financial boost, they help families cover essential needs such as housing, utilities, food, clothing, and debt reduction. By removing the cost of tax preparation and helping families access earned tax credits, the VITA Program supports financial stability, encourages workforce participation, and brings valuable dollars back into the local economy.

This Sunshine Moment highlights the meaningful impact of collaboration, service, and community-centered support in helping Imperial County families move toward greater self-sufficiency.

County Library – Calipatria

Imperial County Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for Renovated Calipatria Library Branch

The County of Imperial celebrated the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Imperial County Library Calipatria Branch on Thursday, May 15, marking a meaningful investment in education, literacy, and community access for residents of Calipatria and the surrounding northern Imperial County region.

The renovated branch represents more than an improvement to a public facility. It reflects the County’s continued commitment to creating welcoming spaces where children, students, families, seniors, and lifelong learners can gather, explore, and connect with resources that support personal growth and opportunity. From access to books and technology to programs that encourage learning and community engagement, the Calipatria Branch will continue serving as an important resource for generations to come.

Read full press release

Public Health

Strengthening Emergency Preparedness Across Imperial County

The Imperial County Public Health Department’s Emergency Medical Services Section, in collaboration with local healthcare, emergency response, fire service, law enforcement, education, and community partners, recently coordinated a full-scale emergency preparedness exercise to strengthen regional response efforts throughout Imperial County. The exercise simulated a mass chemical exposure incident and provided participating agencies with an opportunity to test emergency response systems, operational communication, patient management coordination, and interagency collaboration in a realistic training environment. Exercises like this play an important role in helping local agencies prepare for emergencies, improve coordination, and identify opportunities for continued training and improvement. This Sunshine Moment highlights the dedication of Imperial County’s emergency response partners and their shared commitment to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of our communities.

Transforming Community Behavioral Health

Imperial County Behavioral Health Services continues to make meaningful strides in transforming community behavioral health through expanded access, innovative programs, and a strong commitment to meeting residents where they are. This work reflects the County’s dedication to improving mental health and substance use services, strengthening community partnerships, and creating a more responsive system of care for individuals and families across Imperial County.

Imperial County Celebrates Completion of Heber Townsite Improvements Phase II Paving Project

Imperial County Celebrates Completion of Heber Townsite Improvements Phase II Paving Project

June 12, 2026

Heber, CA. — The County of Imperial, in partnership with the Assembly Bill (AB) 617 Community Steering Committee of the Calexico-Heber-El Centro Corridor and the Imperial County Air Pollution Control District, celebrated the completion of the Heber Townsite Improvements Phase II Paving Project with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.

Held at the intersection of 7th Street and Heffernan Avenue, the ceremony marked an important milestone for the Heber community and the continued effort to invest in projects that support cleaner air, safer streets, and improved quality of life for residents.

The Imperial County Department of Public Works was awarded $2,435,574.94 for the paving of approximately 56,440 square feet of unpaved roadway shoulders north of State Route 86 between Heber Avenue and Heffernan Avenue. The project was designed to reduce fugitive dust emissions caused by vehicle use of unpaved roadway shoulders, while also bringing new sidewalks to the area to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility.

For the community of Heber, the project represents more than a roadway improvement. It reflects years of collaboration, community input, and a shared commitment to addressing local air quality concerns while creating safer routes for families, students, pedestrians, and commuters.

“This project is a meaningful investment in Heber’s health, safety, and quality of life,” said Imperial County Board of Supervisors District 2 Supervisor Martha Cardenas-Singh. “By improving these roadways and adding sidewalks, we are helping create cleaner, safer, and more accessible streets for the families who live here.”

The ribbon cutting program included welcoming remarks from Supervisor Cardenas-Singh, followed by remarks from Juan Cruz, Superintendent of Heber Elementary School District; Delfine P. Matus, Vice President of the Heber Public Utility District; Diana Garcia-Ruiz, AB 617 Calexico-Heber-El Centro Community Steering Committee Member; and Belen Leon-Lopez, Imperial County Air Pollution Control Officer.

The County of Imperial extends its appreciation to the Imperial County Department of Public Works, the Imperial County Air Pollution Control District, the AB 617 Community Steering Committee, local partners, and the residents of Heber for their continued support and collaboration in bringing this project to completion.

The Heber Townsite Improvements Phase II Paving Project is part of ongoing efforts to improve air quality and infrastructure within the Calexico-Heber-El Centro Corridor, with a focus on reducing emissions, increasing safety, and supporting healthier communities.

For more information, please contact Ismael Garcia, Project Manager with the Imperial County Air Pollution Control District, at (442) 265-1800.

Imperial County Registrar of Voters Reminds Voters to Cure Unsigned or Mismatched Ballots

El Centro, CA – The Imperial County Registrar of Voters is reminding voters that if their vote-by-mail ballot envelope was returned without a signature or if the signature on the envelope does not match the voter’s signature on file, they still have an opportunity to ensure their vote is counted.

California law provides voters the opportunity to “cure” their ballot by completing and returning the appropriate form to verify their identity. The curing process helps protect election integrity while ensuring that eligible voters have every opportunity to participate in the electoral process.

Voters whose ballots require curing will be notified by mail and may also be contacted by phone, email, or text message if that information is available. Voters are encouraged to respond as soon as possible to avoid missing the June 24, 2026 deadline.

To cure a ballot, voters must complete and submit the Challenged Ballot form. If your ballot was challenged, you should receive a letter in the mail. Copies may also be obtained at the Registrar of Voters’ website – www.elections.imperialcounty.org. Completed forms may be returned by mail, email, fax, or in person to the Imperial County Registrar of Voters Office.

The deadline for voters to cure their ballot is June 24, 2026.

Voters can check the status of their ballot through California’s BallotTrax system at www.wheresmyballot.com or by contacting the Imperial County Registrar of Voters Office.

For additional information or assistance, please contact:

Imperial County Registrar of Voters
940 Main Street, Suite 206
El Centro, CA 92243
(442) 265-1060
VoterSupport@co.imperial.ca.us

The Registrar of Voters encourages all voters to verify that their ballot has been received and counted. Every eligible vote matters, and curing a ballot is a simple process that helps ensure every voter’s voice is heard.

Imperial County Encourages Residents to Apply for the Civil Grand Jury

Imperial County, CA — Residents interested in serving their community are encouraged to apply for the 2026–2027 Civil Grand Jury. The application deadline has been extended to June 10, 2026.

The Civil Grand Jury provides an opportunity for community members to review and report on local government operations and make recommendations that support transparency, accountability, and public service.

Civil Grand Jurors serve for one year and may be eligible for benefits including excusal from regular jury service for two years following service, daily pay for meetings or site visits, and mileage reimbursement.

Interested residents may apply online by visiting: imperial.courts.ca.gov/general-information/grand-jury

Residents may also scan the QR code on the Civil Grand Jury flyer for direct access to application information.

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