Eddie Lopez

Imperial County, CA – Imperial County Behavioral Health Services (ICBHS) Director Leticia Plancarte-Garcia, joined by other ICBHS leaders, participated in an international conference held in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico from Oct. 22 -24 focused on improving quality of care and access to substance use disorder treatment.

The annual conference was organized by the International Congress on Mental Health, Addiction, and Counseling. Joining Plancarte-Garcia were ICBHS Assistant Director Grabriela Jimenez and Deputy Director Jose Lepe.

Jimenez and Lepe presented on ICBHS’ efforts to expand behavioral health services in Imperial County, in particular in the area of substance use disorder care, and highlighted facility developments occurring in the county that will benefit both youth and adult services.

Plancarte-Garcia said the sharing of ideas was an important step toward building an international alliance to address substance use treatment, in particular given the unique characteristics of Imperial County as a border region.

“The conference brought all the Latin American countries together to share their knowledge and resources on what each of the countries is doing to improve the system of care for those dealing with a substance use disorder,” she said. “It showed how every country is working together to improve the quality of care they are providing.”

The conference was attended by professionals, institutional leaders, treatment providers and specialists from Mexico, the United States, Colombia, Costa Rica, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina to exchange experiences and strengthen collaboration in the fields of mental health, addictions, counseling, therapeutic communities and recovery.

Addressed were issues such as new emerging substances, residential care and treatment, human rights, and humanitarian approaches to address substance use disorder through collaboration with an eye toward breaking down stigmas and treating those in need of help without judgement.

In the invite to ICBHS, it stated, “Given your leadership at Imperial County Behavioral Health Services and the important work being carried out in behavioral health in the California—Mexico border region, we would be honored to welcome you as a special guest” to the conference.

The invite further stated, “We believe your participation would represent an important opportunity to strengthen dialogue and future collaboration between professionals and institutions working in behavioral health on both sides of the border.”

Lepe said the Latin American representatives expressed interest in learning from the steps ICBHS has taken to provide behavioral health services with a focus on substance use disorder care in a region located on the border where clients may have connections to both the United States and Mexico.

“There was high interest in learning about our staffing and training requirements and our experience in providing a continuum of care based on the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM)” he said, adding those in attendance wanted to learn how ICBHS trains its substance use disorder counselors and staff and about evidence-based models used in treatment.

Plancarte-Garcia added, “Addiction doesn’t just stop at the border. This is a problem throughout the world, so we are coming together to see how we can work in collaboration to solve this problem.”

As part of ICBHS’ presentation, Lepe and Jimenez shared how Imperial County is expanding its facilities for mental care thanks to $52 million in state grant funding under the Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP).

That funding is being used to upgrade the children’s clinic, the triage and engagement facility, to build a new adult residential substance use disorder facility and to renovate the old Brawley courthouse into a new clinic for mental health and substance use disorder treatment.

In sharing these facility improvements and how ICBHS manages care, Lepe said, “We wanted to highlight how we provide services, integrate services and the steps we are taking to expand our infrastructure, knowing that we serve an area that is largely Hispanic, rural and without access to a lot of resources.”

Plancarte-Garcia said moving forward, there will be an ongoing need for collaboration to address mental health and specifically substance use disorder treatment, and ICBHS is prepared to work together with the international community to ensure there continues to be access to proper care and treatment both in Imperial County and across the border. ###

The County of Imperial, through its Public Works and Purchasing Departments, invites residents to attend its upcoming Surplus Sale on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

The sale will feature a variety of surplus office furniture and equipment, including chairs, tables, desks, filing cabinets, shelving units, and more, with prices ranging from 25¢ to $20.

Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2026
• Time: 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
• Location: 134 Hospital Loop, El Centro, CA 92243
• Entrance: Near the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office (rear entrance)
• Payment: Cash only
• Sale Policy: All sales are final

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to purchase surplus items at affordable prices. Items will be available while supplies last.

For additional information, please contact the Imperial County Public Works Department at 442-265-1824.

Dear Chairman Scott and Members of the Kw’tsàn Cultural Committee:

Thank you for your letter and for sharing your concerns regarding Supervisor John Hawk’s remarks. We recognize the disappointment these comments have caused and understand the impact they have had on the trust and relationships we have been working to build with the Quechan community.

On behalf of Imperial County, we sincerely apologize. We do not condone this language, and we recognize that it does not reflect the respect and consideration every community deserves from its elected leaders. We acknowledge the rich history, culture, and enduring contributions of the Quechan people, as well as the Tribe’s longstanding connection to its ancestral homelands. The concerns you have raised deserve to be heard and addressed with respect.

We acknowledge Supervisor Hawk for publicly apologizing and recognizing the impact of his remarks. While an apology is an important step, we recognize that rebuilding trust requires continued effort, accountability, and meaningful action. This is an important opportunity for all of us to reflect on the words we use, how they affect others, and our shared responsibility to foster respectful and inclusive communication.

Imperial County values its relationship with the Quechan Indian Tribe and recognizes the importance of strengthening communication and collaboration moving forward. We are committed to taking steps to improve how we engage with Tribal leadership and community representatives, particularly on issues affecting residents, Tribal interests, and ancestral lands. This includes taking steps to activate the Winterhaven Community Advisory Committee as a forum for ongoing communication, identifying community priorities, and working collaboratively toward solutions. We also ask the Tribe to designate a Tribal liaison to serve as a primary point of contact, helping facilitate consistent communication, coordinate discussions, and ensure concerns are brought forward and addressed in a timely manner.

We also want to provide an update on the bridge concerns that brought community members forward. According to the Imperial County Public Works Department, three bridges in the Winterhaven area are impacting residents: Arnold Bridge Road, Indian Rock Bridge, and Picacho Road Bridge. We recognize that these crossings are important to the community and that reliable access is essential to residents’ daily lives.

The County is pleased to report that both Arnold Bridge Road and Indian Rock Bridge are on schedule for repairs within the next two months. We understand the importance of addressing these needs and appreciate the community’s patience as this work moves forward.

The Picacho Road Bridge presents a more significant challenge. More than 100 years old, the bridge requires substantial investment to replace. The estimated cost of the project is approximately $8 million, making outside funding essential to moving the project forward. The County has applied for two grants, and both funding efforts are moving in a positive direction. In addition, we have reached out to our Assemblymember to seek support for this critical infrastructure project. Based on the current project schedule, the County anticipates completion of the Picacho Road Bridge replacement within approximately two years.

We recognize that these projects directly affect Winterhaven residents and that timely, transparent communication about progress is essential. We are committed to providing updates as repairs advance, funding decisions are made, and the Picacho Road Bridge replacement progresses. We welcome collaborative dialogue with Tribal representatives and affected residents to ensure that community concerns are heard, the committee is included in decisions and that information is shared consistently.

We also recognize the Kw’tsàn Cultural Committee’s continued advocacy for the protection of Quechan ancestral homelands and the lands, waters, plants, animals, and cultural places that are central to the Tribe’s identity and future generations. We understand the importance of the Protect Kw’tsàn Campaign and the Tribe’s efforts to preserve these resources and pass this cultural heritage on to its youth.

We welcome continued discussion regarding opportunities for collaboration and how the County can engage constructively with the Tribe on these important matters.

We hear your call for relationships built on mutual respect, meaningful inclusion, and accountability. Moving forward, our goal is to create opportunities for more consistent communication, engage the Tribe early on matters that may affect its community and ancestral homelands, and work together to address concerns before they become barriers to progress. We understand that trust is earned through actions over time, and we are committed to doing our part. We look forward to meeting with the Tribal leadership and Cultural Committee.

Thank you for bringing these concerns directly to us and for your continued commitment to the Quechan people and the broader community. We look forward to continued dialogue with Tribal leadership and the Kw’tsàn Cultural Committee and to taking meaningful steps toward a stronger, more respectful, and collaborative relationship.

Sincerely,
Peggy Price
Chairwoman
Imperial County Board of Supervisors

The County of Imperial advises residents that select County departments and offices will be closed or operate under modified hours on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, as County employees participate in the Annual Imperial County Employees Health and Benefits Fair.

Department/Office	Closure Hours:
Airport Administration Office	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Air Pollution Control District	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Budget & Finance	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Child Protective Services	9:00 am – 1:00 pm Lobby will remain open for those wishing to make a child support payment at the kiosk.
Clerk of the Board	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Clerk/Recorder	Please be advised that wait times for services may be a little longer than expected.
County Counsel	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
District Attorney	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Elections	11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Employee Retirement	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Human Resources & Risk Management	8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Planning & Development Service	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Public Health	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Public Works	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Purchasing	9:00 am – 1:00 pm Centralized mail will be run as usual.
Social Services In Home Supportive Services, Adult Protective Services and Public Authority Transitional Services and Administration Child Protective Services Brawley One Stop Calexico One Stop – Welfare to Work	9:45 am – 1:00 pm
Treasurer Tax-Collector	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
UC Cooperative Extension	9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Workforce Development	9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Residents planning to visit any of the affected offices are encouraged to plan accordingly and conduct time-sensitive business before or after the scheduled closures.

County offices not listed above are expected to maintain regular business hours.

The County of Imperial appreciates the public’s understanding as employees participate in this annual event focused on employee health, wellness, and benefits. For additional information about County departments and services, please visit www.imperialcounty.org.

El Centro, CA – The Imperial County Board of Supervisors took action during its October 20, 2026 meeting following a discussion regarding the status of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026–2027 tax levy and tax-roll process, as well as the County’s draft FY 2024–2025 audit and financial statements.

The discussion, presented by County Executive Officer Dr. Kathleen Lang, focused on the County’s financial reporting responsibilities, property tax administration, and ongoing efforts to ensure transparency, accountability, and appropriate oversight of public resources.

As part of the discussion, the Board reviewed the FY 2026–2027 property tax levy process, which includes establishing applicable tax rates for secured property throughout Imperial County, including rates associated with voter-approved school district and special district bonds.

According to supporting financial materials, the FY 2026–2027 property tax projections identify approximately $178.6 million in gross revenue from secured property taxes and $24.1 million from unsecured property taxes. These figures represent countywide revenue projections and do not reflect funds exclusively available to the County’s General Fund.

The Board also reviewed the status of the County’s draft FY 2024–2025 audit and financial statements, which serve as important components of the County’s annual financial reporting and accountability responsibilities.

Following the presentation, the Board of Supervisors directed the Imperial County Auditor-Controller’s Office, to complete the necessary work related to the tax levy and financial reporting matters by October 27, 2026, and return to the Board for consideration and approval.

The County of Imperial remains committed to responsible financial management, timely reporting, and transparency in the administration of public funds. Continued oversight and coordination among County departments will support efforts to maintain accurate financial records and fulfill applicable reporting obligations.

Additional information and updates will be provided as the County continues to address these matters.

Imperial County, CA – The Imperial County Registrar of Voters’ Office is aware that some voters have received more than one ballot for the November 3, 2026, General Election.

Due to a mailing error, approximately 160 voters with confidential voter status were sent an additional ballot, even though they had already been included in the original ballot mailing.

The error occurred as the Registrar of Voters’ Office was updating its procedures to follow changes in California law. Beginning January 1, 2026, elected officials and candidates for public office became eligible for confidential voter status, requiring changes to how their ballots are processed and mailed.

“We understand that receiving more than one ballot may cause confusion, and we take that concern seriously. Although this mailing error affected approximately 160 confidential voters, our commitment to conducting a secure and accurate election remains unchanged,” said Registrar of Voters Linsey Dale.

Why might someone receive more than one ballot?

There are other situations where a voter may receive an additional ballot. For example, this can happen when someone updates their voter registration information or when the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) sends updated information close to Election Day.

The Registrar of Voters’ Office prepares its ballot mailing lists about eight weeks before an election. If a voter’s information changes after those lists are prepared, another ballot may be mailed to reflect the updated information.

Can someone vote more than once?

No. Receiving two ballots does not mean a person can vote twice.

“We have safeguards in place to ensure that only one ballot is accepted and counted for each eligible voter in accordance with California law.” Linsey Dale added. 

Voting more than once in the same election is illegal and may result in criminal penalties.

What should voters do if they receive two ballots?

Voters who receive more than one ballot or have questions about their ballot are encouraged to contact the Registrar of Voters’ Office for assistance via Phone: 442-265-1060.

The Registrar of Voters’ Office remains committed to providing a secure, accurate, and transparent election process for all Imperial County voters.

El Centro, CA – The County of Imperial today proclaimed a local emergency throughout Imperial County because Tropical Storm Rachael is forecast to bring high winds and rain to the County on Sunday, October 11, 2026.

The storm is expected to pose risks to people and property and damage infrastructure, including power, water, transportation, and commercial and residential structures. Anticipated impacts are beyond the control of local resources, services, personnel, and equipment.

The proclamation was issued under California Government Code section 8630 and Imperial County Codified Ordinance No. 2.104.060. A copy has been filed with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. The proclamation will be submitted to the Board of Supervisors for ratification within seven days.

Sandbags
Sand and Sandbags are available at all stations on a self-serve basis. For faster service, residents should bring a shovel if they can. Residents with access and functional needs can get prefilled sandbags at all County sandbag locations.

What residents should do
Secure outdoor items that can become wind hazards. Clear drains and move vehicles out of low areas if it is safe to do so. Do not drive through flooded roadways. Monitor official County updates and local forecasts, and check on neighbors who may need help preparing.

The County will provide situation updates as the storm approaches. Residents should rely on official County and emergency-services channels for instructions.

In preparation for a notable increase in moisture that could bring heavy rain and possible flooding, the Imperial County Fire Department and the Office of Emergency Services are making sand and sandbags available for self-serve pickup to residents whose properties could be affected. Please note that staff will not be on site, so bringing your own tools will make it easier to fill and transport the sandbags.

There is a limit of 10 sandbags per household. Supplies are limited, so we kindly ask everyone to take only what they reasonably need. If your home or property has experienced flooding in the past, you may find it helpful to pick some up as a precaution.

El Centro, CA — The County of Imperial Executive Office recently hosted an in-person economic development meeting with Rebecca Eusey, Business Development Manager for the Southern Region with the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), to discuss state resources and incentives available to support business investment, expansion, and job creation in Imperial County.

Coordinated by the Deputy CEO of Economic Development, the meeting brought together County executive staff, Workforce and Economic Development staff, and representatives from the local Workforce Development Board. The discussion provided an opportunity for local partners to engage directly with GO-Biz, strengthen coordination with the State, and learn more about programs available to support businesses throughout the region.

Eusey provided an overview of key state economic development tools, including the California Competes Tax Credit, Research and Development Tax Credit, property tax benefits, sales and use tax exemptions, and state financing and loan guarantee programs available to qualifying businesses.

Participants also discussed how these resources can complement the County’s existing economic and workforce development efforts and help position Imperial County to better support business expansion, new investment, manufacturing, and job creation.

“This collaboration strengthens our connection with the State and increases our ability to connect businesses in Imperial County with valuable economic development resources,” said Dr. Kathleen Lang. “Building these direct relationships allows us to work more collaboratively when opportunities arise and better support businesses looking to grow and invest in our community.”

The County of Imperial thanks Rebecca Eusey and GO-Biz for meeting with County leadership and local workforce and economic development partners. The County looks forward to continuing this collaboration and expanding access to state resources that support business attraction, retention, expansion, workforce development, investment, and job creation throughout Imperial County.

The Imperial County Board of Supervisors today approved an urgency ordinance repealing and setting aside Ordinance Nos. 1616 and 1618, which had established and extended an interim urgency moratorium on the approval of data center facilities within the unincorporated areas of Imperial County.

The action was taken in compliance with a Peremptory Writ of Mandate issued by the Imperial County Superior Court in connection with Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturers, LLC v. County of Imperial. The court directed the County to set aside Ordinance Nos. 1616 and 1618 and cease enforcement of the moratorium established under those ordinances.

Ordinance No. 1616 was originally adopted by the Board on June 16, 2026, establishing a temporary moratorium on the approval of data center facilities in the County’s unincorporated areas. The Board subsequently adopted Ordinance No. 1618 on July 14, 2026, extending the moratorium for an additional period.

Under the urgency ordinance approved today, both ordinances are repealed and set aside in their entirety, and the County will cease enforcement of the moratorium. The ordinance also states that the County will not apply or enforce either Ordinance No. 1616 or Ordinance No. 1618 as a basis for withholding, suspending, or refusing to accept, process, review, approve, or issue a permit or entitlement for data center facilities within the unincorporated areas of the County.

The Board’s action does not determine which zoning laws or other regulations may otherwise apply to individual data center applications. Applications remain subject to applicable County land use regulations and other requirements independent of the repealed moratorium ordinances.

The urgency ordinance takes effect immediately and directs County Counsel to take the necessary steps to comply with the court’s judgment and file the County’s return to the writ.