Eddie Lopez

Imperial County, CA — The County of Imperial is providing information regarding an incident that occurred during the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday at approximately 1340 hours in the Board Chambers.

During the meeting, an individual engaged in disruptive behavior that escalated and required intervention by deputies from the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office. The individual was subsequently arrested on charges of disorderly conduct, resisting a peace officer, and making criminal threats.

The safety of the public, staff, and elected officials remains a top priority. Imperial County is committed to maintaining a respectful and orderly environment at all public meetings to ensure that all participants have the opportunity to be heard.

While public comment and civic engagement are strongly encouraged, all attendees are expected to adhere to established rules of decorum. Disruptive or unlawful behavior that interferes with the conduct of County business or threatens the safety of others will not be tolerated.

The County appreciates the continued cooperation of community members in helping maintain a safe and respectful environment for all.

IMPORTANT UPDATE – SOLID WASTE PROGRAM

Imperial County would like to share an important update regarding solid waste services:

• The Solid Waste Land Use Fee is NOT moving forward at this time.
• The County IS moving forward with the Proposition 218 process for hauler (trash collection) services.

We understand there has been some confusion between these two efforts. To clarify:

• The Land Use Fee will not be implemented at this time.
• The hauler service program—which includes three-container service for trash, recycling, and organics—is moving forward.

This hauler program is part of the County’s commitment to comply with State requirements under SB 1383 and to provide consistent, reliable solid waste services to residents.

---

ONLINE TOWN HALL – COMING SOON

Imperial County will be hosting an online town hall to:

• Provide an overview of the hauler service program
• Answer community questions
• Share next steps and anticipated timelines

Additional details, including the date and how to participate, will be announced soon.

---

We encourage all residents to stay informed and take part in this process.
For questions in the meantime, please contact Imperial County Public Works.

Suzanne C. Bermudez, Treasurer-Tax Collector, reminds all taxpayers that the 2nd installment of real property taxes will become delinquent if not paid by 5:00 p.m. on April 10, 2026. Payments must be in our office by 5:00 p.m. or bear a postmark of April 10, 2026. Please be advised that online payments may be made through the following link until 11:45 p.m. on April 10, 2026

https://common2.mptsweb.com/mbc/imperial/tax/search. Please note delinquent parcels will receive a 10% penalty and a $10.00 cost effective April 11, 2026.

Property owners who have paid their taxes through impound accounts, but have recently refinanced or paid off their home loans should be aware that they may now be responsible for paying the property tax bills themselves.

Imperial County, CA — On March 24, 2026, the Imperial County Board of Supervisors directed staff to send a formal letter to Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez and State Senator Steve Padilla requesting their assistance regarding the future of Sonrisa Villa in Holtville and the broader need for senior care resources in Imperial County.

The Board’s action comes amid serious concerns surrounding Sonrisa Villa, which is currently operating under a Temporary Suspension Order issued earlier this year. A temporary management company was brought in under a 90-day contract set to expire next month, and approximately 70 residents remain at the facility. Sonrisa Villa is an assisted living facility currently accepting Medi-Cal residents, making it a critical resource for low-income seniors and their families.

“Our intent is not to create fear or alarm, but to make sure this issue receives the attention it deserves,” said Chairwoman Peggy Price. “This is about protecting vulnerable seniors, supporting families and workers, and ensuring that Imperial County is not left with even fewer options for assisted living and long-term care.”

In its letter, the County asks state partners to help ensure there is a safe and coordinated plan for current residents, explore options to maintain operations locally or identify a qualified operator, evaluate potential state funding or flexibility for rural assisted living capacity, and work with the County on long-term solutions to strengthen senior care services in Imperial County.

If Sonrisa Villa were to close, many residents could be forced to relocate outside the Imperial Valley, away from their families, medical providers, and support systems. The County is also concerned about the broader impacts on workers, family caregivers, hospitals, emergency services, Adult Protective Services, the Area Agency on Aging, and the Public Administrator/Public Guardian Office.

“Imperial County deserves a senior care system that allows older adults to age with dignity, remain close to their loved ones, and continue receiving care in their own community,” Price said. “We are asking the State to partner with us on both the immediate needs tied to Sonrisa Villa and the longer-term challenge of building a stronger continuum of care in rural communities like ours.”

The Imperial County Board of Supervisors remains committed to working collaboratively with the State, local partners, and the County’s legislative delegation to support resident well-being, continuity of care, workforce stability, and long-term planning for senior services in the Imperial Valley. That collaborative, non-alarmist framing is consistent with the letter itself.

With communities across California preparing to observe Farmworker’s Day on March 31, the County of Imperial joins the State and others in recognizing the significance of the day and the lasting impact of farmworkers in our region.

As the State reevaluates the holiday and considers changes to its official designation, Imperial County acknowledges that its local ordinance may also need to be revised to align with that direction. Any updates would be considered through the appropriate process.

Chairwoman Peggy Price shared the following statement:

“Farm Worker’s Day” (César Chávez Day) has long been a time to recognize the hardworking farmworkers who have helped shape communities across California, including here in Imperial County. As the State moves forward in reevaluating this holiday, we stand in solidarity with those efforts while continuing to honor the vital role farmworkers play in our region.” Imperial County will continue to keep the public informed as any future updates are considered.

Imperial County, CA — Imperial County is proud to announce the promotion of Gaby Loo to the position of Purchasing Supervisor, effective March 20, 2026.   Since beginning her career with the County in 2018 in the Behavioral Health Purchasing Department, Loo has demonstrated a strong commitment to public service, accountability, and operational excellence. Her early work helped build a solid foundation in government procurement processes and positioned her for continued advancement within the County. In 2023, Loo was promoted to the County’s Main Purchasing Division as Coordinator I, where she continued to expand her expertise and leadership capabilities. In 2024, she advanced to Coordinator II, and now steps into her newest role as Purchasing Supervisor. Throughout her career, Loo has contributed to important countywide initiatives, including playing an integral role in updating and successfully implementing the Cal-Card Purchasing Policy across all County departments. Her work has supported stronger procurement practices, improved consistency, and enhanced accountability across departments. Loo is also an active member of the California Association of Public Procurement Officials, allowing her to stay current on industry best practices and collaborate with procurement professionals throughout the state. In her new role, Loo will continue supporting all County departments by promoting effective procurement practices and ensuring operational consistency. Her approach is guided by three core principles: compliance with public procurement laws, building and maintaining strategic vendor relationships, and using data-driven purchasing decisions to improve transparency, efficiency, and fiscal responsibility. “Ms. Loo’s promotion reflects her dedication, professionalism, and deep understanding of public procurement,” said County Executive Officer, Dr. Lang. “Her leadership, experience, and commitment to excellence have made a positive impact across County operations, and we are confident she will continue to serve Imperial County with distinction in her new role as Purchasing Supervisor.” Loo’s promotion highlights Imperial County’s commitment to recognizing dedicated employees whose work strengthens County services and supports responsible stewardship of public resources.

Imperial County, CA — In recognition of National Agriculture Day, Imperial County proudly honors the farmers, ranchers, farmworkers, processors, shippers, and agricultural professionals whose dedication continues to sustain one of the most productive agricultural regions in California and the nation.

In Imperial County, agriculture is more than an industry. It is a way of life, a source of pride, and a driving force behind the local economy. In a region defined by hard work, resilience, and innovation, agriculture has transformed desert land into one of the most productive farming areas in the country. Year after year, Imperial County helps feed communities across the United States and beyond through the production of livestock, field crops, vegetables, seed crops, and specialty commodities. The County’s 2024 Agricultural Crop and Livestock Report valued gross production at $2,488,876,000 across 526,967 harvested acres.

Imperial County’s agricultural diversity remains one of its greatest strengths. The County’s top commodities were led by cattle at $546,023,000, followed by alfalfa at $238,752,000, broccoli at $134,822,000, leaf lettuce at $131,410,000, and head lettuce at $128,451,000. Other leading commodities included Bermuda grass hay, sugar beets, carrots, spinach, and onions, reflecting the wide range of crops and products grown throughout the Valley.

Imperial County is especially known for its role as a major producer of winter vegetables, helping supply fresh food when much of the country cannot grow at the same scale. In 2024 alone, the County reported more than $1.026 billion in vegetable and melon crops, including strong production in broccoli, lettuces, carrots, onions, spinach, romaine, sweet corn, and melons.

The County’s agricultural impact extends well beyond its borders. The 2024 report notes 16,000 federal phytosanitary certificates tied to exports reaching 81 countries, underscoring Imperial County’s role in both national and international food and agricultural supply chains.

“Agriculture is at the heart of Imperial County,” said Supervisor John Hawk. “It sustains our economy, supports local jobs, preserves our heritage, and helps feed families far beyond our region. On National Agriculture Day, we proudly recognize everyone whose dedication and hard work keep this vital industry moving forward.”

Even in the face of ongoing challenges including Colorado River discussions, rising production costs, market shifts, and extreme weather, Imperial County’s agricultural community continues to adapt and lead. That perseverance has defined generations of local producers and workers and remains central to the County’s identity and future.

National Agriculture Day is an opportunity not only to highlight economic impact, but also to recognize the people behind the work. From the fields and feed yards to packing facilities, laboratories, and transportation networks, thousands of individuals contribute every day to keeping this industry strong.

Imperial County extends its sincere appreciation to the entire agricultural community for its continued commitment, innovation, and service. Their work strengthens the County, supports the region, and reinforces Imperial County’s long standing reputation as a powerhouse of California agriculture.

###

Imperial County, CA — The County of Imperial is reminding residents of the upcoming Board of Supervisors Special Meeting to be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the County Administration Building Board Chambers, 940 W. Main Street, El Centro, with overflow seating available at the County Public Health Training Center, 935 Broadway, El Centro. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. Please note that standing room will be limited to space available directly against the wall, no aisles or walkways can be blocked.  

The meeting will also be recorded and available virtually. 

Overview of Special Meeting

During Special Meetings, public comments can only be made on topics on the agenda. This Special Meeting will only include one item on the agenda; an informational presentation on the proposed Imperial Data Center Project. For that reason, public comments will only be accepted on the Imperial Data Center Project and will be conducted after the informational presentation of the item. To be clear, this item is informational only and is not a public hearing. There will not be any action taken by the Board of Supervisors at this Special Meeting.  

Meeting Details:

• Call to Order 
• Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance 
• Informational Item – Imperial Data Center Project 
  • County Presentation 
  • Project Applicant Presentation 
  • Public Comment  
  • Board Discussion 

Public Comment Period

Individual topics are typically given a 15-minute public comment period; however, the County is extending the public comment period for this item to one hour. Speakers will be allowed up to three minutes to provide public comment. Following each speaker, the Chair may direct County staff, specialists, or the project applicant to address specific questions. All responses will be required to be succinct and directly address the specific question identified by the Chair, to ensure an efficient and productive discussion. 

While each speaker is allotted up to three minutes, those addressing topics or questions that have already been discussed are encouraged to be mindful of time and limit their remarks to allow additional unique perspectives to be heard within the allotted public comment period. The full one hour will be reserved exclusively for public comment speakers. Any responses to questions will not count towards the public comment time. 

Media, Recording Devices, and Signage

To ensure a safe and orderly meeting environment, attendees are asked to follow guidelines related to signage and media devices. Signage, handheld cameras or recording devices may be held by individuals so long as they do not block or interfere with others’ ability to view the meeting. Cameras on tripods must be placed in a designated area. Aisles must remain clear at all times, no tripods, equipment (except for mobility devices) or signage may be placed in walkways. 

Conduct

All individuals will be allowed to share their viewpoints without interruption. To maintain a respectful and orderly environment, disorderly conduct will not be tolerated. The use of obscene language, personal attacks, or other disruptive behavior is not permitted, and individuals who engage in such conduct may be asked to leave the building. 

Project Discussion

The County encourages community members interested in the project to attend the informational meeting, join virtually, or submit a comment, recommendation, or question about the Imperial Data Center Project through the County’s website form here: https://imperialcounty.org/dc-comments/.