Category: Highlights

Imperial County Highlights (April 2026)

A Message from the Chair

Chairwoman

Peggy Price

This month’s Imperial County Highlights showcases the continued impact of our County departments and community partners in supporting the health, education, and well-being of our residents. From youth partnerships and public health initiatives to mental health awareness and expanded access to care, these efforts reflect our shared commitment to prevention, opportunity, and service. Together, we continue working toward a stronger, healthier Imperial County for all.

Meet Lashes, Humanes’ Society Pet of the Week

Meet Lashes, our Pet of the Week! Named for her unique eyelashes on her right eye, this charming pup is as beautiful as she is playful. Lashes is friendly, energetic, great with other dogs, and loves children, making her a wonderful fit for an active, fun-loving family. She’s ready to find a forever home where she can share her love and joyful personality.

Schedule a Meet & Greet

April’s Department Sunshine Moments

Imperial County Air Pollution Control District Recognized for Supporting Student Health Education and Air Quality Awareness

The Imperial County Air Pollution Control District was awarded the Industry Partner of the Year at the 2026 Cal-HOSA State Leadership Conference (SLC) for its partnership with Central Union High School District’s Southwest Academy for Careers in Health Sciences (SACHS).

High school students from Southwest High School’s HOSA Program attended the annual conference and one group placed 3rd Place in the Health Education Category. The award was given for their development of Project ACE: Air Community Education – a program supporting environmental literacy and air

quality awareness.

In June 2026, the Southwest High School HOSA students will be attending the 49th Annual International Leadership Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana

ASPIRE Youth Explore STEM Opportunities at Imperial Valley College

The ASPIRE Program partnered with the STEM and Chemistry Clubs at Imperial Valley College to engage youth in hands-on scientific experiments and introduce them to academic opportunities available on campus. This collaborative experience encourages participants to explore higher education pathways and expand their future goals

“Because of Where I Was; From Secure Track to On Track”

This spotlight highlights the remarkable accomplishments of a justice-involved youth who entered juvenile hall following a serious offense and spent several years in the Secure Track Program. During this time, he demonstrated extraordinary resilience and initiative by enrolling full-time at Imperial Valley College, where he consistently maintained a GPA of 3.5 or higher each semester.

Despite facing moments of overwhelm, he remained focused and committed to his goals, continually pushing himself to succeed. His dedication culminated in January 2026, when he graduated from Imperial Valley College with two associate degrees—one in Behavioral Science and another in Social Science, earning a 3.8 GPA with honors/distinction in his

major. He is also on track to complete a third associate degree in Sociology

this semester.

Building on this success, he was accepted to Sacramento State University, where he is currently enrolled in six courses as he pursues a degree in Kinesiology. With the support of Project Rebound, he has also secured stable housing, providing a strong foundation for his continued academic journey and personal growth.

As af first-generation college graduate, he reflects on his journey in the Secure Track Program, with a deep sense of gratitude and accomplishment, sharing, “I wouldn’t have done any of this if I wasn’t in there.”

Breaking Ground on Hope and Healing

Imperial County Behavioral Health Services marked an important milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Adult Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment Facility, a project that will expand access to treatment, recovery, and support services in Imperial County. The event brought together County leadership, staff, community partners, and project collaborators to recognize the teamwork behind this effort, including the dedicated staff who work behind the scenes to keep projects moving forward. Special thanks to Kristen Mitosinka, Peer Support Specialist, for sharing her powerful recovery journey and reminding us that this facility represents hope, healing, dignity, and new beginnings.

Read the full press release

Public Health Launches Interactive Heat-Related Illness Dashboard

The Public Health Department enhanced community awareness by transitioning from a static heat-related illness (HRI) PDF report to an interactive dashboard that provides periodically updated, surveillance-based data, helping residents stay informed about heat-related trends during periods of extreme heat.

Click here for Dashboard

Strengthening Public Health Workforce and Community Awareness

The Public Health Department recognized National Public Health Week 2026 under the theme “Ready. Set. Action!”, highlighting the vital role of public health services, staff contributions, and initiatives that support disease prevention and improved quality of life. The department also reinforced its commitment to workforce development through its annual Staff Professional Development Event, strengthening internal capacity, innovation, and the ability to better serve Imperial County residents.

Expanding Access to Kindergarten Oral Health Screenings

At the 45th Annual Children’s Fair, the Maternal Child and Adolescent Health team partnered with Southwest High School HOSA students to provide free Kindergarten Oral Health Assessments to 70 children. The screenings helped identify early signs of dental concerns, supported California’s kindergarten oral health assessment requirements, and connected families with oral health education and preventive care resources. This effort reduced barriers to care, promoted healthy habits, and supported the overall health, school readiness, and well-being of children and families in Imperial County.

Imperial County Supports Youth Voices in Mental Health Awareness

Click here to Vote

Southwest High School senior Karissa Ruiz Ovando has been recognized as a 1st Place Winner in the Animation Suicide Prevention category of the Directing Change Film Contest for her PSA, “I Am Seen.” Her film now qualifies for the People’s Choice Award, and the community is encouraged to show support by voting. This recognition aligns with our shared commitment to mental health awareness and highlights the positive partnerships being built with local students, including HOSA students who have collaborated with Imperial County departments such as Public Health, Air Pollution Control District, and Behavioral Health Services.

Imperial County Highlights (March 2026)

A Message from the Chair

Chairwoman

Peggy Price

March reflected the strength, resilience, and spirit of Imperial County as we continued advancing important conversations, recognizing community leadership, and celebrating the people who help move our region forward. From environmental education and public health awareness to statewide recognition for our Behavioral Health Services team’s leadership in implementing the CARE Act, this month highlighted the power of collaboration and service. We also proudly recognized Women’s History Month and Autism Awareness, honoring the contributions, experiences, and voices that help shape a stronger, more inclusive community for all.

From Pet of the Month to Forever Home

Just a few days after the Board recognized Cookie as Pet of the Month, she found her furever home. Her story is a wonderful reminder of how a little extra visibility and community support can make all the difference in helping deserving pets find loving families.

Adopt a pet

March’s Sunshine Moments

Air Pollution Control District

Salton Sea Visit with Southwest High School Students through the AB 617 and Project ACE Partnership

In collaboration with the Imperial County Air Pollution Control District, Southwest High School students enrolled in the Career Technical Education Community Health Worker program participated in an immersive educational field experience at the Salton Sea Management Area Restoration Site. This trip to the Salton Sea aligned with the school’s Project ACE – Air Community Education – initiative by giving their students hands-on learning experiences focused on environmental health and the impacts of air quality on community well-being.

Highschool students explored active restoration efforts at the Salton Sea designed to reduce dust emissions, improve air quality, and restore natural habitats. The Salton Sea is an area critically linked toenvironmental health and public health in the Imperial County.

Behavioral Health Services

A Statewide Leader in Behavioral Health Response

On March 2, 2026, Imperial County was named one of California’s ten inaugural CARE Champions by Governor Gavin Newsom for its strong implementation of the CARE Act. This recognition reflects the County’s leadership in connecting residents living with untreated schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders to treatment, housing, and long-term stability, strengthening recovery outcomes and overall community wellness.

Child Support Services

Leading the State in Support and Efficiency

Imperial County Department of Child Support Services ranked #1 in California for cost-effectiveness in Federal Fiscal Year 2025, collecting $4.46 for every $1 spent. This achievement reflects the department’s strong performance in delivering results and ensuring more local families receive the child support they depend on each month.

Fire Department & Office of Emergencies

Read Across America Day at Sunflower Elementary

On March 6, Imperial County Fire Department personnel joined students and staff at Sunflower Elementary to celebrate Read Across America Day. Captain Jesus Guzman was pictured reading to students, helping promote literacy and a love of learning. In the group photo are ICFD personnel: top row, left to right, Firefighter Rubin, Captain Guzman, Engineer Perez, Deputy Chief Cesena; bottom row, Engineer Ongay and Chief Lantzer, alongside Sunflower Elementary staff. The event highlighted the department’s continued commitment to community engagement and youth education.

Human Resources & Risk Management

Wellness Walk Brings March Madness Energy to Imperial County Employees

Imperial County employees had a great time at the Imperial County Wellness Walk, where this year’s March Madness theme brought extra energy and fun to the event. Participants shot hoops while getting their steps in, promoting wellness, teamwork, and employee engagement. Special thanks to Human Resources and Risk Management for organizing a successful and active event.

Public Health Department

Protecting Public Health Through Advanced Hazardous Waste Training

40-Hour Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) Training: This essential training enhances community safety by equipping Imperial County personnel and fire department staff with the skills needed to identify hazardous waste and implement emergency response procedures. It ensures regulatory compliance and improves coordination among response agencies, ultimately protecting public health and the environment.

Sheriffs Office

Honoring a Hero, Playing as One

The photo below features Team ICSO Enforcers, who participated in the 20th Annual Mike Benavidez Softball Tournament. The team was made up of ICSO Operations, Corrections, and civilian staff.

Also pictured is Team LE Elite, which included representatives from ICSO Corrections and Operations, the Imperial County Probation Department, and Imperial County Human Resources. Team LE Elite went on to win the tournament.

The tournament is held annually and sponsored by the El Centro Firefighters Association in honor of fallen firefighter Michael Benavidez, who passed away as a result of an on-duty injury.

Social Services

Building Trust Through Community Education

The Imperial County Department of Social Services launched a series of community presentations to help residents understand major policy changes affecting CalFresh and Medi-Cal benefits. Through more than fourteen outreach events held in partnership with schools and community organizations, ICDSS provided guidance on new requirements, answered questions, and helped families prepare to maintain access to essential services.

Back-to-back Ribbon Cuttings

Niland Sanitation District Wastewater Treatment Plant Project

Community leaders and partners gathered on March 11, 2026 in Niland to mark the completion of the Niland Sanitation District Wastewater Treatment Plant Project. This important investment provides a modern and reliable wastewater system that will help protect public health and the environment. The project was made possible through partnerships with USDA Rural Development, Housing and Community Development, NAD Bank, The Holt Group, and DJM Construction.

Niland Colonia Reconstructed Homes

A second ribbon cutting celebrated five newly reconstructed homes in the Niland Colonia, built for families impacted by the devastating June 2020 fires. These homes were made possible through the Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Relief (CDBG-CV) Program, managed by the Coachella Valley Housing Coalition (CVHC), with Pioneer Affordable Homes, Inc. serving as the prime contractor.

Employee Spotlight

Imperial County announced the promotion of Gaby Loo to Purchasing Supervisor, effective March 20, 2026. Since joining the County in 2018 in the Behavioral Health Purchasing Department, Loo has steadily advanced through key roles, including Coordinator I in 2023 and Coordinator II in 2024, demonstrating strong leadership, accountability, and expertise in public procurement.

Read full press release

Imperial County Highlights (February 2026)

A Message from the Chair

I’m sure many of you have heard the County talk about Lithium Valley over the last few years. Lithium Valley is unique because it represents an opportunity for Imperial County to shape its own future. The Lithium Valley Specific Plan and Program Environmental Impact Report are planning documents that have the potential to bring good-paying local jobs, strengthen our infrastructure, expand renewable energy development, and position our region as a leader in critical mineral production.

Just as important, it creates opportunities for workforce training and long-term economic investment right here at home, so our families and small businesses can benefit. 

We also know the idea of Lithium Valley, and the planning documents associated with it, are a big conversation. The LVSP and PEIR were released for review on December 30, 2025 with an initial 60 day public comment period. Over the past two months, we’ve received input from community members, tribal leaders, environmental advocates, state agencies, and industry partners, requesting more time to review the documents and provide input, which is why we’ve extended the public review period until April 17, 2026 at 5PM. We want all stakeholders to have more time to engage in the Lithium Valley initiative, review the plan and share their input.

We want to hear from you, and ensure the path ahead reflects the voices of the community. We encourage you to visit our County website to review the planning documents and submit your comments to PublicComment@co.imperial.ca.us 

February’s Paws & Reflect Moments

K-9 Rocko

K-9 Major

K-9 Dani

Some of the hardest-working members of the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office walk on four legs.

The Sheriff’s K-9 Unit pairs specially trained dogs with dedicated handlers who work side-by-side every day to help keep Imperial County safe. These canine partners have an incredible sense of smell and the training to detect illegal narcotics that would be nearly impossible for humans to find.

Whether assisting deputies during investigations, helping search vehicles, or supporting enforcement operations across the county, these dogs play a key role in getting dangerous drugs off the streets. Their work often happens quietly behind the scenes, but the impact they make for local communities is significant.

K-9 teams also support the county’s correctional facilities, where they help locate drugs and other prohibited items that could threaten the safety of staff and inmates. Their presence helps maintain a secure environment inside the jail system.

Say Hello to K-9 Kiki

The unit recently welcomed a new four-legged partner, K-9 Kiki.

Kiki works alongside Correctional Officer Handler Ramos, helping the Corrections Bureau detect illegal narcotics and other contraband within the facility. Even as the newest member of the team, Kiki already plays an important role in supporting the Sheriff’s Office mission of “Committed to Professional Service and Protection.”

Behind every successful K-9 team is a strong bond between handler and dog. Together they train, work, and rely on one another in situations where focus, discipline, and trust matter most.

And while they may look friendly and adorable off duty, when it’s time to work, these K-9s are highly skilled partners helping protect the people of Imperial County.

Found Their Furever Homes

The Positive Engagement Team (PET) is part of the MHSA Prevention and Early Intervention Program, using trained dogs to reduce stigma around mental illness and mental health services. PET helps individuals feel welcomed, supported, and motivated to seek treatment, while promoting dignity and equity for those living with mental illness.

How PET Works

  • Outpatient Clinics: Trained dogs engage clients, build trust, and create a positive, welcoming experience during appointments.

  • Community Outreach: PET participates in events like health and career fairs to combat stigma, educate the public, and promote positive perceptions of mental health services.

By connecting people with trained animals and professional mental health staff, PET helps destigmatize mental illness, encourage treatment, and foster a stronger, more supportive community.

Find out more about P.E.T 

February’s Sunshine Moments

Heber Townsite Improvements Phase II Groundbreaking

We celebrated the Heber Townsite Improvements Phase II Paving Project Groundbreaking in Heber!

This important project is a collaboration between the Imperial County Air Pollution Control District, the Imperial County Public Works Department, and the AB 617 El Centro-Calexico-Heber Community Steering Committee.

With $2.4 million in funding, the project will pave approximately 56,440 square feet of unpaved roadway shoulders north of SR-86 between Heber Avenue and Heffernan Avenue. By reducing fugitive dust from unpaved shoulders, this project will improve air quality while adding new sidewalks to enhance pedestrian safety for the Heber community.

Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Connecting Our Community: Supporting Older Adults and Families

Over the past few months, the Imperial County Area Agency on Aging and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program joined forces with First 5 Imperial to connect with communities across the county. At six different events, we met parents, grandparents, teachers, and students, sharing information and resources to help families support the older adults in their lives.

During these gatherings, we handed out nearly 800 bilingual (English and Spanish) senior directories filled with resources for care coordination, in-home assistance, nutrition programs, caregiver support, and access to community services. We also educated attendees about elder abuse prevention, including how to recognize signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, and what steps to take if concerns arise.

These events were more than just information-sharing. They helped build understanding between generations, strengthen our community, and ensure everyone knows how to access support and advocacy services. For more information, call 1-442-265-7030 or visit www.aaa24.org