EL CENTRO — On Tuesday, Nov. 18, the Imperial County Board of Supervisors held their regular meeting in the Board Chambers at the County Administration Center.
Employee of the Month Recognition
The board recognized Melissa Espinoza, administrative analyst I with the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office, as Employee of the Month for October 2025. Espinoza’s dedication, professionalism and positive attitude provide essential support to the department and reflect the highest standards of Imperial County government. [Photo attached: Board with Melissa Espinoza]
Emergency Proclamation for Agriculture
The board approved a proclamation of a local emergency and adopted a resolution confirming the emergency due to the sweet potato whitefly. The action allows for faster response measures and access to resources to protect local agriculture.
Behavioral Health Services Agreement
The board approved a three-year renewal agreement between Imperial Valley Medical Clinic Inc. and Imperial County Behavioral Health Services for fiscal years 2025–28, totaling $7.5 million. The agreement ensures continued access to essential behavioral health services, enhances mental health support for residents and strengthens the county’s capacity to address community health needs.
Community Funding and Support
Several community funding and partnership items were approved within the consent calendar. This included a $5,000 gold sponsorship to New Creations for its annual dinner banquet, supporting expenses related to remodeling its new women’s facility. The funding was provided by Supervisors Escobar, Cardenas-Singh, Price, Kelley and Hawk.
The board also approved $2,000 in support for the Seeley Community Advisory Committee’s upcoming Toy Drive, with $1,000 from Supervisor Peggy Price and $1,000 from Chairman John Hawk. The support helps bring holiday joy to local children and strengthens community engagement. A $500 contribution to the Imperial Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce for its 20th annual Honey Festival, funded by Supervisor Ryan E. Kelley, was approved to promote local tourism, celebrate the region’s agricultural heritage and strengthen community engagement.
Labor Agreement with Teamsters
The board ratified an agreement and approved a memorandum of understanding with Teamsters Local 542 for the Technical, Crafts, Labor & Trades, and Clerical units. Dr. Lang, CEO, said the agreement provides moderate wage adjustments, stable health insurance contributions, and updates to allowances, education support and benefits through June 30, 2027. He expressed appreciation to Teamsters leadership for their collaborative efforts in reaching an agreement that supports both employees and the county.
Educational Partnerships
The board approved a memorandum of understanding with Calexico Unified School District to support adult learners in achieving their educational goals and transitioning into the workforce from Aug. 14, 2025, through Aug. 14, 2030. The partnership enhances workforce development, increases educational opportunities for adults and strengthens the local economy by preparing residents for meaningful employment.
Urban Greening Project
The board approved the Urban Greening Project CAP6-13 and its contract with the Imperial County Office of Education for the Valley Academy School Wellness Garden Project. The project promotes environmental education, improves air quality, provides hands-on learning opportunities for students and fosters healthier, greener school environments.
The meeting recording, agenda and supporting documents are available at www.board.imperialcounty.org.