Imperial County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Imperial County, California public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Hudson Ranch Power assessment appeal procedure
The Board of Equalization won't let Hudson Ranch's New York-based corporate witness testify by video at the Nov. 9 appeal — the witness must appear in person so the county can cross-examine him live.
Closed session litigation and property negotiations
The board met behind closed doors on one matter with significant exposure to litigation and labor negotiations covering fourteen county bargaining units. Direction was given to staff, but no final action was announced.
Employee health premiums for Plan Year 2027
Healthcare costs jumped over 12%, but the county is picking up the entire $6.1 million increase, so employees and retirees pay the same premiums next year.
Social services building maintenance
The county proposed awarding a construction contract of up to $385,197 to build new interview rooms at the Department of Social Services office in El Centro.
County procurement and local business access
A local disabled-veteran business owner said manufacturer project registration blocked him from competitive pricing on a county furniture bid; the Board directed staff to review the process and local bidding preferences.
ICERS retirement board appointment
The Board appointed Michael Abraham to the county retirement board after a resident challenged the appointment over his alleged role in data center approvals; staff explained he was unopposed in the employee election.
Assessment appeals process needs an overhaul
Assessor Robert Menville told the board its hearings are happening at the wrong time of year, notices are vague, and procedures need brushing up — he wants the old assessor/counsel/clerk working group revived.
Sales tax benefit requirements for large developments
A proposed ordinance would require any non-residential project worth $5 million or more to route its construction sales tax to the county — standardizing deals the county has cut piecemeal with solar developers. A second reading and vote comes later.
Auditor-Controller office remediation
The CEO shared early findings from the CLA audit of the troubled Auditor-Controller's office: almost no staff training, outdated paper processes, and poor record visibility. Fixes include a new training program and outreach to bond rating agencies to protect the county's credit standing.