Imperial County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Imperial County, California public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
New Chief Public Defender appointed
Daniel Rosenberg was introduced as the county's new public defender, taking over from Ben Solorio, who won election as a judge — one of only 32 chief public defenders statewide.
ICOE facilities master plan
The County Office of Education outlined plans for adult-education growth, a new special education center, workforce housing exploration, and possible sports fields and a children's museum — including its leased headquarters at 1398 Sperber Road, the same property the county is negotiating over.
2026 Assessment Roll Growth
Property values in Imperial County hit $19.1 billion for the first time, up 6.15% — good news for school and county budgets, though growth is slowing from last year's 7.9%.
Senior Deputy County Counsel appointment
The county will hire a senior deputy county counsel at an advanced pay step to fill a vacant, funded position — strengthening legal capacity amid heavy litigation.
Heber electric school bus funding increases
The board, sitting as the Air Pollution Control District Board, added roughly $95,000 across three amendments to electric school bus projects in Heber, funded by AB 617.
Barbara Worth Country Club sale and revitalization
Supervisor Hawk reported the country club has new ownership under Ray Robin, who plans to restore the 18-hole course, restaurant, and hotel — easing resident fears of low-income housing conversion or course closure.
Candidate campaign sign enforcement
The Registrar of Voters reported early sign violations, reminded candidates county signs may go up April 3, and warned of $75 per sign per day penalties — with removal costs charged to non-compliant candidates.
Manville Road median reimbursement dispute
A landowner asked the board to use about $1.4 million sitting in the Highway 98 fund to reimburse a property owner who cleaned up the Manville Road median, rather than blocking building permits until he's paid back.