Meet your candidate: Joong Kim runs for Imperial County Board of Supervisors District 1

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) - The race for the Imperial County Board of Supervisors District 1 seat is heating up as candidates make their final push ahead of the June 2 election.

Three candidates, incumbent Jesus Eduardo Escobar, Enrique Alvarado, and Joong Kim, are vying to represent Calexico, a region currently grappling with significant infrastructure and homelessness challenges.

Candidate Joong Kim, a local business owner and former Calexico mayor, claims the county has failed to distribute funds equitably. Kim argues that resources are disproportionately directed away from his district.

"The county is not spending money enough to support us," Kim said. "When we have money, where do you spend it? In the north side. Not here."

While Kim emphasizes the critical need for economic growth, he remains fiercely opposed to bringing massive data centers into the region. He argues that outside industries exploit local resources without benefiting the core community.

"We're gonna have somebody come into our town and use our resources," Kim warned. "We need to protect small businesses. Those small businesses, they are the ones hiring somebody."

The former school board member believes his long track record of public service and stubborn determination make him the right fit for the board.

"My personal character…when I see something wrong, I just can't turn around from there," Kim said.

To secure the District 1 seat outright on June 2, a candidate must win a majority of 50% plus one vote. If no single candidate hits that threshold, the top two vote-getters will advance to a final runoff in November's general election.

Voting centers will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. Check back with our website on election night as the results trickle in.