Imperial Irrigation District Director candidates share their concerns during forum

The forum on Thursday gave 3 Imperial Irrigation District Division 1 Director candidates a chance to share their views. Candidate Tony Gallegos was not present.

Candidate Juanita Salas opened the forum by sharing a little about her background.

“I’m the daughter of three generations of farm workers here in Imperial Valley. I was born in Brawley,” Salas said.

Candidate Ed Snively highlighted his experience.

“I’ve been involved for 53 years in this community in Imperial Valley. 53 years of successful business, farming, and community service,” Snively said.

Candidate Blake Miles said he’s deeply concerned for the community.

“To me the big issue is the economy of Imperial Valley,” Miles said.

The candidates shared their views on the current legal issues with an independent electricity provider.

“As many of you know, the California Independent Systems Operator is attempting to limit to serve other energy markets. I’m in favor of legal action,” Salas said.

Miles said the community should be compensated if Cal-ISO wants to use the local power grid.

“And for them not to get some financial benefit from it, just seems ridiculous,” Miles said.

Snively said the county needs to keep pressing a solution for the Salton Sea issue.

“It’s critical. It’s going to impact each and everyone one of us because that dust doesn’t care whether you live in Niland. The dust is going to go everywhere,” Snively said.

Miles said he wants a tourist plan explored.

“I am concerned about the state’s plan being proposed, because we really don’t look at the tourism element,” Miles said.

Salas said she’s discussed that issue broadly with the community.

“We’ve had living room conversations. We’ve had gatherings. We’ve knocked on doors. We phone banked. We’ve talked to a lot of our community within division one,” Salas said.

Outgoing Director Mathew Dessert said he was pleased with the community’s response.

“It was a good event for everyone, but I think there’s a definite leader there,” Dessert said.