Imperial County officials seek help from federal government
Imperial County officials met with lawmakers and politicians in Washington D.C. to find solutions to the health problems facing the Imperial Valley.
“We hope that these visit will improve our chances of receiving funding. We hope that them being able to see it first hand will be able to make them understand the challenges we face on a daily basis and the need for assistance, ” says Rebecca Terrazas-Baxter,Intergovernmental Relations Director.
Imperial County officials say getting federal funds to complete the expansion of Calexico port of entry is vital. Raymond Castillo, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors says ,”expanding the port of entry is really, really critical. Really important to that. It’ll reduce wait times, it’ll reduce car idling, and hopefully improve the air quality.”
An air quality that’s already one of the worst in the state, due to air pollution and receding shore lines in the Salton Sea. Terrazas-Baxter says, “we have the highest asthma rate, asthma hospitalization rate in the state of California for children.”
But residents in the Valley can do their part and vote to help secure funds for these projects.
Terrazas-Baxter says, “there are initiatives on the ballot that provide people with the opportunity to be able to bond and fund these different programs. That are a priority for the county.”
Imperial County officials say that after meeting with politicians, they are confident in getting the support they need from the federal government to find solutions for the issues facing the valley.
