IID candidates prepare to face-off in upcoming forum

IID Candidates Norma Galindo and Carlos Zaragoza said they have what it takes to lead the district at a time of great challenges.

Incumbent Galindo said her background as director gives her an edge over challenger Zaragoza.

“My trajectory in the last six years has been one of accomplishments, wonderful accomplishments. And we still have a couple more challenges. And I’m highly committed to continuing some of the projects that are still not completed. I want to see us maintain the rights to continue to be the fiduciary of the water for imperial county.”” Galindo said.

Zaragoza said his combination of skills in accounting, ag business, working for utilities and being a veteran gives him the advantage.

“We’re a destitute community, nobody knows we’re here; we’re beleaguered by outside interests that want our water, our resources. We need to do the best thing for imperial county, the best thing for our residents and the best thing for our economy,” Zaragoza said.

He wants to protect the local agricultural industry.

“Because there’s a lot of people that are employed in the agricultural industry,” Zaragoza said.

Galindo is focusing on water rights.

“Does the IID retain the control of the water and use it for the benefit of all rate payers,” Galindo said.

Both candidates want community to be well informed when making a voting decision.

“We should be looking at which person has the most relevant experience in this field, ” Zaragoza said.

Galindo agrees on that. She said experience is key.

“Experience matters tremendously,” Galindo said.

Galindo and Zaragoza will face each other at a special forum this Monday at the IID Condit Auditorium, 1285 Broadway, in El Centro, starting at 6:00 p.m.