Planning Commission delays ‘Oro Cruz’ project

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - Things got heated at the Imperial County Planning Commission meeting after a Canadian Gold Corporation sought approval for a mineral exploration project on Quechan tribal land.

“And now we are going to give permission for this other company from Canada to take that money to take that gold whatever they find and take away for their profit. I don't want to do anything with that profit… Cultural genocide we keep seeing it over and over," said Faron Owl from the Quechan Tribe.

Many members of the Quechan Tribe voiced their concerns if the Commission were to pass the project. 

Calling it cultural genocide.

“This project will disturb and damage 20 acres where I live… The tribe performs sacred in this area that includes pray circles," said Faron Owl from the Quechan Tribe.

SMP Gold Corporation, a subsidiary of Southern Empire Resources said the "Oro Cruz Gold Exploration Project" involves extracting gold and minerals from the Cargo Muchacho Mountains located in the eastern part of Imperial County. 

The Planning Commission did not approve the project and said it won't revisit the proposal until both sides come to an agreement.

The Vice President of the Quechan Tribe said SMP Gold officially met with them only once.

We asked to speak to the company but they denied our request.