Lithium Valley Program approved

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) - Lithium Valley is back in the spotlight Tuesday after the Imperial County Board of Supervisors voted on a program for workforce development and tax incentives.

The board passed the motion on the LiNC Program 3 to 2, with Supervisors Martha Cardenas Singh and Jesus Escobar voting no.

The initiative is tied to the county's efforts to prepare local workers for jobs expected to come with lithium development.

"We're really looking to improve our competitiveness, not only by developing an individual lithium extraction project, but by building a vertically integrated supply chain," said Bari Bean, Assistant County Executive.

During public comments, some people requested the item to be tabled so that the proposal can be examined a little more.

"If the police table it and move it to another further further so people can bring in more hard facts as well. As the lady said, where do you get these numbers? We'd like to analyze that as well," said Eric Reyes with the Brawley City Council.

Sheriff Fred Miramontes said the tax revenue from Lithium Valley will help fund public safety and provide more staffing and body cameras for law enforcement.

"This program creates an opportunity to strengthen public safety, no matter how small or big, it's a step in the right direction," Sheriff Miramontes explained.

Supporters and those opposed said the goal is to make sure Imperial Valley residents, not outside corporations, benefit from these opportunities.