Public Safety · Imperial County
The Imperial County Board of Supervisors will meet Tuesday, Oct. 27, at the County Administration Center in El Centro to consider declaring a local emergency in response to impending severe winter storms and flooding associated with the 2026–2027 El Niño season. Fire Chief David Lantzer requested the proclamation, which would authorize immediate preparedness measures under the County Emergency Operations Plan. The agenda also includes decisions on geothermal development contracts, ambulance service extensions, and property negotiations.
Local Politics · Imperial County
The Imperial Valley Healthcare District (IVHD) Board of Directors approved actions on October 22, 2026, to support financial stabilization and local healthcare access. The board authorized a loan amendment forgiving approximately $6.22 million in hospital debt principal scheduled for payment between November 1, 2026, and October 31, 2027. Additionally, the board renewed a three-year agreement for pediatric services at Pioneers Children’s Health Center–Rural Health Clinic and approved a service contract for breast imaging equipment at Pioneers Memorial Hospital.
Local Politics · Calexico, CA
Two Calexico residents have been denied access to police body camera footage by the Calexico Police Department. Club 111 Bar owner Karen Ann was refused records from a recent stop, citing Government Code Section 7923.625 (a) regarding active investigations. Former police commissioner Alexis Rangel also had her subpoena for footage related to an embezzlement investigation rejected due to procedural deficiencies identified by city attorneys. Both individuals expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and alleged targeting or mishandling of their respective cases.
Public Safety · Imperial County
The Imperial County Board of Supervisors received the District Attorney’s Annual Real Estate Fraud Report for Fiscal Year 2025–2026 during its October 20, 2026 meeting. The specialized unit reviewed 20 referrals, determining that 15 were civil matters and leaving five cases under active criminal investigation. The program, funded by a $10 fee on recorded real property documents, collected $81,597 in fees during the fiscal year. Officials also launched an online complaint form to improve public accessibility for reporting fraud.
Community brief · Calexico, CA
The City of Calexico invites residents to its annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on Thursday, November 19, 2026. The event runs from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. outside Calexico City Hall at 608 Heber Ave. Attendees can enjoy photo opportunities with characters like Santa Claus and the Grinch, along with live music and dance performances by local groups. Organizers encourage guests to bring their own lawn chairs for seating during the stage…
