Public Safety · Imperial County
Air quality in parts of the Imperial Valley reached hazardous levels on Thursday morning as particulate matter pollution surged past emergency thresholds. Monitoring stations in Niland and Brawley recorded PM10 Air Quality Index readings of 847 and 531, respectively, exceeding the EPA's "Hazardous" limit of 300. Local officials warned that individuals with cardiopulmonary diseases, older adults, and children are at extreme risk during these high-exposure events. Residents are advised to remain indoors, keep windows sealed, and postpone strenuous outdoor tasks until conditions improve.
Local Politics · Imperial County
The Imperial County Board of Supervisors approved approximately $4,500 in Community Benefit Funds on Tuesday, October 20. The funds support various local initiatives, including high school clubs, cancer awareness events, and the upcoming Farmworker Appreciation event. Specific allocations include $1,500 for the Desert Volunteers of the Ocotillo Optimist Club and $2,000 for the Imperial Regional Alliance’s annual farmworker gathering.
Community News · Imperial County
The City of Holtville announced Thursday that its online bill payment provider, Xpress Bill Pay, is experiencing technical difficulties, preventing utility customers from making online or in-person card payments until further notice. Imperial County is recruiting a Director of Human Resources and Risk Management to succeed Dr. Bruce Davis, offering a monthly salary of $11,835 to $14,390. Community events across the county this week include a Brawley Fire Department open house Saturday, Oct. 24, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., school carnivals in Westmorland and at St. Mary's School, a New Destiny Christian Church Harvest Festival, an Immaculate Heart of Mary Church food fundraiser Sunday, Oct. 25, and the Bombay Beach Arts and Culture Center season launch.
