Imperial County Board of Supervisors approves solar project extension, behavioral health transition

EL CENTRO — The Imperial County Board of Supervisors held their regular meeting on Tuesday, August 19, where they approved key measures to advance renewable energy and support local community initiatives.

During a public hearing, the Board approved a time extension and amendments to the Development Agreement for the CED Wistaria Solar Project. This project, initially approved in 2015, involves 16 permits for solar energy development. Five of the permits have been completed and are now operational, with 11 still pending. The county stated that no additional environmental review was required, as the original 2014 Environmental Impact Report (EIR) remains valid.

In a statement, the county highlighted the benefits of the extension, noting it “supports the continued development of renewable energy infrastructure, promotes clean energy production, creates local jobs, enhances long-term energy reliability, and contributes to the County’s economic growth and sustainability goal.”

In other business, the Board approved a one-year, $650,000 agreement with Health Management Associates to help Imperial County Behavioral Health navigate its transition from the Mental Health Services Act to the new Behavioral Health Services Act. This partnership aims to ensure the county’s compliance with state regulations, secure essential funding, and improve service delivery for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.

Additionally, under the consent calendar, supervisors approved a $300 contribution to the Brawley American Citizens Club for its annual backpack drive event. The funds, requested by Supervisor Martha Cardenas-Singh, will help provide essential school supplies to local students. According to the county, this contribution will help promote educational readiness, support families in need, and strengthen community engagement.