During a recent government meeting, community representatives voiced significant concerns regarding the lack of engagement and accessibility for residents of the West Shores of the Salton Sea. A speaker, representing California Pier Watch, highlighted that a substantial portion of the local population—34 to 37%—lacks access to smartphones or the Internet, which has hindered their ability to participate in discussions about critical issues affecting their lives.

The speaker criticized the longstanding methods used by the board, arguing that these practices perpetuate the marginalization of disenfranchised communities. They expressed frustration over the limited stakeholder engagement, noting that only one meeting had been held in their area. The representative called for a postponement of upcoming votes to allow for meaningful dialogue between community leaders and the board of supervisors, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to address the concerns of those directly impacted.

Lupe Rodriguez, the director of outreach for Imperial Valley Catholic Charities, also addressed the meeting, indicating a commitment to advocating for the needs of the community. The discussions underscored a growing demand for inclusivity and transparency in decision-making processes that affect vulnerable populations in the region.