The Imperial County Board of Supervisors convened on January 28, 2025, to address several pressing issues, with a significant focus on fire prevention and community safety. The meeting began with a discussion on the resurgence of the "Burn a Veil" campaign, originally launched 35 years ago, which aims to combat the increasing problem of illegal burning in the area.
A representative highlighted the campaign's revival, noting that it has been funded primarily by local farmers and community members. The speaker expressed gratitude towards three key agencies: the Imperial County Fire Department, the sheriff's office, and the district attorney's office. These agencies have played crucial roles in managing fire incidents, pursuing legal action against offenders, and ensuring community safety. The representative reported that several individuals have been prosecuted and jailed for their involvement in setting these fires.
The financial impact of these fires on the community was also addressed. The speaker shared personal experiences, revealing that their insurance rates had surged significantly due to multiple fire incidents, emphasizing the broader health implications for residents, particularly those with asthma. The community has raised over $130,000 to support fire prevention efforts, which will be allocated for public awareness initiatives, including signage and promotional materials.
Following this discussion, the board moved to a vote on the campaign's continuation, which was unanimously approved with a motion by Supervisor Singh and a second by Supervisor Kelly.
The meeting then transitioned to item 16 on the agenda, where CEO Miguel Figueroa presented additional requests for discussion and action. The board's commitment to addressing fire safety and community health remains a priority as they continue to navigate these challenges.