The Salton Sea is more than a district priority, and it is disheartening to learn that many state officials view it as a problem for only our local officials to solve. Over the next few weeks Gov. Gavin Newsom, the Assembly and the Senate will make crucial decisions about our state budget and a potential Climate Resilience Bond. It is vital for them to understand that protecting the Sea is a statewide priority. The Salton Sea is surrounded by several unique and rapidly growing communities across Riverside and Imperial counties, ranging in size from 231 residents in Bombay Beach to approximately 44,000 residents in El Centro. All these communities face significant health risks and environmental justice concerns related to the Salton Sea and a number of other issues in the region.
-Written by Dora Cecilia Armenta, who has lived with her family of four in Salton City for 29 years. She is an active community partner with Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability; and Mariela Loera, the Eastern Coachella Valley Regional Policy Manager with the Leadership Counsel for Justice and Accountability.