-Editorial
At their regular meeting on January 28, the Imperial County Board of Supervisors advanced renewable energy education and community development by ratifying a resolution and a letter of support for the proposed Geothermal-Themed Outdoor Park. The board also approved submitting an application to the California Energy Commission (CEC) for funding through its Geothermal Grant and Loan Program.
The initiative seeks $1.5 million in funding from the CEC, which supports geothermal energy projects focused on natural resource preservation, infrastructure development, and socioeconomic benefits. Planned for the City of Calipatria, the park aims to serve as an educational and recreational hub, connecting residents and visitors with the region’s geothermal and lithium industries.
A Vision for Education and Recreation
The proposed Geothermal-Themed Outdoor Park will feature interactive elements designed to promote awareness of renewable energy while providing an engaging space for visitors. Key components include:
- Educational pathways with bilingual panels explaining geothermal energy production and lithium extraction.
- A themed playground with geothermal-inspired structures and rubberized surfaces illustrating Earth’s layers.
- Shaded rest areas with solar-powered cooling fans.
- An energy walkway displaying geothermal power plant models and lithium extraction diagrams.
- Community spaces with picnic zones, shaded seating, and security features to ensure accessibility and safety.
Strategically located within Calipatria’s “Community Park” concept, the park aligns with broader efforts to enhance public spaces and foster sustainability. The project also supports workforce development in renewable energy, inspiring local students to explore careers in geothermal and lithium industries while instilling community pride in the region’s leadership in clean energy innovation.
Additionally, the park is designed to address environmental concerns, such as dust mitigation and the addition of shade-providing trees, contributing to the area’s overall ecological health.
Community Perspectives and Concerns
During the meeting, William Cooper, Executive Director of The Becoming Project, voiced concerns about the initiative’s priorities:
“I’m not against clean energy development, but Calipatria needs real investment in education, technology, and job training. These needs can be met within the existing framework without focusing entirely on geothermal infrastructure,” Cooper stated. “Residents want resources that prepare them for the clean energy transition—like workforce training, manufacturing opportunities, or refinery jobs. Geothermal energy has been here for 40 years. What the community needs now are tangible steps to improve their quality of life.”
Cooper criticized the tendency to focus on short-term projects rather than long-term solutions, calling for a five-year strategic plan addressing education, healthcare, and economic development. He warned that surrendering geothermal infrastructure to private industry without enforceable community benefits could weaken local leverage.
Board Response and Future Steps
Supervisor Ryan Kelley of District 4 responded to concerns about the project’s scope and the legal challenges surrounding energy development:
“The issues raised regarding infrastructure improvements fall outside this fund’s intended use. Additionally, regarding concerns about previous environmental impact lawsuits, these legal challenges have delayed development, jobs, and economic progress,” Kelley noted. “While I respect differing perspectives, it’s important to ensure that information guiding these discussions is accurate.”
The partnership agreement between the County of Imperial and the City of Calipatria will have no fiscal impact on the county’s General Fund. If approved, the CEC grant will fully fund the project.
By transforming an undeveloped parcel into an educational and recreational destination, the Geothermal-Themed Outdoor Park represents a step toward fostering community engagement in renewable energy while balancing environmental and economic interests.
