-Editorial
John Hawk was selected Chairman of the Imperial County Board of Supervisors, delivered an inspiring address at the board’s first meeting of the year on Jan. 7, highlighting his journey, goals, and vision for 2025.
“First of all, I want to thank you for welcoming me to the County of Imperial as a supervisor,” said Hawk, reflecting on his tenure since joining the board two years ago. “Coming from an agricultural background, there were many aspects of the county I didn’t understand, but this has been an amazing journey. With 28 departments and countless dedicated people, it’s been a lot to learn, but I look forward to leading this year.”
Hawk also welcomed new Supervisors Martha Cardenas-Singh and Peggy Price, emphasizing their contributions to the board. “They really make our board look better, don’t they?” he added with a smile.
Drawing from his experience in the private sector, Hawk underscored the importance of efficiency and innovation. “In business, if we’re not efficient or innovative, we lose contracts, our livelihood, or even the business itself. In the public sector, however, the focus is on providing essential services—roads, fire protection, social services—that aren’t driven by profit but by necessity and funded by taxpayers.”
He advocated for a collaborative approach between public and private sectors. “There’s a lot we can learn from each other. The private sector can teach us efficiency, while the public sector shows us how to prioritize people’s needs, like clean air, water, and safe roads.”
Hawk concluded by celebrating the dedication of county employees. “It’s inspiring to see people who love what they do. Whether in farming or county services, their passion makes our community strong.”
Looking ahead, Hawk expressed optimism for 2025. “I’m honored to serve. We’re here to serve the county, not our own agendas. I look forward to a great year.”
Supervisor Jesus Escobar, representing District 1, was elected Vice Chairman.
In other items, the Imperial County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution honoring the passing of President Jimmy Carter by designating January 9, 2025, as a one-time paid holiday for all regular full-time county employees.
The decision follows President Joe Biden’s December 30, 2024, executive order declaring January 9 a National Day of Mourning in recognition of Carter’s legacy, coinciding with his state funeral at Washington National Cathedral. Per county ordinances, the Board’s approval aligns with provisions for presidentially declared holidays. This resolution carries an estimated fiscal impact of $588,746, reflecting the cost of granting the day off to county employees.
Finally, the board approved a request by Agricultural Commissioner Jolene Dessert to address the escalating threat of the Sweetpotato Whitefly, a pest jeopardizing key crops in the region. The board ratified a Proclamation of Local Emergency and adopted a Resolution confirming its existence. The emergency declaration, aligned with California regulations, allowed for the limited use of neonicotinoid pesticides to protect spring melon and pepper crops from significant damage. Local agricultural advisers had warned that immediate intervention was critical.
