Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez (R-Indio) announced that EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has agreed to visit Imperial County to observe the effects of pollution along the New River and the Salton Sea. This commitment follows a recent roundtable in Coronado where officials discussed cross-border water pollution issues, particularly contamination in the Tijuana River.
At the event, which included SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler and regional leaders, Gonzalez expressed gratitude for efforts to address the Tijuana River’s problems but stressed that the New River presents an even more serious and persistent challenge. He described how pollution in this river impacts public health, harms the environment, and affects local businesses as well as long-term sustainability of the Salton Sea.
Gonzalez also pointed out that Assembly District 36 is home to about one-third of global lithium resources. He highlighted this as an important opportunity for economic growth, job creation, and increased domestic energy production. In addition, he emphasized Imperial County’s key role in national agriculture by producing around 90% of winter vegetables consumed in the United States. He warned that ongoing environmental issues could threaten American food supply.
During the roundtable, Gonzalez formally invited both Zeldin and Loeffler to visit Imperial County to witness conditions firsthand. Administrator Zeldin replied, “Invite accepted.”
“Imperial County has been overlooked for far too long, and I appreciate Administrator Zeldin’s willingness to come see these challenges our region faces,” said Gonzalez.
Assemblyman Gonzalez stated he will continue collaborating with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as arrangements are made for Zeldin’s upcoming visit to California.
