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-Editorial
In a significant address delivered at the El Centro Public Library on October 29, Mayor Sylvia Marroquin laid out a vision of resilience, growth, and forward momentum for the city of El Centro. With city officials, residents, and community leaders in attendance, Marroquin’s State of the City Address underscored achievements in environmental sustainability, community health and safety, and economic development, highlighting the progress El Centro has made over the past year.
The mayor’s speech touched on an array of advancements that underscore the city’s commitment to elevating the quality of life for all residents. Marroquin spotlighted significant infrastructure projects aimed at creating a more resilient and connected city, improvements in public safety to ensure secure neighborhoods, and innovative programs promoting community health. She emphasized El Centro’s dedication to forging a sustainable future through green initiatives, as well as the city’s ongoing efforts to expand economic opportunities, making El Centro a place where businesses and families can thrive.
It was highlighted the construction of the new El Centro Police Department. The total cost of the project will be $49,763,516, including the $39,764,499 construction contract just awarded. The project is funded through Measure P funds and supplemented by Impact fees and Asset forfeiture funds. In November of 2016, El Centro residents approved Measure P. This measure increased the sales tax rate by ½ of 1% effective April 1, 2017. The purpose of the tax is to address major capital needs within the City.
In 2024, the city saw a significant decrease in crime, with a 15.68% reduction in crimes against persons and a 36.73% decrease in property crimes. The Fire Department strengthened its team by hiring seven firefighters and one battalion chief, enhancing emergency response capabilities. Additionally, the city issued 343 new business licenses, reflecting growth and economic vitality.
During the event, the Imperial Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce presented its annual report, highlighting a year of significant achievements, community impact, and dedication to fostering economic growth across the region. The Chamber’s efforts have centered on community engagement, signature events, government advocacy, and robust membership support. The report was given by Chamber President Sher Cowie.
The Chamber organized six signature events in 2023-2024, each designed to bring the community together and support regional priorities. These events were met with enthusiastic participation, underscoring the Chamber’s role in connecting businesses, residents, and leaders.
To welcome teachers back to the new school year, the Chamber distributed 2,500 bags filled with essentials, thanks to a generous $20,000 donation from BHE Renewables. Burgers and Beer donated lunch and breakfast for the Imperial and El Centro teachers, showing a strong commitment to the education sector. The Chamber personally attended welcome events across Seeley, Heber, Calexico, McCabe, and Brawley. Highlights included the Brawley Welcome Teachers Breakfast on August 14, the Imperial Welcome Teachers Luncheon on August 15, and the El Centro Elementary Welcome Breakfast on August 17.
18th Annual Honey Festival
held on November 18, 2023, in Westmorland, the Honey Festival’s theme, “Bee the Best YOU,” promoted messages of health, kindness, and positivity. This vibrant event celebrated the local honey industry, offering an array of educational activities and entertainment for all ages.
77th Annual Christmas Parade – “Let it Snow with Frosty the Snowman”
The beloved Christmas Parade returned on December 7, 2024, with festive flair as families lined the streets of El Centro to enjoy floats, a holiday-themed “Festival in the Park,” and a visit from Santa Claus. This year’s parade included a “Gingerbread Village” theme, adding a whimsical element to the holiday celebration.
17th Annual Blue Angels Air Show Gala
The Chamber hosted the 17th Annual Blue Angels Air Show Gala on February 9, 2024, at NAF El Centro. The event featured a Blue Angels F-18 Super Hornet on display and honored military excellence with awards presented to sailors, including Seaman Zeke Airoldi and First Class Donald Bynum.
El Centro Mardi Gras Parade
With the support of Los Vigilantes and the City of El Centro, the Chamber brought Mardi Gras magic to Imperial Valley on February 24, 2024. King & Queen Matthew and Sher Cowie, crowned on January 18, led the “Disco”-themed parade float. The Mardi Gras Light Parade and Street Festival were highlighted, drawing crowds from across the region.
3rd Annual Margarita Challenge
The Margarita Challenge allowed participants to sample five unique margaritas while enjoying food and a chance to win prizes. Awards were given for People’s Choice, Judge’s Choice, and Best Decorated Booth. This year, winners included Prince and Associates for People’s Choice and State Farm – Jasmin Rodriguez for Judge’s Choice.
The Chamber engaged actively in government affairs, submitting 14 letters of support and three letters of opposition for various initiatives on behalf of local businesses and organizations. Notable efforts included advocating for federal funding appropriations, supporting projects like the SR 86 Multimodal Improvement Project, and backing initiatives for sustainable energy through BHE Renewables and Energy Source Minerals.
The Chamber celebrated an impressive membership growth, with 60 new members joining during 2023-2024. In addition, 57 members renewed after over 30 years of membership, highlighting a loyal business community. The Chamber hosted 24 ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new and expanding businesses and organized 11 mixers, which fostered networking and partnership opportunities. Mixers included highlights such as the Victoria Homes Cambria Phase 4 and the Candidate Meet & Greet on February 21, 2024.
Supporting small businesses remained a core objective, as the Chamber conducted a four-week series of bilingual training workshops. Topics ranged from IRS compliance for small businesses to labor law, providing vital information to support compliance and growth among small enterprises.
