Imperial celebrates progress, cherishes development
IMPERIAL — After the community had the opportunity to delight themselves with great food at the annual Tri-Tip Cook-Off, they also had the opportunity to listen to Mayor Geoff Dale’s State of the City’s Address in Downtown Imperial.
Last year was a very active year for the city of Imperial which saw important investments and growth throughout the city.
During his speech, Dale focused on some of the most important developments and accomplishments for the city in the past year which centered in new businesses and new development to come.
Dale highlighted the acquisition of Highway 86 from the state which he hopes opens the door for more development and beautification, the completion of Worthington Square, new breweries and restaurants.
Once again the city was deemed as the safest city in California, a feat Dale attributed to the hard work done by the police department which in 2017 had a 22 percent decrease in service calls.
In addition to the accomplishments of the past year, Dale was even more excited to share some of the new development and improvements taking place across the city. The recent approved Measure O by the voters for a $60 million bond will fund new improvements at local schools, including the construction of the Imperial Elementary School which is expected to open its doors by August 2019.
“With all of this success, you’d think we have it made in the shade. But there’s still plenty of work to be done,” Dale said.
He noted the city has already begun the process of crafting a new economic development master plan to guide the city for the next 20 years. He foresees a bigger collaboration between the city, the chamber of commerce and local businesses to foster stronger partnerships and maintain the city’s sustainability.
“We’re hosting bigger and better events all the time, especially with our Market Days series, which is one of the most successful of its kind in the region,” he said. “There are also some great format changes coming at the fairgrounds and with this year’s Mid-Winter Fair & Fiesta.”
Other areas of emphasis Dale mentioned included improving local infrastructure like road repaving, wastewater treatment plant improvements and maintaining the city in good financial standing.
“We continue to take calculated risks and although revenues are tight, the city is becoming more efficient due to sound financial decision-making. In fact, our finances are very stable,” Dale said.
He concluded his speech by stating the city in this year will focus on pushing for additional growth in the retail sector in hopes of generating additional revenues.
“Imperial is a jewel in the Valley and a shining star in the region. The secret is out and we are now on the map. Exciting new developments are charting a course for Imperial,” Dale said. “Great neighborhoods, quality schools, safe streets, awesome residents, plentiful opportunity … It’s a good life.”