Borrego Springs Community Revitalization Meeting: Progress Updates
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Highlights from the June 5th meeting at Borrego Springs Library
The Borrego Springs Library was filled to capacity on June 5th as community members gathered for the Borrego Springs Community Revitalization meeting. The well-attended session covered key initiatives and progress across three main focus areas, demonstrating strong community engagement in local development efforts. Here's a comprehensive update on the key initiatives and progress across our three main focus areas.
Environment Committee Updates
Led by Chairperson Tammy Baker
Abandoned Wells Cleanup Continues
Good news on the abandoned wells front! The County is making steady progress with only 3 wells remaining in the cleanup process. Joel Wright from Environmental Health Quality (EHQ) continues to oversee this important environmental initiative.
Know of an abandoned well that needs attention? Contact Joel Wright at joel.wright@sdcounty.ca.gov
Air Quality Monitoring Expansion
Local professors will be joining Tammy Baker's efforts to enhance air quality monitoring in the area. This partnership will bring additional expertise and resources to better understand and protect local air quality.
Weed Management Update
Due to limited rainfall this season, weed and wildflower management has been less challenging than in previous years. However, the team continues to monitor the situation closely as winter approaches.
Public Health & Economic Development
Co-Chairpersons Bruce Kelley & Betsy Knaak
Medical Services
Dr. Richard Fausel provided updates on the Borrego Medical Clinic's ongoing services and developments. For specific medical questions or concerns, Dr. Fausel can be reached at refausel@gmail.com.
Fire Department Progress
Chief Salizzoni shared positive news about our fire services infrastructure. The asbestos issue at the current firehouse has been successfully resolved, and the department continues to evaluate potential sites for a new firehouse, pending land transfer approval.
Affordable Housing Initiative
Dan Wright continues his dedicated work on developing affordable housing options specifically for Borrego seniors. This important project involves ongoing planning and funding searches to make senior housing a reality in our community. Affordable Senior Housing in Borrego Springs
For questions about the affordable housing project, contact Dan Wright at borregono.3@gmail.com
Health Services Outreach
The Supervisor's office is coordinating with the LiveWell team to expand immunization services this fall. As a reminder, the LiveWell bus visits our library on the first Tuesday of every month. We'll share updates on additional immunization opportunities as they become available.
Infrastructure Improvements
Chairperson Marsha Boring
Traffic Safety Initiatives
Mike Kenney from the Department of Public Works (DPW) provided comprehensive updates on several traffic improvement projects:
- Traffic circles planned for Palm Canyon/Country Club and Country Club/Sunset intersections
- Crosswalk improvements between the Mall and the Center
- Sidewalk completion along Palm Canyon
- Ongoing traffic studies to address community concerns
Addressing Speeding Concerns
The County recognizes that speeding is a significant concern for Borrego residents. In response, they're exploring the feasibility of implementing roundabouts as a traffic-calming solution. An innovative approach being considered involves using Trex decking materials, which could reduce implementation time by approximately 18 months compared to traditional construction.
Note: Botts dots are not currently being considered as a traffic calming option.
Stay Connected
The community revitalization efforts reflect ongoing work across multiple areas of development. Regular meetings provide updates on progress and offer opportunities for continued community input on future initiatives.
Key Contacts:
- Environmental concerns: Joel Wright - joel.wright@sdcounty.ca.gov
- Infrastructure questions: Mike Kenney - michael.kenney@sdcounty.ca.gov
- Affordable housing: Dan Wright - borregono.3@gmail.com
- Medical services: Dr. Richard Fausel - refausel@gmail.com
For general questions or to get involved, contact:
Lily Cooper
Supervisor Jim Desmond, 5th District
LilyM.Cooper@sdcounty.ca.gov
858.402.2442
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