Supervisor John Hawk was elected chair of the Imperial County Board of Supervisors for 2025 on Tuesday, succeeding the prior leadership. The board approved the motion to elect Hawk without recorded opposition.

The board also elected Supervisor Jesus Escobar as vice chair; the motion carried 5-0. Escobar thanked colleagues and pledged to work with the board on shared priorities.

Hawk used his first remarks as chair to thank staff and describe a focus on efficiency and innovation across county departments, saying the public and private sectors can learn from each other on delivering services.

Several supervisors offered brief comments of welcome and support for the new leadership. During the remarks supervisors noted recent onboarding for new members and encouraged collaboration for the coming year.

No formal policy changes accompanied the leadership votes. The board proceeded to routine business and the scheduled agenda following the elections.