Last week, I was pleased to join my Board of Supervisors colleagues for the 2023 State of the County address at Ontario Convention Center.
This popular annual event brings together business leaders throughout the region for an update on the exciting developments and achievements happening in each district.
Here are some highlights from my presentation, which highlights some of the great work being done by First District businesses.
• One company’s story that exemplifies the strength and tenacity of the First District is Searles Valley Minerals in Trona. This year, the company celebrated its 150-year history as one of the longest-standing, continuous mining operations in the United States. You’d be surprised to know how many of their products are found in items we use each day!
• AIM Recycling, based in Hesperia, is considered one of the most innovative recycling companies in the world. This family-owned business is part of the California Metal Recycling Coalition and is working to protect California’s environment. We appreciate their work to provide responsible and innovative recycling options for residents and business owners alike.
• Another legacy firm that continues to grow in San Bernardino County is Mobile Coating Solutions. Based in Adelanto, this business serves the pipe coating and lining needs of the Western United States. We met with Mobile Coating’s parent company SeAH Steel during our County’s South Korea trade mission. Our delegation thanked SeAH for their investment in the region and encouraged future job and growth opportunities
• We are increasing healthcare access for our communities. Desert Valley Hospital just launched a new Internal Medicine Residency Program. Internal Medicine residents will receive training at Desert Valley Hospital, while also completing specialty rotations in clinics within Desert Valley Medical Group and throughout the High Desert. This work will train future physicians who share a commitment to outstanding patient care and clinical excellence while preparing them for a successful future in medicine. The success of this program will add to the increasing demand for physicians in the High Desert as our local population continues to grow.
• Brightline West’s high-speed rail project will connect Las Vegas and Southern California with the first true high-speed passenger rail system in the nation. The 218-mile, all-electric line includes a Las Vegas station, Apple Valley in-line station, Hesperia platform, and a flagship station in Rancho Cucamonga. The San Bernardino County Transportation Authority, in partnership with Brightline West, received a $25 million-dollar federal grant from the U.S Department of Transportation to design and build the Apple Valley Station and Hesperia commuter platform. This will be a game changer for our region by reducing commute times, increasing job opportunities, and improving the quality of life for County residents. According to Brightline West officials, the project will generate more than 35,000 jobs during construction and more than 1,000 permanent jobs to operate and maintain the system. On a local level, this infrastructure investment and expansion will create new commercial development opportunities in the County, including Apple Valley and Hesperia. Since Apple Valley will be the first stop entering Victor Valley from the north, the station and accompanying expansion will dramatically reshape the economic and business impact of north Apple Valley. These stations will also provide easy commuter access to both the Southern California and Las Vegas job markets. That is why Apple Valley and Hesperia are destined to become two of the fastest-growing cities in California for working professionals and families.
The First District is a region with a rich history that continues to make an impact, while new companies are catalysts for creating an even better tomorrow for all of us.
