(Ryan Kelley to serve on Lithium Commission)...The Supervisor was appointed by the California Energy Commission.

Suprvisor Kelley joins Imperial Irrigation District Director James Hanks in their appointment to the Lithium Valley Commission. Ryan Kelley rtpresents District 4 on the Board of Supervisors. The District covers most of the north end of the County. Assembly bill 1657, authored by Assemblyman Eduardo Garcia, requires the CEC to convene the Lithium Valley Commission to review, investigate and analyz specific issues and potential incentives regarding lithium extraction and us in California. The Commission will also consult with the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy in performing these tasks. Following the appointment Wednesday, Kelley said Imperial County is rich in natural resources to support th expansion of lithium extraction. He said this exciting new industry has the potential to generate millions of dollars in revenue and jobs for our region. Kelley said it was an honor to be a part of this new venture representing Imperial County. The commission will eventually consist of 14 members and will go into effect on January 1, 2021 in coordination of AB 1657 becoming law.