El Centro’s mayor Tomas Oliva has stepped down from the City Council. His resignation took effect Tuesday, March 4.
Oliva accused the City Council of slow-walking the transfer of assets and operations for the El Centro Regional Medical Center (ECRMC) to the newly created Imperial Valley Health District (IVHD).
“My resignation is the loudest alarm I could ring to make residents aware of the concerning direction this new council is taking, particularly when it comes to the future of our healthcare system,” said Oliva, who also serves on the ECRMC Board of Trustees. “Their decisions are placing the merger of ECRMC into the countywide healthcare district at serious risk, and I cannot, in good conscience, be part of an effort that threatens the future of accessible, quality healthcare for our residents.”
The City Council has delayed finalizing the merger, citing the need for transparency and public input. The delays have frustrated IVHD board members. A public forum on the merger has been scheduled for March 11. After the meeting, City Council members will vote on whether to approve the plan.
“While the City of El Centro remains committed to the ECRMC merger with IVHD, it cannot meet IVHD’s deadline of noon today,” the City announced on March 5. “The City prioritizes ensuring that El Centro residents are fully informed of the impact of the term sheet conditions on the services they receive. To provide transparency, the March 11 public forum will include a presentation on the terms of the transaction and the associated financial considerations.”
Oliva has served on the El Centro City Council since 2018. His term expires in 2026.