The Valley is getting hotter and drier, and leaders said Monday that red tape stands between their small communities and access to water.

The leaders from Avenal, Lamont and Teviston, all of which face serious water shortages, spoke with state Senator Melissa Hurtado during a Zoom conference. The communities have fewer than 15,000 residents —  around 1,200 residents live in Teviston. 

“California is facing both a water and energy shortage, shortages that could create a food crisis for all Americans,” Hurtado said. “Not only do [these communities] disproportionately face water shortages, they also face extreme heat and power outages.”

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To watch the press conference, click here.