Mosquitos the buzz at Abita Springs Council meeting

BY Karen Glasscock

ABITA SPRINGS- Entomologist Vicki Taylor of St. Tammany Parish Mosquito Abatement District No. 2 was invited by Mayor Bryan Gowland to Tuesday's Abita Springs town meeting to allay some residents' concerns about the safety of the chemicals used when spraying for marsh mosquitoes.

Gowland was prompted by complaints from residents that they were not notified of a recent evening pass by one of the chemical-spraying trucks. When used correctly, a good percentage of the pesticides used are biologically derived and EPA approved with no threat to humans or wildlife, Taylor said.

"We've run tests on every type of mosquito product out there, even garlic, but they just aren't as effective," she said. "This poses no threat to humans or wildlife."

Taylor also explained that residents who do not live next to other homes may call the district's office to arrange that the truck not pass by their home. However, unless the entire block agrees to not have the truck spray, trucks cannot "stop and go" at every other house or the treatment would be ineffective, she said. She added that wildlife are usually not out at dusk, the time the mosquitoes are most active. In other maters discussed by the council Tuesday night:

  • CPA Bryan Huval told the council that the town is financially solvent. A partial audit of the town's finances and utility systems for the year 2001 is required by the Louisiana Office of the Legislator Auditor. The report includes al the governmental funds and account groups under the control and oversight of the town. A full audit will be required for the year 2002.

  • The Abita Police Department used state grant money from the Department of Transportation and Development to pay two of its officers overtime for a special traffic enforcement details after-hours. After-hour traffic details include checks for DWI, speeding seatbelts, and are implemented using DOTD funds about two to three times a year. During the week, officers arrested six individuals on DWI charges, Lala said. During the entire month of May, officers will work a special seatbelt detail, he said.

  • Resident Andrew Estrada protested that, because he said he does not use the town's garbage services but burns his trash, he should not be required to pay the $13 fee which is included on his monthly utility bill, along with water, gas and sewer. Once the retired gentlemen spoke his piece, Mayor Bryan Gowland promptly cited text from the ordinance that states regardless of whether garbage services are used, the fee must be paid.

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