Ballot Measure Asks For $5 Assessment To Fight Mosquitoes
FRESNO, Calif. (KMPH) — The latest ballot measure concerning mosquito control isn't controversial but it is asking property owners for money.{} The Fresno Mosquito and Vector Control District is funded by property taxes and a small assessment that expires in 2017.{} 84-thousand ballots have been mailed to people living in the district.{} It stretches from Fresno west of Freeway 41 to{}Kerman.{}
The ballot asks a yes-no question; should the mosquito control district continue to receive an annual five dollar assessment?{} Gary Byde is the assistant manager of the control district.{} "It accounts for 18% of our budget.{} We're losing that and we need to replace that revenue{}to sustain our level of service that we provide now.{}{}
People living in the district have 45 days to return their ballots.{} If the measure fails Byde says the district will be forced to cut staff but it will continue trying to control mosquitoes.{} The ballots will be counted on June 17th.
