To Spray or Not To Spray: Aldermen Vote to Cancel Mosquito Fogging

After hearing from concerned citizens, Teague City Council voted unanimously to cancel their annual mosquito fogging at the Monday, June 19th meeting.

Several residents, along with Alderwoman Marie Hertenberger, discussed the dangers of city-wide spraying, and questioned the effectiveness of the practice.

Overall, these residents were most concerned about the health hazards associated with the chemicals used to fog the City.

According to their research, these chemicals list cancer causing ingredients that pose serious risks to both human and animal life, as well as favorable insects like bees and butterflies.

Homeowners are not prohibited from using chemical means to stave off mosquitos on their property. Everyone is encouraged to do their part to keep the mosquito population at bay by dumping standing water, and reducing mosquito breeding grounds.

Frank Steele, CPA, of Anderson, Marx, and Bohl, the City’s accountant delivered a good report regarding Teague’s 2015-2016 year end audit.

Mr. Steele applauded the administration for being good stewards of the City’s finances, and shared that, even with a decline in economic growth, the City ended the year on a positive note.

In other business, Aldermen voted to apply for a Routine Airport Maintenance Program (RAMP) Grant, a 50/50 match grant program benefiting the Teague Municipal Airport.

A major sewer infrastructure replacement was approved for the 800 block of Pecan and Walnut Streets.

Electrical repairs to the City Lake Pier were approved, appropriating $3,030 from the fund reserve for the project.

Four new lights will be installed to existing poles at the Neil Walker and Thomas baseball fields. The council voted to appropriate 4,405 from the fund reserve.

Mayor Pro Tem Marilyn Michaud signed a proclamation declared August 4th – 6th, 2017 as the Booker T. Washington/J.A. Brooks School Weekend, with several alumni and committee members in attendance.

Following executive session, it was announced that Lance Kamp was hired for the position of Assistant Public Works Director.