HomeMy WebLinkAboutApril 01, 2013 Agenda
AGENDA
CITY OF DENTON CITY COUNCIL
April 1, 2013
After determining that a quorum is present, the City Council of the City of Denton, Texas will
convene in a Work Session on Monday, April 1, 2013 at 11:30 a.m. in the Council Work Session
Room, 215 E. McKinney Street, Denton, Texas at which the following item will be considered:
NOTE: A Work Session is used to explore matters of interest to one or more City Council
Members or the City Manager for the purpose of giving staff direction into whether or not such
matters should be placed on a future regular or special meeting of the Council for citizen input,
City Council deliberation and formal City action. At a Work Session, the City Council generally
receives informal and preliminary reports and information from City staff, officials, members of
City committees, and the individual or organization proposing council action, if invited by City
Council or City Manager to participate in the session. Participation by individuals and members
of organizations invited to speak ceases when the Mayor announces the session is being closed to
public input. Although Work Sessions are public meetings, and citizens have a legal right to
attend, they are not public hearings, so citizens are not allowed to participate in the session
unless invited to do so by the Mayor. Any citizen may supply to the City Council, prior to the
beginning of the session, a written report regarding the citizen’s opinion on the matter being
explored. Should the Council direct the matter be placed on a regular meeting agenda, the staff
will generally prepare a final report defining the proposed action, which will be made available
to all citizens prior to the regular meeting at which citizen input is sought. The purpose of this
procedure is to allow citizens attending the regular meeting the opportunity to hear the views of
their fellow citizens without having to attend two meetings.
1.Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction concerning the City of
Denton Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan.
Following the completion of the Work Session, the City Council will convene in a Closed
Meeting to consider the following:
A. Consultation with Attorneys – Under Texas Government Code Section 551.071.
1.Consult with the City’s attorneys regarding legal issues associated with the
creation of municipal utility districts within the City’s corporate limits and
extraterritorial jurisdiction under existing and proposed State legislation,
and administrative regulations. The duty of the City’s attorneys to the
City of Denton and the Denton City Council under the Texas Disciplinary
Rules of Professional Conduct of the State Bar of Texas clearly conflicts
with the provisions of the Open Meetings Act, Chapter 551 of the Texas
Government Code in this matter.
C E R T I F I C A T E
I certify that the above notice of meeting was posted on the bulletin board at the City Hall of the
City of Denton, Texas, on the ________day of ___________________, 2013 at ________o'clock
(a.m.) (p.m.)
____________________________________
CITY SECRETARY
City of Denton City Council Agenda
April 1, 2013
Page 2
NOTE: THE CITY OF DENTON COUNCIL WORK SESSION ROOM IS
ACCESSIBLE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT.
THE CITY WILL PROVIDE SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETERS FOR THE HEARING
IMPAIRED IF REQUESTED AT LEAST 48 HOURS IN ADVANCE OF THE SCHEDULED
MEETING. PLEASE CALL THE CITY SECRETARY'S OFFICE AT 349-8309 OR USE
TELECOMMUNICATIONS DEVICES FOR THE DEAF (TDD) BY CALLING 1-800-
RELAY-TX SO THAT A SIGN LANGUAGE INTERPRETER CAN BE SCHEDULED
THROUGH THE CITY SECRETARY’S OFFICE.
WorkSession1
AGENDA INFORMATION SHEET
AGENDA DATE:
April 1, 2013
DEPARTMENT:
Environmental Services and Sustainability
UTILITIES ACM:
Howard Martin, 349-8232
SUBJECT
Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction concerning the City of Denton
Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan.
BACKGROUND
During the November 5, 2012 Committee on the Environment (COE) meeting, staff presented an
item discussing the need to incorporate the experiences of the 2012 mosquito season into the
City of Denton’s Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan (MSRP). The December 2012 and
January 2013 COE meetings were used to discuss recommendations for changes to the MSRP.
An annotated version of the material presented to the COE is included below. Due to the
volume of material, recommendations are divided into “Mosquito Response” and “Mosquito
Surveillance and General Information” sections.
Mosquito Response Section
The current MSRP includes 5 Risk Levels, with each level indicating progressively greater
human health risks from West Nile Virus (WNV). Each Risk Level is enacted when specific
trigger conditions are met. Once enacted, the Risk Level outlines a series of responses that
include recommendations for mosquito surveillance, public information and education, and
control measures. Responses increase in scope and magnitude as Risk Levels increase.
Although the MSRP is systematic in its approach to WNV Risk Levels, it is important to note
that the MSRP is only intended to provide a decision-making framework for a complex human
health issue involving many interacting factors, including the biology / ecology of mosquitoes,
birds, and humans, as well as weather patterns. Flexibility is built into the MSRP to account for
these variables / uncertainties.
Risk levels in the current plan are:
Risk Level 1 Normal Response:
Probability of human outbreak is none or remote
Risk Level 2 Enhanced Response:
Probability of human outbreak is low
Risk Level 3 Public Health Concern:
Probability of human outbreak is low to moderate
Risk Level 4 Public Health Warning:
Probability of human outbreak is moderate to high
Risk Level 5 Public Health Alert:
Human outbreak is confirmed
The mosquito season usually begins at Risk Level 2. Risk Level 1 is based on the condition of
“normal mosquito activity with no evidence of arthropod-borne virus/disease detected during the
past 3 years in vectors, humans, or other hosts”, and it is unlikely that we will see this condition
any time soon in the region. Progressively greater levels of public education and outreach,
source reduction, and larviciding using Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) are the main
responses for Risk Levels 2 and 3. The Risk Level 3 trigger has always been a WNV positive
mosquito sample. Risk level 4 is triggered by multiple mosquito pools collected at different
times and locations testing positive for WNV, or a single human case of WNV. Risk Level 5 is
triggered by more than one human WNV case, and states at this point the City Council will
recommend whether to implement ground level ultra-low volume (ULV) spraying as a response.
Denton staff members reviewed the current Plan and recommended changes based on the
experiences gained during the 2012 season. Some of these changes are procedural issues, or are
issues that reflect the current state of WNV control in the D-FW region and State of Texas.
Procedural / update recommendations
Change 1.
Remove seropositive equine as a trigger
Rationale:
Horse vaccinations for WNV have made this trigger of limited usefulness.
Change 2.
Remove WNV-positive birds as a trigger
Rationale:
The Texas Department of State Health Services has not supported WNV testing
for birds for many years. Seropositive birds may not be good sentinels for WNV
risk because of flight distances and resulting difficulty in determining exposure
location. Even with testing services available, dead birds may or may not be
capable of being tested, depending on time of mortality and carcass condition.
Change 3.
Add Spinosad as a larviciding recommendation at Risk Level 4 and above
Rationale:
Spinosad is a biologically derived pesticide that will likely be more effective and
more target specific than pesticides containing Insect Growth Regulators or those
that use monomolecular oils. In some circumstances, Spinosad may be a more
effective and rapid control strategy when compared to Bti. Spinosad is derived
from a naturally occurring bacterium, is designated by the E.P.A. as a “Reduced
Risk” product, and is OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) Listed, which
enables it to be used in and around organic agriculture.
Change 4.
Remove Gambusia affinis (mosquito fish) as a larviciding measure.
Rationale:
Mosquito fish are already ubiquitous in the City of Denton’s drainage network,
and are almost always found in local drainage areas that have supporting habitat.
Difficulties in culturing, capturing, transporting, and ensuring adequate habitat
make this organism difficult and unreliable for use as a broad scale larviciding
strategy. There are also some concerns for potential impacts on non-target
organisms.
Change 5.
Consider adding a formal statement to the MSRP stating that Council will enact a
Resolution supporting the decision to conduct ULV applications, and that the
Resolution will be valid through the remainder of the mosquito season. It is
important to note that this decision will likely require a short notice emergency
called session of the Council.
Rationale:
The current MSRP states “the decision to spray should be made by the City
Council of Denton”, but does not specify if the decision is to be made by
resolution, or provide guidance on how long the decision is valid.
Change 6.
Add the following statements to the indicated Risk Levels to prepare for ULV
applications
Risk level 3: Prepare for ground level spraying activities using ULV applications of
pyrethroids. Ensure adequate funding is in place for conducting ULV
applications.
Risk level 4: Finalize all actions needed for implementing ground level spraying activities
using ULV applications of pyrethroids.
Rationale:
Funding, equipment, service contracts, and similar requirements should all be in
place to ensure the most rapid response possible when the trigger condition for
.
ULV application is met
ULV application trigger
Staff and COE members extensively discussed the trigger condition for ULV spraying. This is a
complex issue that must attempt to balance the decision to spray and resulting potential impacts
on non-target organisms against the very real issue of protecting public health. The decision
will almost always be made with incomplete information and strong feelings from the public in
response to the decision should be expected. Trigger levels for spraying can be thought of as a
spectrum of responses that range from routine applications that are made regardless of mosquito
populations to a policy of not spraying at all.Currently, the City of Denton has a high trigger
condition before the City Council will be asked to decide on whether or not to enact ULV
applications.
To facilitate this discussion, staff compiled the following information
Trigger levels for other metroplex cities.
The City of Frisco completed a survey of metroplex cities early in the 2012 mosquito season,
well before WNV issues became regionally pervasive. A total of 12 metroplex cities had
responded when Denton requested this information from Frisco in June 2012. Results are
summarized in Table 1. It is important to note that the policies of the responding municipalities
may have changed in response to the 2012 season as WNV became much worse in the area.
Table 1. Spraying application triggers from 12 metroplex cities
Trigger Number of Cities with this trigger
Mosquito densities and complaint calls 4
One WNV positive mosquito sample 3
Multiple WNV positive mosquito sample, or a single human case 1
No spraying 4
What would Denton spraying have looked like under various trigger scenarios?
The 2012 season represented the first time that the City of Denton has undertaken mosquito
spraying in more than a decade. Under the trigger level of multiple human cases, the City of
th
Denton enacted ground level ULV spraying on June 30, 2012. Spraying continued through the
middle of September, with a total of 30 individual spray events occurring throughout the City.
Now that the season is completed, it is possible to reconstruct how spraying would have been
conducted under various trigger scenarios. However, it is important to keep in mind that these
scenarios are based on data collected using our monitoring network under a spraying application
strategy based on either a human case or 3 consecutive WNV positive traps (as outlined in the
Council resolution enacting spraying). All other scenarios are theoretical. It is also important
to realize that a given spraying scenario could have had an influence on subsequent trap data, and
may have therefore influenced future trap results or (possibly) human case counts.
Staff has provided pros and cons for each of the indicated scenarios. Table 2 summarizes
scenario results in terms of spraying timeframes and events.
Scenario 1: Spray for every WNV positive trap
Pros:
Earliest “disease trigger” response possible
May serve to break disease transmission cycle early, although this is variable
Can be more aggressive for problem areas … possibility of applying every week if trap
data indicates continued presence of virus
Cons:
Only effective for areas where you have traps
Will result in a large amount of pesticide usage, which increases potential for non-target
impacts, greatly increases expense, and can create significant capacity concerns (both
spraying and public notification)
Will require extensive adjustments to trap network …. possible loss of routine monitoring
data (fixed trap) and resource intensive
Does not necessarily reflect the potential for human disease transmission
Scenario 2: Spray for 2 or more positive traps, non-consecutive
Pros:
Somewhat early disease trigger response possible
May serve to break disease transmission cycle early, although this is variable
Can be more aggressive for problem areas … possibility of applying routinely if trap data
indicates continued presence of WNV
Cons:
Only effective for areas where you have routinely deployed fixed trap locations
May result smaller responses due to possibility of having many single positive traps at
different locations throughout the season (which may not trigger a response).
May cause spraying to end before threat is over due to possibility of having many single
positive traps at different locations at the end of the season
May require extensive adjustments to trap network …. possible loss of routine
monitoring data (fixed trap) and resource intensive
Does not necessarily represent potential for human disease transmission (although likely
more representative of risk than single trap trigger).
Scenario 3: 3 or more positive traps, non-consecutive
Pros:
May serve to break disease transmission cycle earlier than human case strategies,
although this is variable and may be influenced by a single spray event
Can be aggressive for problem areas … possibility of applying routinely if trap data
indicates continued presence of virus. Not as aggressive as single trap or 2 non-
consecutive trap triggers.
Cons:
Only effective for areas where you routinely deployed fixed trap locations
Will result smaller responses due to possibility of having many single positive traps
throughout the season (which may not trigger a response).
May cause spraying to end before threat is over due to possibility of having many single
positive traps at the end of the season
Will require extensive adjustments to trap network …. possible loss of routine monitoring
data (fixed trap) and resource intensive
Does not necessarily represent potential for human disease transmission (although likely
more representative of risk than “single positive trap” or “two or more non-consecutive
positive traps” trigger)
Scenario 4: 3 or more positive traps, consecutive
Pros:
Ensures applications are made only in areas that consistently have mosquitoes that test
positive for WNV
Will likely require the least amount of resources of any option
Cons:
Only effective for areas where you have routinely deployed fixed trap locations
Will likely result in applications late in the season, which may not be sufficient for
significantly reducing public health risks.
Will result smaller responses due to possibility of having many positive traps throughout
the season without having 3 consecutive positives (which would not trigger a response).
May cause spraying to end before threat is over
Will require some adjustments to trap network …. fixed trap locations will be favored
over random.
Scenario 5: Start spraying at “2 or more positive human cases in the City” (current
trigger)
Pros:
Balances the use of trap data and actual human disease transmission information
Ensures applications are made only in areas that exhibit known transmission to humans
… trigger is directly related to human health,
Should result in minimal impacts to non-target organisms since spray applications are
only made when and where disease transmission is documented
Ensures that responses occur as long as public health threat exists
Response is scaled to the level of public health threat (more cases, more response).
Trigger is not highly dependent on mosquito monitoring network, although can be
supported by monitoring network data.
Cons:
Human disease has to occur before trigger condition is met
Lag time of human disease symptoms, diagnosis, and reporting could result in additional
cases of disease transmission before the trigger condition is met.
Table 2. Scenario results
Starts Ends Events Sites treated Sites treated
oncemore than once
Scenario 1
: Every Trap 05-22-12 09-24-12 54 15 9
Scenario 2
: 2 or more 06-06-12 07-25-12 16 3 5
non-consecutive
Scenario 3
: 3 or more 06-06-12 09-24-12 11 5 3
non-consecutive
Scenario 4
: 3 or more 07-01-12 07-17-12 5 3 1
consecutive
Scenario 5
: 2 or more 6-21-12 09-14-12 30 28** 2**
Human and / or 3
consecutive traps*
* current trigger is 2 or more human cases. In 2012, the first 2 human cases in Denton were reported on
the same day (6-21-12). We completed this event on 6-30-12
** using human cases as triggers, there were many “overlapping” spray areas, but only two that represented
identical areas sprayed more than once. 27 of the spray areas were triggered by human cases, with 3
triggered by the “3 or more consecutive trap” trigger. 2 of the “3 or more consecutive trap” triggers
coincided with human cases.
Following these discussions, the Committee on the Environment recommended keeping the
trigger for ground level spraying at the same level used in the 2012 plan and incorporating
the six staff changes as presented.
Surveillance and General Information Section
Change 1.
Add “Objectives” Section
Rationale:
The current MSRP does not formally define the objectives of the plan.
Change 2.
Update“West Nile Virus Concerns” Section
Rationale:
Statistics provided in the current plan were in need of revision. Staff added
information concerning the effects of weather, WNV impacts on wildlife, and the
target mosquito for control efforts.
Change 3.
Add “The Role of Residents” Section
Rationale:
This section was added to highlight the importance of resident participation in
reducing WNV risks. Information specific to Culex quinquefasciatus and the
habitat this mosquito targets around homes is included in this section.
Change 4.
Revise Mosquito Surveillance section
Rationale:
Several revisions were made in this section to outline the need to consider
weather patterns when monitoring, the rationale for monitoring adult mosquito
populations, different trap types, and the fact that if resources are limited, gravid
traps are better in this area for assessing WNV risk and should be used instead of
CDC light traps. Several minor text revisions were completed to improve clarity.
Change 5.
Add NPDES requirement to “Mosquito Control Strategies” Section
Rationale:
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality recently enacted a general
permit to authorize discharges of biological and chemical pesticides that leave a
residue in water. The City of Denton is required to comply with all applicable
provisions of this permit.
Change 6.
Add information concerning ULV applications (section 6.1.) and general editing
of Mosquito Control Strategies
Rationale:
Information concerning applications of adulticiding was added to specify that
“adulticiding” means Ultra Low Volume (ULV) applications of pyrethroids.
Several general edits were accomplished to improve clarity of the text.
Change 7.
Section 7.1: Add public information requirements and adulticiding measures to
“objectives should be accomplished by” section and generally edit text.
Rationale:
Information was added to directly confirm that objectives include informing
citizens about risk levels, WNV positive locations, and control measures being
undertaken by the City. Additional information was added to specifically state
that adulticiding measures will be taken when warranted. General edits were
accomplished to improve clarity of the text.
Change 8.
Revise Section 7.1.1 through 7.1.7.”Adulticiding”:
Rationale:
Information was added to generally describe reporting requirements for human
cases as outlined in Texas Administrative Code, and the process by which this
information is conveyed to the municipality. Text was added to specify that
adulticide applications will be conducted in a manner that balances the
application’s effectiveness for controlling the target mosquito and minimizing
impacts on non-targets, and to further explain the use of surveillance information.
Section 7.1.7 was updated to include the actions used to inform the public about
adulticiding operations during the 2012 season. General edits were accomplished
to improve clarity of the text.
Change 9.
Revise Section 7.2 “Plan for Public Education”
Rationale:
Textwas added to generally describe information that will be included
in public education efforts. Information concerning persons over 50 years of
age being more likely to experience clinical disease was removed based on the
experiences of the 2012 season. Information about reporting dead birds was
removed because the Texas Department of State Health Services no longer
conducts routine WNV screening for birds. The “techniques for disseminating
information” section was updated to include the approaches used during the 2012
season.
Change 10.
Revise Section 7.3 “City of Denton Response Plan”
Rationale:
Section 7.3 was revised to reflect the recommendations made by the Committee
on the Environment during the December 11, 2012 meeting.
Change 11.
Remove appendices
Rationale:
These Appendices were included in the current plan because much of the
information contained in the appendices was not readily available when the plan
was originally drafted in 2002-2003. Today, similar, more updated information
is available from a number of sources. Staff feels that FAQs (Appendix A) are
crucial, but should be provided in a format that is more readily available and that
can be more easily modified if needed to respond to changing conditions. To
meet this need, FAQs have been included on the Denton Mosquito Response web
page for many years. The glossary (appendix B) was removed because staff has
attempted to remove as many technical terms from the plan as possible,
which will hopefully improve the readability of the plan and eliminate the need
for the glossary. The rationale for removing Appendix C, contact information, is
the same as Appendix A. This information is readily available on the web page
and other forms of media used during the mosquito season.
Following these discussions, the Committee on the Environment recommended
incorporating the Changes 1 through 11 as presented
Staff will be glad to conduct additional research or provide additional information as directed by
the City Council.
OPTIONS
1.No further action
2.Direct staff to adopt the changes recommended for the MSRP.
3.Table for future consideration
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends Option 2.
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (Council, Boards, Commissions)
November 5, 2012 Committee on the Environment: Item for individual consideration entitled
“Receive a report, hold a discussion and give staff direction concerning the City of Denton
Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan”.
December 11, 2012 Committee on the Environment: Item for individual consideration entitled
“Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction concerning the City of Denton
Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan, with an emphasis on Risk Level triggers”.
January 7, 2013 Committee on the Environment: Item for individual consideration entitled
“Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction concerning revisions to the City of
Denton Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan”.
FISCAL INFORMATION
None
EXHIBIT
1. Presentation
2. Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan, 2013 working draft, with proposed changes
3. Committee on the Environment minutes November 5, 2012
4. Committee on the Environment minutes December 11, 2012
5. Committee on the Environment minutes January 7, 2013
Respectfully prepared and submitted by,
Kenneth Banks.
Director, Environmental Services and Sustainability
City of Denton
EXHIBIT 2
Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan
City of Denton, Texas
2013 WORKING DRAFT
prepared by Kenneth E. Banks, Ph.D.
Department of Environmental Services and Sustainability
City of Denton
phone: (940) 349-7165
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1.0Introduction ÈÈÈÈ..ÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ 1
West Nile Virus Concerns ....ÈÈÈÈÈ..ÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ. 2
2.0
2.0 Objectives È.ÈÈÈÈÈ.....ÈÈÈÈÈ..ÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ. 2
3.0 West Nile Virus Concerns ....ÈÈÈÈÈ..ÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ. 3
4.0 The Role of Residents ....ÈÈÈÈÈ..ÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ.. 4
53.0 Denton's Plan for Mosquito Surveillance ÈÈÈÈ.ÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ.È... 53
3.1 Adult mosquito collections ....ÈÈÈ...ÈÈ...ÈÈÈÈ.È 64
5
4.0 Mosquito Control Strategies ...ÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ........................È. 65
6
64.1 Larviciding vs. adulticiding ..ÈÈÈ...ÈÈ...ÈÈÈÈ.È 86
64.2 Rationale for different treatment methods .......ÈÈÈÈ.È 97
64.3 Integrated Pest Management ÈÈÈÈÈÈ...........ÈÈ.È. 98
75.0 Denton's Plan for Mosquito Control ...ÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ...... 10 8
75.1 Adulticiding ............................................... 108
75.1.1 Triggers for adulticiding .................................108
75.1.2 When to use adulticides ..................................119
75.1.3 Where to use adulticides .................................119
75.1.4 Human Population density considerations ................ 119
75.1.5 Mosquito population considerations ........................129
5.1.5.1 Lag time ......................................................... 9
5.1.5.2 Surveillance results over time........................ 10
75.1.6 Local perspectives on spraying ............................ 120
75.1.7 Denton's plan for mosquito adulticiding operations . 120
75.2 Plan for Public Education Concerning Mosquitoes .............41
75.3 City of Denton Response Plan ................................42
75.3.1 Risk Level 1 - Normal Response ............................53
75.3.2 Risk Level 2 - Enhanced Response ..........................64
75.3.3 Risk Level 3 - Public Health Concern ......................75
75.3.4 Risk Level 4 - Public Health Warning ......................86
75.3.5 Risk Level 5 - Public Health Alert .....................97
References ..............................................ÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈÈ...... 218
Appendix A Frequently Asked Questions
Appendix B Definitions and Glossary
Appendix C Contact Names and Phone Numbers
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Mosquitoes are insects that belong to the order Diptera, or True
mosquitoes have modified mouthparts that form a long piercing-sucking proboscis, while
male mosquitoes have mouthparts that are incapable of piercing s
2500 different species of mosquitoes that have been identified throughout the world, with
approximately 150 species occurring in the United States. The Texas Department of
Health estimates that there are approximately 82-84 mosquito spe
Texas, although only about 12 of these mosquito species have been implicated in the
transmission of serious diseases.
Mosquitoes typically need still, stagnant water that is isolated from fish or other small
predators to complete their metamorphosis from egg to adult. L
from marshes, freshwater wetlands, and tree holes to human-made
catchments, drains, gutters, and discarded tires. Not all species feed on humans a
other mammals, and many species feed mostly on birds, amphibians
small percentage of the known mosquito species are considered to be diseases vectors.
Although only a small percentage of mosquito species are capable of trans
While
diseases, mosquitoes are still considered to be a very important
transmission. Within the United States, the occurrences of mos
have been relatively rare in recent years. However, epidemics of mosquito-borne
diseases were once common in the United States. Outbreaks of Yellow Fever have been
recorded as far north as Philadelphia during the Colonial Period, and Dengue fever was
prevalent along the Gulf Coast until the mid-1940s. At one time, malaria was well
established in the continental United States, especially in the south. Other mosquito-
borne illnesses like LaCrosse, St. Louis, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis are still threats
in certain areas of the country. Although many of these histori
diseases have been eliminated or at least controlled, the introd
rapid spread of West Nile Virus within the United States is a to
Mosquitoes may be controlled through a variety of different physical, chemical, and
biological methods. Physical methods usually involve source reduction, which is simply
the physical removal of mosquito breeding habitats. Biological measures mainly center
on the use of bacteria that kill mosquito larvae or the use of n
Chemical treatment typically involves the application of pestici
adult mosquito populations.
Mosquito control pesticides are applied by various means, depend
of the area being treated. No matter how pesticides are applied, however, pesticides
have the potential to impact non-target species, including humans. Depending on the
pesticides used, Ppotential impacts may include be in the form of acute or chronic
toxicity, reproductive and / or developmental effects, and indirect effects through the
food chain and pollination. The tests required for the registration of pesticides
registration also maydo not address many forms of non-target impacts. that may be of
concern. Information is particularly weak with regarding to the effects of inert
1
ingredients in pesticide formulations, food chain effects, multi
the interaction of specific pesticides with other chemicals in t may also be
lacking. It is therefore important to realize that there are risks ass
pesticides just as there are risks associated with the potential
infection by a mosquito-borne illness. The purpose of this response plan is to provide a
systematic way to consider and balance the risks associated with
measures.
2.0 Objectives
Formatted: Font: Bold
The City of Denton Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan was developed to meet
several objectives. Specifically, the Plan:
Provides guidelines and information on mosquito populations, prevalence of
Formatted: Bulleted + Level: 1 + Aligned at:
0.25" + Indent at: 0.5"
diseases, and control strategies;
Provides a systematic approach for utilizing mosquito sampling and human
disease data to establish Risk Levels;
Establishes actions that will be undertaken for each Risk Level;
Provides municipal staff and elected officials with a decision-support system;
Outlines the roles and responsibilities of municipal staff and e
32.0 West Nile Virus (WNV) Concerns
West Nile Virus was first recorded in North American during August 1999 shortly
following the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) an
Department of Health responses to an unusual outbreak of encephalitis in northern
Queens, New York. The cause of the observed illnesses was dete
virus. During 1999, approximately sixty people were diagnosed
and seven elderly residents died from the infection. During the summer of 2000, WNV
activity was detected again in New York City and appeared to be
people in the City of New York were diagnosed with acute WNV infection, six were
identified in New Jersey, and 1 was reported from Connecticut.
WNV was detected in 12 states and in the District of Columbia.
appeared again in New York City, causing seven cases that required hospitalization. In
2001, a total of 66 human cases with nine fatalities were reported throughout the nation,
mostly spread throughout the eastern United States. During 2002, there were 4156
laboratory-positive human cases and 284 deaths. The number of
dramatically in 2003 as the disease spread westward, with 9862 cases and 264 deaths.
After 2003, annual national case counts have ranged from a high
of 712 during 2011. It is likely that the national case count
with the highest incident rates being observed in the North Texa
Denton County.During 2004 there were 2539 cases with 100 deaths, and in 2005 t
were 3000 cases with 119 deaths. The 2006 season had 4269 human cases of the
disease and 177 deaths.
2
The relatively rapid spread of West Nile virus and the increase
indicates that WNV is permanently established in the United Stat
virus survives the winter either within birds that remain in thepossibly within
mosquitoes that survive the winter in the adult stage. When spring returns, the virus
recrudesces within the birds and is readily passed to early seas
mosquito populations increase, mosquitoes begin to feed more fre
causing an increasing number of birds and mosquitoes that are in
environmental conditions are favorable for transmission, the virus will amplify to a
theoretical point of spillover. At spillover, the virus can brienzootic, bird-
mosquito cycle through mosquitoes that feed on birds, humans, and other animals. At the
point of spillover, transmission to humans becomes more likely unless a mosquito control
program is implemented. Currently, mosquito control is the only practical method of
protecting the human population from WNV inflection. There are no known specific
treatments or cures for the disease caused by this virus, and va
available for public use. The virus also kills a variety of native and non-native birds, and
may have impacts on other wildlife.
Weather plays a major role in the prevalence of WNV, and the relatively warm winter
and spring experienced in North Texas during 2011 to 2012 may have been a significant
factor in the prevalence of the disease during the 2012 mosquito
the types of mosquitoes in the area that transmit the disease is
for directing control responses and public education activities. Since not all mosquitoes
carry the virus, enacting mosquito control efforts that attempt to non-selectively reduce
all mosquito populations will not necessarily reduce the risk of
10 years of mosquito monitoring and disease analyses in the City
appears to be only one mosquito that serves as a vector for this
99 percent of the WNV infected mosquitoes captured in DentonÓs monitoring program
Culex quinquefasciatus
over the last 10 years have been , commonly known as the
Formatted: Font: Italic
southern house mosquito. The control efforts enacted by the Ci
on this one particular type of mosquito.
The past experience of numerous mosquito control districts sugge
control program should be based on the principals of Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
The principals of IPM are:
knowledge of mosquito biology and the epidemiology of the mosqui
diseases;
surveillance and monitoring efforts for the detection and status
mosquito populations and / or mosquito-borne diseases;
a multifaceted prevention and control program comprised of a system of control
tactics which are compatible with each other and which are prove
continued program evaluations and updates to ensure that the best methods are
being used to meet the prevention and control objectives of the
3
continued education of the public to create awareness, understanding, and
support.
These general guidelines have been used to develop the threshold-level responses of this
surveillance and response plan.
4.0 The Role of Residents:
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Formatted: Font: Bold
Residents can play an important role in reducing the number of adult mosquitoes by
eliminating standing water that may support the development of mosquito larva and pupa.
For example, residents can properly dispose of discarded tires, cans, buckets, maintain
pools correctly, unclog blocked gutters and drains, dump water from bird baths and pet
dishes at least every 2-3 days, ensure that air conditioning con
several days, control irrigation so that standing water is not produced, irrigate so that
runoff is not produced, and perform similar activities around homes and businesses.
Water that cannot be eliminated should be treated with a biologi
such as BTI, in accordance with manufacturerÓs recommendations.
Culex quinquefasciatus
Residents should be aware that , the target mosquito for control,
Formatted: Font: Italic
tends to prefer to lay its eggs in ÐartificialÑ sources of water
opposed to laying eggs in wetland areas, streams, and ponds. Generally, this mosquito
cannot fly long distances, so emerging adult mosquitoes often remain near the habitat
they lived in as larva and pupa. Adults will rest during the d
particularly in areas where humidity is high. Irrigated urban and suburban landscapes
can offer excellent habitat, especially if there is standing water present. Underground
storm drains that receive small amounts of runoff from irrigation are also good habitat for
Culex quinquefasciatus
these mosquitoes. As a result, tends to become more associated
Formatted: Font: Italic
with urban and suburban areas during the summer months. Often
also have birth baths, bird feeders, trees, and other vegetation
especially during the drier times of the year when food and wate
result, the opportunities for WNV disease amplification in urban
become more pronounced during summer months. The role of residents and business
owners in controlling larval habitat is therefore a crucial component of reducing local
WNV risk.
53.0 Denton's Plan for Mosquito Surveillance:
The risk of mosquito-borne diseases depends on the size of mosquito populations and the
incidence rate of disease, as well as the likelihood of the mosquito population changing
response to climate factors. Although mosquito abundance can be estimated through
collection of either immature or adult mosquitoes, adult mosquit
factor contributing to the risk of virus transmission. For thi
4
monitoring program primarily focuses on collecting Collecting information on adult
mosquito populations is thus important for both targeting control measures and gauging
the potential for disease outbreak. The current An adult mosquito surveillance program
for Denton hais been developed by forming a partnership between the City of Denton and
the University of North Texas. This surveillance program will collects adult mosquitoes
through the use of both either CDC light traps andor gravid traps. Captured mosquitoes
arewill be sent to the Texas Department of State Health Services for testing. Each
sample or pool will consists of female mosquitoes that are collected at a specific single
collection site, in one of the two types of trapusing a single type of trap. The
information obtained from these surveillance efforts iswill be used to map mosquito
populations, provide public information, and to determine the in
arbovirus.
efforts that have been designed for the City of
The mosquito surveillance program
Denton will allows analysts to map potential mosquito breeding grounds and areas of
persistent disease. Using this information, more targeted efforts towards habitat
disruption, source reduction, larviciding operations, and other control mechanisms are
possible. An effective, broadly applied surveillance and control program should
therefore can allow analysts to detect the presence of WNV of other mosquito-b
viruses during the amplification phase. If targeted mosquito co
the amplification stage, the likelihood of bridging can be minimized, thus reducing the
risk of human transmission. Depending on weather patterns and monitoring results,
trapping can may be expanded or contracted and the trapping season may be lengthened
or shortened. If control measures are applied, trapping data may also be of some use for
evaluating the be used more frequently to evaluate the effectiveness of the control
measures.
The overall goal of the mosquito surveillance program is the use data on mosquito
populations and mosquito virus infections rates to:
assess the threat of human disease;
determine the geographical areas of highest risk;
determine the assess the need for and timing of intervention events, and the timing
of these events;
identify larval habitats that are in need of targeted control;
monitor the effectiveness of control measures; and
develop a better understanding of transmission cycles and potential vector
species.
Adult surveillance methods should:
Use both fixed and flexible trap locations positions if possible
Fixed positions allow for the development of a database so year
o
comparisons are possible;
5
Flexible sites allow for responses to epidemiological and natura
o
o
Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5", No bullets or
numbering
Use a more than one variety of trapping methods (CDC light traps, gravid traps,
etc...)
Testing data collected in the City of DentonÓs monitoring progra
o
Formatted
suggests that if resource limitations require a choice between C
traps or gravid traps, gravid traps are preferred. These traps
Culex quinquefasciatus
more effective in collecting , and more effective
Formatted: Font: Italic
for establishing the prevalence of WNV.
Account for different influencing factors, including:
Habitat size and diversity;
o
Resource availability;
o
Proximity to human population centers and / or recreational areas; and
o
Flight ranges of target mosquito vector(s). specie
o
Advantages of using adult mosquito surveys include:
May The ability to provide the earlyiest evidence of viral activity in an area;
Helpful for determining if viral activity is local and / or rest;
Pprovidinges information on potential mosquito vector species
Pprovidinges an estimate of vector species abundance and temporal prevalence;
Pprovidinges information on virus infection rates for different mosquito spe
Pprovidinges information on the potential risks to humans and animals;
Pprovidinges baseline data that can be used to guide emergency controls.
Disadvantages of using adult mosquito surveys include:
The amount of labor required, and associated expensesLabor intensive and can be
expensive;
The need for sSubstantial expertise to ensure proper is required for collectiong
and handling of mosquitoes;
The delays associated with receiving mosquito arbovirus screenin
The fact that Ccollectors may be at risk from mosquito bites (, although using
personal protection methods can minimize risks).
53.1 Adult mosquito collections
6
The adult mosquito surveys implemented by the City of Denton in
University of North Texas are designed to determine the relative abundance of various
species present during the sampling period as well as the incidence of arthropod-borne
virus/diseases within the captured specimens. Using this information, City of Denton
personnel can determines the need for various control measures, and can conduct more
effective searches for larval breeding places, assess the extent
potentially gauge the effectiveness of control measures. Repo
may
incidence rates of arthropod-borne virus/diseases and the relatiare
also be produced. Currently, the majority of collections are likely going to be made using
both CDC light traps, resting traps, and gravid traps deployed simultaneously.
64.0 Mosquito Control Strategies
Human activities can greatly affect the ecology of mosquito populations. Large
concentrations of people or animals, for example, can increase e
probability of disease outbreak. The use of irrigation, development of drainage networks,
elimination of mosquito predators, prevalence of improperly maintained birdbaths and
other water holding containers can increase the numbers of certa
Expanding international trade and travel has increased the chance of introducing new
mosquito species into our areas, as has recently happened with the Asian tiger mosquito
Aedes albopictus
().
Mosquito control strategies have changed dramatically over the l
oil, inorganic poisons, and source reduction using ditching operations were the basic tools
of early mosquito control programs. Chlorinated hydrocarbons, o
pyrethrioidsns, monomolecular oils, bacteria, and natural predators are more recent
additions to mosquito control efforts. With the growth of ecological consciousness and
environmental science, people began to realize the environmental damage that
accompanied the use of broad-spectrum chemical control agents, p
did not readily break down in nature. Concerns were also raised because many mosquito
populations also appeared to develop resistance to the more commonly utilized chemical
control agents.
Over the past few years, major advances have been made in the areas of biological
mosquito control. Biological control strategies may include using natural predators like
Gambusia affinis
(Mosquito fish), fungi, protozoans, round worms, flat worms, an
Bacillus thuringiensisisraelensis
bacterial agents such as (Bti). Each biological control
agent has certain benefits and restrictions. In order to use a
successfully, the applicator must have a basic knowledge of biology associated with the
control agent. Some biological control mechanisms, for example, are limited by salinity,
temperature, or organic pollution and some mosquito species are
to specific types of biological control agents. All of these factors must be considered
when choosing and applying biological control agents.
7
The perfect pesticide is one that is easily applied, reasonably not non-toxic
to non-target organisms, and that eliminates the pest quickly before it becomes a threat.
Bacillus
Although no single pesticide can combine all of these factors, c
bacteria have been developed into pesticides that are very close to the perfect pesticide
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis
model. (Bti), for example, is a naturally occurring soil
bacteria that produces a poison capable of killing mosquito larvae. Bti is considered ideal
for mosquito management because of its specificity for mosquito larvae and because of
the minimal to no lack of toxicity to non-target organisms. These bacteria form asexual
reproductive cells, called endospores, which enable them to survive in adverse
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis
conditions. The endospores of Bti also contain crystals
of an insecticidal protein toxin called delta endotoxin.
Once ingested by a mosquito, the
alkaline conditions of the stomach dissolve the crystal and rele
has an affinity for the stomach wall lining causing the cells to
enough stomach cells burst, the mosquito larvae is unable to effectively digest food. Once
affected, larvae stop eating and rapidly die. alkaline fluid of the midgut can enter the blood. This
movement of stomach fluid increases the alkalinity of the blood and results in a general paralysis.
Death typically occurs a few hours after digestion. Currently, Bti is commercially
available in powder, liquid, granular, capsule, and ÐbriquetteÑ formulations.
Agencies applying pesticides directly to waters of the United States, or where deposition
may enter waters of the United States, are required to obtain a
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit from the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ). This permit is titled ÐGeneral P
Source Discharge of Biological Pesticides and Chemical Pesticide
in WaterÑ. Agencies must comply with all applicable provision
TCEQ General Permit TXG87000).
64.1 Larviciding vs. Adulticiding:
In the past, many mosquito control programs have relied heavily
controls using chemical agents. In certain areas, routine mosquito spraying has been an
integral component of mosquito control strategies. However, even near-continuous
exposures to pesticides may not kill all mosquitoes. Those mosq
genetically able to resist higher pesticide concentrations may s
resistance to future generations. Eventually, the pesticide bec
resistance increases in the mosquito populations.
The onset of rResistance, however, can be minimized through the "Management by
Moderation" approach. Management by moderation is an attempt to
resistance by:
using doses that are no lower than the lowest recommended application level rate
to avoid genetic selection of resistance genes;.
8
using less frequent applications;
using chemicals of short environmental persistence;
avoiding the use of slow release formulations;
avoiding using the same class of pesticides to control both adults and immature
stages;
applying pesticides to only hot spots. Area-wide treatments sho
considered during imminent public health threats;.
lLeaving certain generations, populations, or population segments untreated; and
eEstablishing action thresholds that accentuate control mechanisms
chemical control of adult mosquitoes.
Although management by moderation is a viable means of minimizin
are other environmental and human health concerns associated with the application of
pesticides for adult mosquito control. Routine mosquito sprayin
potential to continuously expose the public to pesticides. In some cases, Depending upon
the pesticide utilized, effects on humans are possible, particularlyand may be more likely
for people who already suffer from asthma or other respiratory problems. If proper
safety precautions are not followed, applicator personnel may also be in danger of
overexposure. Managers must therefore decide whether mosquitoes populations and the
related threat of disease transmission or the chemicals used to control mosquitoes
represent the biggerst threat to humans.
All mosquitoes begin their lives in water. Prime breeding site
left outdoors, poorly maintained bird baths, clogged rain gutter
and plastic wading pools, pet dishes, or any other container capable of holding water for
more than a few days 1 week. Mosquito breeding can therefore be prevented by either
eliminating the source of water (source reduction) or by killing larvae (larviciding).
Larviciding programs use a combination of source reduction, biological, and possibly
chemical measures to control mosquito larvae before they develop
properly implemented, this strategy can be the most effective, e
method for mosquito control because mosquito larvae are minimize
need for adult mosquito control and subsequently reducing the im
measures on non-target organisms. Larviciding programs also offer the opportunity to
use biological controls, which minimizes the impacts of the control program on non-
target organisms and lessens the risk of chemical exposures to t
biological controls also minimizes the chance of pesticide resis
populations. Experience suggests that the most effective and economical way to reduce
mosquito populations is by larval source reduction through a loc
program. The goal of this program should be to monitor mosquito
initiate controls before diseases are transmitted to humans or d
2001).
When larval control is not possible or more immediate control me
mosquito control may be required to diminish populations of infe
interrupt viral transmission. Adult mosquito control products may be applied using
9
ground based equipment, fixed wing aircraft, or helicopters. In all cases, products
should be applied in ultralow volume (ULV) formulations and doses, and should be
comprised of pyrethroids.
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64.2 Rationale for different treatment methods
Chemical usage should not be viewed as a long-term control strategy, and should be only
implemented when there are occasional episodes of heavy uncontrolled breeding
concurrent with a high degree of public health risk. This strategy is most appropriate
because prolonged use might will lead to the development of resistance in mosquito
populations, thereby limiting overall management options (TabashHowever,
some chemical treatment methods do have lower risks for human he
environment than others. The insect growth regulator methoprene
juvenile hormone mimic that is environmentally benign because of its relative specificity
for mosquitoes (Main and Mulla, 1982). The organophosphate, tem
that is relatively target specific for mosquitoes and is general
environmentally sensitive freshwater wetlands (Moreau, 1988). However, because of
effectiveness issues, weekly use may be required during summer months (Tennessen,
1993), and persistence can be reduced to just a few days in polluted or colloidal waters.
The most efficient and effective program is one in which mosquit
Formatted: Normal, Level 1
from becoming biting adults through the use of biological contro
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensisBacillus sphaericus
(B.t.i) or the related bacterium
(Bs.s.) are considered to be the among the most environmentally accep
commercially available biological control agents because of thei
mosquitoes and negligible toxicity for vertebrates (Rishikesh et
fish can also be a valuable component of an integrated control program, either alone or
together with chemical control agents (Walton et al., 1990; Walton and Mulla, 1991;
Reed et al., 1995). For these reasons, the City of Denton relies heavily on source
reduction and larviciding for mosquito control
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
4.3
6.3 Integrated Pest Management
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Formatted: Font: Bold
Integrated pest management dictates that control efforts should be dependent on threshold
levels. This means simply that a certain defined risk needs to
control measures are recommended. Levels of risk are based on knowledge of mosquito
biology, the epidemiology of the mosquito-borne diseases, and mo
status assessment of mosquitoes and / or mosquito-borne diseases. Risks levels are then
used to design multi-tactic prevention and control program that are comprised of a system
of control tactics which are compatible with each other and which are proven for their
effectiveness. Continual program evaluations and updates are used to ensure that the best
10
methods are being used to meet the prevention and control object
continued public education is used to create awareness, understanding, and support.
Frequent mosquito population assessmentssampling will allow analysts to map potential
mosquito breeding grounds and determine overall disease transmission risks. Using this
information, more targeted efforts towards habitat disruption, source reduction,
larviciding operations, and other control mechanisms are possibl
75.0 Denton's Plan for Mosquito Control:
The primary objective of mosquito control is to decrease the risk of mosquito-borne
human diseases. This objective should be accomplished by:
Continuing toSstressing source reduction as a viable means of control, both by
residents and on municipal properties, including enforcement act
stagnant water located on private property;
Aggressively Llarviciding where such activities are feasible, practical, and li
to be effective. This includes providing limited supplies of larvicides to cit
for use on private property.
Promoting the Uuseing of personal mosquito protection measures, especially for
the elderly and those individuals with compromised immune system, through
public education and outreach.
Providing public information so that citizens are informed about the current Risk
Level, areas of the City where WNV has been located, current mun
measures, and what can be done by the public to help reduce risks.
If warranted, implement adult mosquito control measures through
pesticide applications (adulticiding).
75.1 Adulticiding
Adulticiding should and will be considered a supplemental control measure. The
decision to spray shall should be based on the considerations listed (in no particular
order) below.
75.1.1 Triggers for adulticides
: Adulticiding shallould be considered only when
there is evidence of WNV activity at a level suggesting a high probability of rate of
human infection (high dead bird densities, high mosquito infection rates, multiple
positive mosquito species, horse or mammal cases indicating esca or
human cases with evidence of epizootic activity. . In general, finding an isolated WNV-
positive bird or mosquito pool does not by itself constitute evidence of an imminent
threat to human health and does not warrant adulticiding.
Physicians and laboratories are required by Title 25 of the Texa
(Pt. 1, Ch. 97, Subch A, §97.3) to report cases of WNV infection or positive test results in
humans to the State and County Health Departments. Positive human WNV cases are
11
investigated by Health Department officials. During an investigation, the Health
Department collects demographic and clinical information from the patient and attempts
to determine date of onset, whether the infection was acquired locally or imported from a
region outside of the patientÓs residence, and whether the infection may have been
acquired by a non-mosquito route of transmission such as a blood
transplant. To help aid control measures, the Health Department will provide some of
this information to municipal officials within the municipality
Human case information is used by municipal officials as one of
the risk levels outlined in this plan
75.1.2 When to use adulticides
: The goal of spraying is to reduce the risk of human
diseases by decreasing the number of vector target adult mosquitoes as much as possible.
However, todayÓs he pesticides tend to is only be effective when if it physically
contactings the mosquito, which is most likely to happen when mosquitoes ar
flying. This typically will mean that spraying should be condu
Culex quinquefasciatus
dawn. Since the target mosquito, , is thought to be most active
Formatted: Font: Italic
soon after dusk, spraying should be timed to strike the best bal
the target mosquito during its most active time and minimizing impacts on non-target
organisms It is also important to realize that weather conditions, including air
temperature, have a large influence on the effectiveness of adul Spray events
should be cancelled and rescheduled if conditions are not conduc
spraying.
75.1.3 Where to use adulticides
: The terrain of the proposed spraying area has a major
impact on the pesticide effectiveness. If there is substantial vegetation, dense shrubbery,
trees, or hedges, pesticide applications can be rendered ineffective. The density of
houses and other physical obstructions can also influence the effectiveness of pesticides.
Applications should be made so that the maximum penetration into
obstructions is achieved. In some cases, a mild breeze may be
pesticide. Application strategies should consider the meteorol
time of application, and use these conditions to help improve application effectiveness if
possible.
75.1.4 Human population density considerations
: The human population density in an
area where there is evidence of intense epizootic activity shoul
the area in question is rural and does not contain many people,
associated with spraying may not justify its use. If the area in question is more densely
populated, adult mosquito control is more justified as long as aecautionary
otection measures are taken.
75.1.5 Mosquito population considerations
: Information from mosquito surveillance
can be helpful in determining when to conduct mosquito control and in determining the
effectiveness of control measures. It is also important to know
of the vector populations in specific localities. The best way to obtain this information is
12
through mosquito trapping efforts. The City of Denton formed a
University of North Texas to provide the specially trained staff
mosquito trapping efforts.
While trapping efforts are crucial for assessing mosquito popula
of disease, it .
5.1.5.1Lag Time
: It is important to realize that determining the presence of diseases
within surveillance specimens requires some processing time after colle
between the collection date and the date of test results, circumstances may have occurred
which would alter a decision to spray. For example, weather conditions may have
adversely affected mosquito populations, local mosquito habitats may have been altered,
or larviciding efforts may have reduced the number of newly emerged adults. All of
these occurrences may result in a reduced need to spray, and should be taken into
consideration during control efforts.
5.1.5.2Surveillance results over time
: Surveillance information should also can be
evaluated considered through time to determine the progress of diseases and .
Information collected using a routine surveillance program can ato determine
the relative risk of disease transmission. Surveillance information may also be of some
use in gauging the and to gauge the effectiveness of control measures, although
establishing control effectiveness is difficult using only surve. In all
cases, Tthe available surveillance y information should therefore always be evaluated as a
part of the decision making process for considered before enacting adulticidal activities.
75.1.6 Local perspectives on spraying
: Different communities have different
perspectives on the benefits and risks associated with adulticiding activities. While these
perspectives are valid and should be considered, individuals are likely to have strong
opinions on either side of the issue. The City of Denton has tried to iincorporated a
rationale framework within the mosquito control program that is
protective of both human health and the environment. The decision to spray, however, is
a complex issue that will likely be faced without complete information. Thus, there will
be citizens that do not believe that the City of Denton has done
reducing public health and environmental risks, regardless of the decision. The mosquito
control program should therefore remain flexible and should attempt to address citizen
complaints through public education and dialogue.
75.1.7 Denton's plan for mosquito adulticiding operations
Once arbovirus activity is detected and the decision is made to
control using adulticides, the size of the area to treat must be
there is no simple formula for determining how large of an area around a positive
surveillance indicator, nor is there adequate information to guide decisions about the
degree of vector population suppression that must be attained, or for how long this
suppression must be maintained to reduce the risk of disease. T
considering the following factors where deciding the scope of the adulticiding effort:
13
the general ecology of the area;
the flight range of vectors that are known or are believed to be
the area;
the population density of the vectors;
the length of time since virus-positive mosquito pools were coll;
the potential risk to the human population (including the age demographics of the
area) as well as the community perception of the relative risk o
the risk of arbovirus infection; and.
the season of the year - how much time the transmission risk can
persist until the vectors(s) enter diapausediapause;.
It is very likely that some of these factors will be unknown or only poorly known, and
practical experience in conducting a mosquito control program is needed to refine control
recommendations. If adulticiding operations are conducted, the
should be monitored:
Weather conditions during the application (temperature, wind spe
direction, etc...);.
Flow rate of Ultra-Low Volume applications; and
Overall amount of pesticide applied.
If the application of adulticides is deemed necessary, the publi
following actions / activities will take place prior to if before adulticides are
applicationsed:
Information will be released 2448 hours in advance through the media and
through the city of Denton web site. Under certain conditions in Public Ppark
areas, applications may take place in less than 2448 hours notice. For these
cases, the facility will be closed to the public during and a few hours after
application.
Press releases should be prepared and shared with the appropriat
CodeRed, the Denton Municipal Electric (DME) ÐRobocallÑ system, and
available forms of social media should also be used to inform citizens of spray
events. CodeRed will make an automated phone call with a message to a
individuals that have signed up for the service. The DME Roboc
make an automated phone call with a message to all individuals within an area
designed by DME. For both systems, it is possible that some res
the spray area will receive one of these calls. However, these
extensively during the 2012 mosquito season, and were invaluable
informing the public of upcoming spray events.
If practical, street signs indicating that spraying will occur i
should be placed at major roadways entering and exiting the targeted area.
14
75.2 Plan for Public Education Concerning Mosquitoes
Public education is a key component of a successful mosquito control program. Since
the appearance of the West Nile Virus in the United States, the
produced and aired several many public service announcements, given numerous
presentations, and providesd information on the Ccity web page concerning this disease.
In the event of a Risk Level 4 or higher (see Section5.3 for rating criteria), tDepending
somewhat on Risk level, the following key information will be conveyed to the public:
The location of WNV positive mosquito trap locations and current
CThe public will be informed about the comprehensive prevention strategies and
activities used by the City of Denton to address the threat of West Nile Virus and
to minimize the necessity of pesticide applications for adult mo;
The public will be advised to eliminate standing water sites by
materials that can hold water for longer than 2-3 days1 week; and. The public
will also be urged to change the water and clean bird baths at l
clean and chlorinate swimming pools or drain and / or cover if n
unclog gutters and downspouts.
The public will be informed about the symptoms of West Nile Viru
high fever, muscle pain, weakness, and disorientation) and that persons over 50
years of age are more likely to experience significant clinical om West
Nile infection.
If appropriate, the public will be informed about the importance of reporting dead
birds for surveillance purposes and that not all birds that are reported will be
picked up. Information about the species of birds being priorit for testing,
how to properly dispose of birds not being retrieved, and the po
between the high density of dead birds (especially crows) and the potential risk of
West Nile virus will be disseminated.
Techniques used to disseminate information may include any or all of the following:
Televised public service announcements using Denton's local cable channel;
Radio announcements;
Brochures for public use placed in municipal buildings;
Postings describing the current risk level placed in municipal b
Posters, brochures, and / or door hangers to be distributed in ated communities
Brochures and / or fact sheets to be distributed to community-based organizations,
community boards, elected officials, schools, nursing homes, libraries, outdoor
activity sites, etc...;
Presentations to elected officials and / or community groups concerning the
current risk level, mosquito population and disease status, and
activities; and mosquito breeding reduction and related activities
15
Press releases describing West Nile virus response activities.
75.3 City of Denton Response Plan
The purpose of this response plan is to:
1. Minimize human illness through public education and targeted vector
control;
2. Provide a semi-quantitative measure of virus transmission ris
that can be used to plan and adjust control activities.
32. Map the density of mosquitoes and the incidence of the virus w
City of Denton and examine the relationship between mosquito density
and land uses.
43. Identify areas where the incidence of disease is high and providepost the
appropriate warnings to the citizens of Denton.
54. Identify the key vector species that carry diseases within Den
The prevention of West Nile virus, as with many diseases, is mos
accomplished by ensuring that prompt, accurate information reach
appropriate information reaches the public in a timely manner, p
measures may be implemented, and control strategies can be enacted efficiently. without
panic and confusion.
The City of Denton will provide continuous information on the ci
West Nile virus, including a frequently asked questions (FAQs) section, disease
symptoms, personal preventative measures, and sources of points of contact for
additional information. If a sampled mosquito pool tests positive for arthropod-borne
virus/diseasees, information describing the location of the samp
other pertinent information will be provided.
This response plan is partially based on Texas Department of Health recommendations.
The plan is divided into 5 levels based on the risk of human dis
described below, along with specific recommended responses. In accordance with the
principals of Integrated Pest Management Control measures are recommended for each
level.
Generally, there are 4 surveillance / observational factors that
if the trigger condition has been met for a particular risk level. These factors are:
1. Environmental / climatic conditions (mainly temperature, rainfall, and season)
Culex quinquefasciatus
2. Adult abundance
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Culex quinquefasciatus
3. Virus infection rates in and other mosquito vectors
Formatted: Font: Italic
16
4 Confirmed infections in humans, including epidemiological info
Formatted: Font: Not Bold
75.3.1 Risk level 1 - Normal Response
Condition:
Probability of human outbreak is none or remote
Trigger:
Normal mosquito activity with no evidence of arthropod-borne
virus/disease detected during the past 3 years in vectors, human
hosts.
Recommended Response:
Surveillance:
Surveillance is optional. Under the normal response, mosquitoes are considered a
only a nuisance without a significant influences on public health. Complaint calls and
informal surveys of larva and adults will be used to direct mosquito control efforts.
Public Information / Education:
Publicize methods for mosquito reduction and personal protection prior to the main
season for mosquito activity and outdoor human activities.
Control Measures
Use public information to promote source reduction and personal protection. Conduct
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis
standard larviciding approaches using (Bti) and
Gambusia affinis
(mosquito fish).
Rationale:
is considered to be the most effective
Larviciding and source reduction / elimination are
long-term solutions for mosquito control. The control measures are designed to
accomplish mosquito control by preventing larval mosquitoes from
adults.
17
75.3.2 Risk Level 2 - Enhanced Response
Condition:
Probability of human outbreak is low
Trigger:
Normal mosquito activity with little or no evidence of arthropod-borne
virus/disease. Enhanced response level is due to recent historical presence
of arthropod-borne virus/disease in vectors, humans, or other hosts within
the vicinity of Denton (approximately 100 miles).
Recommended Response:
Surveillance:
Surveillance is optional, but strongly encouraged. If possible, conduct routine
surveillance of adult mosquito populations using light traps baited with CO2 and gravid
traps (at minimum). Collected mosquito species should be identified to species level and
mosquito pools should be screened for the presence of arboviruses. If positive tests are
obtained during arthropod-borne virus/disease screening, additional tests should be
performed to determine what type of arbovirus is present.
Public Information / Education:
Implement all steps for public information established by the Public Communication
Office for this Risk Level. Generally, this will reflect routi
concerning Publicize methods for methods for mosquito reduction and the importance of
personal protection measures. This information should be disseminated at the begin
of the mosquito seasonprior to the main season for mosquito activity and outdoor human
activities.
Control Measures
Use public information to promote source reduction and personal protection. Conduct
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis
standard larviciding approaches using (Bti) and
Gambusia affinis
(mosquito fish).
Rationale:
Larviciding and source reduction / elimination are is considered to be the most effective
long-term solutions for mosquito control. The control measures are designed to
accomplish mosquito control by preventing larval mosquitoes from
adults.
18
75.3.3 Risk Level 3 - Public Health Concern
Condition:
Probability of human outbreak is low to moderate
Trigger:
Arthropod-borne virus/disease isolated from mosquitoes collecte
trapping activities at a single monitoring site. Seropositive equine with a
history that indicates that exposure likely occurred locally.
Recommended Response:
Surveillance:
Continue to conduct routine surveillance of mosquito populations. If resources allow,
increase surveillance in the areas where the arthropod-borne virus/disease positive
samples wasere collected. If possible, increase dead bird and / or equine surveillance
areas where viruses were isolated. Use geographic information systems to plot the
location of the positive samples and provide this information to the public via the City of
Denton web page.
Public Information / Education:
Publicize methods for mosquito reduction and personal protection.
Implement all steps for public information established by the Pu
Formatted: Bulleted + Level: 1 + Aligned at:
0.25" + Indent at: 0.5"
Communication Office for this Risk Level, which includes public
press releases, and City of Denton web page updates with a map of the positive
trap location.
Notify medical professionals,and veterinarians, and all those registered with the
Formatted: Bulleted + Level: 1 + Aligned at:
0.25" + Indent at: 0.5"
City of DentonÓs various public notification options of the presence of the
disease.
Increase public education, emphasizing source reduction, personal protection, and disease
symptoms.
Control Measures
Use public information to promote source reduction and personal protection. Conduct
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis
enhanced standard larviciding approaches using (Bti)
Gambusia affinis
and (mosquito fish). Increase efforts in areas where positive mosquito
pools were detected. Control measures will be implemented based on the following IPM
19
criteria: time of year, the extent of previous mosquito control
of mosquito activity, weather conditions, and surveillance resul
Prepare for ground level spraying activities using ULV applications of pyrethriods.
Ensure adequate funding and personnel are in place for conducting ULV applications.
Rationale:
Larviciding and source reduction / elimination is considered to be the most effective
long-term solution for mosquito control. Increasing these measu
positive mosquito pools are detected offers an additional degree of risk reduction.
75.3.4 Risk Level 4 - Public Health Warning
Condition:
Probability of human outbreak is moderate to high
Trigger:
Multiple mosquito pools collected at different times and locati
positive for arthropod-borne virus/diseases.
Single human case confirmed with laboratory testing
Multiple wild birds test collected at different times or locatio
positive for arthropod-borne virus/diseases.
Probable human or equine cases supported by laboratory testing (see
definition).
Recommended Response:
Surveillance:
Continue to conduct routine surveillance of mosquito populations. If resources allow,
increase surveillance in areas where arthropod-borne virus/disease positive samples were
collected. Use geographic information systems to plot the location of positive mosquito
samples and provide this information to the public via the City of Denton web page.
confirmed cases.
Public Information / Education:
Alert medical professionals, veterinarians, and public health of
Implement all steps for public information established by the Pu
Formatted: Bulleted + Level: 1 + Aligned at:
0.25" + Indent at: 0.5"
Communication Office for this Risk Level, which includes public
20
press releases, and City of Denton web page updates with a map of the WNV
positive trap location(s).
Update web page map for all subsequent WNV positive trap locations
Notify medical professionals, veterinarians, public health offic
registered with the City of DentonÓs various public notification options of the
presence of the disease.
Formatted: Indent: Left: 0.5"
Increase public education, emphasizing source reduction, personal protection, and disease
symptoms.
Targeted public education concerning vector control methods and personal protection.
Control Measures
Use public information to promote source reduction and personal protection. Intensify
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis
enhanced larviciding efforts using (BtBti) and
Gambusia affinis
(mosquito fish) in targeted areas. Consider using insect growth
regulators (IGRs) (example methoprene) or monomolecular oils in targeted areas.
Increase efforts in areas where positive mosquito pools were detected, if applic
Control measures will be implemented based on the following IPM
the extent of previous mosquito control activities, the current
weather conditions, and surveillance results.
Finalize all actions needed for implementing ground level sprayi
applications of pyrethriods
Rationale:
Larviciding and source reduction / elimination isare considered to be the most effective
long-term solutions for mosquito control. Increasing these measures in areas where
positive mosquito pools are detected offers an additional degree of risk reduction.
7.3.5
Formatted: Font: Bold
Risk Level 5 - Public Health Alert
Condition:
Human outbreak is confirmed
Trigger:
Multiple human cases. Cases must be confirmed by laboratory testing.
Multiple human cases confirmed by laboratory testing
Recommended Response:
Surveillance:
Continue to conduct routine surveillance of mosquito populations. If resources allow,
increase surveillance in areas were arthropod-borne virus/diseas
21
collected. If possible, increase dead bird and/or equine surveillance in ar
were isolated. Use geographic information systems to plot the location of WNV positive
mosquito samples, and provide this information to the public. and confirmed cases.
Public Information/Education:
Implement all steps for public information established by the Pu
Communication Office for this Risk Level, which includes public
press releases, and City of Denton web page updates with a map of the WNV
positive trap location(s).
Update web page map for all subsequent WNV positive trap locations
Notify medical professionals, veterinarians, public health offic
registered with the City of DentonÓs various public notification options of the
presence of the disease.
Increase public education, emphasizing source reduction, personal protection, and
disease symptoms.
Alert medical professionals, veterinarians, and public health officials.
Increase public education, emphasizing source reduction, personal protection, and
disease symptoms.
Public education should emphasize vector control methods and per
protection.
Control Measures:
Use public information to promote source reduction and personal protection. Intensify
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis
larviciding efforts using (Bti) in targeted areas.
Additional larvicides containing IGRs or pesticides such as Spinosad may be applied at
this time. Intensely treat standing water in City Parks. If the threat to human health is
considered imminent and larvicides appear to be ineffective in reducing the threat,
consider highly targeted adulticide applicationss using ground-based Ultra-Low Volume
(ULV) equipment. applications pyrethrins or similar low-impact insecticide. The
decision to spray will be made by a Resolution of the City Council of Denton prior to the
first application, for each mosquito season. Based on informat
of the Council decision, the Resolution may include specific requirements in addition
those outlined in this plan. ULV applications should be implem
(approximately 1 mile) of areas where positive human cases were detected. When ULV
applications are initiated, notification will be provided to the public as outlined in Section
7.1.
During 2012, the City of Denton utilized Duet, a synthetic pyrethroidssynthetic pyrethrin
product with an additional chemical designed to induce Ðbenign a
The purpose of benign agitation is to increase the likelihood of mosquitoes flying during
the application, which will increasesapplication effectiveness. The Duet product is also
mineral oil based, versus water based, which likely increases th
effectiveness in the higher air temperatures typical during summ
22
oil based compounds may also be less likely to affect non-target organisms in aquatic
environments because of the lack of solubility of the oil based compound in water.
Control measures will be implemented based on the following IPM
the extent of previous mosquito control activities, the current
weather conditions, the species of mosquitoes that test positive
local mosquito pools which test positively for disease, the like
the density of roads or other access to mosquito breeding ground
human populations. Epidemiological data associated with reported human cases of
WNV will also be considered. In general, if an area has been sprayed, that area will not
be sprayed again in response to an additional human case unless the date of onset of the
new case indicates exposure occurred after the previous spraying
not be sprayed in response to a reported human case if epidemiological information
clearly indicates that exposure did not occur in the City of Denton. If public health
emergencies are declared at the county or state level, the recom
associated with the declaration will take precedence over the co
Denton.
Rationale:
Larviciding and source reduction/elimination are is considered to be the most effective
long-term solutions for mosquito control. Increasing these measures in areas where
positive mosquito pools are detected offers an additional degree of risk reduction.
However, at this Risk Level, applications of adulticides are nee
mosquito populations and halt disease transmission. The objectiv
proportion of older adult mosquitoes to break the disease transmIf adult
mosquito controls icides are implemented, deemed necessary, the approaches for
adulticiding outlined in this plan are compounds listed are effective and are designed to
produce minimizeal adverse effects to the environment and non-target
organisms.environmental damage.
23
References:
Center for disease control (CDC). 2001. Epidemic / Epizootic West Nile Virus in the
United States: Revised Guidelines for Surveillance, Prevention, and Control.
Proceedings from a Workshop Held in Charlotte, North Carolina.
February 4, 2001.
Mian, L.S. and M.S. Mulla. 1982. Biological and environmental dynamics of insect g
growth regulators (IGRs) as used against Diptera of public health importance.
Residue Rev84
. , 27-112.
Moreau, C.M. 1988. Data sheets on the impact of pesticides on non-target organisms.
No. 1 temephos. WHO/VBC/88.955, World Health Organization, Geneva.
Reed, S.C., Cites, R.W. and E.J. Middlebrooks. 1995. Natural s
management and treatment. McGraw-Hill, New York, USA.
Bacillus
Rishikesh, N., Burgess, H.D., and Valdekar, M. 1983. Operation
thuringiensis
serotype H-14 and environmental safety. WHO/VBC/83.871,
World Health Organization, Geneva.
Tabashnik, B.E. 1990. Modeling and evaluation of resistance man
Roush, R.T., Tabashnik, B.E. (Eds.), Pesticide Resistance in Arthropods.
Chapman and Hall, New York, USA.
Tennessen, K.J. 1993. Production and suppression of mosquitoes in constructed
wetlands. In: Moshiri, G.A. (Ed.) Constructed Wetlands for Water Quality
Improvement. Lewis Publishers, Michigan, USA.
Walton, W.E., Mulla, M.S., Wargo, M.J., and S.L. Durso. 1990. Efficacy of a microbial
insecticide and larvivorous fish against Culex tarsalis in duck
Proceedings of the California Mosquito Vector Control
southern California.
Association58
:148-156.
Walton, W.E. and M.S. Mulla, 1991. Integrated control of Culex tarsalis larvae using
Bacillus sphaericus and Gambusia affinis: effects on mosquitoes and non-target
Bulletin of the Society for Vector Ecology16
organisms in field mesocosms. :203-
221.
24
Appendix A.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A-1
Q: What is West Nile virus?
A:Flavivirus
West Nile virus is a member of the family Flaviviridae (genus ), that is
closely related to members of the Japanese encephalitis virus complex that includes St.
Louis encephalitis (SLE), Japanese encephalitis, Kunjin, and Murray Valley encephalitis
viruses, as well as others (1,2)
Q: How many mosquito species are there inthe State of Texas? How many of these
mosquito species are potential carriers of West Nile Virus?
A:
The Texas Department of Health estimates that there are approxim-84
mosquito species in the State of Texas. Only about 12 of these mes,
however, have been implicated in the transmission of serious diseases. Although it is
difficult to determine how many of these species have the potent
virus, approximately 10 of these species have been identified asest Nile
Virus in other areas of the country. The mosquitoes most often f
Culex
are typically spp..
Q: Where did West Nile virus come from?
A:
West Nile virus has been commonly found in humans and birds and other vertebrates
in Africa, Eastern Europe, West Asia, and the Middle East. West Nile virus was first
isolated in the West Nile province of Uganda in 1937 (3,4). The first recorded large
epidemics occurred in Israel during 1951-1954, and the largest recorded epidemic to date
occurred in South Africa during 1974. Large human outbreaks of WN Ence
occurred in Israel in 2000 and have occurred in Southern France (1962), southeastern
Romania (1996) and in south-central Russia (1999) (5,6). Until 1999, West Nile
encephalitis had not been documented in the Western Hemisphere. It is not known whe
the U.S. WNV originated, but it is most closely related genetica
Middle East.
Q: How long has West Nile virus been in the U.S.?
A:
It is not known how long it has been in the U.S., but Center for Disease Control and
prevention (CDC) scientists believe the virus has probably been in the eastern U.S. since
the early summer of 1999, possibly longer.
Q: I understand West Nile virus was found in "overwintering" mosquitoes. What
does this mean?
A:
One of the species of mosquitoes found to carry West Nile virus
which can survive through the winter, or "overwinter," in the ad
mosquito can likely harbor the virus during the winter months and can transmit the virus
in the following year.
Q: How do people get West Nile encephalitis?
A:
People become infected by the bite of a mosquitoes infected with
Q: What is the basic transmission cycle?
A:
Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on infected birds, which will have the
virus in their blood. Infected mosquitoes can then transmit West
A-2
animals while biting to take blood. The virus is harbored in the
glands, and during blood feeding the virus may be injected into the animal or human
along with mosquito saliva. The virus may then multiply, possibl
Q: How far can a mosquito travel?
A:
Depending on the species, adult mosquitoes may fly several milesp from the
Culex
wind. species, which are most commonly associated with the West Nile v
this area, typically have a maximum travel range of two to three miles and are not
considered to be strong fliers.
Q: How long do adult mosquitoes live?
A:
Generally, adult female mosquitoes have a life span of 2 weeks to a month while adult
male mosquitoes only live a week.
Q: What is the life cycle of a mosquito?
A:
A mosquito goes through four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa a
Q: What is the egg phase of a mosquito?
A:
Eggs are laid in clusters and tend to float on the surface of water. They can be stuck
together in rafts of hundreds, or laid separately on water or flooded soil. Most eggs hatch
into larvae within 48 hours. Adult female mosquitoes can lay eggs every 10-14 days.
Q: What is the larval stage?
A:
In general, mosquito larvae live in water from 4 to 14, days dep
temperature. They come to the surface frequently to obtain oxyge
small organisms living in the water. The larva sheds its skin four times while it gro
After the fourth time, the larva becomes a pupa, the stage befor
an adult.
Q: What is the pupa stage?
A: The pupal stage is a resting, non-feeding stage. Mosquito pupae must live in water
from 1 to 4 days, depending on the species and water temperature. When development is
complete, the pupal skin splits and the mosquito emerges as an a
Q: What is the adult stage?
A:
The newly emerged adult mosquito rests on the surface of the water for a short time to
dry and allow all its parts to harden. If nothing eats or kills
to a month, the male typically only a week.
Q: What is the City of Denton doing to address the problem of West Nile Virus?
A:
The City of Denton has developed a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing the risk of
illness due to West Nile Virus. The main goal of this plan is
adult mosquitoes by eliminating mosquito-breeding sites wherever possible. In areas
where the elimination of mosquito breeding grounds is not possible, larvicides will be
applied. The City has also formed a partnership with the University of North Texas to
perform mosquito surveillance activities during times of the year when mosquito
A-3
populations are high. The City of DentonÓs animal control division submits birds
suspected of being infected with WNV to the Texas Department of Health for further
testing. The CityÓs mosquito control responses will be based ond of threats
to human health from WNV or other mosquito-borne illness.
Q: If I live in an area where birds or mosquitoes with West Nile virus have been
reported and a mosquito bites me, am I likely to get sick?
A:
No. Even in areas where mosquitoes do carry the virus, very few mosquitoesÏmuch
less than 1%Ïare likely infected. Even if the mosquito is infected, less than 1% of
people who get bitten and become infected will get severely ill.
Environmental Policy Institute (MEPI) estimates that in areas where West Nile Virus is
endemic, approximately 1 in 1000 mosquitoes actually carry the virus. The MEPI also
estimates that only 1 in 300 people bitten by a West Nile Virus infected mosquito will
show any signs of sickness. Even if you contract the WNV and become ill, most people
will only exhibit mild flu-like symptoms (7). The chances you will become severely ill
from any one mosquito bite are extremely small. The greatest ri
age of 50 or individuals that have compromised immune systems. These members of the
population should take the greatest care to prevent exposure to mosquito bites.
Q: How many types of animals have the potential to be infected with West Nile
virus?
A:
Although the vast majority of infections have been identified in birds, WN virus has
been shown to infect horses, cats, bats, chipmunks, skunks, squi
rabbits.
Q: How does West Nile virus actually cause severe illness and death in humans?
A:
Following transmission by an infected mosquito, West Nile virus multiplies in the
person's blood system and crosses the blood-brain barrier to reach the brain. The virus
interferes with normal central nervous system functioning and causes inflammation of
brain tissue.
Q: What proportion of people with severe illness due to West Nile virus die?
A:
Less than 1% of those infected with West Nile virus will develop
Among those with severe illness due to West Nile virus, case-fatality rates range from
3% to 15% and are highest among the elderly.
Q: A mosquito has bitten me. Should I be tested for West Nile Virus?
A:
No. Illnesses related to mosquito bites are still uncommon in t
However, you should see a doctor immediately if you develop symp
fever, confusion, muscle weakness, severe headache, stiff neck, or light sens
Q: How long does it take to become sick if bitten by an infected mosquito?
A:
Most people who are infected with WNV have no symptoms or only e
illness. If illness does occur, symptoms usually appear within 3 to 15 days after bei
bitten by an infected mosquito.
A-4
Q: What should I do if I think I have West Nile encephalitis (the illness from
infection from West Nile Virus)?
A:
Seek medical care as soon as possible if you develop signs of encephalitis. Signs
include fever, muscle weakness, and confusion.
Q: Is there a vaccine against West Nile virus?
A:
No, but several companies are working towards developing a vacci
Q: What can I do to reduce my risk of becoming infected with West Nile virus?
A:
Stay indoors at dawn, dusk, and in the early evening.
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants whenever you are outdoors.
Spray clothing with repellents containing permethrin or DEET, since mosquitoes
may bite through thin clothing.
Apply insect repellent sparingly to exposed skin. An effective repellent will
contain 35% DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). DEET in high concentrations
(greater than 35%) provides no additional protection.
Repellents may irritate the eyes and mouth, so avoid applying repellent to the
hands of children.
Whenever you use an insecticide or insect repellent, be sure to
manufacturer's DIRECTIONS FOR USE, as printed on the product.
Note: Ðultrasonic" devices are NOT effective in preventing mosquito bites.
Q: What can I do around my home to help reduce exposure to mosquitoes?
A:
Repair or replace all screens in your home that have tears or holes.
Eliminate any standing water that collects on your property.
Remove discarded tires, tin cans, plastic containers, or similar water-holding
containers.
Make sure gutters drain properly. Clean gutters on a regular ba
Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas, and hot tubs. If not in use,
empty or cover.
Drain the water from pool covers, tarps, etc...
Change the water in birdbaths at least once a week.
Turn over plastic wading pools, wheel barrows, etc... when not i
Remind neighbors and / or form neighborhood organizations to help the entire
neighborhood eliminate mosquito breeding sites.
Q: What is the status of horse (equine) West Nile Virus Infection?
A:
Near the end of December 2002, the Texas Department of Health re
horses have tested positive for West Nile Virus within the Stateexas. The total
number of organisms that have tested positive for West Nile Viru
A-5
(mosquitoes, humans, birds, and horses combined) was 2458. During 2003, the number
of infected horses dropped to 663. The decrease is likely due idespread use of
vaccines.
Q: What is the most effective means of mosquito control?
A:
According the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, source
effective and economical method of providing long-term mosquito control in many
habitats. The term source reduction refers to the alteration or elimina
larval habitat. Source reduction can include activities such as the proper disposal of used
tires, cleaning rain gutters, emptying and refilling bird baths and any
activity which reduces small pools of water. An item as small as
potential mosquito breeding ground.
Q: Is larval control an effective means of controlling mosquitoes?
A:
Yes. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention considers larviciding, or the
application of chemical or biological agents to kill mosquito larva or pupae, as more
effective and target-specific than killing adult mosquitoes, but less permanent than
reduction. The objective is to control the immature stages of the insect before adult
populations can develop and disperse. If populations of adult mosquitoes are kept at low
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis
levels, the risk of arbovirus transmission is small. The
(Bti) donuts used by the City of Denton are an example of a biological larvicide.
Q: How can I get the Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) donuts for my yard?
A:Bacillus
For a limited time, the City of Denton is offering the larvicide
thuringiensis israelensis
to Denton residents free of charge. The larvicide will be
available at the Service Center at 901-A Texas Street, Monday Î Friday from 8 am to 5
pm. On Saturdays, the larvicide will be available from 10 am to
sales office at the Pecan Creek Water Reclamation Facility. Residents will need to bring a
valid driver's license and utility bill for proof of residence. The limit is two donuts per
resident. For more info, please call (940) 349-7000.
Q: Is adulticide and effective means of controlling mosquitos?
A:
Adulticiding, or the killing of adult mosquitoes by ground or aeria
chemicals, is considered by the Center for Disease Control and P
efficient mosquito control method. There are several reasons adulticiding is not highly
effective. For example, there are several different types of mos
potential to carry disease, each with its own particular prefere
habitats, which makes timing spray events difficult. In areas wh many
houses, trees, and other obstructions, the chance of actually hitting a mosquito with the
spray cloud is greatly diminished. Although it is very difficult to measure the efficacy of
a large spray event, the results of trap experiments conducted iuston and Florida
suggest that a large spray event will typically reduce the adult
by only about 30 percent (8).
A-6
Q: Does the City of Denton plan to apply pesticides?
A:
If West Nile Virus is found in the community, the CityÓs initial response will be to
intensify efforts to reduce mosquito populations through source reduction and larviciding.
in those areas where WNV has been found. Reducing the adult mosquito populations
through the use of pesticide aerosols (fogging) will only be considered if there are
and
conditions indicative of Risk Level Five (Public Health Alert) if other control
measures appear to be ineffective. If adulticiding is implement
targeted to only those areas in which the adult mosquito populations have tested positive
for the presence of WNV or other mosquito-borne diseases of human health concern. No
adulticiding will be used as a means of controlling nuisance populations of mosquitoes.
Q: What risks are associated with applying mosquito adulticides?
A:
In the amounts used, the risks to people, pets, and the environm
However, some people or pets may be more sensitive to pesticides
attempt to minimize exposures. Anyone experiencing persistent or significant adverse
reactions to pesticides should seek medical care or call the North Texas Poison Center:
North Texas Poison Center
Parkland Memorial Hospital
5201 Harry Hines Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75235
Emergency Phone: (800) 222-1222
http://www3.utsouthwestern.edu/parkland/poison.html
Q: Will the public be notified in advance about spraying activities?
A:
Residents can learn about adulticiding schedules in advance through public service
announcements, the media, and the City of DentonÓs web site (www.cityofdenton.com)
Appendix A References:
1.De Madrid, AT and JS Porterfield 1974. The flaviviruses (group B arboviruses): a
cross neutralization study. J Gen Virol 23:91-96.
2.Claisher, CH, Karabatsos, N, Dalrymple, JM, Shope, RE, Porterfield, JS,
Westaway, EG, and WE Brandt, 1989. Antigenic relationships between
flaviviruses as determined by cross neutralization tests with po
Gen Virol 70:37-43.
3.TP Monath ed. 1989. The Arboviruses: epidemiology and ecology. C
Boca Raton, FL: 59-88.
4.Hubalek, Z, and J Halouzka. 1999. West Nile Fever Î a reemerging mosquito-
borne viral disease in Europe. Emerging Infectious Diseases 5: - 643-650.
5.Tsai, TF, Popovici, F, Cernescui, C, Campbell, GL, and NI Nedelc
Nile encephalitis epidemic in southeastern Romania. Lancet 352:767-771.
6.Platanov, AE, Shipulin, GA, Shipulina OY, Tyutyunnik, EN, Foloch
Lanciottie, RS, Yazyshina, S, Platanova, OV, Obukhov, IL, Zhukov
Vengerov, YY and VI Pokrovski. 2001. Outbreak of West Nile Virus Infection,
Volgograd Region, Russia, 1999. Emerg Infect Dis 7:128-132.
A-7
7.The Maine Environmental Policy Institute, May 16, 2001 press rel
Maine. Available at http://www.meepi.org/wnv/release.htm
8.Fagin, Dan. 2000. Doubts about spraying Î some experts call it ineffective against
West Nile Virus. Newsday 11/8/2000. Available at
http://www.cfe.cornell.edu/erap/wnv/WNV-Larchive/11-8-00.html
A-8
Appendix B:Definitions and Glossary
B-1
Definitions:
Consideration
: Consideration involves the following factors: habitat; time
weather conditions; the level of documented viral activity/presence; the distribution,
density, and infection rate of the vector population; and the proximity of human
populations. In neighborhoods with increased positive surveill
(parks, cemeteries, golf courses) will have higher priority for adulticide activity since
these areas represent likely habitat for viral amplification via transmission among hosts
(birds).
Confirmed case:
A confirmed case of West Nile encephalitis is defined as a febri
illness associated with neurological manifestations ranging from headache to aseptic
meningitis or encephalitis, plus at least one of the following:
- Isolation of WNV from, or demonstration of WNV antigen or genomic
sequences in tissue, blood, CSF, or other body fluid;
- Demonstration of IgM antibody to WNV in CSF by IgM-capture EIA;
- A 4-fold serial change in plaque-reduction neutralizing (PRNT) antibody titer
to WNV in paired, appropriately timed serum or CSF samples;
- Demonstration of both WNV-specific IgM (by EIA) and IgG (screened by EIA
or HI and confirmed by PRNT) antibody in a single serum specimen.
Probable Case:
A probable case is defined as a compatible illness (as above) th
not meet any of the above laboratory criteria, plus at least one
Demonstration of serum IgM antibody against WMV (by EIA);
Demonstration of an elevated titer of WNV-specific IgG antibody in convalescent
phase serum (screened by EIA or HI and confirmed by PRNT).
Non-Case:
A non-case is defined as an illness that does not meet any of the abov
laboratory criteria, plus:
A negative test for IgM antibody to WNV (by EIA, HI, or PRNT);
and/or
A negative test for IgG antibody to WN virus (by EIA, HI or PRNT
collected 22 days after onset of illness.
B-2
Glossary:
Adulticide
: A type of pesticide designed to kill adult mosquitoes
arbovirusarbovirus.
: shortened form of thropod-rne A virus that is transmitted by
arthropods.
Arthropods
: A group of animals that do not have a backbone and have jointed
appendages, such as insects.
Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis(BTi)
: a type of biological pesticide used to control
mosquito larvae in water (mosquito larvae die after ingesting th
bridge vector
: For West Nile Virus, an organism (mosquitoes) which serve as
viral transmission mechanism between the reservoir (birds) and humans.
DEET
: The active ingredient in many insect repellant products (N,N-diethyl-meta-
toluamide).
Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)
: A mosquito-borne viral disease that causes
inflammation of the brain similar to West Nile Virus.
EIA-
Enzyme immunoassay
encephalitis
: inflammation of the brain, which can be caused by numerous di
bacteria and viruses, including West Nile Virus
gravid traps
: mosquito traps designed to attract pregnant female mosquitoes
HI:
Haemagglutination inhibition
IgG:
Immunoglobulin G
IgM:
Immunoglobulin M
landing rate counts
: a measure of the number of adult mosquitoes landing on an
individuals body during a predetermined time interval. Used to assess the abundance of
host-seeking mosquitoes.
larvae
: Immature mosquitoes that live in water; the stage after the
before pupation.
larvicide
: A type of pesticide used to control immature or larval mosqui
light traps
: mosquito trap outfitted with a light to attract mosquitoes
malathion
: A commonly used organophosphate pesticide used to control adu
mosquitoes.
meningitis
: Inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord that
a virus or bacteria
methoprene
: a type of insect growth regulator used to control larval mosquitoes;
growth regulators prevent mosquito larvae from developing into m
mosquito breeding site
: a location where mosquitoes lay eggs; usually stagnant water
with high organic content.
mosquito pools
: A group of mosquitoes of the same species, collected in the same area,
that are combined in the laboratory to test for West Nile and re
outbreak
: A rapid increase in the frequency or distribution of a diseas
permethrin
: a synthetic pyrethroid pesticide used to control adult mosquito populations
pesticide
: A substance used to kill pests such as insects, mice, and rat
a form of pesticide.
PRNT:
Plaque reduction and neutralization testing
source reduction
: the removal or reduction of larval mosquito habitats.
B-3
St. Louis encephalitis
: mosquito-borne viral disease that causes inflammation of the
brain. Very similar to West Nile Virus.
vector
: An organism (usually an insect) that is capable of carrying and transmitting a
disease causing agent from one host to another.
viral
: Of, or relating to, a virus
viral encephalitis
: Inflammation of the brain caused by a virus.
B-4
Appendix C:Contact Names and Phone Numbers
C-1
City of Denton Watershed Protection Program
Kenneth Banks, Ph.D. 940-349-7165
David Hunter, R.S., M.P.A. 940-349-7123
City of Denton Animal Control Office
940-349-7736
Denton County Health Department
Matt Richardson, Coordinator 940-349-2914
Jessica Gullion, Ph.D., Epidemiologist 940-349-2916
Texas Department of Health
Jan Buck Zoonosis Control Division 817 264-4920
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Division of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases, Fort Collins, CO
Roger Nascl970-221-6432
Formatted: Tab stops: Not at 3.13"
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Entomology Branch, Atlanta, GA
Robert Wirtz 770-488-4108
C-2
EXHIBIT 3
CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT AGENDA ITEM #1
1
2
3
DRAFT MINUTES
4
5CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT
6November 5, 2012
7
8After determining that a quorum of the Committee on the Environment of the Denton City
9Council was present, the Committee on the Environment thereafter convened into an Open
10Meeting on Monday, November 5, 2012 at 2:15 p.m. in the City Hall City Council work session
11room, 215 East McKinney Street, Denton, Texas.
12
Present
13: Council Member Pete Kamp, Council Member Dalton Gregory and Council
14Member Kevin Roden
15
Also Present:
16Howard Martin, ACM Utilities; Jon Fortune, ACM, Emerson Vorel, Director
17Parks & Recreation; Scott Fletcher, Police Captain; Lee Howell, Police Chief;
18Herman Lawson, Project/Construction Administrator; Dean Hartley, Facilities
19Manager; Dr. Kenneth Banks, Director, Environmental Services & Sustainability;
20Katherine Barnett, Sustainable and Utilities Special Projects Coordinator; Kim
21Mankin, Administrative Supervisor
22
OPEN MEETING:
23
24
251.Consider approval of the Committee on the Environment meeting minutes of October 1,
262012.
27
28Minutes approved as circulated.
29
302.Receive a report hold a discussion and give staff direction concerning LEED or similar
31certifications for Municipal buildings.
32
33Katherine Barnett and Scott Fletcher talked about this item. Barnett started out by saying they
34wanted to bring this item regarding the animal shelter and propose the larger discussion about
35LEED and municipal buildings. The City of Denton has had several facilities constructed or
36renovated, where staff has looked at energy efficiency. Other than the LEED Gold fire station 7,
37staff has not addressed anything more than just wanting energy efficient buildings and to
38incorporate sustainable practices. The animal shelter discussion is a good way to get to the next
39level of discussion about where we want to go with future construction and renovations, and the
40issue of certification through some program(s). Barnett and Fletcher was then open to questions
41regarding the different options.
42
43Roden asked what our sustainability plan says on this point. Does it reference any goals in terms
44of LEED certification? Barnett answered it doesn’t reference a particular building rating system.
45Roden then asked if that is what Barnett wants is to adopt some policies along those lines.
46Barnett agreed. Kamp added and make the recommendation to Council. Roden then had a
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment meeting
November 5, 2012
Page 2 of 8
1question specifically for the animal adoption center, other than a broad category of saying we
2want this to be a sustainable project were there any specific goals as it relates to energy
3efficiency.
4
5Kamp stated there were goals. In 2005 discussions from the very beginning were referenced
6LEED certification. It was specific to LEED Certification. When they got further into the
7discussions as time went by, there were recommendations from different people to not go for that
8certification but was not specifically stated. Somewhere along the lines the part that had the
9requirement for LEED on this facility was eliminated. It was not eliminated by the building
10committee, which is a joint city and shelter foundation committee. We are not sure where it was
11eliminated. At one point the architect stated he didn’t recommend it, but the building committee
12stated that is what they wanted to do. Kamp stated that Fletcher made sure that the architectural
13drawings are being drawn sustainability, not necessarily LEED certification, but requires for
14sustainability. Kamp has dual roles but wanted to state that the animal shelter foundation and
15what they are trying to do in building an animal shelter for the animals and for the community is
16a passion of hers. She does not want to see this project delayed. Kamp feels like the purpose of
17this committee is to make a recommendation to City Council for what is best for our City, what
18is best for the building now, five years or thirty years, even if it has to be delayed for a couple of
19months, although that is regrettable. Kamp wants to make this the best possible building that it
20can be for our citizens and for the City of Denton and obviously for the animals. If we have to
21delay, it is for the purpose of having the best facility.
22
23Kamp continued with the Animal Adoption Center. We were supposed to go for LEED
24Certification. Kamp asked Barnett what points we can get to now. Barnett stated as the plans
25are drawn now there are about thirty LEED points, we feel like just from some of the areas of
26LEED that have not been considered yet we may have about seven more. To achieve the lowest
27level of LEED we would need forty points. Kamp stated we are close with what we have.
28Barnett agreed.
29
30Kamp stated that to reach those forty points, what is the estimate on the delay and cost? Fletcher
31answered the delay is two to four months between design and having to change architectural
32engineering and construction. This is just a guess a lot will depend on what choices are actually
33made when we go through the process. To be LEED Certified, a consultant has to be brought in
34and an independent commissioning agent. The bulk of the cost which is in the area of $100,000
35is associated with the lowest level of certification, which used to be called bronze. Kamp asked
36if that is about what it cost for the fire station. Dean Hartley, Facilities Manager, answered he
37was unsure it may have been a little higher because at the time LEED first came out it was new
38to everyone and there was a learning curve. Hartley was a little surprised that the percentage
39came in as low as it did for the animal shelter. They were expecting a 35% increase and they
40didn’t see it in the estimate. Jon Fortune, ACM, stated he believed the Fire Station was
41$300,000-$500,000.
42
43Gregory questioned that most of the $100,000 to get us to the bronze or ‘certified’ level is not in
44adjustments to the building itself or amenities to the building but in the cost for hiring the people
45to come in to do the certification. Fletcher agreed. Gregory then asked if there are certifying
46groups that do the same thing that cost less. Is there a reason for LEED? Kamp added that
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment meeting
November 5, 2012
Page 3 of 8
1LEED is the most prestigious. It is also the most recognized that is why it was stated that
2Apogee Stadium of North Texas is Platinum. There are people who don’t think an animal shelter
3can be LEED certified, but it is very common. Kamp was told this week that the Plano animal
4shelter had to go back and do retrofits to be LEED certified after it was built. Fletcher stated that
5Plano actually cut down a portion of the building to be able to afford it. They spent double to
6accomplish this task. Kamp stated we aren’t in that position, we are in the position to where it
7will be delayed two to four months but we can do it now with less problems with our shelters
8when compared with a future retrofit approach.
9
10Fletcher went on to say that the current train of thought from some municipalities is to be LEED
11certifiable. This is where you take all the steps and do all of the documentation but you don’t
12pay the commissioning agent or the consultant to do that portion. You obtain the sustainability
13benefits, but you cannot say you are LEED certified. It is a small distinction to say the building is
14LEED certifiable. The cost would be more to go to silver LEED certification, this takes 50
15points. The investment for that would be about $200,000, on the design and construction side.
16The real variable is what kind of bid they get back from the general contractors. There is a
17significant amount of work that has to be taken care of, documentation wise. There is a donor
18that is willing to make a donation towards this, but we still have to go through the bid process.
19Gregory asked about the donor. Fletcher stated they have a donor that has offered to do the
20general contracting at a significantly reduced rate, but the bid process still has to be followed.
21
22Gregory asked if we are going toward LEED certified or LEED certifiable. Kamp stated it is up
23to this Committee to make the recommendation to Council.
24
25Kamp questioned that the $100,000 estimate is the cities responsibility. Jon Fortune, ACM,
26answered that issue has not been determined. Fortune stated that as staff gets closer to getting
27construction bids we will have to take a point and evaluate with Council where this project is and
28the total budget for this project. This is obviously an additional expense so it is a question at that
29point in time is “does the foundation have the funding to support that or does the City have the
30funding?” If neither do what would be the next step. If this is something that the City wants, the
31foundation may want the City to pay. Kamp agreed. Fortune clarified as the project is being
32designed currently it is not LEED certified, if there is no direction to move forward with that
33then they will proceed to the next step which is construction. If the desire of this committee is
34recommended to Council that we move forward and obtain LEED certification, we will try and
35get this on the agenda very quickly to get that change added to the contract. Fletcher stated that
36the delay would be whatever it takes to get back to Council and then the two to four months is
37when we will need for the architect to start and then construction. It could be a little longer.
38Kamp stated that our architect has experience with LEED certification. Fletcher added that our
39architect designed the Plano facility. Roden then asked a question in terms of where we can get
40from the architect’s perspective. Does it add additional money and / or time if you say we want
41to head in the LEED direction for them to come back with options of what levels and cost we are
42looking at? Or do we tell them to move forward specifically with LEED’s gold, silver or bronze
43upfront? What are the options? Fletcher answered that the level would depend upon Council
44direction or if there is a preference. From his standpoint, he would like to tell the architect that
45we are looking at a certain level. There is certainly a huge difference in the bronze and silver
46level.
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment meeting
November 5, 2012
Page 4 of 8
1
2Kamp stated that she is extremely disappointed. This should have been on the course of at least
3LEED silver certified. Maybe there is too much cost and too much of a delay to complete LEED
4silver at this point. Kamp has stated from the beginning that she wanted this building LEED
5certified. She knows that is a lot more work, but this is the time to do it if we are going to do it.
6If we pursue the bronze level, then it is reasonable there is not that much of a delay in the life of
7this municipal building. Kamp would personally like to see it be at least bronze.
8
Council Member Gregory made the motion to move forward with the McNatt Facility and
9
seek LEED certification at Certified Level (“Certified Level” is the previous “Bronze”
10
level). Roden seconded the motion. The vote was 3-0 approved.
11
12
13There was some discussion regarding LEED certification for future projects. Gregory suggested
14that in every process for construction there is a discussion if LEED certification is an option for
15the project. That would be part of the check list.
16
17Barnett suggested bringing back the continuous commissioning of buildings making sure our
18buildings are operating as efficiently as possible. There are several programs available for this
19already on the market.
20
213. Receive a report hold a discussion and give staff direction concerning the 2012 mosquito
22season response.
23
24Kenneth Banks, Director, Environmental Services & Sustainability, made the presentation.
25From all information both State-wide and locally, it appears we are at the end of the West Nile
26virus season for the City of Denton. This was an unprecedented year. Our plan, while doing a
27good job this year, is in need of some significant updates and additional information. The plan
28was really about getting us to the point of spraying. It didn’t address all the things that followed
29spraying in a systematic way. We learned a lot this season that we could bring on this particular
30issue.
31
32Banks showed the information and graphs regarding the mosquito season. Denton County is in
33the range of 182 total cases. There were quite a few positive mosquito pools around. However,
34we have gone many weeks without having a positive mosquito pool. This is a trend that staff
35witnessed locally. It also seems to be a trend state wide. The season is simply slowing down.
36There was a significant drop in human cases. The final case was reported for the City of Denton
37in the beginning of October. Kamp asked where it was. Banks stated it was in an area by
38Northlakes, and was in an area that had already been sprayed. There was evidence that the
39disease could have been contracted elsewhere, the individual had gone camping. A local trap in
40that area had not been positive for many weeks. Staff made a judgment call not to spray on that
41particular case. That is another issue that we need to consider. Staff essentially made judgment
42calls on that case. The plan addresses how these judgment issues should be made, but it is very
43broad. How do we deal with the situation where we have an onset date and case information that
44suggests the disease was contracted outside of the City through travel or whether it occurred
45during a timeframe that was much prior in an area that we had already sprayed? We had a few of
46those as well. Those are the kind of issues that we need to work through. This is the first year
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment meeting
November 5, 2012
Page 5 of 8
1that we have sprayed under this plan, and there are a lot of opportunities to learn from the
2experience.
3
4Banks wanted to point out a couple of other things. The State and CDC compiling information
5on the West Nile Virus season in DFW and this area in particular. We have had one meeting
6with the State people that occurred on October 22. There was good conversation in that meeting.
7There will be more regional coordination. This event woke everyone up to the potential of
8where West Nile Virus may go in this area in the future. Banks believes there will be more
9regionalized messages and a more active role from the state next year. These meeting have been
10good because they have allowed an opportunity for people that do mosquito control in the
11various municipalities to come together and share resources as well. One thing that is of concern
12is that we may have some successive years of high West Nile Virus if we continue to get mild
13winters. It is likely that we have a higher than usual number of adult mosquitoes that are going to
14go into overwintering hibernation with the virus present. That will set us up to see the virus back
15up in the spring if conditions are conductive to that particular mosquito breeding and increasing
16numbers. There are a lot of variables but the over wintering population is thought to be one of
17the key reasons why we had such a bad year this year. In other words, if we have another mild
18winter we could have an early onset of West Nile next spring and a problematic year.
19
20Kamp asked where the adult mosquitoes hibernate. Banks answered there are a lot of different
21places, including storm drains, barns, and underground infrastructure. They will hibernate and
22when spring comes they will come back out. If we have a larger than average percentage of the
23population that has the virus going in overwintering, then we have a greater potential for a larger
24than average overwintering survival with the virus and larger than average emerging population
25in the spring.
26
27Gregory questioned the mosquitoes that hibernate with virus not birds that are carriers of the
28disease but do not die from it. Banks answered it could be both. The local population will be
29very driven by the mosquito population. It is going to be whether birds bring it in from the
30outside or whether the local mosquito population is going to harbor it and bring it forward.
31
32Banks reiterated that staff learned a lot during the 2012 season and there are a lot of elements in
33the mosquito surveillance and response plan that needs to be reviewed. Banks suggests overall
34updates to the plan. The Plan was written in 2002 and need to be updated. Trigger level
35conversations are an important area. Right now we have a high trigger level. Our trigger level is
36a confirmed human case. Banks has seen plans that begin spraying at the first positive mosquito
37pool that is captured and has seen plans that look at the concept of multiple mosquito pools
38captured consecutively. This is similar to what is in the resolution we adopted for the 2012
39season where we stated spraying would be enacted for human cases or in places where we had
40three or more positive traps. The public communication response for spraying was very helpful.
41Banks applauded the Public Communication Office, the Code Red Emergency Response with
42Mike Penaluna’s group, and the staff at DME who supported with the robocall system.
43Watershed Department put out street signs, and maintained maps and permit compliance issues.
44Everyone stepped up on this effort, and did a lot of work in a short amount of time.
45
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment meeting
November 5, 2012
Page 6 of 8
1As the mosquito plan stands, public communication is not directly addressed. We could benefit
2from talking about some broad guidelines to put into the mosquito surveillance and response plan
3dealing with the public communication response. Kamp asked if staff is prepared to do this
4quickly. Banks stated that mosquito season will not likely start up again until the April or May
5timeframe. Banks thought this was a good time to bring it up discussions with the committee,
6bring back individual components of the plan, and work in the off-season to revise the plan.
7Kamp agreed.
8
9Banks added that the City of Denton has a state pesticide permit. We have a general permit
10under the Clean Water Act to track and record all of the pesticide applications that we do. That
11includes any spraying operations that is done on our behalf as well as any of the larviciding that
12we do. That is a recent requirement it was put in place by the TCEQ in 2011. JoEtta Daily and
13the Watershed Department have been the ones tracking all this information. It is important to
14know what needs to be documented.
15
16Other things would be the budget issues. The vast majority of funding that was utilized to deal
17with mosquito surveillance and control this year was done through contingency funds. It is a
18question of whether we want to continue along that route and take the stance that mosquito
19control may or may not be an ongoing issue. The question is whether we want to tap the
20contingency funds or get a formalized budget in place. If there are any other topic that the COE
21would like to discuss it could be added.
22
23Roden stated that it would be interesting to discuss triggering as it relates to aerial spraying.
24Council was forced into a discussion not of our own due to County concerns. It was good to see
25the level of knowledge and expertise that we had during that meeting in comparison to the
26information that we received from the County. It would be nice if in the future when we had
27those same type of meetings we could say this is what we have determined would be trigger type
28things for aerial spraying. Banks stated that more attention will be paid to that issue regionally.
29Regionally you will see more conveyance of risks either from the State or the County. That is
30one of the issues that was talked about in the meeting on October 22. It seemed like all the
31municipalities were seeing regional information stating that the risk appeared to be increasing,
32and then all of a sudden there was a large decision to make about aerial spraying in a short period
33of time.
34
35Martin asked when Denton County started spraying and COD started ground spraying. Banks
36confirmed that Denton County aerially sprayed on August 30 – September 2. The City of
37Denton started ground-based spraying on June 30. Martin added that it does come back to the
38trigger. Staff has had a lot of discussion about this. Banks stated if the City of Denton would
39have sprayed earlier it would have been due to multiple positive trap trigger instead of human
40cases. Martin went on to say we would benefit in this program in discussing the trigger
41mechanism.
42
43Gregory asked as the season went on did we add traps. Banks answered we did 16 traps are
44normal, 20 traps is pushing it and 22 is really pushing it. There was a time when we had 22
45traps; as the season went on it was more 20 than 16. Gregory asked if we depended primarily on
46UNT students to take care of these traps.Banks answered we depended exclusively on UNT
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment meeting
November 5, 2012
Page 7 of 8
1students. Gregory asked if that was reasonable to continue. Banks said they are doing research
2so the people that are involved are usually very willing to step up. Banks is unsure if there are
3lower number students that the City might be at risk. The intention was to have 16 traps this
4year, and going above this amount was unusual. Gregory added as Banks reviews the plan, we
5may want to consider the possibility of additional locations. Also considering contingency
6funds, there may or may not be a bad year. We need to budget for regular traps and monitoring
7of those traps in case UNT students were not available. If we decide we want more traps to
8budget for that. Gregory was sure that there were citizens glad to have a trap close to their
9neighborhood. The only communication that Gregory wish we would have done that was not
10done was signs at intersections about what to do and what not to do regarding West Nile Virus.
11
12Martin added that staff had talked about when that education would be most appropriate.
13Gregory was appreciative that we had a plan and most of the time we were operating with a lot
14of information and we were not making decisions with the influence of hysteria. The only time
15was with aerial spraying. Kamp added that even then Council could make that decision because
16of information that staff had provided.
17
18Gregory stated that he went to the Council meeting believing he would vote for aerial spraying.
19Gregory was curious from Banks point of view when Council voted not to aerial spray, was he
20pleased scientifically. Banks answered with the benefit of hindsight it was a good decision. The
21difficulty in making a decision like that is you have no idea where it is going to go. That is what
22the County and Banks struggled with. It was not likely but conceivable that Denton could have
23seen a second peak; we did see a small one. At the time Banks had mixed feelings.
24
25Martin added that the County put out traps pre and post aerial spraying, the statistics on that is
26interesting in relation to what staff was seeing in terms of reduction in mosquitoes without aerial
27spraying, it was almost identical. Banks stated weather plays a big role in this as well.
28
29Banks then said that the CDC will release a final report that will study the aerial application for
30the entire County. They have all the trapping data. It should be out in December.
31
32Banks will meet with Jim Kennedy at UNT to recap and talk about student help. UNT may be
33able to handle the 20-22 traps but may have to revisit the contents of the contract.
34
35Martin asked the total dollars spent. Banks answered for the entire season staff spent about
36$57,000.
37
38Kamp liked Option 2, which is to proceed and come back as soon as possible.
39
404.ACM update:
41
42a.Clear Creek Activities
43Barnett is looking at Grant opportunities for Clear Creek. Kamp suggested late in the
44spring to have the COE meeting at Clear Creek.
45
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment meeting
November 5, 2012
Page 8 of 8
15.Under Section 551.042 of the Texas Open Meetings Act, respond to inquiries from the
2Committee on the Environment or the public with specific factual information or recitation of
3policy, or accept a proposal to place the matter on the agenda for an upcoming meeting.
4AND
5Under Section 551.0415 of the Texas Open Meetings Act, provide reports about items of
6community interest regarding which no action will be taken, to include: expressions of
7thanks, congratulations, or condolence; information regarding holiday schedules; an honorary
8or salutary recognition of a public official, public employee, or other citizen; a reminder
9about an upcoming event organized or sponsored by an entity other than the governing body
10that was attended or is scheduled to be attended by a member of the governing body or an
11official or employee of the municipality; or an announcement involving an imminent threat
12to the public health and safety of people in the municipality that has arisen after the posting
13of the agenda.
14
Gregory stated that there are about $400,000 in CIP money for Clear Creek what is being
15
done with the money and when?
16
17
186.Official Action, if necessary, on Closed Meeting item(s) under §551.071-551.088 of the
19Texas Government Code, as amended.
20
217.Adjournment.
22
The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 3:07 p.m.
23
EXHIBIT 4
CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT AGENDA ITEM #1
1
2
3
DRAFT MINUTES
4
5CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT
6December 11, 2012
7
8After determining that a quorum of the Committee on the Environment of the Denton City
9Council was present, the Committee on the Environment thereafter convened into an Open
10Meeting on Monday, December 11, 2012 at 1:33 p.m. in the City Hall City Council work session
11room, 215 East McKinney Street, Denton, Texas.
12
Present
13: Council Member Pete Kamp, Council Member Dalton Gregory and Council
14Member Kevin Roden
15
Also Present:
16Howard Martin, ACM Utilities; Dr. Kenneth Banks, Director, Environmental
17Services & Sustainability; Jim Coulter, General Manager Water Utilities; Mark
18Nelson, Director of Transportation; Katherine Barnett, Sustainable and Utilities
19Special Projects Coordinator; Victoria Venet, Environmental Services
20Sustainability & Grant Coordinator; Kim Mankin, Administrative Supervisor
21
OPEN MEETING:
22
23
241.Consider approval of the Committee on the Environment meeting minutes of November 5,
252012.
26
27Minutes approved as circulated.
28
29It was decided to go to new business so that some guess could speak.
30
315.Under Section 551.042 of the Texas Open Meetings Act, respond to inquiries from the
32Committee on the Environment or the public with specific factual information or recitation of
33policy, or accept a proposal to place the matter on the agenda for an upcoming meeting.
34AND
356.Under Section 551.0415 of the Texas Open Meetings Act, provide reports about items of
36community interest regarding which no action will be taken, to include: expressions of
37thanks, congratulations, or condolence; information regarding holiday schedules; an honorary
38or salutary recognition of a public official, public employee, or other citizen; a reminder
39about an upcoming event organized or sponsored by an entity other than the governing body
40that was attended or is scheduled to be attended by a member of the governing body or an
41official or employee of the municipality; or an announcement involving an imminent threat
42to the public health and safety of people in the municipality that has arisen after the posting
43of the agenda. It was decided to take the items out of order due to guest that wanted to speak
44on behalf of new business.
45
46
47
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 2 of 14
1Katie Trice with Denton Community Market started the presentation.
2
3Peggy Riddle, Director of Denton County Office of History and Culture spoke about providing
4the venue for the Denton Community Market. The partnership between the two helps meet goals
5for heritage and tourism for Denton County. Hope to expand to include the Courthouse Square.
6Tourism dollars are very important. Denton County is very supportive of Denton Community
7Market.
8
9Kamp asked Martin since this is not on the agenda, are questions allowed. Banks answered it is
10introduced under 551.0415 provide reports about items of community interest regarding which
11no action will be taken. Banks stated this is pretty broad and believes questions are acceptable.
12
13Trice continued the presentation. The mission is to strengthen the Denton community by
14providing economic opportunities for local artists, businesses, food vendors, and food producers
15to contribute to the vitality and livability of Denton. Trice spoke about the vendors and the
16commonality being local entrepreneurs with sustainability. Trice spoke about the events and
17activities that are involved. The market hosts performances as well.
18
19Trice then stated that the Market has six guiding principles that guide their actions.
20Provides a setting in which community members can purchase local products from local
21producers. Provides education opportunities where community members can learn about the
22products their neighbors have made and grown and discover other resources for community
23involvement. It promotes the local food economy by connecting food producers and consumers.
24It promotes sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship. It reduces barriers to
25entry for new entrepreneurs and local small businesses. Lastly it strengthens ties between
26community members by creating a sense of place.
27
28Trice then added that local farms are an integral part of the market. There are eight farms that
29supply food.
30
31Denton Juice Co is a vendor that provides organic juices. Annie Anderson owner of the business
32spoke about her business and the start at the Denton Community Market.
33
34Trice continued with the presentation stated that there is onsite food at the Market. Denton
35Vegan Corporative offers an all vegan menu. The owners of Denton Vegan Corporative spoke
36about getting their start at the Denton Community Market.
37
38Trice then added that there are a growing number of food trucks at the Market.
39
40Trice then spoke of the history of the Market.
41Spring 2009: Kati Trice created a business plan and contacted Pete Kamp about next steps in
42creating the Denton Community Market.
43Pete Kamp directed Kati Trice to Julie Glover who helped with some of the early meetings.
44Fall 2009: Community meeting was held at City Hall, with standing room only.
45Volunteer steering committee was formed
46First fundraiser was held
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 3 of 14
1March 2010: Obtained first lease from Denton County Commissioner’s Court
2April 2010: Held first market season in the parking lot adjacent to the Denton County Growers
3Association's farmer's market
4May 2011: Opened second market season in the parking lot next to the green space in the Denton
5County Historic Park
6City of Denton provided an electrical outlet box for the Market
7May 2012: Opened third market season on the green space in the Denton County Historic Park
8
9Trice then talked about the organizational overview
10A Texas non-profit corporation
11In the process of obtaining federal 501c3
12Volunteer based
1310 hour / week paid staff in-season position
14A Steering Committee meets regularly and votes on major items: Vendor Coordinator, Secretary,
15Treasurer, and Performance Coordinator.
16Membership required for all vendors
17Green vendor requirements and product authenticity requirements
18All craft items must be hand-made by the vendors; reused, local, and recycled materials are
19encouraged
20All products must be created within 100 miles of Denton
21All produce and agricultural products must be grown with sustainable farming practices: organic
22and free range
23We are a producer-only Market
24
25Weekly Operations
26200-400 visitors per week average
279:00 AM to 1:00 PM every Saturday May - October.
28The market was once-per-month the first year.
29The market expanded to every week in the second season
30
31Revenue
32Vendor Fees:
33$30 annual membership fee
34$10 weekly fee per vendor
35Market Merchandise: t-shirts, mugs, and bags
36Donations
37
38Expenses
39Porta potties, Electricity, Performers, Bounce house/ water slides, Supplies, Equipment
40replacement, Website, Marketing materials, Coordinator stipends, Attorney fees, Accountant fees
41Planner fees, Permit fees, Special events, Volunteer benefits, Sustainability Plan Goals
42Chapter 10 of Denton’s Simply Sustainable plan enacted this year outlines Local Food
43Production goals
44Sustainability Metrics: Increase 5% by 2020 the number of permits issued to local food
45businesses/artists to participate at Denton Community Market
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 4 of 14
1Vickie Oppenheim, secretary and planner of the Market, then spoke regarding the Market being a
2major part of the sustainability plan.
3
4Oppenheim then talked about the local food strategies.
5Strategies in Chapter 10
6Encourage Community Gardens within City Limits
7Evaluate Opportunities to Increase Access and Availability of Locally Produced Food Including
8Backyard Urban Gardens, Backyard Urban Chickens, and Food Cooperatives.
9Increase Number of Vendors Participating at Farmer’s Markets and Craft Fairs in the
10Community
11Implementation Action: “Evaluate feasibility of dedicating permanent space/structure and
12infrastructure for farmers’ markets and other community events.”
13
14Other Related Sustainability Plan Goals
15Material Resource Management—through education and our green practices at the Market
16Promote Transportation goals for downtown—promote bicycle and pedestrian modes to our
17Market
18Promote mixed-use and compact development in targeted areas—attract business to the
19downtown area
20
21Special Role of Market
22Weekly gathering place for Denton residents to purchase local food and goods. Families with
23children, seniors, students, and many other Denton residents enjoy the Market.
24Promotes local art and music
25The market information booth acts as Visitor Center for out-of-town guests. We provide maps
26and information on downtown business and activities.
27Promotes the Denton County Historic Park
28Promotes walk ability and bicycle transportation
29Acts as small-business incubator for local start-ups and promotes existing business at relatively
30low-cost.
31Promotes environmental sustainability and green practices
32Expands access to healthy food
33Promotes local agriculture
34
35Community Supporter
36Twilight Tunes Sponsor for 2 years
37Day of the Dead Festival Community Partner for 2 years
38Etsy Festival participant in 2011
39Market Booth at local events and community fundraisers on a regular basis
40
41Oppenheim then talked about the vendor statistics.
422010
43In our first year: 56 vendors + 14 businesses
441 Grower
4548 Artists
461 On-Site Food
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 5 of 14
13 Prepared Food
23 Community Groups
314 Local Businesses
4
52011
6In our second year: 61 vendors + 4 businesses
75 Growers
846 Artists
96 On-Site Food
100 Prepared Food
114 Community Groups
124 Local Businesses
13
142012
15In our third year: 72 vendors + 7 businesses
168 Growers
1754 Artists
189 On-Site Food
190 Prepared Food
201 Community Group
217 Local Businesses
22
23Trice continued the presentation with goals:
24Stage 1: Establish market as state nonprofit. Fill all available vendor spaces in current site plan.
25All spaces have been occupied this year.
26
27Kamp asked how many spaces there are. Trice answered between 25 and35.
28
29Trice continued.
30Stage 2: Obtain 501c3 and begin capitalizing through fundraising and grants. Expand food
31accessibility to underserved populations. Increase paid staff hours.
32Stage 3: Obtain a permanent location. Build market site with LEED standards. Hire full time
33vendor coordinator.
34Stage 4: Expand Market beyond single site to include satellite markets. Create and/or partner
35with community gardens. Expand education opportunities through programming and workshops
36
37Roden asked about the location, has it been discussed about where the permanent location would
38be. Trice answered they have not had a conversation with the County regarding the permanent
39site. This is the first step. Roden then asked if the location serves the underserved populations.
40Trice stated it is their hope.
41
42Vendors have showed an interest in a year round Market.
43
44What are the possibilities of a permanent site? There are thousands of markets in the US.
45
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 6 of 14
1Ryan Crocker, Earthwise Gardens, then spoke about his start and the Santa Fe Outdoor/Indoor
2Market.
3
4Mark (unsure of last name) then talked about the Fredericton New Brunswick, Canada Boyce
5Farmers Market.
6
7Trice continued by saying she has visited the San Marcos Farmers Market.
8
9Trice then talked about the current challenges of the Market which are:
10Permanent location
11Permanent Infrastructure
12Public restrooms
13Visitor seating
14Weather-proof vendor area
15Electricity to meet needs
16Staffing
17Funding
18More variety of food and produce needed
19More produce vendors needed
20Lack of an available commercial kitchen space
21
22Kamp stated she is proud; the Market has come a long way since 2009. Kamp asked where the
23Market on the 501c3 process is. Trice answered the bylaws have been created, refined the
24mission and the vision statement and have an attorney. Next step is to submit the accounting
25information. Trice hopes to have that in the next three to six months.
26
27Gregory asked about the sales numbers. Oppenheim answered gross sales is about $125,000 per
28year.
29
30Roden asked the group to package the information to pass on to the other Council Members.
31
32Kamp mentioned Durango Colorado and Fayetteville Arkansas as great Market as well.
33
34Gregory stated that the location needs to be revisited including zoning.Gregory has visited the
35Portland, Oregon Market.
36
37Kamp thanked the group.
38
392.Receive an update; hold a discussion, and give staff direction regarding adoption of green
40building standards and rating systems.
41
42Katherine Barnett talked about this item. Barnett talked about the building standards and how
43confusing it is for many cities. There are so many different pieces. Samples of LEED
44construction from other cities are:
:
45Dallas All city buildings larger than 10,000 square feet are required to have at least LEED
46Silver certification.
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 7 of 14
1Houston:All city-owned buildings and facilities larger than 10,000 square feet must use LEED
2“to the greatest extent practical and reasonable,” with a target of LEED Silver.
3Austin, TX: LEED certification is required of all public projects larger than 5,000 gross square
4feet.
5
6While nine cities have adopted mandatory LEED certification for municipal buildings, with
7some restrictions on size or type of facility, others continue to search for different methods to
8achieve environmental performance for their buildings. Some Texas municipalities have chosen
9to incorporate LEED concepts without seeking certification, and others are considering
10developing city-specific building standards which include elements of LEED, Energy Star and
11the International Green Construction Code (IgCC).
12
13Gregory questioned the ‘upgraded’ code, was that the IeCC. Barnett agreed. Gregory asked if
14the IeCC has been compared to the IgCC. Barnett answered the IeCC is the residential side, the
15IgCC is commercial. Gregory asked if that has been adopted as code.Barnett answered it has
16not, just came out in 2009. Cities are looking at it to see what parts they want to adopt. Gregory
17asked if the IgCC would be going to NCTCOG for evaluation and recommendations. Barnett
18answered to the best of her knowledge it is not going through NCTCOG currently. Dallas has
19taken it through a task force to see what areas they want to adopt. Gregory stated it may be
20something that this City wants to explore.
21
22Barnett stated that it has been talked about at the last meeting regarding balancing. Using Green
23building, Energy Star and LEED; not every building need all points, for example lift stations and
24other buildings. Staff does want the buildings to be the most energy efficient that can be built.
25That is being accomplished on the existing facilities. IgCC picks up a lot of the items in a code
26manner. Other components can be added, that is what Dallas has looked at doing.
27
28LEED is a nationally recognized comprehensive standard with a well defined program for new
29construction and major renovation. LEED requires substantial analyses and formal third party
30verification, which can be costly. LEED also tends to address initiatives at the time of
31construction or renovation, and does not include a formal process for tracking performance over
32time.
33
34IgCC is a flexible program that can be adapted to the needs of each jurisdiction. It is designed to
35be adopted in the same manner as standard building codes and can be reviewed and inspected by
36building officials in a manner similar to “standard” codes. The IgCC provides minimum
37mandatory requirements for site development and land use, material resource conservation and
38efficiency, energy and water conservation / efficiency, and indoor environmental quality. IgCC
39includes some requirements for monitoring performance, and provides some guidance for
40building operation maintenance and owner education.
41
42Staff does track performance internally through facilities department.
43
44EPA considers Energy Star for Buildings and Plants to be “the fastest, cheapest, and largest
45untapped solution for saving energy, saving money and preventing greenhouse gas emissions.”
46However Energy Star does not address certain “green building” elements such as site selection,
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 8 of 14
.
1water use, indoor environmental quality, or material conservationStaff has reviewed the
2various programs listed above and spoken with professionals from the industry and other
3municipalities. As discussed briefly in the last Committee meeting, the consensus is that one
4size (or program) does not fit all for municipal facilities. In terms of a broad, general statement,
5“Office” and “Commercial” buildings may be better served by LEED and IgCC when there is an
6appropriate performance tracking mechanism in place, but Energy Star may be more appropriate
7for other types of municipal operations such as a wastewater treatment plant.
8
9When reviewing U.S. energy consumption, it is interesting to note that buildings draw about
1072% of our electricity consumption. To address energy efficiency in new residential
11construction and as an alternative to a voluntary residential green building program, Denton
12began requiring new residential construction to be 10 percent more efficient than the minimum
13International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) almost 10 years ago.
14
15There are areas where we could ‘bump it up a notch’. On the commercial side IgCC seems to be
16a good mechanism. Kamp added that parts of the code could be adopted that would get the City
17where it wants to be. Barnett agreed. One thought was to bring in some of the people from
18Dallas that worked on their plan. Kamp liked that idea.
19
20Roden asked if LEED has a program for large institutions can train persons in-house to be
21certifiable. There concepts are not mysterious. It seems like there is value in paying for the
22name. Independent people could create the same standards. Barnett answered part is the name
23and the nationally recognized program. It is the commission on the front end, the continuing
24commissioning they do through A&M is very valuable.
25
26DFW builds LEED buildings but work with Texas A&M for continuing commission to make
27sure their buildings are as efficient as possible.
28
29There was some discussion regarding the certifications.
30
31Staff recommends the following actions:
321. Reach out to City of Dallas Staff and possibly Green Building Task Force members and invite
33these representatives to speak about development of the Dallas Green Building Code in a future
34Committee on the Environment meeting.
352. Develop and refine a checklist of elements / strategies for a municipal Green Building
36program for new construction.
373. Explore opportunities for developing a Community Green Building program via adoption of
38IgCC with possible Denton amendments. The approach used by the City of Dallas appears to be
39a good framework for developing this program.
40
41The committee agreed with the above actions.
42
43Kenneth Banks wanted to make sure the committee was ok with taking the SB898 revision to
44Council on December 18 with the committee’s recommendation. The committee members
45were good with it.
46
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 9 of 14
1
23. Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction concerning revisions to the
3Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan.
4
5Kenneth Banks made the presentation. Banks talked about changes that are based on the 2012
6mosquito season.
7
8Trapping of mosquito data stopped on November 6. There were a few human cases that showed
9up later in the season, could be due to travel or the person lived with the disease for sometime
10before being diagnosed.
11
12Banks stated that we have had a warm fall which may suggest we could have a bad season
13coming up.
14
15Banks talked about the current risk levels.
16Risk Level 1 Normal Response - Probability of human outbreak is none or remote
17Risk Level 2 Enhanced Response - Probability of human outbreak is low
18Risk Level 3 Public Health Concern - Probability of human outbreak is low to moderate
19Risk Level 4 Public Health Warning - Probability of human outbreak is moderate to high
20Risk Level 5 Public Health Alert - Human outbreak is confirmed
21Risk Levels based on specific trigger conditions. Once enacted, the Risk Level outlines a series
22of responses. The Plan has some flexibility to address complexities of the mosquito-bird -human
23-weather complex.
24
25Last time this was discussed we talked about trigger conditions and staffs suggestions for
26modifications to those trigger conditions. Banks had information for aerial spraying.
27
28There is rational for each recommendation from staff.
29
30Recommendation 1: Remove seropositive equine as a trigger
31Recommendation 2: Remove WNV-positive birds as a trigger
32Recommendation 3: Add Spinosad as a larvicide RL4 and above
33Recommendation 4: Remove Gambusia affinis (mosquito fish) as a larviciding measure
34Recommendation 5: Add a formal statement to MSRP stating that Council will enact a
35Resolution supporting the decision to conduct ULV applications, and that the Resolution will be
36valid through the remainder of the mosquito season.
37Recommendation 6:Add these statements to response sections of the indicated Risk Levels
38 RL 3: Prepare for ground level spraying activities using ULV applications of pyrethroids.
39Ensure adequate funding is in place for conducting ULV applications.
40 RL4: Finalize all actions needed for implementing ground level spraying activities using ULV
41applications of pyrethroids.
42
43Evaluate the current “Risk Level 5” trigger of multiple human cases of WNV and associated
44response of ground based ULV spraying.
45This is a complex issue; staff can delve into details as needed.
46
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 10 of 14
1Banks stated that setting spray triggers can be challenging. Decisions involve complex
2biological, ecological, and public health factors. The decision will always be made with
3incomplete information. There will be strong feelings from the public in response to the
4decision.
5
6Trigger levels for spraying can be thought of as a spectrum. There are pros and cons to low and
7high threshold spraying.
8
9Banks added in summary, trigger conditions should always attempt to balance.
10 Public health protection
11 Non-target impacts
12 Efficient resource use
13 Realistic response level expectations
14
15Banks went on to talk about what other cities do. The Survey information was provided by the
16City of Frisco, only D-FW Metroplex cities. There were 12 respondents by early June 2012
17(before WNV threat). Likely that some municipalities will have changed their plans based on
182012 season. (Denton is not included in the following numbers).
19
20There are four cities with the trigger of mosquito densities and complaint calls.
21There are three cities with the trigger of one WNV positive mosquito sample.
22There is one city with the trigger of multiple WNV positive mosquito sample, or a single human
23case. Lastly there are four cities that have the trigger of no spraying.
24
25Martin asked which city had the trigger as multiple WNV positive mosquito sample, or a single
26human case. Banks answered Frisco. Gregory asked if that is where we would go. Banks
27answered currently we are multiple human cases.
28
292012 was the first year of spraying in more than a decade.
30Under current trigger, spraying started on 6-30-12 and continued until middle of September.
31Total of 30 spray events. It is possible to reconstruct how spraying would have “looked” under
32various trigger scenarios.
33
34These scenarios are based on data collected using our monitoring network under the spraying
35application strategy we used.
36All other scenarios are theoretical.
37A given spraying scenario could have had an influence on subsequent trap data, and may have
38therefore influenced future trap results or (possibly) human case counts
39
40Scenario 1: Spray for every WNV positive trap
41Pros:
•
42Earliest “disease trigger” response possible
•
43May serve to break disease transmission cycle early, although this is variable
•
44Can be more aggressive for problem areas … possibility of applying every week if trap
45data indicates continued presence of virus
46
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 11 of 14
1Cons:
•
2Only effective for areas where you have traps
•
3Will result in a large amount of pesticide usage, which increases potential for non-target
4impacts, greatly increases expense, and can create significant capacity concerns (both
5spraying and public notification)
•
6Will require extensive adjustments to trap network …. possible loss of routine monitoring
7data (fixed trap) and resource intensive
•
8Does not necessarily reflect the potential for human disease transmission
9
10Scenario 2: 2 or more positive traps, non-consecutive
11Pros:
•
12Somewhat early disease trigger response possible
•
13May serve to break disease transmission cycle early, although this is variable
•
14Can be more aggressive for problem areas … possibility of applying routinely if trap data
15indicates continued presence of WNV
16Cons:
•
17Only effective for areas where you have routinely deployed fixed trap locations
•
18May result smaller responses due to possibility of having many single positive traps
19throughout the season (which may not trigger a response).
•
20May cause spraying to end before threat is over due to possibility of having many single
21positive traps at the end of the season
•
22May require extensive adjustments to trap network …. possible loss of routine
23monitoring data (fixed trap) and resource intensive
•
24Does not necessarily represent potential for human disease transmission (although likely
25more representative of risk than single trap trigger).
26
27Scenario 3: 3 or more positive traps, non-consecutive
28Pros:
•
29May serve to break disease transmission cycle earlier than human case strategies,
30although this is variable and may be influenced by a single spray event
•
31Can be aggressive for problem areas … possibility of applying routinely if trap data
32indicates continued presence of virus. Not as aggressive as single trap or 2 non-
33consecutive trap triggers.
34Cons:
•
35Only effective for areas where you routinely deployed fixed trap locations
•
36Will result smaller responses due to possibility of having many single positive traps
37throughout the season .
•
38May cause spraying to end before threat is over
•
39Will require extensive adjustments to trap network …. possible loss of routine monitoring
40data (fixed trap) and resource intensive
•
41Does not necessarily represent potential for human disease transmission (although likely
42more representative of risk than “single positive trap” or “two or more non-consecutive
43positive traps” triggers)
44
45
46
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 12 of 14
1Scenario 4: 3 or more positive traps, consecutive
2Pros:
•
3Ensures applications are made only in areas that consistently test positive for WNV
•
4Will likely require the least amount of resources of any option
5Cons:
•
6Only effective for areas where you have routinely deployed fixed trap locations
•
7Will likely result in applications late in the season, which may not be sufficient for
8significantly reducing public health risks.
•
9Will result smaller responses due to possibility of having many positive traps throughout
10the season without having 3 consecutive positives (which would not trigger a response).
•
11May cause spraying to end before threat is over.
12Will require some adjustments to trap network …. fixed trap locations will be favored over
13random
14
15Scenario 5: Spray at “2 or more positive human cases” (current trigger)
16Pros:
•
17Balances the use of trap data and human disease transmission information
•
18Applications made only in areas of known transmission to humans … trigger is directly
19related to human health,
•
20Should result in minimal impacts to non-target organisms since spray applications are
21only made when and where disease transmission is documented
•
22Ensures that responses occur as long as public health threat exists
•
23Response is scaled to the level of public health threat (more cases, more response).
•
24Trigger is not highly dependent on mosquito monitoring network (although supported by
25monitoring network data).
26 Cons:
•
27Human disease has to occur before trigger condition is met
•
28Lag time of human disease symptoms, diagnosis, and reporting could result in additional
29cases of disease transmission before the trigger condition is met
30
31Gregory asked if there will be a report to non-target organisms due to aerial spraying. Banks
32does not expect one.
33
34Banks reviewed the spray scenario table below that was included in the back up.
35
36 Starts Ends Events Sites Sites
37 Treated 1x Treated >once
Scenario 1: Every Trap05-22-1209-24-1254159
Scenario 2 06-06-1207-25-121635
2 or more non-consecutive traps
Scenario 3: 06-06-1209-24-121153
3 or more non-consecutive traps
Scenario 4: 07-01-1207-17-12531
3 or more consecutive traps
Scenario 5: 2 or more Human and / 6-21-1209-14-123028**2**
or 3 consecutive traps*
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 13 of 14
1* current trigger is 2 or more human cases. In 2012, the first 2 human cases in Denton were
2reported on the same day (6-21-12).
3
4** using human cases as triggers, there were many “overlapping” spray areas, but only two that
5represented identical areas sprayed more than once. 27 of the spray areas were triggered by
6human cases, with 3 triggered by the “3 or more consecutive trap” trigger.
7
8Roden asked if the traps have been indicative of human cases. Banks stated it has but it is not
9highly predictive.
10
11Banks went on to day that Texas does not have a statewide plan outlining triggers for aerial
12spraying. California has “Mosquito-Borne Virus Surveillance and Response Plan”
13California Plan contains 3 Risk Levels (Normal Season, Emergency Planning, and Epidemic
14Conditions) based on WNV Surveillance Factors.Generally, California “surveillance factors”
15are analogous to the “trigger conditions” of the Denton MSRP.However, not all surveillance
16factors coincide with trigger conditions in the Denton plan, and they do not always coincide with
17information collected locally in California municipalities. In these cases, simply use the
18surveillance factors that are available to create an average “score”.
19
20Using this approach, and some generalizations to make the two factors in each plan as analogous
21as possible, the City would have enacted “Emergency Planning Level” on 6-6-12 and began
22spraying. We would have entered “Epidemic Conditions” on 6-21-12 (when we initiated
23spraying). One of the responses in the California Plan under Epidemic Conditions is to
24“accelerate adult mosquito control as appropriate by ground and / or air”.
25
26Finally Banks spoke on the options.
271.No further action
282.Direct staff to adopt the changes recommended for the MSRP, as finalized via discussion
29with the COE.
303.Table for future consideration
31
32Staff recommends option 2
33
34Kamp asked what Banks would change. Banks answered if it were up to him, he believes the
35City of Denton has the right trigger level.
36
37Martin asked what Banks thoughts were concerning two consecutive traps instead of three.
38Banks thinks it would have resulted in a larger number of applications. Martin asked if it would
39have started our spray events sooner. Banks said if it was two consecutive traps without human
40cases, it would have. Banks is unsure if it would have resulted in spraying more or differently.
41
42Gregory thinks the changes that Banks is recommending are appropriate. Gregory’s only
43lingering question is ground versus aerial spraying in terms of the impact on the budget and one
44versus the other. Banks addressed this in qualitative terms. On a per acre spraying, aerial will be
45cheaper than ground based. Everything is being treated at one time, ground you are treating
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
December 11, 2012
Page 14 of 14
1individual areas. Aerial is thought of being more effective. Ground level you can treat every
2week if necessary, aerial you cannot.
3
4Martin stated that $57,000 was spent on ground spraying. Banks added that doing two
5applications on aerial events would have been in the range of $300,000-$400,000.
6
7Banks asked if the Committee is comfortable with the trigger level staying the same.
8It is the recommendation of the Committee to adopt option 2; direct staff to adopt the changes
9recommended for the MSRP, as finalized via discussion with the COE.
10
11Banks would like to get this wrapped up by March or April. Banks will bring back more final
12information in January to this Committee.
13
144.ACM update:
15a.West Nile Virus Article
16
177.Official Action, if necessary, on Closed Meeting item(s) under §551.071-551.088 of the
18Texas Government Code, as amended.
19
208.Adjournment.
21
The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 1:24 p.m.
22
EXHIBIT 5
CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT AGENDA ITEM #1
1
2
DRAFT MINUTES
3
4CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE ON THE ENVIRONMENT
5January 7, 2013
6
7After determining that a quorum of the Committee on the Environment of the Denton City
8Council was present, the Committee on the Environment thereafter convened into an Open
9Meeting on Monday, January 7, 2013 at 2:28 p.m. in the City Hall City Council work session
10room, 215 East McKinney Street, Denton, Texas.
11
Present
12: Council Member Pete Kamp and Council Member Dalton Gregory
13
Absent:
14 Council Member Kevin Roden
15
Also Present:
16Howard Martin, ACM Utilities; Dr. Kenneth Banks, Director, Environmental
17Services & Sustainability; Jim Coulter, General Manager Water Utilities;
18Katherine Barnett, Sustainable and Utilities Special Projects Coordinator;
19Kim Mankin, Administrative Supervisor
20
OPEN MEETING:
21
22
231.Consider approval of the Committee on the Environment meeting minutes of December 11,
242012.
25
26Minutes approved as circulated.
27
282.Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction concerning revisions to the City
29of Denton Mosquito Surveillance and Response Plan.
30
31Kenneth Banks, Director, Environmental Services & Sustainability, gave the presentation. Last
32time this item was presented trigger levels was talked about a lot. There were many
33recommendations from that discussion. Banks went through the plan outside the trigger
34component of the response side of the plan and identified all of the revisions that were necessary
35on the surveillance component and then those elements of response that were not addressed by
36the trigger conditions. Banks went through the changes briefly.
37Change 1: Add “Objectives” Section
38Rationale: The previous MSRP did not formally define the objectives of the plan.
39Change 2: Update “West Nile Virus Concerns” Section
40Rationale: Statistics needed revision. Staff added information concerning the effects of weather,
41WNV impacts on wildlife, and the target mosquito for control efforts.
42Change 3: Add “Role of Residents” Section
43Rationale: This section was added to highlight the importance of resident participation in
44reducing WNV risks. Information specific to Culex quinquefasciatus and the habitat this
45mosquito targets around homes is included in this section.
46
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Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
January 5, 2013
Page 2 of 6
1Change 4: Revise Mosquito Surveillance section
2Rationale: Several revisions made concerning the need to consider weather patterns when
3monitoring, different trap types, and the importance of gravid traps. Several minor text revisions
4were completed to improve clarity.
5Change 5: Add NPDES requirement to “Mosquito Control Strategies” Section
6Rationale: The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality recently enacted a general permit
7to authorize discharges of biological and chemical pesticides that leave a residue in water. The
8City of Denton is required to comply with all applicable provisions of this permit.
9
10Kamp asked if we have been doing this for the last two years. Banks stated it was enacted in
112011 to be in place in 2012. This started the beginning of the season in 2012 and we were not
12prepared for the level of tracking that staff ended up having to do because we didn’t anticipate
13the number of spray events.
14
15Kamp asked what kind of a burden did that put on Banks and his staff to comply with the permit.
16Banks answered it was significant. Fortunately in Watershed there are a lot of people that have a
17good understanding of GIS systems and can take care of the maps quickly. Since the maps were
18a part of the spraying and public information it made it a little easier. JoEtta Dailey with the
19Watershed Department took on the responsibility and did a great job with very little notice and
20learned quickly.
21
22Gregory asked if it is the City that gets the permit or is it by individual.Banks answered it is the
23City. Gregory then asked are there several people that can work with this permit, Banks replied
24yes in watershed there were several people involved. Dailey by far did the majority of the work
25but there was enough cross training that Banks felt comfortable. There is a better understanding
26of what this takes now that staff has dealt with it.
27
28Banks went on with the presentation.
29
30Change 6: Add information concerning ULV applications (section 6.1.) and general editing of
31Mosquito Control Strategies
32Rationale: Information was added to specify that “adulticiding” means Ultra Low Volume
33(ULV) applications of pyrethroids. General edits to improve clarity.
34Change 7: Add public information requirements and adulticiding measures to “objectives should
35be accomplished by” section.
36Rationale: Information added to directly confirm that objectives include informing citizens
37about risk levels, WNV positive locations, and control measures. Information was added to
38specifically state that adulticiding measures will be taken when warranted. General edits to
39improve clarity of the text.
40Change 8: Revise Section 7.1.1 through 7.1.7.”Adulticiding”:
41Rationale: Described reporting requirements for human cases as outlined in Texas
42Administrative Code. Specified adulticide applications should balance effectiveness with
43minimizing impacts on non-targets. Explain the use of surveillance information. Added info to
447.1.7 concerning public information provided during adulticiding.
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Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
January 5, 2013
Page 3 of 6
1Kamp asked if we have questions do the questions go to the County. Banks answered what
2actually ends up happening is that he will get a call from the County contact. The County
3epidemiologist is required to provide the information to a City contact, Banks is that contact.
4The epidemiologist is a little hindered on the information that he can provide because of patient
5confidentiality. What Banks typically gets is an age, male or female, block range and street
6name. They normally provide general statements on patient status. They will let Banks know if
7it is neuro-invasive or fever form and if the patient was hospitalized and if they still are.
8
9Change 9: Section 7.2 “Public Education”
10Rationale: Generally described information that will be included in public education efforts.
11Information concerning persons over 50 years of age being more likely to experience clinical
12disease was removed based on 2012 season. Dead birds reporting information removed.
13“Techniques for disseminating information” updated with approaches used during 2012 season.
14Change 10: Revise Section 7.3 “City of Denton Response Plan”
15Rationale: Section 7.3 was revised to reflect the recommendations made by the Committee on
16the Environment during the December 11, 2012 meeting.
17Change 11: Remove appendices
18Rationale: Included in original plan because information was not readily available when plan
19was originally drafted in 2002-2003. Information is now available from a number of sources.
20FAQs and contact info available on web site and other media, and can be changed as needed
21during the season. Glossary removed because rewrite was designed to remove technical terms
22from plan.
23
24Banks stated there will be a meeting next week with public communication office to finalize. A
25product will then be prepared for this committee to review.
26
27Banks has intentions of bringing this back with budget information.
28
29Banks then went over the options.
301.No further action
312.Direct staff to adopt the changes recommended for the MSRP, as finalized via discussion
32with the COE
333.Table for future consideration
34
35Staff recommends Option 2.
36
37Kamp asked Martin if this needs to go to Council. Martin believes it needs to go to all of
38Council for approval. Kamp recommends approval at Council level.
39
40Gregory asked about coming back to COE with public information next month. Banks agreed
41and it is up to the committee members but may want to see that public communication and then
42if there are any recommendations to cross reference back to the plan. Kamp wanted to do it all at
43once. Banks agreed. Kamp stated that she believes these changes should be adopted. Martin
44stated that the idea would to bring these changes and any of the rest of the changes in one
45package back to Council.
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Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
January 5, 2013
Page 4 of 6
1Gregory asked if there are time issues coming up to get this done. If there is time to bring to this
2committee first, if not go on to Council. Martin added that another thing that needs to be
3discussed is budget. It did not end up being a ton of money; $57,000 was spent this past season.
4A $50,000-$60,000 budget annually should take care of these activities. Banks added that is
5under a bad year scenario. Martin asked if we want to talk about that as a function of budget.
6Approximately half of the funding came from utilities the other half came from the City Manager
7contingency fund. Kamp and Gregory believe it should be in the budget. Gregory didn’t
8understand why it is in utilities.
9
10Kamp added that if there is time issues go ahead to Council. Banks stated that the remaining
11topics will be at the February 4 meeting, there will be plenty of time to go to Council after that.
12
13Monitoring starts middle to late April.
14
153.Receive an update and hold a discussion regarding Clear Creek CIP Funds and Grant
16Opportunities.
17
18Katherine Barnett, Sustainable and Utilities Special Projects Coordinator, gave the presentation.
19Barnett let the committee members know that they had applied for an EPA education grant for
20$216,000 grant max with a 20% match. This would be for about a $250,000 project. This could
21be used at Clear Creek for a sustainability education base and be tied back to the sustainability
22plan. There are over 7,000 DISD students that benefit from this each year.
23
24There has been work on some interpretive signage for Clear Creek. Barnett showed pictures of
25sample signage.
26
27Barnett’s first goal would be to use the CIP funds for matching dollars and leverage for grants.
28There is another grant due February 1, Texas Parks and Wildlife Trail Grant. That grant is
29$200,000 with 25% match. Staff will know about the EPA grant before the Parks and Wildlife
30Grant is due. Staff is creating a great foundation for moving forward with Clear Creek.
31
32Barnett met with a former employee of Texas Parks and Wildlife about the signage. Her
33company is close to Houston and has worked on many projects throughout the state. There will
34be new trail wayfinding signs as well. They will be built in house by parks and recreation
35department. There will be a new trail map as part of the signage as well. The signs are 24” x
3636” on a double pedestal. The signs are weather proof and vandal resistant. Barnett showed
37more pictures of signage. The more people that visits Clear Creek the less vandalizing that goes
38on. Visitors have increased greatly. Facebook page has good comments about visitors going
39back.
40
41Barnett showed a picture of a trail map that has very little text more imagery. Gregory added
42that signs with too much verbiage will not be read. Barnett stated that unless it is a teaching
43station that DISD will use it doesn’t need much verbiage. The wetland panel will probably have
44a lot of information. It will talk about watershed and be a teaching moment.
45
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
January 5, 2013
Page 5 of 6
1There was also a kiosk shown that will be used for energy, water, food and waste. They are
2mobile to use at other areas like Arts and Jazz Fest.
3
4Barnett met with Katie regarding natural gardens and could have classes at Clear Creek. There
5will probably be an organic garden at Clear Creek. Gregory asked if it would be a community
6garden or a garden operated by volunteers. Barnett answered they would start with a garden by
7the building where the kids could see. She believes there are gardeners in the City that would
8take care of the garden.
9
10Martin asked Barnett if the Davis well was working. Barnett answered some water was retrieved
11and then it stopped working so they will pull the pump. Ms. Davis donated some property that
12has a well and a wind mill. If we could get that well working, there are unlimited opportunities.
13There are 26 acres that are not under the same restrictions as the Corp lease. Barnett has been
14talking to Texas Parks and Wildlife about outdoor family network classes and other
15opportunities.
16
17Barnett stated that she took Frank Payne, City Engineer, to Clear Creek to talk about Texas Parks
18and Wildlife grant. There was another engineer and Kathy Jack who works for the main Clear
19Creek. During the walk, staff saw deer and other wildlife.
20
21Kamp asked about the fundraising trail walk/run in the summer of 2013. Barnett answered it
22would be on National Trails Day. Staff has found that the loop is about 3.2 miles so we could do
23a 5K. National Trails Day is the first Saturday in June. Coppell just did a fun run at their nature
24center the beginning of December; Barnett will visit with them for details of how it went and the
25money that was made (it is non-profit). Barnett added there will be a one mile walk as well.
26
27Gregory questioned that part of the $500,000 that is in Capital Improvements will be used but
28not all. Barnett answered no. Gregory asked if there are plans of how the money will be spent.
29Barnett stated she has a wish list. She would like to bring some constituents in and have a public
30meeting and see what they would like to have at Clear Creek. One thing that has been talked
31about is a bridge across Clear Creek or two bridges across Elm Fork to tie to the green belt.
32
33Martin added that another thing that needs consideration for the funding is depending on what
34can or can’t be done with the Davis well, the area needs water.More than likely we will need a
35well.
36
37Gregory was glad that Barnett is planning on the public meeting. Gregory was thinking in terms
38of what needs to be done with the project to get funding out of the 2013-2014 Capital
39Improvements. The original master plan for this area is probably well over ten years old and did
40not anticipate the Davis property. Maybe some of that money could be used for a new or
41updated Master Plan.
42
43Gregory then asked as far as constituency groups are concerned, we have seemed to have lost a
44lot of the master naturalist volunteers when the legal department wanted to change the volunteer
45waver. Gregory asked if we have recovered from that. Barnett answered that we got past it. We
Draft Minutes of Committee on the Environment Meeting
January 5, 2013
Page 6 of 6
1finally did get to a form that everyone was ok with. Also during that time period staff changed
2extension agents. Master naturalists are not necessarily a priority with the new extension agent.
3Staff is trying to determine how to get the new master naturalist class back out at Clear Creek
4and how to get the master naturalist back involved at Clear Creek.
5
6Kamp added to keep working on the master naturalists and to identify funding sources. Those
7are opportunities that we have to do something with; the well, build bridges and other projects.
8
9Barnett added that she has looked at a parking lot off of Hartlee Field on the Davis Property.
10There is an old road that ties into where the first bridge is off of Fisherman’s Trail. There would
11be no more parking along the edge of the road. We could have cameras in that lot. We can
12move forward with things even if we do not get the grant. The wayfinding signs will be put up
13before the grant.
14
15Gregory added as Barnett is thinking about potential groups to call out to Clear Creek bird
16watching groups would be good and if there is money for some bird watching blinds, it would be
17helpful. Barnett stated that is something they have wanted to do for several years. There are lots
18of projects.
19
204.ACM update:
21a.Update on Green Building discussions with Dallas and the University of North Texas
22b.Sustainable Denton Achievements and Report timeline
23
245.Under Section 551.042 of the Texas Open Meetings Act, respond to inquiries from the
25Committee on the Environment or the public with specific factual information or recitation of
26policy, or accept a proposal to place the matter on the agenda for an upcoming meeting.
27AND
28Under Section 551.0415 of the Texas Open Meetings Act, provide reports about items of
29community interest regarding which no action will be taken, to include: expressions of
30thanks, congratulations, or condolence; information regarding holiday schedules; an honorary
31or salutary recognition of a public official, public employee, or other citizen; a reminder
32about an upcoming event organized or sponsored by an entity other than the governing body
33that was attended or is scheduled to be attended by a member of the governing body or an
34official or employee of the municipality; or an announcement involving an imminent threat
35to the public health and safety of people in the municipality that has arisen after the posting
36of the agenda. It was decided to take the items out of order due to guest that wanted to speak
37on behalf of new business.
38
Kamp suggested the COE meeting on May 6 be held at the Clear Creek Natural Heritage
39
Center, may coordinate with others for lunch.
40
41
426.Official Action, if necessary, on Closed Meeting item(s) under §551.071-551.088 of the
43Texas Government Code, as amended.
44
7.The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 3:20 p.m.
45