Mosquito surge plagues Fort Myers Beach as treatment delays persist

A mosquito outbreak is disrupting life in Fort Myers Beach and nearby areas this holiday weekend as treatment for the Estero Bay Preserve, the largest salt marsh mosquito breeding ground in Lee County, remains on hold. The preserve, which is currently untreated, has become a source of frustration for residents. "My daughter has welts all over her," said John Heitmann, a resident of over 12 years. "For residents, it makes it unbearable to live here," he added. Jen McBride of Lee County Mosquito Control explained that the agency is waiting for Fort Myers Beach Mosquito Control to approve a new contract to address the issue. "This coastal key neighborhood is really being affected right now," McBride said. She noted that the proposed contract increased from $60,000 to $80,000 due to inflation, rising gas prices, and higher chemical costs. "The only way to treat it is aerial," McBride said. The chairwoman of Fort Myers Beach Mosquito Control said, "Lee Mosquito Control has been a wonderful partner. We are reviewing the latest agreement and plan to vote on it Tuesday." In the meantime, residents and visitors are struggling with the mosquito surge. "We're getting a lot of complaints from folks, especially after dark, they can't go out, enjoy their yards, can't enjoy the beach," said Fort Myers Beach council member John King. As dragonflies feed on the salt marsh mosquitoes, the agreement between the two mosquito control agencies is expected to be reviewed on Tuesday. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment and original programming on your TV.