Residents near the South Park stormwater detention pond in Littleton are raising urgent concerns about stagnant water and its associated health risks, particularly the proliferation of mosquitoes that could carry West Nile virus. During a recent city council meeting, several community members voiced their frustrations regarding the pond's deteriorating condition, which has transformed from a dry area used for recreational activities in the 1990s to a year-round body of standing water.

Jim, a local resident, highlighted the health implications of the stagnant water, urging the city to take action to restore the pond to its original purpose. He emphasized the need for the city of Littleton to lead efforts in clearing overgrown vegetation and addressing jurisdictional challenges that have hindered maintenance. With approximately 366 homes in close proximity to the pond, residents are increasingly concerned about the potential health risks posed by the mosquito population.

Rebecca Askew, another resident, echoed these sentiments, pointing out the pond's lack of maintenance and the resulting flooding and algae growth. She also raised alarms about the fire risks associated with overgrown vegetation surrounding the pond, which could threaten both homes and businesses in the area.

Les Beecher further elaborated on the issue, criticizing the South Park Owners Association (SPOA) for its failure to manage the pond effectively. He noted that the pond's transformation into a retention area, rather than a properly functioning detention pond, has exacerbated the mosquito problem, forcing residents to incur additional costs for pest management services.

The residents collectively called on the city council to intervene and facilitate a cleanup of the pond, emphasizing the need for immediate action to protect public health and safety. The meeting underscored a growing frustration among community members regarding the management of local resources and the need for collaborative efforts to address environmental concerns.