Santa Clara County reviews vector control funding crisis and Aedes aegypti challenges

Santa Clara County's Vector Control District is seeking to address a significant budget shortfall of nearly $4 million through a proposed third benefit assessment, as discussed in the Housing, Land Use, Environment, and Transportation Committee meeting on March 20, 2025. The district, which plays a crucial role in managing mosquito populations and preventing the spread of diseases such as West Nile virus, is facing increasing challenges due to the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito.

During the meeting, Edgar Norasco, the director of the Consumer Environmental Protection Agency, highlighted the urgent need for ongoing funding to sustain vector control services. The district has already implemented various strategies to manage expenditures, including leveraging technology and collective procurement for pesticide purchases. However, these measures have not been sufficient to cover the growing costs associated with vector control efforts.

The proposed benefit assessment aims to provide a stable revenue source to support the district's operations and enhance its ability to respond to the anticipated rise in mosquito activity this season. The committee received a detailed report outlining the financial impacts and the historical context of vector control funding, which dates back to the first assessment in 1996.

As neighboring counties face higher costs per benefit unit, Santa Clara County's current charge of $14.63 is positioned as a competitive rate. The committee's discussions underscored the importance of maintaining effective vector control services to protect public health in the region.

Looking ahead, the committee will continue to evaluate the proposed benefit assessment and its implications for community health and safety. The urgency of the situation emphasizes the need for timely action to secure the necessary funding for vector control initiatives.