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Midway Mosquito District raises billing concerns, commissioners authorize options to exit contractor
Summary
Midway Abatement District told commissioners it has seen mileage and billing increases under its contractor Clark; the district asked permission to pursue bidding or bring services in‑house, and the board authorized the district to pursue options including discontinuing the contract.
The Midway Mosquito Abatement District alerted Jefferson County commissioners that its current contractor, Clark, has increased mileage billing and changed personnel, producing higher costs and degraded local service, and the board authorized the district to pursue contractual options.
Danny Ferguson, chair of the Midway Abatement District, presented the district’s proposed 2026 budget and described billing changes under Clark. "For the last 2 years, we've been running a little bit over on our miles, and they have charged us a $100 per mile for spraying," Ferguson said. He told the board the district had estimated roughly 4,200 miles for the season but has exceeded earlier estimates and that personnel change at Clark “has really jacked that up on us.”
Ferguson said the district believes bringing operations in‑house could save about $100,000 a year and that local managers and existing applicators might continue if the district hires directly. He asked for the board’s approval to pursue options, including non‑renewal of the Clark contract when legally feasible. The district noted potential legal costs tied to contract termination and that contract option years and notice provisions would need review.
Commissioners discussed the statutory role of the board (annual budget approval for taxing districts) and the need to consult county legal counsel before final action. One commissioner recommended staff consult the county attorney and other districts that run in‑house operations. By motion, the board authorized the Midway district to pursue options to discontinue the current contract with Clark and to return with detailed proposals; the motion was moved, seconded and advanced to roll call.
The exchange included sharp language about perceived overbilling: a commissioner said, “I felt that Clark was gouging us,” and district members described being limited by contract provisions. Commissioners instructed staff to coordinate with legal counsel and bring back options at the next meeting.
