By NATALIE HOLTON
Esto residents have raised concerns over the town putting a stop to mosquito control. The purpose of the service is to help control the mosquito population and prevent insect-born diseases. One of these illnesses is on the rise in Holmes County. Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) has been detected in two horses in the area, according to The Florida Department of Health in Holmes County. EEE can also be transmitted to humans through infected mosquito bites.
The Town of Esto voted in September 2023 to not provide the service for this year. The discussion included differing opinions from town council members and staff.
“I can certainly say in previous years that there have been less mosquitoes,” said City Clerk Ben Tew during that September meeting. “I really think this mosquito spray does work.”
Council member Greg Yates was opposed to providing the service, stating he was “not in favor of spraying” and that he “couldn’t tell a difference” from 2022 to 2023 when the town didn’t have the service.
Councilman Garet Skipper made the motion to not provide the service with Councilman Greg Wells giving a second and the motion passing unanimously to confirm the end of mosquito control in the town of Esto for the upcoming year.
Former council member and Esto business owner John Hagans disagreed with the decision, saying mosquitos are still a problem in the town.
“I have an RV Park in Esto, and mosquitos are an issue here,” said Hagans. When mosquito control stopped, Hagans went to Holmes County mosquito control and obtained a private contract for mosquito spraying on his property. “I would love to see the town council members to consider their expenditures with the safety of the public in mind,” said Hagans.
Hannah Collins 
GARETT VALCOURT 
Jim Saunders 