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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 05/15/2018 - RESOLUTION 2018-051 AMENDING THE WEST NILE VIRUS MAgenda Item 15 Item # 15 Page 1 AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY May 15, 2018 City Council STAFF Mike Calhoon, Parks Supervisor Cyril Vidergar, Legal SUBJECT Resolution 2018-051 Amending the West Nile Virus Management Policy and Providing Direction to the City Manager Regarding Implementation of the Policy. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The purpose of this item is to adopt enhancements to the West Nile Virus Management Program. Staff is presenting three options for Council consideration; the first two options would update the West Nile Virus (WNV) Management Policy, and the final option maintains the status quo. The program changes being offered propose changes to the program response guidelines (operational practices) as they relate to the vector index requirement and human case requirement threshold. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends adoption of Option One of the Resolution. This option improves the City’s West Nile Virus Management Program while best reflecting the program objective of protecting human health. Recommended options include: eliminating weekly human cases as a threshold for action and lowering the current vector index threshold from 0.75 to 0.5. BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION This Resolution provides an opportunity for Council to consider amending the thresholds for adult mosquito control under the current WNV Management Policy. Working with the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), staff has regularly reviewed many of the aspects of the integrated mosquito management policy concerning WNV. Through these reviews, recommendations have been made to Council to adjust the WNV Management Policy. Past recommendations have included the expansion of the larval control boundary, the length of the larval season, expanded outreach and educational efforts. The focus of the most recent review was the thresholds for commencing adult mosquito control. All adult mosquito control operations are conducted based on a recommendation from the Larimer County Department of Health and the Environment. This recommendation, informed by the weekly trapping and testing data, includes the timing and geographic scope of the treatment area. For City emergency funds to be used for an adult mosquito treatment, two thresholds must be met: The first is a Vector Index (VI) value of .75. The VI indicates the risk level of human WNV contraction from infected mosquitoes. The second is a human threshold which indicates the incident of infection by transmission into the human population. The VI is calculated based on the trap results from 53 mosquito traps set weekly from the middle of June through the middle of September each year. The mosquitoes are speciated and pooled for testing at Colorado State University's Arthropod-Borne and Infectious Diseases Laboratory. The Index is a representation of risk for WNV contraction by the human population. The Index considers the population levels of WNV-carrying mosquito species and the rate of infection within those species. Agenda Item 15 Item # 15 Page 2 The human case threshold can either be in the form of more than one human WNV case in a week or more than one human WNV-positive blood donor in a season. The intention in including a human case threshold was to encourage personal responsibility in preventing the transmission of WNV. Staff recommends reducing the VI from the current value of 0.75 to 0.5 and eliminating the human case requirement from the thresholds. Human Case Elimination Utilizing the human case consideration in the thresholds causes a lag in response efforts in the management policy. The best indicator of WNV activity in the community is the trapping and testing network. Robust public outreach and education will remain in place. Vector Index Reduction The rationale for reducing the VI to .5 is supported by research that has shown as the VI increases so does the incidence of human cases. The urgency for earlier intervention is elevated when coupled with the research concerning the latent effects of WNV on individuals from one to eleven years after infection. Kidney disease has occurred in the more severe WNV cases and has led to under reporting of WNV deaths. Additionally, latent neurological impacts have been shown in patients diagnosed with WNV Fever. Previously the impacts had only been associated with the more severe WNV cases, i.e. encephalitis, meningitis. The acute impacts of WNV are well documented; however, there is now better understanding of the chronic impacts. One of the basic tenants of Integrated Pest Management is to deploy responses early in the amplification process in order to reduce the treatment area and limit the use of pesticides. With the greater implications on human health it is important to disrupt the amplification process earlier on to reduce the risk of contraction of WNV. The WNV program is designed solely as a disease management program. Other programs (regionally and nationally) are designed to take management actions when nuisance thresholds are exceeded. However, the City’s program is aimed at reducing the risk of human WNV infection while limiting adverse impacts of mitigation measures to both human health and the environment. This balance is demonstrated by the use of the lowest labeled rate of pesticide applied during the late evening hours when fewer pollinators are active. Additionally, staff is aware of the development of chemical resistance in mosquito populations in other regions and routinely works with CDC and the contractor to periodically test populations for resistance. Both concerns are well-served by not conducting regular, nuisance applications. Three options have been prepared for Council's consideration. Option One - Staff's recommendation to reduce the VI from .75 to .5 along with the removal of the human case consideration. Option Two – An additional alternative was developed after the March 27, 2018, City Council work session and feedback from the three Advisory Boards (Parks and Recreation, Natural Resources, and Air Quality). This alternative supports removing the human case consideration while leaving the VI at the current level of .75. Option Three - Status Quo with no change in the current thresholds. Council should vote the Resolution down or postpone it indefinitely, if this option is preferred. The program will be operationalized per the current policy. CITY FINANCIAL IMPACTS No funds are allocated on an annual basis for adult mosquito control; funds for adult mosquito control are appropriated from the City's emergency fund on an “as needed” basis. Reducing the threshold levels will likely lead to an increase in the frequency of applications. However, with quicker intervention in a smaller, more targeted area, it is anticipated that fewer linear miles will be treated, thereby potentially reducing costs. Agenda Item 15 Item # 15 Page 3 BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Parks and Recreation Advisory Board supported staff's recommendation unanimously. Natural Resources Advisory Board and Air Quality Advisory Board supported Option Two. PUBLIC OUTREACH All TAC meetings are open to the public, with the minutes published online after approval. ATTACHMENTS 1. Parks and Recreation Board minutes, March 28, 2018 (PDF) 2. Air Quality Advisory Board minutes, April 16, 2018 (draft) (PDF) 3. Natural Resources Advisory Board minutes, April 18, 2018 (draft) (PDF) 4. WNV Management Policy Option 1 (PDF) 5. WNV Management Policy Option 2 (PDF) 6. Powerpoint presentation (PDF) Parks & Recreation Board Meeting – March 28, 2018 Page 3 of 8 • Staff attended a Colorado Association of Recreational Athletics meeting last week and discussed anyone allowing Roller Derby on Wood Floors. No one currently allows skating on gym wood floors. Greeley Fun Plex has sport court and said they would allow it if there was time available to rent. • Pike Peak City Auditorium - Multi-purpose auditorium with an old floor. Athletics is not the main use of this floor. They do get scratches on the floor, and the roller derby has caused damage to the finish. After competitions, he said they have to bring in extra buffers to get out the black scuff marks on the floor. • 2 Municipal agencies out of state o Ashland, Wisconsin – Does allow roller derby on their wood gym floor. However, they only have youth leagues. o Grand Traverse County, Michigan – Does not have wood gym floor. It is a sport court surface. • Poudre School District - They have taken a firm stance that the gyms are not set up for those activities, and there is too much risk of damage to the floors. • Colorado State University – Does not allow skating on any wood floor due to damage concerns to the finish. • Staff Recommendation - The City of Fort Collins Parks and Recreation Department is always looking at new programs to participate in facilities and parks. However, due to MFMA recommendations, Operation Services concerns and our concerns about damage to the floors and gym we recommend that the facility regulations not be changed. We do encourage the Roller Derby group to participate in our Park and Recreation Policy Plan when we start it in 2019 to 2020 • Other Ideas o The outdoor rink at Fossil Creek Park could be a possible place to practice, weather permitting. o Family FunPlex in Greeley o Island Grove Event Center in Greeley o 1st National Bank building on the Larimer County Fairgrounds Discussion Roller Derby – Would it be possible to paint lines on the Fossil Creek outdoor rink? Staff – Absolutely! We would be happy to accommodate the addition of roller derby lines painted on the rink. Roller Derby – We had considered the option of purchasing a sport court. Would that be possible as a temporary solution for events only? Staff – Operation Services would have to research to make sure it wouldn’t damage the floor. Also, the court would have reserved to lay the sport court, and it can take several hours to lay it out & remove. Also, I would recommend checking on the texture because there are two kinds: hard or soft. We may also recommend some subsurface. Roller Derby – The game doesn’t require a wood floor. We would play on concrete. If you can recommend any warehouses or vacant space available, please let us know. Staff – We did think about that and are checking with the city Real Estate staff to see if there any vacant warehouse. We are also going to be working on the Parks & Recreation Policy Plan for 2019-2020, and we would love you to provide your input. Board – What is in the old Fort Ram, that building next to New Belgium? Staff – It’s owned by the Bohemian Foundation, and as far as we know, it is vacant. West Nile Virus (WNV) Management Policy Review – Mike Calhoon • Update to City Council last evening regarding the West Nile Virus (WNV) project. o Does Council have any questions concerning the current WNV Program? o Would Council like to consider changes to the current WNV Program? Parks and Recreation Board, March 28, 2018 ATTACHMENT 1 Parks & Recreation Board Meeting – March 28, 2018 Page 4 of 8 • West Nile Virus (WNV) Management Policy began in 2003 as WNV became endemic to the region. Reduce the human impact of WNV while balancing costs and social and environmental impacts. Based on Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) model of Integrated Mosquito Management: Public education, larval management, surveillance, adult mosquito control, continual improvement assessment. • Larimer County Department of Public Health and Environment (DPHE) recommends application and defines perimeter based on surveillance data: o Thresholds for action – Vector Index of 0.75 AND more than one human case per week OR more than 1 WNV+ blood donor a season. • Our Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) was created in 2008 at the recommendation of the City Manager. The TAC consists of vector-borne disease experts (CDC, CSU,) Ex-officio members of Aire Quality and Natural Resources Boards, No Spray Fort Collins, an organic farming business owner, and Larimer County DPHE. o The TAC does an off-season review to review new publications regarding WNV control as well as our current policy. We have implemented their recommendations over the years, including enlarged larval control perimeter, modifications to surveillance season, public outreach enhancements. • 2017 Review Results o Research (2012 Epidemic – Houston Cohort) ▪ Increased prevalence of chronic kidney disease 4-9 years post-infection. Nolan, et al. ▪ Long-term neurological impacts of WNV observed. Evaluations are showing abnormalities 1-3 and 8-11 years post-infection. Weatherhead, et al. o Adult Mosquito Control Thresholds ▪ No consensus on appropriate Vector Index threshold levels – Vector Index thoughts range from 0.33 to 1.0 and higher ▪ No consensus on appropriate human case consideration – Including human cases accounts for personal responsibility. Inclusion creates a lagging indicator. • Staff Recommendation - Decrease the VI threshold to 0.50 and remove the human case requirement. o Rationale: When required, smaller, more targeted application areas may better reduce the implication of WNV. Requiring human cases extends the lagging nature of the indicator. Research has shown there are severe long-term impacts from WNV infection. • Council Feedback - Investigate a Mosquito District approach. Recruit a WNV victim for the TAC. Investigate One Health with CSU for a systems-based holistic approach to WNV management. Prepare a resolution for Council consideration with options. • Options o Option 1: Maintain Current Thresholds o Option 2: Staff Recommendation o Option 3: Vector Index of 0.75 and no human case consideration • Advisory Boards - Air Quality Advisory Board (4/16/18) & Natural Resources Advisory Board (4/18/18) Discussion Board – Can you remind me how our policy relates to Larimer County’s policy? Staff – Larimer County uses a 0.5 IV and no human cases, which is the same as our recommendation. Board – Does the City of Loveland have a similar program? Parks & Recreation Board Meeting – March 28, 2018 Page 5 of 8 Staff – It originally started as a nuisance program, not a disease prevention program. They now do a mixture of both. Our program is disease prevention. They also use the CSU testing results, and we both use the same testing contractor. Theirs is funded by their utility bill. Board – Spraying for mosquitos is an emotional topic. Some are very passionately opposed to spraying, but they don’t consider the science of an epidemic. We vaccinate horses twice a year for WNV, despite the once a year recommendation. Ragan Adams made a motion to strongly support Option 2 for the City of Fort Collins West Nile Virus policy. Seconded by Kelly Smith. Passes 7:0 STAFF UPDATES: Park Planning Updates • Poudre River Whitewater Park - As requested by City Council, city staff has met with multiple boards & commissions regarding the addition of optional features to the whitewater park. A summary of Board & Commission Updates follows: 1. Parks and Recreation Board, February 28, Unanimous Support 2. North College Citizen Advisory Group (CAG), March 1, Unanimous Support 3. Commission on Disabilities, March 8, Unanimous Support 4. Water Board, March 15, Support from 5 out of 7 board members 5. Natural Resources Advisory Board, March 21, Unanimous Support 6. Land Conservation and Stewardship Board, Meeting scheduled April 11 City staff is planning to present a recommendation to fully fund the optional features to City Council on April 17. • Long View Trail - Trail construction is progressing on schedule. City staff have been coordinating with a landowner with property adjacent to the trail and were unsuccessful in reaching an agreement with the resident regarding a fence located within the Right-of-Way (ROW.) The fence is planned to be removed later this week, with a temporary fence installed within the ROW, enabling trail construction to continue. City staff is optimistic the matter can ultimately be resolved in a matter satisfactory to the landowner. • Parks & Recreation Policy Plan Update - Preliminary efforts to develop the scope and schedule of the Parks and Recreation Policy Plan are underway. Staff development of a proposed Table of Contents for the document is planned over the next 3-4 months. This information will be used to develop a detailed Request for Proposals to allow selection of the most responsive and qualified consultant by late 2018. An update to City Plan, the communities comprehensive land use, transportation and transit plan is also underway. Park Planning and Development staff will participate to capture and record public input during the City Plan’s four “future visioning” events in April. Public input to the City Plan process is expected to include significant reference to the impact of our parks and recreation services on the current and future quality of life in Fort Collins. This information will be used to inform the scope and extent of the P&R Policy Plan next year. • City Park Refresh - The design team is working to complete 50% drawings and a preliminary cost estimate by the end of March. This cost estimate will be used to identify a phase one project, as well as the cost of future phase(s) to be potentially funded through the upcoming BFO cycle. Construction of the first phase of City Park Refresh is still anticipated to begin in early 2019. Park Planning and Development is currently working on organizing both a neighborhood meeting and a Air Quality Advisory Board Monday April 16, 2018 5:30 PM 222 Laporte Ave – Colorado Room Excerpt from Air Quality Advisory Board draft meeting minutes: AGENDA ITEM 1: West Nile Virus - Management Policy Updates Matt Parker, Natural Areas Crew Chief, provided an overview regarding potential updates to thresholds for adult mosquito management actions. This item is scheduled to go before Council on May 15, 2018. Current Management and Monitoring Program  Fort Collins’ management program is based on the CDC model for Integrated Mosquito Management. It integrates public education, larval management, surveillance, adult mosquito control and continual improvement assessment.  Current public outreach includes the use of print materials (bus benches, banners, newspapers), social media (Nextdoor, Facebook, Twitter), trailhead indicators (Skeeter Meters) and the City of Fort Collins website. Focus populations include softball/baseball players, runners, homeless, non- English speaking citizens and river recreators.  The current monitoring plan consists of 53 traps that are set and collected weekly during mid- June through mid-September. CSU tests the collected mosquitos for West Nile virus (WNV) and calculates the vector index on a weekly basis. The vector index represents the infection rate of Culex mosquito species in tested traps. West Nile Virus Amplification  WNV is housed in avian populations and spreads when a mosquito bites an infected bird then lays eggs and bites another bird or human. When birds congregate the rate of infection can increase significantly. Current Adult Mosquito Control  Spraying for mosquitos is the last tool used to combat WNV (decreased exposure through education and larval management is preferred). It is performed based on a recommendation from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment.  Currently, spraying for adult Culex mosquitoes is prompted by a vector index value of 0.75 or greater and confirmation of more than one human case of WNV per week or more than one WNV positive blood donor reported during the season. Proposed Changes and Rationale  City Staff would like to decrease the vector index to 0.50 and remove the human case requirement(s). They believe this will enable them to initiate spraying sooner so that they can target smaller areas to get ahead of amplification and reduce the likelihood of City-wide or quadrant-wide spraying.  Recent studies suggest that WNV-related deaths/complications may be under-represented due to significant long-term effects (neurological, chronic kidney disease) that weren’t previously linked to the virus. These studies prompted the Technical Advisory Committee to reevaluate the vector index threshold; however, the Committee has not identified a precise threshold, nor has consensus been reached regarding an appropriate human case consideration. ATTACHMENT 2 A recommendation from the AQAB was requested regarding the threshold changes proposed by City staff. Discussion  Jim asked if the CDC has calculated a recommended vector index for a climate like Fort Collins’. - Matt replied that the CDC does not provide climate-specific recommendations. Technical Advisory Committee recommendations range from 0.33 to 1.0.  Vara inquired about real-time monitoring (maps) and seasonal predictions for WNV cases. - Matt responded that the CDC has a program dedicated to monitoring the WNV; they track 40- 50 species of mosquito populations that fluctuate with climate change. With these fluctuations, the distribution of mosquito-borne diseases has also changed, but not at a rate that warrants real-time tracking.  Arsineh asked for more detail regarding the vector index, including how the number of infected traps are chosen, how the index is calculated and if the CDC recommends a specific sample area for such calculations. - Matt stated that the vector index represents the average number of infected mosquitoes collected per trap night. While the City is divided into quadrants for basic vector index calculations, the calculation is based on the number of traps that mosquitos were collected from and can therefore be scaled to more refined zones by decreasing the number of traps used in the calculation. A minimum of five traps will always be used as this represents the minimum to produce a statistically valid index calculation. Matt is unaware of any specifications from the CDC regarding the size of sample areas, but Chet Moore has advised that adhering to the five-trap minimum will produce a valid index.  Greg and Karen asked who performs the pesticide applications and what the County’s threshold for spraying is. - Matt responded that a contractor is hired either by the City or County and noted that the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment has jurisdiction with regards to the initiation of spraying (The City will not spray without a recommendation from the County). The County’s threshold is based on a vector index of 0.5, and they do not make considerations for human cases. He also noted the complicated nature of determining exactly when to spray; for example, if the City’s threshold for spraying has been met, there are several other environmental factors (i.e. weather, etc.) to consider before determining when the best time to treat will be.  Harry asked if the City has taken a position on consumer products (i.e. backyard foggers, UV lights etc.) and their effectiveness. - Matt stated that such solutions operate on a micro-scale and vary significantly in effectiveness; however, his office would advocate any solution that can reduce mosquito populations in an environmentally sensitive way.  Arsineh, Mark and Jim asked for more information regarding the pesticide used for spraying and its application rates. - Matt stated that the pesticide permethrin is used, which is very effective in small amounts. According to EPA standards, 24 -25 applications can be safely made within a season at the rate that it’s applied in Fort Collins; however, to date, applications have ranged from 1 to 3 per year. It can be used as a topical cream to address human ailments and has been deemed safe for use during pregnancy and on children over the age of two months. It is dangerous to cats at rates of 100mg/kg. Permethrin is somewhat mosquito-specific in the sense that it is strategically applied to areas with high concentrations of mosquitos at times when they are most active. The application rate used for mosquito spraying is low enough that larger insects and pollinators should be able to process it without negative effects. In addition, there is an opt-out for businesses (ex. organic farms) to avoid application to their property during spraying.  Mark and Matt discussed Council’s current position on spraying. In general, Council would like to gain a better understanding of the relationship between vector index, human infection and the effectiveness of adult mosquito treatment; however, this is a complicated issue as there are numerous environmental variables effecting both mosquito populations and pesticide application. Arsineh moved, and Chris seconded a motion to remove the human case thresholds Motion passed, 7-0-1. Karen moved, and Jim seconded a motion to support the reduction of the vector index to 0.5 Motion failed, 3-4-1.  The motion failed due to the Board expressing concern over a lack of data. The Board would like quantifiable data regarding the potential reduction of pesticide use or in human cases associated with the proposed reduced threshold. Mark moved, and Vara seconded a motion to maintain an index threshold of 0.75 with the expectation that this year be used as a pilot study to provide more substantial evidence for a decrease in the threshold. Motion passed, 7-1-0. Jim moved to add amendment below to above motion: Jim stated that this issue can be revisited if AQAB members are provided rationale for the reduction based on EPA risk assessment, CDC guidance, local epidemiology or vector index and incidence data and other quantitative inputs to decision and ecotoxicology impacts. Natural Resources Advisory Board Wednesday, April 18, 2018 5:30 PM 222 Laporte Ave – Colorado Room Excerpt from Natural Resources Advisory Board draft meeting minutes: IV. WEST NILE VIRUS MANAGEMENT POLICY RESPONSE: Matt Parker, Natural Areas Resource Management Crew Chief – City of Fort Collins (“City”), presented to the NRAB updates on the West Nile Virus Management Policy Response. He requests a recommendation from the NRAB members to set the Vector Index level to .50 (from current .75) and remove the “Human Case” Requirement. He said that, in turn, it is anticipated that these policy changes would reduce the amount of ingredients sprayed into the atmosphere. In response to Barry Noon, Matt explained that the Vector Index measures specific species of mosquitoes that carry the West Nile Virus (“WNV”) and the Infection Rate in an area in with a minimum of five traps. Jay Adams inquired about the method for identifying new species and Matt replied that the mosquito traps provide this information. Matt continued by asserting that WNV is here to stay. He stated that the program focus is on “larval management” as evidenced by the fact that roughly two-thirds (2/3) of their budget is aimed at that activity. Gravid and CDC light traps are the primary tools. Matt, in reply to Danielle Buttke, said the city uses more light traps than gravid (10) overall. The Program’s Public Outreach and Education efforts are multi-dimensional. Platforms include Printed Media and Social Media, which uses, for example, NextDoor.com. Risk and GIS-based Maps are helpful in this regard. In regards to the population areas of focus, there is an effort to apprise groups such as softball players, river recreation enthusiasts and the homeless. Particularly useful are the “Skeeter Meter” kiosks. Sixteen (16) kiosks have, besides increasing awareness of mosquito dangers, dispensed over 4,000 wipes which contain repellant. Matt said that personal responsibility is the best defense with this problem. Ryan said that over-the-counter products such as “OFF” are effective. Some of the action items he discussed were source reduction, inspections, and mosquito traps. He noted that only two (2) types of mosquitoes carry WNV. He also pointed out that CSU tests and calculates the Vector Index. He continued by explaining that the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment sprays for mosquito control using polygon when the Vector Index indicates alert levels. He said that mitigation focus is on shallow bodies of water versus river areas. The West Nile Virus Technical Advisory Committee (“TAC”) of the City begins the meetings in the autumn for reviewing prior year effectiveness and creating the following year’s action plans. Currently, ten (10) city-appointed experts provide technical expertise and make recommendations regarding WNV policies. The TAC improvement process has led to the increase the larval control perimeter, modify the surveillance season and enhance the public outreach activities. They are also keeping in mind organic agriculture concerns of residents. ATTACHMENT 3 He continued that the TAC currently has no consensus on the Vector Index threshold level (the current discussion has varied from .33 to 1.) and no consensus on the “human case” requirement. Some TAC members feel that Fort Collins area residents appear to more aware of the risks, the residents could possibly withstand a higher Vector index threshold. Nancy Duteau added that the NRAB would like to have a team member represent the NRAB at the TAC meetings. Some purposes of the groups overlap and there is some expertise in the area that the NRAB would like to share with the TAC. Matt says that WNV impacts may be underreported because about 80% may experience no symptoms, 20% experience fever and, 1% experience meningitis or encephalitis which are serious medical conditions. Some effects are delayed such as kidney disease, which can show up four (4) to nine (9) years later, and neurological effects which show impacts in one (1) to three (3) years. While Matt said that WNV cases varies per year, Nancy Duteau and Danielle Buttke offered that Colorado experienced thirty-six (36) total WNV cases. In addition, Larimer and Weld County had higher levels than other counties. Luke Caldwell, repeating Matt‘s earlier comment, said that the “lag time” in waiting for human cases to occur presents a problem where the focus should be on early detection. This “lag time” element represents contention in the “Human Case” requirement. Danielle was also interested to explore whether there were Bird Surveillance monitoring activities. Matt said that an observation is that in “dry years” birds tend to congregate near water attracting the mosquitoes. This may be a point of early intervention. Danielle is enthusiastic about enhanced (and reliably predictive) Bird surveillance activity. Discussion ensued by Matt and the NRAB members, especially Barry Noon, analyzing the elements of the formula to calculate the Vector Index. The minimum number of traps to produce a reliable number is five (5). They discussed some components (abundance, population size and prevalence) of average density and estimated infection rate. Barry Noon would like the temporal trend to be teased apart by separating analysis of the abundance and prevalence to better understand how climate change may be impacting these trends. Barry Noon transitioned to discussing climate change effects. Specifically, how it is causing the WNV problem to move to the northern continental zones, “host environments” where there is no resistance history. The program, in conjunction with its contractor and the Centers for Disease Control, also conducts resistance testing. Elizabeth Hudetz shared a personal experience where private mosquito spraying occurred (in her neighborhood) and within hours, she observed bees and dragonflies die. Discussion ensued about spraying during the time that bees typically head into the hives. Nancy DuTeau added that private spraying occurs with individual property owners and HOA’s (Homeowners Associations) as well. Elizabeth Hudetz was concerned that “private-owners spraying” would have the effect of complicating analysis (Vector Index) by the City on the effectiveness of their own mitigation efforts. Matt replied that contractors for private-HOA spraying are often the same used by the City and that enhanced coordination occurs. Of importance, said Nancy DuTeau, is to remember that some private spraying is targeting nuisance mosquitoes not just targeting the ones carrying WNV. Matt provided the NRAB with an illustration of historical average Vector Index levels, provided information on the numbers of years applications have been made (about half the years), and showed that a higher Vector Index level is associated with larger treatment areas, and therefore higher amounts of pesticide use. Matt iterated that the Department is aggressive in larval management with constant evaluation and improvement. Especially helpful is the community use of the telephone alert system allowing the contractor to address and target problems promptly. Danielle Buttke discussed that the scientific data appears conflicting. She mentioned that she had concerns about adulticide (Note: Adulticide is pesticide use to kill adult mosquitoes. Organic and synthetic examples might include malathion, naled, prallethrin, etofenprox, pyrethrins, permethrin, resmethrin, and sumethrin). While not favoring adulticide, she did recognize that it is important to address community concerns. She explained that, in Washington DC, there is no adulticide and the corresponding data shows that there was no increase in WNV. Overall, Danielle seems to favor not changing the Vector Index but removing the human case requirement in order to reduce incidence of using chemical mitigation. She is more amenable to focusing in Larvicide, which is in line with current policy. She also discussed the Vector Index versus other observation tools. Convinced by Danielle Buttke’s arguments, Bob Mann agrees in resistance to any pesticide application. Danielle mentioned a new Chief Entomologist who also may disfavor use of pesticide in mitigation. She added that high abundance counts (which should be separated from positive pools) may not correlate to high risk depending on other factors, and some do not even use the Vector Index. Jay Adams wanted to know what typical citizens could do proactively. Matt said that sharing information to with your family, friends and neighbors is a good start to increase awareness. Wearing protective clothing is effective and, in addition, over-the-counter repellant is effective. In summary, the Board commented that the City’s West Nile Virus program should address resistance, provide guidelines for spraying in the private sector by time of day, reassess the NRAB representation on the TAC, look at the year-over-year temporal and spatial patterns, and identify how to leverage bird data in their recommendations. Discussion was complete and the NRAB members moved to act on the recommendation requested. Danielle Buttke made a motion to remove the Human Case requirement for mitigation. Barry Noon seconded. The Vote passed unanimously. There was no action on the request to change the Vector Index from .75 to .50. OPTION 1 – STAFF RECOMMENDATION EXHIBIT A PURPOSE, GOAL, FOCUS: West Nile Virus Management Policy May 5, 2018 The City of Fort Collins recognizes West Nile virus to be a public health issue. This West Nile Virus Management Policy has been developed to reduce the incidence of city residents contracting West Nile virus (a mosquito-borne virus). The overall goal of this Policy is to create a framework for execution of a program to reduce the risk of human West Nile virus infection, while limiting adverse human health and environmental impacts. The City's West Nile virus management program ("WNV Program") focuses on the following: 1. Providing a wide range of public education and outreach 2. Ensuring extensive on-going mosquito population data collection and monitoring, including extensive testing of samples for West Nile virus infection. 3. Executing an aggressive larval control program focused on Culex mosquitoes. This program includes detailed mapping of larval habitat and ongoing monitoring and larvicide applications. 4. Periodic evaluation of the program for continued efficacy. ROLE OF CITY MANAGER: The WNV Program is implemented by the City Manager using practices, specifications and administrative systems determined by the City Manager to be appropriate in light of this Policy. The City Manager is also responsible for making recommendations to City Council regarding amendments and additions to this Policy ADVISORY RESOURCES: Public Health Authorities - The City recognizes the State of Colorado Department of Health and the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment as the authorities on local public health issues. The City's primary role in managing the threat of West Nile virus is to inform and educate Fort Collins residents, participate in regional public education and outreach efforts, and administer a prevention-oriented mosquito management program. Technical Advisory Committee - The City Manager is to be assisted in determining appropriate Policy amendments or additions by a committee of up to ten (10) technical advisors. Such committee members shall be selected by the City Manager based on their technical expertise, and willingness and ability to diligently attend to Policy developments, in addition to supporting the City Manager's understanding of the impacts and interests of groups in the City affected by the WNV Program. - 1- ATTACHMENT 4 Among those appointed to the Committee, the City Manager shall appoint up to two members each from those currently or formerly serving on the City Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board, as well as a representative of the Larimer County medical community. In addition to their primary responsibilities to advise the City Manager regarding the recommendations of the Health Department, it is the Council's intent and expectation that the Committee representatives from the Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board will each act as a liaison to his/her respective advisory Board. PROGRAM METHOD: The City applies adulticides only as an emergency response to a demonstrated increase in West Nile virus risk. A recommendation to adulticide comes from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment and is reviewed by the City Manager. The decision to adulticide lies solely with the City Manager. Thresholds for treatment - In addition to a recommendation by Larimer County, prior to commencing adulticide treatment there shall be evidence suggesting Cu/ex mosquito populations are increasing at or above historical levels, in which case spraying will commence in any treatment zone where the vector index meets or exceeds .5. Treatment Zones - Delivery of WNV Program services will be tailored to conditions existing in multiple treatment zones within the City, as determined by the City Manager relying on historical data and information from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment. The specific number of treatment zones may fluctuate between and during treatment seasons, as the City Manager may determine appropriate based on available data. Opt-Out Options - In deploying WNV Program treatments, the City will offer an opt-out from applications of adulticide treatments for those property owners whose names appear on the Colorado Department of Agriculture Pesticide-Sensitive Registry. The City Manager will also develop a set of metrics to qualify business properties that can demonstrate specific hardships due to the impact of adulticide on their operations to request exclusion of their properties from areas treated with adulticide. Such metrics will include definition of the hardships that qualify for a business opt-out and how such business properties will be monitored throughout a treatment season, relative to the WNV Program goal to reduce the risk of human WNV infection. Contractors - The City may use a contractor to carry out the majority of the program. When using a contractor, the City defines a comprehensive scope of services to be provided and selects a qualified contractor using an open bid and evaluation process. OPTION 2 – ADDITIONAL ALTERNATIVE EXHIBIT A PURPOSE, GOAL, FOCUS: West Nile Virus Management Policy May 5, 2018 The City of Fort Collins recognizes West Nile virus to be a public health issue. This West Nile Virus Management Policy has been developed to reduce the incidence of city residents contracting West Nile virus (a mosquito-borne virus). The overall goal of this Policy is to create a framework for execution of a program to reduce the risk of human West Nile virus infection, while limiting adverse human health and environmental impacts. The City's West Nile virus management program ("WNV Program") focuses on the following: 1. Providing a wide range of public education and outreach 2. Ensuring extensive on-going mosquito population data collection and monitoring, including extensive testing of samples for West Nile virus infection. 3. Executing an aggressive larval control program focused on Culex mosquitoes. This program includes detailed mapping of larval habitat and ongoing monitoring and larvicide applications. 4. Periodic evaluation of the program for continued efficacy. ROLE OF CITY MANAGER: The WNV Program is implemented by the City Manager using practices, specifications and administrative systems determined by the City Manager to be appropriate in light of this Policy. The City Manager is also responsible for making recommendations to City Council regarding amendments and additions to this Policy ADVISORY RESOURCES: Public Health Authorities - The City recognizes the State of Colorado Department of Health and the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment as the authorities on local public health issues. The City's primary role in managing the threat of West Nile virus is to inform and educate Fort Collins residents, participate in regional public education and outreach efforts, and administer a prevention-oriented mosquito management program. Technical Advisory Committee - The City Manager is to be assisted in determining appropriate Policy amendments or additions by a committee of up to ten (10) technical advisors. Such committee members shall be selected by the City Manager based on their technical expertise, and willingness and ability to diligently attend to Policy developments, in addition to supporting the City Manager's understanding of the impacts and interests of groups in the City affected by the WNV Program. - 1- ATTACHMENT 5 Among those appointed to the Committee, the City Manager shall appoint up to two members each from those currently or formerly serving on the City Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board, as well as a representative of the Larimer County medical community. In addition to their primary responsibilities to advise the City Manager regarding the recommendations of the Health Department, it is the Council's intent and expectation that the Committee representatives from the Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board will each act as a liaison to his/her respective advisory Board. PROGRAM METHOD: The City applies adulticides only as an emergency response to a demonstrated increase in West Nile virus risk. A recommendation to adulticide comes from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment and is reviewed by the City Manager. The decision to adulticide lies solely with the City Manager. Thresholds for treatment - In addition to a recommendation by Larimer County, prior to commencing adulticide treatment there shall be evidence suggesting Cu/ex mosquito populations are increasing at or above historical levels, in which case spraying will commence in any treatment zone where the vector index meets or exceeds .75. Treatment Zones - Delivery of WNV Program services will be tailored to conditions existing in multiple treatment zones within the City, as determined by the City Manager relying on historical data and information from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment. The specific number of treatment zones may fluctuate between and during treatment seasons, as the City Manager may determine appropriate based on available data. Opt-Out Options - In deploying WNV Program treatments, the City will offer an opt-out from applications of adulticide treatments for those property owners whose names appear on the Colorado Department of Agriculture Pesticide-Sensitive Registry. The City Manager will also develop a set of metrics to qualify business properties that can demonstrate specific hardships due to the impact of adulticide on their operations to request exclusion of their properties from areas treated with adulticide. Such metrics will include definition of the hardships that qualify for a business opt-out and how such business properties will be monitored throughout a treatment season, relative to the WNV Program goal to reduce the risk of human WNV infection. Contractors - The City may use a contractor to carry out the majority of the program. When using a contractor, the City defines a comprehensive scope of services to be provided and selects a qualified contractor using an open bid and evaluation process. 1 West Nile Virus Management Policy Review Mike Calhoon, Director of Parks Matthew Parker, Crew Chief-Natural Areas 3-27-18 ATTACHMENT 6 West Nile Virus Policy 2 “Reduce the risk of human WNV infection while limiting adverse human health and environmental impacts.” -- West Nile Virus Management Policy Adopted July 1, 2008 West Nile Virus Program Overview • Began in 2003 as WNV became endemic to the region. • Policy development began in 2004, updated in 2008, and the current policy being last amended in 2014. • Based on Center of Disease Control’s (CDC) model – Integrated Mosquito Management. • Public education, larval management, surveillance, adult mosquito control and continual improvement assessment. 3 Work Session Follow Up Consideration of Adult Mosquito Control Thresholds: • Staff recommendation • Additional Alternative • Status Quo with no change to current thresholds 4 Staff Recommendation • Requires a vote on a resolution. • Threshold changes: • Reduce Vector Index to .5 • Remove human case consideration 5 Staff Recommendation • Why is .5 the correct level for a threshold? • Once the Vector Index reaches .5 there is a higher incidence of human cases. • Recent studies show the latent effect of WNV. • Why remove the human case consideration? • Requiring human cases extends the lagging nature of the indicator. • Goal: Smaller overall application area due to earlier intervention which may mean more frequent applications but in smaller targeted areas. 6 Additional Alternative • Requires a vote on a resolution. • Threshold changes: • Remove the human case consideration • The Vector Index would remain the same at .75 7 Additional Alternative • Work session feedback • Advisory Board feedback • Parks & Recreation-Supported Staff recommendation • Air Quality-Supported removing human case consideration • Natural Resources-Supported removing human case consideration 8 Status Quo • No action required. • Current thresholds will remain in place. • Vector Index .75 • Human case consideration 9 West Nile Virus Policy 10 “Reduce the risk of human WNV infection while limiting adverse human health and environmental impacts.” -- West Nile Virus Management Policy Adopted July 1, 2008 -1- RESOLUTION 2018-051 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS AMENDING THE WEST NILE VIRUS MANAGEMENT POLICY AND PROVIDING DIRECTION TO THE CITY MANAGER REGARDING IMPLEMENTATION OF THE POLICY WHEREAS, West Nile virus was first detected in the Fort Collins area in 2003 and poses a significant health risk to the citizens of Fort Collins; and WHEREAS, West Nile virus is a mosquito-borne disease primarily prevented through the management of mosquito populations; and WHEREAS, beginning in 2003, the City Manager has worked with the City Council to evaluate and develop an approach for managing West Nile virus exposures in Fort Collins; and WHEREAS, during the intervening years, the City has continued to investigate and analyze alternatives and logistics for managing West Nile virus in Fort Collins, and has determined West Nile virus will continue to be present in the Fort Collins area in the foreseeable future; and WHEREAS, in 2007, the City Manager formed a Technical Advisory Committee (the "Committee") for the purpose of reviewing and making recommendations about the City's West Nile virus management policy and response plans; and WHEREAS, in 2008, based on its review, the Committee recommended the City employ a program response to manage the threat of West Nile virus using a series of actions, each of which is driven by a number of factors, with all decisions as to how best to deal with the threat of West Nile virus ultimately being subject to the discretion of the City Manager; and WHEREAS, the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment (the "Health Department") has, and continues to, provide assistance to the City in evaluating West Nile virus risks and recommending the course of action for the City to take in managing those risks; and WHEREAS, in response to the Committee and City Manager’s recommendations, the City Council adopted Resolution 2008-062, refining the policy of the City’s West Nile virus management program (the “WNV program”) to incorporate evaluation of Health Department seasonal data by a West Nile Virus Advisory Panel to include a member of the Larimer County Medical Society; and WHEREAS, in response to the Committee and City Manager’s recommendations, the City Council subsequently adopted Resolution 2014-049, refining the policy of City’s West Nile virus management program (the “WNV program”) to amend the program response guidelines (operational practices), implement a limited business opt-out and maintain a residential opt-out program based on the Colorado Department of Agriculture pesticide sensitivity registry, and eliminate the Advisory Panel to the City Manager; and -2- WHEREAS, the Committee and the City Manager recently recommended further amendments to the current City West Nile virus management policy as adopted by Resolution 2014-049 (the “Policy”) to update the vector index (a value representing the risk of WNV exposure in a population) and human case threshold under the WNV Program; and WHEREAS, staff and the Committee recommended removing the human case threshold and lowering the vector index in the Policy because the human case threshold is only triggered upon multiple actual human infections, and research correlates a higher vector index value to a higher overall rate of human infection, both criteria therefore create lags in the City’s ability to proactively minimize the human infection rate; and WHEREAS, at the City Council work session on March 27, 2018, the Council considered Committee and staff recommendations, received input from members of the public, and directed the City Manager and staff to prepare for its consideration a resolution making various changes to the Policy; and WHEREAS, based on the above preliminary commitments, staff has identified three options: (1) adjust vector index and remove the human case threshold; (2) remove just the human case threshold; and (3) maintain status quo under 2014 Policy, implementation of which would begin by June 1, 2018; and WHEREAS, the options presented for City Council’s consideration include maintaining the current threshold and requirements from the 2014 policy, reducing the vector index to 0.5, and removing the human case threshold requirement; and WHEREAS, the City Council finds increasing reliance on the regional mosquito trapping and testing network will lead to more timely and reliable indication of WNV activity in the community than will continued use of a human case threshold, and therefore supports removal of the human case threshold from the Policy; and [OPTION 1 ONLY: WHEREAS, the City Council further finds research concerning the latent effects of WNV in individuals, including kidney and neurological conditions, supports reduction of the vector index in the Policy to enable earlier action by the City to disrupt mosquito amplification, and reduce the frequency and treatment areas in which the City applies adulticide; and] WHEREAS, the City Council is, through adoption of this Resolution, approving continuation of the Policy as amended based on recommendations of the Committee, the City Manager, and the citizen input received at the March 27, 2018, City Council work session. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS as follows: Section 1. That the City Council hereby makes and adopts the determinations and findings contained in the recitals set forth above. -3- Section 2. That the City Council hereby approves the 2018 West Nile Virus Management Policy, attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein by this reference, to govern and guide the management of West Nile virus in Fort Collins and supersede all prior policies. Passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Council of the City of Fort Collins this 15th day of May, A.D. 2018. _________________________________ Mayor Pro Tem ATTEST: _____________________________ City Clerk EXHIBIT A OPTION 1 – STAFF RECOMMENDATION PURPOSE, GOAL, FOCUS: West Nile Virus Management Policy May 5, 2018 The City of Fort Collins recognizes West Nile virus to be a public health issue. This West Nile Virus Management Policy has been developed to reduce the incidence of city residents contracting West Nile virus (a mosquito-borne virus). The overall goal of this Policy is to create a framework for execution of a program to reduce the risk of human West Nile virus infection, while limiting adverse human health and environmental impacts. The City's West Nile virus management program ("WNV Program") focuses on the following: 1. Providing a wide range of public education and outreach 2. Ensuring extensive on-going mosquito population data collection and monitoring, including extensive testing of samples for West Nile virus infection. 3. Executing an aggressive larval control program focused on Culex mosquitoes. This program includes detailed mapping of larval habitat and ongoing monitoring and larvicide applications. 4. Periodic evaluation of the program for continued efficacy. ROLE OF CITY MANAGER: The WNV Program is implemented by the City Manager using practices, specifications and administrative systems determined by the City Manager to be appropriate in light of this Policy. The City Manager is also responsible for making recommendations to City Council regarding amendments and additions to this Policy ADVISORY RESOURCES: Public Health Authorities - The City recognizes the State of Colorado Department of Health and the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment as the authorities on local public health issues. The City's primary role in managing the threat of West Nile virus is to inform and educate Fort Collins residents, participate in regional public education and outreach efforts, and administer a prevention-oriented mosquito management program. Technical Advisory Committee - The City Manager is to be assisted in determining appropriate Policy amendments or additions by a committee of up to ten (10) technical advisors. Such committee members shall be selected by the City Manager based on their technical expertise, and willingness and ability to diligently attend to Policy developments, in addition to supporting the City Manager's understanding of the impacts and interests of groups in the City affected by the WNV Program. Among those appointed to the Committee, the City Manager shall appoint up to two members each from those currently or formerly serving on the City Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board, as well as a representative of the Larimer County medical community. In addition to their primary responsibilities to advise the City Manager regarding the recommendations of the Health Department, it is the Council's intent and expectation that the Committee representatives from the Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board will each act as a liaison to his/her respective advisory Board. PROGRAM METHOD: The City applies adulticides only as an emergency response to a demonstrated increase in West Nile virus risk. A recommendation to adulticide comes from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment and is reviewed by the City Manager. The decision to adulticide lies solely with the City Manager. Thresholds for treatment - In addition to a recommendation by Larimer County, prior to commencing adulticide treatment there shall be evidence suggesting Cu/ex mosquito populations are increasing at or above historical levels, in which case spraying will commence in any treatment zone where the vector index meets or exceeds .5. Treatment Zones - Delivery of WNV Program services will be tailored to conditions existing in multiple treatment zones within the City, as determined by the City Manager relying on historical data and information from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment. The specific number of treatment zones may fluctuate between and during treatment seasons, as the City Manager may determine appropriate based on available data. Opt-Out Options - In deploying WNV Program treatments, the City will offer an opt-out from applications of adulticide treatments for those property owners whose names appear on the Colorado Department of Agriculture Pesticide-Sensitive Registry. The City Manager will also develop a set of metrics to qualify business properties that can demonstrate specific hardships due to the impact of adulticide on their operations to request exclusion of their properties from areas treated with adulticide. Such metrics will include definition of the hardships that qualify for a business opt-out and how such business properties will be monitored throughout a treatment season, relative to the WNV Program goal to reduce the risk of human WNV infection. Contractors - The City may use a contractor to carry out the majority of the program. When using a contractor, the City defines a comprehensive scope of services to be provided and selects a qualified contractor using an open bid and evaluation process. EXHIBIT A OPTION 2 PURPOSE, GOAL, FOCUS: West Nile Virus Management Policy May 5, 2018 The City of Fort Collins recognizes West Nile virus to be a public health issue. This West Nile Virus Management Policy has been developed to reduce the incidence of city residents contracting West Nile virus (a mosquito-borne virus). The overall goal of this Policy is to create a framework for execution of a program to reduce the risk of human West Nile virus infection, while limiting adverse human health and environmental impacts. The City's West Nile virus management program ("WNV Program") focuses on the following: 1. Providing a wide range of public education and outreach 2. Ensuring extensive on-going mosquito population data collection and monitoring, including extensive testing of samples for West Nile virus infection. 3. Executing an aggressive larval control program focused on Culex mosquitoes. This program includes detailed mapping of larval habitat and ongoing monitoring and larvicide applications. 4. Periodic evaluation of the program for continued efficacy. ROLE OF CITY MANAGER: The WNV Program is implemented by the City Manager using practices, specifications and administrative systems determined by the City Manager to be appropriate in light of this Policy. The City Manager is also responsible for making recommendations to City Council regarding amendments and additions to this Policy ADVISORY RESOURCES: Public Health Authorities - The City recognizes the State of Colorado Department of Health and the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment as the authorities on local public health issues. The City's primary role in managing the threat of West Nile virus is to inform and educate Fort Collins residents, participate in regional public education and outreach efforts, and administer a prevention-oriented mosquito management program. Technical Advisory Committee - The City Manager is to be assisted in determining appropriate Policy amendments or additions by a committee of up to ten (10) technical advisors. Such committee members shall be selected by the City Manager based on their technical expertise, and willingness and ability to diligently attend to Policy developments, in addition to supporting the City Manager's understanding of the impacts and interests of groups in the City affected by the WNV Program. Among those appointed to the Committee, the City Manager shall appoint up to two members each from those currently or formerly serving on the City Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board, as well as a representative of the Larimer County medical community. In addition to their primary responsibilities to advise the City Manager regarding the recommendations of the Health Department, it is the Council's intent and expectation that the Committee representatives from the Air Quality Advisory Board and the Natural Resources Advisory Board will each act as a liaison to his/her respective advisory Board. PROGRAM METHOD: The City applies adulticides only as an emergency response to a demonstrated increase in West Nile virus risk. A recommendation to adulticide comes from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment and is reviewed by the City Manager. The decision to adulticide lies solely with the City Manager. Thresholds for treatment - In addition to a recommendation by Larimer County, prior to commencing adulticide treatment there shall be evidence suggesting Cu/ex mosquito populations are increasing at or above historical levels, in which case spraying will commence in any treatment zone where the vector index meets or exceeds .75. Treatment Zones - Delivery of WNV Program services will be tailored to conditions existing in multiple treatment zones within the City, as determined by the City Manager relying on historical data and information from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment. The specific number of treatment zones may fluctuate between and during treatment seasons, as the City Manager may determine appropriate based on available data. Opt-Out Options - In deploying WNV Program treatments, the City will offer an opt-out from applications of adulticide treatments for those property owners whose names appear on the Colorado Department of Agriculture Pesticide-Sensitive Registry. The City Manager will also develop a set of metrics to qualify business properties that can demonstrate specific hardships due to the impact of adulticide on their operations to request exclusion of their properties from areas treated with adulticide. Such metrics will include definition of the hardships that qualify for a business opt-out and how such business properties will be monitored throughout a treatment season, relative to the WNV Program goal to reduce the risk of human WNV infection. Contractors - The City may use a contractor to carry out the majority of the program. When using a contractor, the City defines a comprehensive scope of services to be provided and selects a qualified contractor using an open bid and evaluation process.