Mosquito Problems
For years, one home in Southwest Alachua County has been abandoned and really, falling apart, but it's the murky water in the backyard that has neighbors upset.
Lorenzo Nunez says he hasn't seen anyone live inside the house in his neighborhood in a while.
"It's been empty, and the windows open and no signs of life for several years," said Nunez.
But, there are a few life forms thriving on that property, and they're not in the house. The murky swimming pool has become a breeding ground for bugs, lots of bugs. A couple of letters from concerned neighbors back in April got Alachua County Health Inspectors involved. Alachua County Health Inspector Todd Harris says the pool is definitely attracting that nuisance.
"There's no circulation, filtration of disinfection," said Harris.
His office has tried to contact the property owner, who lives in Miami for months, but no luck. So now they're taking legal action, and the owner could face thousands of dollars in fines. A move that Nunez says is long overdue.
"Last year was terrible with mosquitoes, and I expect with mosquito activity picking up, we'll probably see a lot more," said Nunez. "That could be adding to our problem right there."
Health officials say the problem with mosquitoes isn't just about itchy bites. They say the insects can spread viruses and cause serious health problems.
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