New taxing district may hit mosquitoes

Spokane County commissioners on Thursday agreed to move ahead with the possible creation of a new taxing district to control mosquitoes.

Voters would have to approve the district, which is being sought by the county health officer as a way to prevent the potential spread of West Nile virus. Human infections were reported last year in Montana, Idaho and Oregon, but not in Washington.

Commissioners said they would hold a public hearing on the health officer’s request to put the issue to voters this year. A hearing date was not set.

County Health Officer Dr. Kim Thorburn said the district could provide funding to eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed. The district could employ a type of bacteria that can be added to water to kill mosquito larvae.