Abstract: The Collier Mosquito Control District (CMCD) has expanded its boundaries 10 times since 1950 when it was created to serve six square miles. Today's boundaries encompass 401 square miles of a 2,300-square-mile county, and a rapidly growing population is building homes outside those 401 square miles, leaving those residents vulnerable to mosquito-borne disease. When Collier County Commissioners in 2021 approved the creation of new villages outside CMCD's boundaries, the time seemed right to pursue a boundary expansion. According to Florida Statutes, a mosquito control district's expansion only requires approval of the county commissioners in order to advance the local bill to state legislature...but not this time. Two years later -- after approvals, reversals, and a referendum -- CMCD's leadership is hopeful that the expansion may soon be finalized. This presentation describes the outreach, politicking, and patience required during this experience.
