October 26, 2000

Broome County HouseholdTire Collection Day

BINGHAMTON, NY - Legislator James Holley, District 19, in conjunction with the Broome County Health Department and the Broome County Department of Public Works, is sponsoring a countywide Household Tire Collection Day to encourage Broome County residents to reduce possible breeding habitats for mosquitoes that are infected with West Nile virus. The Household Tire Collection Day will take place Saturday, November 4, 2000, from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Vestal Public Library, 320 Vestal Parkway East.

This is a free one-time drop off. Proof of Broome County residency is required. Residents may bring a maximum of four (4) tires, up to 16" in diameter. Only household tires will be accepted. Tires cannot have rims and should be emptied of any water. Residents should be prepared to unload their own tires from their vehicle.

"Discarded tires are the most common mosquito breeding habitat across the country" said Mr. Holley. "It is important to reduce the places these mosquitoes like to breed, in preparation for next year. We know the West Nile virus will be here next spring, and the fewer mosquitoes the better."

"Broome County residents can play an important role in minimizing the return of West Nile virus next season" stated Jeffrey P. Kraham, Broome County Executive. "It is vital that residents take this opportunity to continue to Fight the Bite by bringing any unused tires to the Vestal Public Library on November 4th for the Broome County Household Tire Collection Day." "I applaud Mr. Holley for his efforts in bringing about this event."

During 2000, 38 crows collected in Broome County were sent for testing by the New York State Department of Health laboratory. Ten have tested positive for West Nile virus. None of the mosquitoes collected have been found to be positive for West Nile virus. There were no reports of human infection in the Broome County population.

"The people of Broome County are to congratulated for the steps they took this summer to reduce mosquito habitats around their homes and properties" stated Charles H. Wolford, Public Health Director. "Mr. Holley is providing another chance for Broome County to reduce the impact of West Nile virus in our communities."

For more information, contact Jan Chytilo at 607.778.3944.

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