Mosquito Control Candidates Debate Drone Usage

The board recently approved the purchase of two helicopters for $3.6 million. Why not drones?

Ralph De Palma (D):

I am a licensed commercial pilot and hold airframe and power plant certificates, worked on the Space Shuttle. Drone use is being tested for surveillance and some minimal treatment activities. But are in the very early stages. FKMCD will need to replace old airframes soon. I can help guide those procurements.

 

Phil Goodman* (R):

For the past four years we have used two small drones, within restricted limits. Numerous governmental regulations currently prevent us from expanding use. We will always have large areas to chemically treat that require the new, larger aircraft. Before other aircraft are replaced, drones could be a real game changer.

 

* Incumbent
Candidates’ answers appear as submitted.