Fairfax, California, a town near San Francisco, has temporarily closed Peri Park playground due to a flea infestation discovered in the mulch. The closure highlights the complexities arising from the town's 2001 ordinance that banned the use of pesticides.
The town is evaluating treatment options, but the pesticide ban complicates the process. According to Public Works Director Kristin Arnold, the only pathway to using pesticides in the park requires a two-thirds vote from the town council for an emergency exemption, which can only be granted if no other reasonable alternative exists.
"We recognize that Peri Park playground is a beloved gathering place, and we appreciate the community’s patience while we address this issue," the town said in a statement.
Officials believe the infestation originated from a nearby pack of raccoons. Workers have sealed an access point to the park to prevent the raccoons from returning.
Fairfax Building Official Mark Lockaby indicated that the town is likely to employ a company for steam cleaning of the affected areas. "They'll steam all the sand and chips, and that's supposed to kill the fleas," Lockaby told ABC 7.
Parents have expressed support for the temporary closure, prioritizing the safety of children. "We have a three-year-old and we definitely want to avoid fleas if we can," said Kristin Raymaker. Another resident, Debra Zibitt, voiced her concern, stating, "It's really scary. I'm afraid little children will go in there. It'll hurt their legs."
The Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District noted that the current warm weather could exacerbate the flea problem. "Because of our humidity, things get warm, and it's a good environment for fleas to expand their terrain and increase their numbers quickly," said District Manager Peter Bonkrude.
The park is tentatively scheduled to reopen on August 7, contingent on the success of the mitigation efforts. The town is exploring various methods, including steam cleaning, to eradicate the fleas.