At the Tuesday, February 24 regular City Council meeting, the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District (SGVMVCD) recognized the City of Duarte with its Excellence in Engagement and Collaboration Award for the City’s continued partnership and proactive efforts to protect public health.

The recognition follows collaborative work between the City and SGVMVCD, including community outreach efforts related to the Black Fly Program launched in October 2025, which focused on controlling black fly activity in Duarte. City leadership worked closely with SGVMVCD to ensure residents received timely information and resources related to vector control and prevention.

According to the SGVMVCD, the partnership between Duarte and the agency highlights the importance of collaboration in public health efforts. Through community events, joint presentations, and targeted outreach initiatives, the City helped raise awareness among residents about mosquito and black fly prevention.

“Vector control is most effective when it is collaborative. Meaningful public health protection truly occurs when local leadership steps forward to engage residents, share information, and prioritize prevention. The City of Duarte has done exactly that,” said Anais Medina Diaz, Director of Communications for SGVMVCD. 

The City of Duarte supported these efforts by hosting SGVMVCD at various community events, dedicating time and space to mosquito awareness initiatives, and using the District’s communication toolkits and digital resources to share accurate, timely information with residents.

“Duarte is only the second city ever to receive this award,” Councilmember Finlay noted. “Congratulations to our staff, City Council, and the community.”

Mosquito and black fly control is not solely the responsibility of one agency, but a shared community mission.