Ouch! As summer approaches, so do those pesky mosquitoes.

The City of Brookhaven is hoping to control the mosquito population by contracting with a company that specializes in eliminating the pests.

“Contracting with a company that specializes in mosquito control would allow the city to take a more scientific approach to controlling the mosquito problem,” said Deputy City Clerk Samantha Melancon.

The city is still spraying for mosquitos themselves. The budget for 2016-2017 is currently $100,000 for mosquito spray. “To clarify, that is for the chemicals (spray) only,” said Melancon. “This amount does not include the personnel, vehicle, vehicle maintenance, equipment or any other costs associated with mosquito control.”

Melancon said, “The RFPs (request for proposals) will probably be over $100,000 but what you don’t take into account is the mosquito spray actually covers only the chemical.”

The city is taking RFPs through June 8. “We’ve got companies coming by right now picking up packets and putting in bid proposals,” said Melancon. “We want the company we choose to have an office here in Brookhaven. Of course, price is a factor but not totally all of it. We’re looking for a company that best fits our specifications.”

Proposals must be on file with the city before 2 p.m. June 8. The envelope containing the proposal must be sealed and plainly marked “Proposal for Mosquito Control Program.” The proposals will be publicly opened and read on June 8 at 2 p.m. in the board room at 301 S. First St. in Brookhaven.

The selected contractor will be awarded at the next city board meeting on June 20. For more information call 601-833-2362.