WHEREAS, in April of 1975, Gene Baker began work in Environmental Health in Leon County and in 1979 was promoted to Director of the Leon County Mosquito Control Division; and

WHEREAS, as Director, Gene Baker transitioned the Mosquito Division from a predominately truck fogging operation to an Integrated Pest Management service -- by initiating exceptional public health and safety programs, more scientific and up-to-date mosquito control methods, community and school-based education programs, scientific mosquito and encephalitis surveillance, and preventive stormwater maintenance to reduce flooding as well as mosquito-borne diseases; and

WHEREAS, in November of 2004, Gene Baker received the prestigious Presidential Award of the Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory, in recognition of his many contributions to the mosquito control profession; and

WHEREAS, Gene Baker sacrificed many long nights and weekends, working with county crews to combat flooding, even during the four deadly hurricane events of 2004, yet, he is known for publicly praising the work of his staff, nobly crediting them for the accomplishments of his division.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERSOFf LEON COUNTY, FLORIDA that

be commended for outstanding and selfless public service to the people of Leon County as Director of Mosquito Control and Stormwater Maintenance. Above all, Gene has been known for responding compassionately to the requests and concerns of Leon County citizens. For that example of dedicated public service he will always be remembered and highly regarded. The Board thanks him, on behalf of a grateful community, for his dedication and sacrifice, and wishes him happy hunting, fishing, and travels, and many long years of well-deserved comfort in the embrace of his loving family. We consider Gene to be a permanent part of our Leon County family, and pray that he will always think of us so.