Proposed Seasonal Gas Leaf Blower Ban Narrowly Defeated by Four Votes
Key Points
- The proposed summer ban on gas-powered blowers was defeated 145-141
- Proponents cited health risks and noise pollution as reasons for the ban
- Opponents argued the ban was impractical and an unfair financial burden on residents
A citizens petition to ban gas-powered leaf blowers and line trimmers during the summer months failed by a razor-thin margin under Article 24. Petitioner Fran Collins argued that the equipment poses a health and noise hazard, often exceeding 100 decibels. One of these leaf blowers for an hour is the same thing as driving your truck a thousand miles... it's time to do something with all this noise,
Collins said, proposing a ban from May 15 to September 15.
The proposal met with strong resistance from several residents and town officials. Advisory Committee member Mike Barkley and Select Board Chair Ellen Maher opposed the ban, arguing it would be an overreach into how residents manage their private property. Residents like Dan Ley criticized the move as a form of taxation,
claiming it would force homeowners to purchase expensive and less effective battery-powered equipment. After a heated debate, the article was defeated in a hand count of 141 in favor to 145 opposed.
Motion: To amend the noise bylaw to include the seasonal ban.
Vote: Failed 141-145