Council receives petition to restrict gas leaf blowers after extended public debate

A petition asking the Town Council to restrict use of gas‑powered leaf blowers — proposing seasonal limits and other controls — was presented and debated at the May 28 meeting, where residents, petitioners and landscapers gave testimony for and against limits. The council voted to receive the petition and directed further outreach rather than enact an immediate ordinance.

Petitioner Fotis (last name not provided in the petition) said the goal is not an outright ban but a seasonal restriction during months with low leaf litter, citing studies and public‑health concerns about emissions and noise from commercial backpack blowers. He noted state rebate programs to help commercial landscapers buy electric equipment and said other U.S. municipalities have adopted limits.

Several residents spoke in support, saying the blowers produce sustained noise that affects daily life and that electric alternatives reduce worker headaches and local air pollution. Opposing testimony came from local landscapers, who said retrofitting commercial rigs would cost thousands of dollars, could force higher prices on customers — especially fixed‑income or elderly homeowners — and questioned whether current battery equipment could handle commercial workloads without multiple battery swaps.

Council discussion focused on the need for more stakeholder input and analysis. Councilor Tim and others said they were sympathetic to noise and health concerns but worried about economic impact on small businesses and enforcement issues; Tim said there was not yet enough data about costs to contractors. Councilor Mary suggested receiving the petition to allow time for community outreach; she amended an initial motion to deny so the council instead received and filed the petition for further study.

The council took no regulatory action at the meeting. Members asked the petitioner to return with more information, and several councilors encouraged the petitioners to work with the conservation commission, planning staff and local landscapers on outreach, demonstration projects, and information on available state rebates for electric equipment.