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Council studies limits on gas-powered leaf blowers; discussion focuses on noise, air pollution and unintended consequences
Summary
Councilmembers discussed an item introduced at the Jan. 14 study session on possible restrictions for gas-powered leaf blowers. Views differed; council asked staff to consider options but took no formal action.
Prescott — On Jan. 14, 2025, Prescott City Council heard a study-session discussion about possible restrictions on gas-powered leaf blowers after Councilman Moore introduced constituent concerns about noise and emissions.
Councilman Moore said small gas-powered landscape engines “emit harmful air pollutants” and added, “I personally am supportive of a ban on leaf blowers.” He cited published comparisons that equate one hour of leaf-blower operation to a car driving about 1,100 miles in pollutant output, and he framed limits as consistent with the city’s strategic goal to preserve the natural environment.
Other council members urged caution. Councilmember Rousing recommended voluntary outreach and education to homeowners associations and landscaping firms before pursuing regulation; she also noted battery-powered alternatives and suggested the city “start with public education first.” Councilmember Montoya said he supported having staff study the issue and review other cities’ approaches to identify unintended consequences. Councilmember Gambo said the council has higher-priority matters to resolve and predicted the marketplace will shift as battery technology improves.
No public commentary cards were submitted on this item. Councilmembers discussed concerns about impacts on small landscaping businesses, equipment limitations for large jobs, and possible effects on older residents who rely on contracted lawn services. Several councilors suggested the new sustainability working group could examine the topic and produce options for council consideration rather than directing immediate ordinance action.
Decision: The item remained a study-session discussion; council took no ordinance, motion or vote and gave no formal direction beyond asking staff and interested volunteer groups to analyze options and possible unintended consequences.
Ending: Council concluded the study session without further action on a leaf-blower ban; several councilors asked that the topic be considered by staff or the proposed citizen working group for further analysis.
