Franklin Township commission advances leaf‑blower ordinance, debates a 500‑foot commercial exemption

A public commenter described severe discomfort from multiple gas‑powered leaf blowers used simultaneously by commercial crews at a retirement community, telling the commission, "I cannot breathe," and urged support for restrictions on gas‑powered equipment.

Commissioners reviewed a draft ordinance that would allow gas leaf blowers during limited spring and fall cleanup periods and require electric or battery‑operated blowers the rest of the year. Members stressed a stepwise approach to reduce community air‑pollution exposure while balancing landscapers' operational needs.

The draft includes a proposed concession drafted after landscaper input: an exemption for operators on commercial or industrial properties that are at least 500 feet away from any residentially zoned property line. Commissioners discussed local examples (warehouse districts and adjacent housing) and whether 500 feet would be feasible in areas with narrow property separations.

After discussion a member moved and a second was put forward to recommend the ordinance and its explanatory language to the township council. The commission recorded a verbal "Aye" vote and forwarded the draft to the council for consideration.

Next steps: staff will forward the draft with the proposed 500‑foot exemption and the commission's justification to the council liaison for placement on a council agenda; the commission requested additional outreach to landscapers and affected property owners before council action.