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Narberth committee OKs advertisement of gas‑leaf‑blower ordinance, plans delayed enforcement date
Summary
Committee recommended advertisement of an ordinance modeled on Lower Merion Township’s leaf‑blower ban and proposed delaying enforcement until Sept. 1 to allow notification; members discussed definitions for chemical mists, snow‑blower exemptions and an emergency exception.
The Finance & Administration Committee recommended moving forward to advertise a proposed ordinance banning gas‑powered leaf blowers, largely mirroring language from Lower Merion Township but with local amendments.
Staff said the borough will include a definition that mirrors a draft change Lower Merion is considering — specifically language around chemical mists and pesticides — and will propose an enforcement effective date of Sept. 1 to allow time for public notice. Members asked whether the ordinance should exempt snow removal equipment and discussed an administrative emergency declaration procedure for post‑storm response.
Staff noted the draft does not currently incorporate all proposed Lower Merion adjustments and that the solicitor and staff will reconcile the definitions (including whether to permit snow‑blower use for snow removal within specified periods). The committee approved recommending advertisement and authorization for adoption procedures (voice vote, 3–0).
The committee directed staff to clarify definitional language and to incorporate an appropriate effective date and emergency procedures before final adoption.
