Resident urges Ventnor to ban gas‑powered backpack blowers; city attorney to draft ordinance

During public comment Diane Birkbeck, speaking for the Ventnor Green Team, asked the commission to begin a process to ban gas‑powered backpack blowers and replace them with electric/battery alternatives. Birkbeck said the blowers produce 80–90 decibels, exceed local noise limits, disperse particulate pollution and adversely affect neighbors, seniors, and outdoor diners.

Birkbeck proposed a phased approach: begin public education, identify local lawn‑care businesses, and offer buy‑back or offset programs so operators can transition to battery models. She noted other U.S. municipalities and Atlantic City are discussing or have enacted similar rules and offered to provide example ordinances and resource groups (Quiet Clean Alliance and American Green Zone) to assist drafting.

Commissioners and staff responded favorably to researching the issue. Public Works confirmed that municipal crews already use battery/blower handheld equipment rather than large backpack gas blowers. The Mayor asked that the Green Team forward materials to city staff. City Attorney Nicole said she would start drafting an ordinance that includes an education period so affected businesses and residents have time to transition.

What’s next: Diane Birkbeck will provide sample ordinances and resources to staff; the city attorney will prepare draft language for future consideration. No ordinance was adopted at this meeting.