Council approves DWP contract for electric leaf blower and directs work on vacuum-style model

The Los Angeles City Council voted Dec. 17 to confirm a Department of Water and Power contract with Guiltronics/Aero Environment to produce and market a battery-powered, backpack electric leaf blower for use in the city, and approved a motion directing the DWP to develop criteria for vacuum-style models to address dust generation.

Speakers from the California Air Resources Board and gardening representatives praised the contract’s air-quality and noise benefits. “This electric leaf blower has zero exhaust emissions and a reduced noise level,” Nancy Steel of the California Air Resources Board told the council, adding that reduced emissions and lower noise would benefit operators and bystanders.

Gardener representative Adrien Alvarez told the council the project shows constructive cooperation among the DWP, manufacturers and users but warned that broader adoption depends on getting machines into the field to prove reliability and accessibility for gardeners.

Councilmember Hal Bernson urged the council to direct development of a vacuum-style blower to reduce airborne dust in addition to noise and exhaust. Members agreed not to delay the vendor contract, adopted an amendment (40A) instructing DWP to work on vacuum criteria, and then approved the contract as amended. The motion and amendment were recorded as approved by the council.

What happens next: The DWP will proceed with the contract and is instructed to work with stakeholders on criteria for vacuum-type instruments, and councilmembers encouraged pilot deployment and training for gardeners.