Franklin environmental commission votes to back limits on gas-powered leaf blowers, will speak to township council

The Franklin Township Environmental Commission voted June 15 to designate commissioners to speak before the township council in support of a proposed ordinance limiting the use of gas-powered leaf blowers.

The motion, moved by Stan and seconded by Arie Schmidt, directed commission representatives to present the commission's position and suggested talking points at an upcoming council meeting. Commissioners debated outreach tactics — including asking supporters to speak at council, preparing bullet points for speakers, and contacting municipalities that have already adopted similar rules — before approving the motion by voice vote. The transcript records discussion and a passed motion but no roll-call tally.

Members cited health and quality-of-life concerns, and noted that several neighboring municipalities have adopted restrictions. Commissioners referenced Maplewood and South Orange as examples and discussed regulatory options ranging from restricted hours to seasonal bans. One commissioner characterized the council's earlier hesitancy as tied to landscaper opposition but urged community outreach to place the issue on the council record.

Commissioners resolved to prepare concise talking points for council testimony, recruit a small team of speakers, and coordinate with the council liaison and community groups for a larger outreach push. Stan — who introduced the motion — and Arie Schmidt were identified in the meeting as lead advocates; commissioners agreed to follow up with Councilman Singh and the council liaison to set next steps.

Next steps: commissioners will finalize bullet points for council testimony, notify the liaison about the plan, and invite community members to speak at the council meeting to put the measure on record. The transcript indicates the commission passed the motion during the June 15 meeting but does not record a formal council hearing date.