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Board presses for clearer enforcement of leaf‑blower law and a communications overhaul
Summary
Board members urged clearer, front‑facing guidance for residents and immediate reporting procedures for leaf‑blower noise complaints, and asked staff to revamp the town website and finalize a social‑media policy; staff recommended residents call the non‑emergency police line in real time so officers can respond and measure decibels.
Multiple board members raised continued resident complaints about leaf‑blower noise and enforcement. Members said they have received many emails alleging non‑enforcement and urged the board to consider stronger measures or model ordinances from other municipalities. One member said he would prepare a draft proposal for the board to consider after April 28.
Staff urged residents to call the police non‑emergency number in real time to allow officers to use a decibel reader and document violations. "While the current law is on the books, if anyone has a noise complaint issue, instead of emailing about it, it's best to call the police non emergency line ... In real time because they have to still get out there and actually use the decibel reader and and see it themselves," a staff representative said.
The board also agreed the town's website needs user‑friendly guidance — a short set of bullets that tells residents how to report noise, where to find the law and whom to contact — and asked staff to prioritize communications improvements. Separately, the town attorney's office said a draft social‑media policy is in near‑final form and could come to the board in April or May.
