Ordinance Committee reopens debate on banning gas leaf blowers, asks DPW and fire officials for guidance

The Ordinance Committee reopened deliberations on the leaf‑blower ordinance and directed staff to consult the Department of Public Works and fire-safety officials for technical and operational guidance before any decision on a gas-powered ban.

Attorney DePaola summarized the two main components of the ordinance: an unchanged schedule that sets dates and operating hours for blowers, and section 61A3, which contemplates a possible ban on gas-powered leaf blowers. He reminded members that a prior amendment delayed final action and that the council must revisit the ban language under that schedule.

Several councilmembers said they have not seen new evidence convincing them that professional landscapers can readily convert to battery or electric equipment. One member cited lingering concerns about lithium-battery storage and fire risk in non–climate‑controlled vehicles or storage areas. "Part of the reason to open up this debate is to encourage participation and encourage people to reach out to us," a councilmember said, urging input from DPW and the fire marshal.

Committee members agreed to ask DPW (including procurement and operations) and current and former fire marshals to review the draft ordinance for safety, equipment procurement needs, and whether the ordinance's dates and restrictions should be adjusted. The committee also discussed enforcement: staff reiterated that residents can file complaints via the Click & Request app, while one member suggested creating a non‑emergency police line to track repeat offenders, a practice used in other municipalities.

No legislative action was taken; the committee asked staff to gather technical analyses and return with those findings to inform any future vote.