Dear Editor,
As the July 25 referendum approaches, many voters are still deciding how to vote. If you’re one of them, it’s worth looking past the campaign slogans and focusing on what the ordinance actually does.
First, this is a summer-only restriction on commercial gas-powered leaf blowers. There are very few leaves to blow during the summer months. From Labor Day through Memorial Day, commercial landscapers may continue using gas-powered leaf blowers just as they always have.
Why summer? Because that’s when people spend the most time outdoors. Families are eating on patios, children are playing outside, windows are open, and neighbors are enjoying their yards. It’s also when reducing unnecessary noise and air pollution has the greatest benefit to residents.
Gas-powered leaf blowers create two well-documented problems: excessive noise and exhaust pollution. The ordinance addresses both by limiting their use during the months when they have the greatest impact on the community.
Some opponents point out that the ordinance does not apply to Town-owned properties. That’s true—but every new policy has to begin somewhere. Applying the ordinance first to commercial use on residential properties is a practical starting point. If future changes are needed, the Town can consider them.
If you’re still undecided, I encourage you to read information from both sides before voting. Then ask yourself a simple question: Is a summer-only restriction on commercial gas-powered leaf blowers a reasonable way to give residents quieter neighborhoods and cleaner air during the months they use their outdoor spaces the most?
I believe the answer is yes, and I hope you’ll vote to keep the ordinance in place.
Jill LaGattuta
