South Portland, Maine, recently faced a proposed ban on gas-powered leaf blowers, backed by the city’s sustainability director. However, widespread opposition from local residents ultimately led to the reversal of the proposal.
Before the vote, many residents voiced their discontent with the measure. “Our leaders aren’t concerned about reducing spending, cutting taxes, or generating revenue; they’re focused on gas leaf blowers,” said local resident Bud Munson. David Gaudreau, another South Portland resident, called the proposal “government overreach,” while Frank Smith suggested the city should “get rid of the sustainability department.”
Despite the rejection of the ban, the city council decided that the public parks department would still have to phase out its gas-powered blowers.
Julie Rosenbach, South Portland’s sustainability director, argued in favor of the ban, stating, “One hour of gas-powered leaf blower use emits the same air pollution as driving 1,100 miles.” However, this argument failed to sway the majority of residents, leading to the collapse of the proposal.
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- Conservationists Push for Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Ban on Martha’s Vineyard
