TITLE
Recommendation to request the Board of Health and Human Services to produce a detailed report within six months on any past discussions, memorandums, codes, ordinances, and/or regulations on leaf blowers. The Board should also provide input on any studies or documented health and safety impacts that have been identified by researchers on this topic. Equally relevant to developing a response strategy is any data available on complaints and potential impacts regarding this issue. Finally, the report should include recommendations that City Council could consider taking on this matter as a next step.
DISCUSSION
On February 26, 2016 the Grunion Gazette published an editorial coauthored by Councilwoman Suzie Price and Belmont Heights resident John Shisko soliciting feedback on whether or not the City should consider limiting or banning the use of gas powered leaf blowers in Long Beach.
Since the article was published the Third District Council Office as well as the Grunion Gazette has received numerous responses on the subject matter. A majority of the feedback agrees that the negative impacts of the particulate matter and noise pollution generated by leaf blowers outweigh the benefits to the operators.
Several cities including Santa Monica, Laguna Beach, and Beverly Hills have banned the use of leaf blowers altogether. Other response strategies could include allowing only electric powered blowers, setting a decibel threshold on allowable blowers, or banning their use during certain times of day or seasons. Additionally, alternatives to gas-powered leaf blowers such as raking and manpowered leaf sweepers, could be encouraged.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
[Timing Considerations]
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no significant fiscal impact with the delivery of this report.
SUGGESTED ACTION
Approve recommendation.
BODY
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Respectfully Submitted,
Suzie Price
Councilwoman, Third District
Daryl Supernaw
Councilmember, Fourth District
Suja Lowe...
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