Swarthmore’s proposed ban on two-stroke gas-powered leaf blowers and similar lawn equipment would have been a first in Pennsylvania, but now the ordinance has been tabled at least a month, writes Frank Kummer for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
“Why do we put up with these earsplitting, obnoxious gas-powered leaf blowers?” asked resident Allan Irving at a council meeting last week.
His position was echoed by residents who also say the equipment pollutes and creates greenhouse gas emissions.
But landscape business owner Matt Tirpak said upgrading his equipment would cost thousands of dollars and force him to charge customers more.
The proposed ban is part of Swarthmore’s effort to combat climate change. If passed, it would take effect in two years. Anyone using the equipment after that would be fined $50 the first time, $100 the second time, and $200 for three or more times.
One resident worried the proposed ordinance was government overreach.
“Under the ordinance’s logic,” said Stephen Kraftschik, “the council could ban cars, grills, fireplaces, smokers and anything that causes pollution.”
Swarthmore is one of 10 Pennsylvania communities working on ordinances to ban or restrict two-stroke engines.
Find out more about Swarthmore’s proposed ban on gas leaf blowers and similar equipment in The Philadelphia Inquirer.
