It is very disturbing that the deadline for leaf blower use has been extended to Dec. 31.
I would venture to say that 90% of the leaves have fallen and (at the time of the submission of this letter, Dec. 3), there are still another 12 days in the leaf-blowing season.
This is the first fall that Montclair’s new regulation shortening the time gas-powered leaf blowers are allowed is in effect. By extending the deadline at this time, OEM is signaling to all contractors that all they have to do is say they need more time and they can get the deadline extended.
When the regulation was proposed, timing was established as being sufficient and fair for all parties. Now OEM is changing the rules in the middle of the game.
Hold the period in which internal combustion leaf blowers are allowed to the regulation — Oct. 15 to Dec. 15. No extension!
Suzanne M. Grifo
Montclair
Editor’s note: In the time since the author submitted this letter, Montclair has rescinded its extension of the gas leaf blower season.
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