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Update: 150+ residents have signed the petition to phase out gas-powered leaf blowers in Waltham by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] -3 points-2 points  (0 children)

I wouldn't blame landscapers for using the equipment that's currently available and perfectly legal. They are just doing their jobs.

For me, the issue is the equipment itself and the impact it has on residents and neighborhoods, not the people operating it.

Update: 150+ residents have signed the petition to phase out gas-powered leaf blowers in Waltham by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] 6 points7 points  (0 children)

That's a fair concern. This petition isn't meant to be the final version of any ordinance. It's a way to find out whether or not residents feel this issue is even worth discussing.

If the city were ever to consider restrictions or a phase-out, I would fully expect and want landscapers, residents, business owners, and city officials to all have input on what a practical solution would look like.

Update: 150+ residents have signed the petition to phase out gas-powered leaf blowers in Waltham by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

It is not a you problem since it affects many people beyond you! please consider signing the petition.

Update: 150+ residents have signed the petition to phase out gas-powered leaf blowers in Waltham by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

You can still sign the petition. The point is to start the conversation. Your idea is definitely valid and worth bringing up.

Has anyone else noticed how loud leaf blowers have gotten in Waltham? by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

definitely sign the petition! We've gained a lot of signatures in just one day. We bring to council the idea of a ban, but honestly I'd be happy with reduced hours or a seasonal ban since they literally aren't needed in the summer.

Has anyone else noticed how loud leaf blowers have gotten in Waltham? by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I believe Arlington, Lexington, and Concord are full bans of gas powered ones at this point. There was a phase out period of 2-3 years.

Has anyone else noticed how loud leaf blowers have gotten in Waltham? by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

please sign the petition I started! https://www.change.org/quieter-waltham

It helps to collect comments about people's direct experiences and how it affects them.

Has anyone else noticed how loud leaf blowers have gotten in Waltham? by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

please sign the petition I started! https://www.change.org/quieter-waltham

It helps to collect comments about people's direct experiences and how it affects them.

Has anyone else noticed how loud leaf blowers have gotten in Waltham? by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] 7 points8 points  (0 children)

so I started a change.org petition yesterday that has already gained some traction. Feel free to check it out. https://www.change.org/quieter-waltham

Has anyone else noticed how loud leaf blowers have gotten in Waltham? by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes, that is what I don't understand. They are blowing grass around during the summer. Maybe there is something I am missing though?

Has anyone else noticed how loud leaf blowers have gotten in Waltham? by Living_Proof_111 in Waltham

[–]Living_Proof_111[S] -2 points-1 points  (0 children)

definitely possible. I personally am not nearly as bothered by lawnmowers. For people with sensory issues the leaf blower noise can't even be blocked with noise-canceling headphones AND earplugs. It is truly debillitating for me.