South Pasadena : Leaf-Blower Ban Backed
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Despite warnings that South Pasadena could lose its well-groomed look and that gardeners’ fees could rise by 25%, the City Council tentatively approved a ban on gas-powered leaf blowers.
On a 3-2 vote Wednesday, the council also restricted the use of electric-powered leaf blowers to between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays and between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
“Since I’ve been a homeowner, I’ve hated these leaf blowers,” Mayor Evelyn Fierro said. “As much as I think this ordinance is a little strong, I think it is a good beginning.”
Landscape contractors, several residents, representatives of a leaf blower manufacturer and South Pasadena Beautiful had argued for stricter regulation rather than a ban. Opponents also argued that the measure will hurt water conservation efforts because residents will hose their walkways.
Joining Fierro in voting for the ordinance were Councilmen James C. Hodge Jr. and Dick Richards. Councilmen Harry A. Knapp and James S. Woollacott Jr. voted against it.
Violators of the leaf-blower ordinance can be fined up to $50. A final vote is scheduled April 17.
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