Trustees discuss extending gas-powered leaf-blower ban, consider homeowner enforcement and hours

Trustees discussed a proposal to extend the village''s ban on gas-powered landscaping equipment to match neighboring municipalities' seasons during the May 15 meeting. The proposal reviewed options for the seasonal window (current village dates versus North Haven''s May 1'Oct 31 policy) and considered enforcement mechanisms, including whether fines should target the homeowner rather than the landscaper.

One trustee noted local enforcement practices and urged aligning ordinance hours with actual enforcement, suggesting a 5 p.m. end to permitted landscaping hours to reflect what staff typically enforce. Another trustee said holding property owners responsible for violations (rather than only contractors) was worth discussion because homeowners are more likely to respond to notices.

The board agreed to move the measure forward for a public hearing; no final ordinance language was adopted at the meeting. Trustees emphasized sensitivity to neighbors and quiet enjoyment when framing the policy.