Councilman Rigger asks council to consider seasonal moratorium on gas‑powered leaf blowers

Councilman Rigger asked the council to consider municipal legislation that would impose a seasonal moratorium on gas‑powered leaf blowers in June, July and August beginning in 2027.

"I was, on a Sunday morning, awoken by the lovely sound of a gas powered leaf blower," Rigger said, urging the council to bring back the county‑level language he referenced as a potential local ordinance. He clarified he did not propose an outright ban but suggested a moratorium for the summer months to give residents time to adapt and to limit noise during peak warm‑weather months.

The request was made as a notice of intent; council members did not vote on an ordinance at the Aug. 31 meeting. The city manager acknowledged the suggestion and council members asked that the proposal be returned for formal consideration in 2027 if staff can prepare the needed language and impact analysis.