Countywide Prohibition on Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers

Advocated for an accelerated 18-month phase-out of gas-powered leaf blowers and suggested using manual tools to create jobs.

Expressed concern as a local lawn care business owner over the high equipment costs, battery limitations, and safety risks of electric leaf blowers.

Spoke on behalf of Quiet, Clean Maywood, urging an 18-month phase-out for the gas leaf blower ban to provide immediate relief from noise and pollution.

Represented the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, supporting staff recommendations for a 3-year phase-out period to ease business transition costs.

A local landscaping business owner testified that switching to electric equipment would cost nearly $280,000 and requested a longer 3-to-4-year runway.

Expressed safety concerns regarding lithium-ion battery disposal and fires, supporting the 36-month transition period.

Representing Columbia Gardens Cemetery, discussed the high cost of replacing commercial backpack blowers and supported a 36-month timeline.

Supported the 36-month timeline for the leaf blower ban to allow industry advancements and proper budgeting.

Highlighted the impact of the leaf blower ban on Hispanic-owned landscaping small businesses and questioned enforcement practicality.

Represented EcoAction Arlington, supporting an 18-month phase-out of gas leaf blowers to protect health and environment.

Represented Sierra Club Potomac River Group, supporting an 18-month phase-out citing improved battery economics and regional precedents.

Represented Quiet Clean Nova, supporting an expedited phase-out and detailing productivity losses caused by leaf blower noise.