by Doug Foster

I know that I’m not the only one who hates those mind-numbingly loud gas powered leaf blowers.  Other people have talked to me about it.

Look, we’re in a compact village with small lots, and there are a couple dozen properties close by that when those things are running, I have to close all windows to protect my sanity.  If I had an acre of property, then it wouldn’t be such an issue.

If you Google “Leaf blowers noise”, you’ll find dozens of articles about this issue, and a LOT of municipalities have passed noise ordinances to deal with this issue in general or directly.  I personally think we should outlaw them altogether.

I know, the economy would come to a screeching halt because how would any work get done if it had to be done by hand.  Many ordinances just ban the activity in the evening and until 8am or something.  But another issue is that there are a LOT of people that work at home now here in our fair Nyack, so we don’t all commute to White Plains or NYC for work.  We’re right here trying to concentrate and conduct business.

And, by the way, these two stroke motors are very bad for air quality.

I for one would suggest the Village pass a noise ordinance that doesn’t allow super loud activity even during the day, and have that level be more strict in the evening and night.