Councillor backpedals on proposal to further restrict gas-powered lawn equipment
CBC
A city councillor is retreating from a proposal to further restrict when Londoners can fire up their gas-powered mowers, blowers, and trimmers, according to a statement issued Friday afternoon.
"After listening to your feedback, it has become clear that the initially proposed time restriction from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM for gas equipment is too limiting for many of our residents," Ward 11 Coun. Skylar Franke wrote in a statement posted to social media.
"The intent of this motion was to reduce noise and emissions for the benefit of our community, but I understand that these restrictions could pose significant challenges for those with busy schedules and for local lawn care businesses."
During Wednesday's meeting of the Civic Works Committee, Franke suggested the city consider changing its sound bylaw to limit use of gas-powered lawn equipment in residential areas to between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Right now, London's sound bylaw limits the use of all power equipment to between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. most days (starting at 9 a.m. on Sundays).
The proposal drew immediate pushback from members of the public and other elected officials.
Mayor Josh Morgan said on social media that he would not support such a move.
Franke said Friday she has decided to retract her motion during the June 4 council meeting.
"Moving forward, I hope we can continue to explore alternative solutions that balance the needs of all community members while addressing the issues of noise and emissions," her Friday statement read.
Franke did not immediately respond to phone and email messages Friday afternoon.
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