2021-09-14-NAC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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The Committee discussed the earlier proposal for a proposed 3-year phase-out and there was unanimous agreement that the clock had already begun running on the 3 years and that the final phase- out period should be consistent with that timing. Dave joined the meeting at this point and confirmed this understanding, He also noted that in his opinion the proposed phase-out effective on March 15, 2024 would also be fair to commercial landscapers. After discussion concerning the proposed phase-out period the following motion was made: Motion Dan made a motion that the draft proposal be amended to recommend that the phase-out period for GLB's coincide with the end of the Spring clean-up period in 2024 (i.e., GLB usage will no longer be permitted in Lexington after March 15, 2024).The motion was seconded by Nick and following a rollcall vote,the motion was approved unanimously. b) Resident Exemption from GLB Phase-out Proposal Dan outlined the various arguments in favor and against providing an exemption or longer phase-out period to residents. Arguments in favor of carving out a longer phase-out included the facts that residents did not use GLB's as intensively at commercial landscapers and residents would likely only operate one GLB versus commercial crews who operate several units simultaneously. Dan also noted that battery costs were a larger issue for homeowners. The Committee discussed the fact that a fairly small percentage of residents used GLB's themselves and Nick noted that creating different phase-out times for residents versus commercial landscapers may create additional problems of enforcement. The Committee considered the feedback received to date from homeowners and landscapers and it was noted that despite the Committee's requests for proposals, little of substance had been received. After discussion,the following motion was made: Motion Nick moved that the draft proposal reflect that the Committee does not recommend a resident exemption to the March 15, 2024 phase-out of GLBs.The motion was seconded by Vicki and after a rollcall vote the motion was approved unanimously. In accordance with the decisions made by the Committee Dan indicated that he would incorporate the approved changes into the draft proposal (if needed) and will create a presentation for both the Select Board and Town meeting reflecting the changes. It was agreed that the Committee would meet to review the draft presentations.