2021-04-27-NAC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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• Several Landscapers complained about the process used by the Committee in developing the proposed noise regulation bylaw. • Many landscapers expressed concern that the Committee's request for input comes at a bad time (in the middle of a busy clean-up season), particularly since some issues require that they do some research, e.g., on equipment. • Given the volume of work during a short season and the environmental conditions (e.g., wet and heavy leaf fall) many landscapers stated that they have to be efficient and, among choices of powered clean-up equipment, there is presently no viable alternative to GLBs. • One landscaper said there is a viable alternative to GLBs. He noted that he left a GLB-focused company to set up a landscaping company that uses only electric equipment. Manufacturer Greenworks gives him a price break. • Several landscapers noted that some seasonal restrictions might be reasonable because there is no need for powerful blowers to move grass clippings and sediment during summer months. • Several Landscapers expressed concern about the upfront costs of conversion from GLBs to battery powered leaf blowers. • Landscapers also noted that there are complaints that Cambridge dropped its restrictions into place without warning and that this should not happen in Lexington • Other landscapers noted that proposed seasonal limits are not set at the right dates; e.g., some years it may be necessary to work on Fall clean-up until Xmas if there is an early snow. • Several landscapers expressed a desire to delay the proposal. Many said they needed time to research the matter to provide substantive feedback. • A concern was expressed that the committee is providing free advertising for electric landscapers. • Many expressed the view that the proposal should be revised based on more input from landscapers and others. • One landscaper stated that he considers the seasonal restriction dates to be impractical. Generally, participants were asked if they had any substantial or other suggested changes to the proposed draft bylaw. It was also noted a further meeting would take place to entertain further comments and suggestions on May 5t". Additionally, written comments and suggestions(addressed through the Town's webpage) were also encouraged. It was brought to the attention of the Committee during the meeting that a number of landscapers were inadvertently removed from the meeting following the completion of their statements (versus being returned to the participant category). Dan apologized on behalf of the Committee and noted that this had been an administrative mistake due to the Committee's unfamiliarity with the webinar technology.