Salem Council Lifts Lid on Leaf Blower Debate

The debate over whether there are any real health-risks associated with the use of gas-powered leaf blowers has sparked debates in several North Shore communities. A proposed seasonal blower ban was narrowly defeated at Town Meeting in Marblehead last year.

Now it appears as though the hot-button issue will once again be up for debate in the city of Salem.

At their meeting at City Hall Thursday night, Salem city councillors approved a request from Ward 2 councilor Michael Sosnowski to have the review the health risks associated with leaf blowers.

"We want to see examples from surrounding communities to see what they've done to try to address this issue and see what we can do," Sosnowski said. "We certainly don't want to put anyone out of business, we just want to ensure the quality of life for all of our city residents."

The only councilor voting against the motion was Ward 7 councilor Joseph O'Keefe, who said the implementation of any kind of blower ban is a "terrible idea."

"This is clearly an infringement of the civil rights of the person who wants to use a leaf blower," O'Keefe said.

What side of the fence are you on when it comes to the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in Salem? What are your concerns?

Let us know in the comments section below.