East Grand Rapids Could Be Banning This Helpful Yard Tool

East Grand Rapids city commissioners are considering banning a common yard tool that many of us have, that is mostly used during the fall months. But, will it actually help?

East GR commissioners are looking for feedback from the community on whether to potentially ban gas-powered leaf blowers according to a memorandum that was sent out at the end of September

The reasoning behind the potential ban comes from an environmental point of view. Those who oppose the gas powered leaf blowers say that they're bad for the atmosphere, as well as being much noisier than electric blowers or just using an old fashioned rake.

Others say they're bad for kids, too:

But, is it the same thing? Many argue that electric blowers just don't do as good of a job as the gas powered ones yet, and that their battery life is too short to be helpful. They argue this potential rule would cause more harm than help if it does pass.

Others argue that this small change is just one of the many things we can do to help make the world a better place, both noise-wise and environmentally-wise, and it's worth the effort to make the change during the few months a year we use these gas powered tools.

Will this effect the rest of Grand Rapids?

At this time, no. This ban should only effect those who live in the East Grand Rapids community it if passes. So, if you're living anywhere else in Kent County, you'll be able to keep and use your gas powered leaf blower for now.

East Grand Rapids is expected to hold a city commissioner’s meeting tonight (Monday) at 6 p.m, so no matter which side of the issue you're on that's your time to voice your opinion.

Speaking of bans...