UPDATE: A spokesperson for Winter Park reached out to let us know that a six-month grace period was approved at a Special City Commission held February 1 and enforcement of the ordinance will now begin January 1, 2025. The city plans to provide educational information to residents in non-compliance during that time.
Senator Jason Brodeur – who represents Winter Park in the state legislature – has weighed in on the city’s divisive decision to ban gas-powered leaf blowers.
On Monday, the Republican Senator filed an amendment to prevent Florida cities and counties from passing ordinances that would regulate gas-powered and electric leaf blowers differently. However, by Tuesday, the Senator had withdrawn the amendment.
In a statement given to Orlando Sentinel, Brodeur said he had withdrawn the amendment to address issues with the legislation, but added, “I’m hoping I don’t need a legislative fix.”
The City of Winter Park first voted to implement the ban on gas-powered leaf blowers nearly two years ago in an attempt to minimize the noise which had apparently become a significant public nuisance. The ordinance was not to take effect until July 2024, to give residents ample time for transition.
Last week, we let you know HERE that the City of Winter Park is offering a rebate to residents interested in purchasing an electric leaf blower to help ease the transition.
Brodeur’s sudden involvement comes on the heels of a contentious public hearing on the ordinance where Winter Park City Commissioners voted to uphold the ban 3-2.
