Letters

So many village residents have fought long and hard — since 2015 — for the permanent ban of gas-powered leaf blowers [“Gas-Powered Leaf Blower Ban Takes Effect in Southampton Village on May 16,” 27east.com, May 14]. What is the point of this ban without adequate enforcement?

Gas leaf blowers have been in full use since May 16, the day the ban was slated to start.

We have been told that enforcing this ban falls to the Building Department’s ordinance inspectors. Unfortunately, there are only two inspectors, with another “part-time” to be hired.

Also unfortunate: Their hours are Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nothing on weekends. No coverage after 4 p.m. And no fines or penalties are in place for violators.

This does not and cannot work. As we all can hear, see and smell.

We implore the village mayor and trustees to revise the current plan of enforcement. Perhaps the police on patrol should be given the charge to stop the use of gas-powered leaf blowers whenever they encounter the use of these noxious machines.

This is just common sense, since the role of the police is to “keep the peace” in this, or any, community.

There is clear and irrefutable science behind the reason for this ban. It should and must be enforced.

There is an election coming up in June.

Actions speak louder than words.

Nancy E. McNally

Southampton