03-07-88 Residential Neighborhoods

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Dr. George Plain, the Chief County Health Officer for St. Joseph County, voiced a strong plea to have a "well-thought- out" ordinance in effect. He noted that he composts his leaves and stressed that there must be a ban on burning. He stated that the "horrendous wheezing of children with breathing disorders would bring the reality of the problem out to the Community. Dr. Gary Fromm, a Pulmonary Physician, also spoke very strongly in favor of a leaf burning ban. Mr. Chris Stager noted that he was present during the December meeting where the Council had a public hearing on the pending Ordinance. He noted that at that time there were several questions raised with regard to whether a new land fill would be required and the alternative costs to the community for disposing of leaves. Mr. Leszczynski noted that they would not have to expand the landfill. Mr. Stager further noted that Lavonia, Michigan is approximately 36 square miles and has approximately 120,000 people. Lisa Gammon noted that both she and her mother, the City Clerk, live in a heavily wooded area. She noted that many of the residents in that area do compost their leaves but also rely on burning especially during the fall season. She stated that she believed that residents should not be forced to sell their homes because they cannot deal with the leaf disposal problem. Councilman Duda noted that she had received a letter and statement from Irene Gammon who was unable to attend the meeting (copy attached) . Councilman Duda further noted that the City was charged with looking into protecting the "health, safety, and welfare" of the Community when reviewing this issue. Councilman Voorde stated that he believed that the Council should go on record with regard to the approach they would be taking in addressing this problem. He stated that he believed the Council should proceed ahead with the premise that leaf burning would be banned and that a task force be established to consider alternatives to leaf disposal. Councilman Puzzello stated that she felt she was not qualified to give a response at this time even though Councilman Voorde saw leaf burning as a health risk which presented a clear and present danger" to the Community. Councilman Luecke stated that he sees the health issue as the overriding issue. Councilman Coleman noted that during his campaign he signed the American Lung Association's petition to ban burning and was willing to proceed ahead on that position and address the problem of leaf disposal. Councilman Zakrzewski stated that he believed that the Council needs to look at the health problems as well as the 3