Newsletter, May 13, 2025

Dear Gasbusters,

Firstly, thank you to all of you who submitted emails to the Infrastructure and Environment Committee (IEC) in advance of its meeting last Wednesday to consider a phased ban of two-stroke equipment in Toronto.  All of the communications prior to, and presentations at the meeting, including those by two of our Committee members, were in support of a ban.  

We are deeply disappointed to report that the IEC reversed its position from June, 2023 and voted in favour of Option A recommended by City Staff.  Councillor Dianne Saxe was the only Committee member who upheld the motion to pursue a ban as originally contemplated two years ago, and we are grateful for her unrelenting support. 

The motion passed at last week's meeting continues the City's commitment to transition to zero-transmission outdoor equipment within its own inventory, but it imposes no restrictions on private contractors such as landscape services.  The City instead will devote its efforts to public education to encourage citizens and businesses to consider the merits of converting to zero-transmission equipment, and to review progress on this front in 2027.  A link to the minutes of the meeting is below, with item details under IE21.4:

https://secure.toronto.ca/council/#/committees/2566/25788

On the positive front, there are City Councillors who will speak up when the Committee' s motion is referred to Council.  Apart from Councillor Saxe, Councillor Shelley Carroll has long been an advocate for ridding Toronto of gas-powered leaf blowers and related garden equipment.  We have included below a link to her latest newsletter.  We  encourage you to read her summary on the leaf blower debate, and email her with your views.  

https://www.shelleycarroll.ca/post/e-blast-gas-powered-leaf-blowers-under-review-have-your-say

We will continue to advance our collective interests on this issue, and to work with City Councillors who have been consistent advocates of our case and other environmental matters.   We will also escalate our communications to the Mayor's office, and seek to gain understanding and support within the City's highest office.  

With our sincere thanks for your ongoing support,
Gasbusters Organizing Committee