Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

City bans leaf burning

With little public discussion, the Prescott City Council passed an ordinance that calls for a $25 to $100 fine for burning leaves within the city limits.

The ordinance indicates that the reason for the permanent ban is that burning leaves creates a health hazard and fire hazard.

The ordinance was presented at the January council meeting but that proposal included a ban on burning grass and vegetation as well. At least one councilman at that meeting suggested that burning grass and small brush is a method used by some property owners on a regular basis.

During that initial discussion, Alene Spencer told council members that she has a severe breathing disorder and that the smoke from leaf fires is a serious issue for her.

Following the councils adoption of the ordinance Tuesday night, Spencer said, Thank you.

The council briefly discussed alternative ways of disposing of leaves. The ordinance allows burning of leaves in an incinerator or furnace approved by the city fire chief. While thats an option, Prescott Mayor Howard Taylor told council members that the city owns a piece of equipment that will pick up leaves. He said additional attachments will be needed if the machine is to be used regularly, but did not indicate the expected cost.

Taylor also suggested that another person will be needed during the fall when leaves are a serious problem. One idea was to have a regular route, so that residents will know what days city workers will be collecting leaves.

The equipment apparently doesnt work well when the leaves are wet. Taylor said anyone who wants to bag leaves can do so and the city will pick up the bags.

Hines, a local trucking company, has recently expanded operations to include a fiber recovery division. Leaves gathered from local yards can be delivered to Hines with no fee for dropping them off. Taylor cited the fact that its a recycling effort as well as cutting down on the smoke.

Its a win-win situation, Taylor said.

The ordinance adopted by the council will be in effect in 30 days. The ordinance in its entirety will be published in the Nevada County Picayune before it becomes law.

In other business, the council approved an ordinance regarding pay for city council members. A councilman may miss one meeting each year without penalty. Council members will give up their pay for any subsequent meetings missed. The council also approved an ordinance changing the time of meetings from 7 p.m. to 5:30. The date of meetings will remain on the third Monday of each month.