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Ord No 01-22-2422ORDINANCE NO. 01-22-2422 An Ordinance amending the City of South Miami Code of Ordinances to create "Chapter 15D -Environmental Protection" to create definitions, adopt regulations on the use of gas-powered Landscaping Equipment within the City of South Miami, provide for a temporary suspension for storm and hurricane cleanup, establish enforcement and penalty provisions, and provide for a financial hardship waiver. WHEREAS, the City of South Miami ("City") declares that it is in the interest of the public health, safety, and welfare of its residents and visitors to reduce litter and pollutants on the land and in the air and waters of the City; and WHEREAS, a leaf blower is a widely available gardening tool used to manage leaves, clippings, and other debris; and WHEREAS, most gas-powered leaf blowers use two-stroke engines, which mix gas and oil; and WHEREAS, about 30 percent of the gas the engine uses fails to undergo complete combustion, and as a result, the engine emits a number of specific air pollutants of concern, such as: hydrocarbons from both burned and unburned fuel, which combine with other gases in the atmosphere to form ozone; carbon monoxide; fine particulate matter; and other toxic air contaminants in the unburned fuel, including benzene, 1,3-butadiene, acetaldehyde, and formaldehyde}; and WHEREAS, a 2011 test by the car experts at Edmunds showed that "a consumer-grade leaf blower emits more pollutants than a 6,200-pound 2011 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor"2 ; and WHEREAS, during the Edmunds test, the company subjected a truck, a sedan, a four-stroke leafblower, and a two-stroke leaf blower to automotive emissions tests and found that under normal usage conditions -alternating the blower between high power and idle, for example -the two-stroke engine -emitted nearly 299 times the hydrocarbons of the pickup truck, 93 times the hydrocarbons of the sedan, and many times as much carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides as well; and WHEREAS, the four-stroke engine performed significantly better than the two-stroke in most of the categories, but still far worse than the car engines; and WHEREAS, in 2017, the California Air Resources Board ("CARB") issued a warning that by 2020 gas-powered leaf blowers, lawn mowers, and similar equipment in the state could produce more ozone pollution than all the millions of cars in California combined; and WHEREAS, according to CARB's determination, running a gas-powered leaf blower for one hour emits the same amount of pollution as driving a light-duty passenger vehicle for approximately 1,100 miles3; and I https:llww2.arb.ca.gov/sites/defaultlfiles/2018- Il/Health%20and%20Environmental%20Impacts%20ofllIo20LeafllIo2OBlowers.pdf 2 https:llwww.edmunds.com/aboutlpresslleaf-blowers-emissions-dirtier-than-high-performance-pick-up-trucks-says- edmunds-insidelinecom.htm 1 3 https:/ Iww2.arb.ca.gov Iresources/fact-sheets/small-engines-cal iforn ia Page 1 of6 Res. No. 01-22-2422 WHEREAS, in addition to environmental impacts, air emissions from gas-powered leaf blowers have adverse health effects on workers; and WHEREAS, counties, cities and urban areas are in a unique position to combat climate change, because cities and urban areas are responsible for producing 70 percent of climate ch~ging greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions worldwide\ and WHEREAS, the City has already taken steps to aggressively address climate change, promote the use of renewable energy, and reduce our community's emissions; and WHEREAS, on February 3rd, 2009, the City Commission passed Resolution No. 23-09- 12832 adopting a goal of carbon neutrality for municipal operations by the year 2030 and the Mayor and City Commission resolved that the "City of South Miami and all of its departments and boards shall coordinate and implement the Carbon Neutral Initiative, insofar as funds, voluntary efforts, or other resources become available, in particular, working to partner with efforts of governments, agencies, institutions and other appropriate public and private organizations in our region, and to track the progress and implementation of the initiative"; and WHEREAS, on May 7th, 2019, the City Commission unanimously passed Resolution 59- 19-15331 committing the City to transition to 100 percent clean, renewable energy community- wide by 2040; and WHEREAS, the City Commission finds that the use of gas-powered leaf blowers to clear leaves, clippings, and other debris on public and private property affects air quality, water quality, contributes to GHG emissions, and impacts environmental health and noise levels throughout the City; and WHEREAS, the City Commission also finds that a number of alternatives exist, such as portable or plug-in electric leaf blowers and non-motorized tools such as rakes; and WHEREAS, the City Commission wishes to provide a reasonable phase-in period during which City staff can conduct outreach to inform and educate residents and landscape maintenance companies of the provisions of this Ordinance, and the availability of alternatives to gas-powered leaf blowers; and WHEREAS, this Ordinance will preserve and enhance the environment of the City of South Miami; and WHEREAS, the City desires to amend the City's Code of Ordinances to create Chapter 15D -Environmental Protection. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF SOUTH MIAMI, FLORIDA: Section 1. The foregoing recitals are hereby ratified and incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein and as the legislative intent of this Ordinance. 4 https:llnews.un.org/en/story/2019/09/1046662 Page 2 of6 Ord. No. 01-22-2422 Section 2. Chapter 15D of the Code of Ordinances, City of South Miami, Florida, is hereby created and shall read as follows: Chapter 15D -ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Article I. -IN GENERAL Section 15D-I. -Definitions. The following words, terms, and phrases, when used in this Article, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning: Civil Citation has the same meaning as defined in Section 2-25. Courtesy Civil Citation means a Civil Citation that informs the recipient of the violation but that does not penalize the violator. Electric-powered means powered directly from electricity, and not directly powered by any fossil fuel, including powered from the electricity given off by a battery or from the electrical current from an electrical outlet that receives its electricity from a solar panel or the electrical power grid that is used by a home or business. Gas-powered means powered by any fossil fuel. Landscaping Equipment means mowers, edgers, leaf blowers and other equipment powered by electricity or gas and used for the maintenance of landscaping by an individual or business. Leafblower means any air blowing device that uses a concentrated stream of air to push, propel or blow dirt, dust, leaves, grass clippings. trimmings, cuttings, refuse or debris. Special Magistrate has the same meaning as defined in Section 2-25 of this Code. Statutory Interest means the interest rate set by Florida Statute for judgments issued by Florida courts. Article II -LEAF BLOWERS Section 15D-2.1. -Regulations on the use of Gas Powered Leaf blower. The use of a gas-powered leaf blower is prohibited within the City in accordance with Section 15D-2.3 of this Article II. Electric-powered leaf-blowers may be used within the City, consistent with the regulations set forth in Chapter 15D of the City's Code of Page 3 of6 Ord. No. 01-22-2422 Ordinances (Code). A citation shall be issued to the property owner and to the business that is oerforming the work using a gas-powered leaf-blowers in violation of this Section. Private property owners and businesses are encouraged to operate electric-powered Landscaping Equipment in a manner that reduces noise and pollution generated by the equipment. including, without limitation, by not continuously running equipment and by using equipment that operates at a low decibel range (Le., 65 dB at 50 feet) Section 15D-2.2. -Temporary suspension for storm and hurricane cleanup. In the event of a hurricane, tropical storm, or similar extreme weather event, the City Manager, in the manager's sole discretion, may temporarily suspend provisions of this Article II to permit the use of gas-powered Landscaping Equipment for debris cleanup. Section 15D-2.3. -Enforcement: penalties. (a) Beginning on February 1,2022, and extending through October 31,2022, the City shall engage in public education efforts to inform residents and businesses of the provisions of this Article II and to provide assistance with identifying alternatives to gas-powered leaf blowers. (b) Beginning on November 1, 2022, the City shall provide for a nine-month warning period through and including July 31, 2023, during which the Code Enforcement Division may only issues Courtesy Civil Citations. (c) Beginning on August 1, 2023, (Enforcement Date) the Code Enforcement Division must fully enforce the provisions of this Article II. (d) If a Code Enforcement officer finds a violation of this Article II, the Code Enforcement officer must first have issued a Courtesy Civil Citation before issuing a Civil Citation. The Courtesy Civil Citation and the Civil Citation must inform the violator, at a minimum, of the nature of the violation, the amount of fine for which the violator is liable, the due date for paying the fine and instructions on how to pay the fine, the right to request an administrative hearing before the City's Special Magistrate (Special Magistrate) within ten days after service of the Civil Citation, and that the failure to request an administrative hearing within ten days of service of the Civil Citation will constitute an admission of the violation and a waiver of the right to a hearing. (e) A violator who has been served with a Civil Citation must elect to either: (1) Pay the civil fine set forth in the City'S schedule of fines and, if none is provided for a violation of this Article II, then as follows: a. First violation within a 12-month period -----------$250.00; b. Second and all subsequent violations within a 12-month period ---------------------------------------$500.00; Page 4 of6 Ord. No. 01-22-2422 (2) Request an administrative hearing before the Special Magistrate to adjudicate the Civil Citation, which must be requested within ten days of the service of the Civil Citation. The procedures for the administrative hearing of the Civil Citation is as set forth in Section 2-25 of this Code. (0 Failure to timely request an administrative hearing before the Special Magistrate, constitutes a waiver of the violator's right to an administrative hearing before the Special Magistrate, and is treated as an admission of the violation for which fines and penalties must be assessed accordingly. (g) A certified copy of an order imposing a fine may be recorded in the public records, and thereafter the fine and accrued interest on the fine constitutes a lien upon all real and personal property owned by the violator, which may be enforced in the same manner as a court judgment, including leVY against the violator's real or personal property. All unpaid fines, including partially unpaid fines, accrue interest at the Statutory Interest rate for each day that the fine, or portion thereof, remains unpaid. After three months following the recording of the order imposing the fine, the City may foreclose or otherwise execute upon the lien for the amount of the lien that is owed plus accrued Statutory Interest. (h) The Special Magistrate is prohibited from hearing the merits of the Citation or considering the timeliness of a request for an administrative hearing if the violator has failed to request an administrative hearing within ten days of the service of the Citation. The Special Magistrate shall not have discretion to alter the penalties prescribed in this Article II. Any party aggrieved by a decision of the Special Magistrate may appeal that decision to a court of competent jurisdiction. Section lSD-2.4. -Financial hardship waiver. Any property owner or principal of a business that reported a household annual gross income of 80% of the area median income, or less, on its income tax filing for the most recent tax year, may submit a written request to the City Manager, on a form prepared by the City Manager, for a financial hardship waiver of the requirements of this Article II. The City Manager may grant a waiver if the property owner or principal of the business provides the following: (a) income tax filing for the most recent tax year and written authorization to request such filing from the Internal Revenue Service; and (b) Competent substantial evidence that: (1) there is no comparable alternative electric powered leaf blower that does not use gas; or (2) The purchase or use of electric powered leaf blower would create an undue financial hardship. A financial hardship waiver will only be valid for 12 months but may be renewed upon application to the City Manager. If an administrative hearing is requested pursuant to Page 5 of6 Ord. No. 01-22-2422 Section I SO -? .3. a pending financial hard sh ip waiver request is a ground for a continuance of the adm ini strative hearing. but on ly if the Civi l Citation was iss ued after the submittal of the financial hardship waiver requ es t. Section 3. Corrections. Conforming language or technical scrivener-type corrections may be made by the C it y Attorney for any conform in g amendments to be incorporated int o the final ordinance for signature. Section 4. Ordinances in Conflict. A ll ord in ances or parts of ord in ances and a ll sect ion s and parts of sect ion s of ordinances in direct conflict herewith are her eby repealed. Section 5. Codification. The provision s of thi s ordinance will become and be made a pm1 of the Code of Ordinances of the City of South Miami as amended. Section 6. Severability. If a ny section , clause, se ntence, or phrase of thi s ordinance is for any rea so n held invalid or uncon stitution al by a court of competent juri sdi c tion , thi s holding will not affect t he validity of the rem ai ning portions of thi s ordinance. Section 7. Effective Date. Thi s o rdin ance is effective upon enactment. PASSED AND ENACTED thi s ~ day of February , 2022 . ATTEST: ctlv~~ 1st Reading : 1/18 /22 2nd Reading: 211 /22 REAOANO LANGUA EXEC !.J.:bMrwr- Page 6 of6 COMMISSION VOTE: Mayor Philip s: Commis s ion e r Gi l: 4-1 Yea Yea Comm iss ioner Harri s: Yea Commissioner Liebman: Nay Commissioner Co rey: Yea Agenda Item No:4. City Commission Agenda Item Report Meeting Date: February 1, 2022 Submitted by: Thomas Pepe Submitting Department: City Attorney Item Type: Ordinance Agenda Section: Subject: An Ordinance amending the City of South Miami Code of Ordinances to create "Chapter 15D – Environmental Protection" to create definitions, adopt regulations on the use of gas-powered lawn maintenance equipment within the City of South Miami, provide for a temporary suspension for storm and hurricane cleanup, establish enforcement and penalty provisions, and provide for a financial hardship waiver. 3/5 (Commissioner Harris & Mayor Philips) Suggested Action: Attachments: Ord_re_Leaf_Blowers__2021__CArev2_pksSKCArev2Amended1st_Reading.docx City of Naples prohibit gas-powered leaf blowers.pdf Miami Beach Comm. Memo .pdf Nat'l Emission re Lawn & Garden Equip - IEI 2015 Paper_Final_041015.pdf Miami Herald Ad.pdf MDBR Ad.pdf 1 12/30/21, 11:30 AM City of Naples amended its Noise Ordinance to prohibit the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers in in the City | Naples, Florida https://www.naplesgov.com/parksrec/page/city-naples-amended-its-noise-ordinance-prohibit-use-gasoline-powered-leaf-blowers 1/5 COVID-19 - Updates and Vaccination Information City of Naples amended its Noise Ordinance to prohibit the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers in in the City   In October 2020 the City of Naples amended its Noise Ordinance to prohibit the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers in in the City. This prohibition takes effect October 21, 2021. Battery and electric leaf blowers will continue to be allowed as long as they do not generate a decibel level above 65 dBA. All battery and electric leaf blowers must have a manufacturer's label indicating they meet the noise level requirements. If they do not have such a label, they are not allowed to be used in the City. The following is a list of battery powered leaf blowers known to be manufactured-rated at 65 decibels or less. This list may not be comprehensive, given new machinery is always being released on the market, and some manufactures do not provide decibel ratings.  ______________________________________________________________________ 65 Decibel Battery Powered Leaf Blowers List Black and Decker/DeWalt PARKS AND RECREATION 9 12/30/21, 11:30 AM City of Naples amended its Noise Ordinance to prohibit the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers in in the City | Naples, Florida https://www.naplesgov.com/parksrec/page/city-naples-amended-its-noise-ordinance-prohibit-use-gasoline-powered-leaf-blowers 2/5 1 (800) 544-6986; www.blackanddecker.com DeWalt DCBL720P1 – 61 dBA Echo 1 (800) 432-3246; www.echo-usa.com Echo 550 CFM – 62 dBA Greenworks 1 (888) 909-6757; https://www.greenworkstools.com/shop-by-tool/leaf-blowers GBB700: 82V Dual Por t Backpack Blower 690cfm/165mph – 60.2 dB(A) GBB600: 82V Backpack Blower 600cfm/150mph – 61.4 dB(A) Husqvarna 1 (800) 487-595: www.husqvarna.com/us/home Husqvarna 340iBT – 62 dBA Husqvarna 320iBT – 60 dBA Husqvarna 550iBTX – 61 dBA Makita 1 (800) 462-5482; https://www.makitatools.com/products/cordless Makita XBU02PT – 61 dBA Makita XBU03SM1 – 60 dBA Makita XBU001PT – 60.6 dBA 10 12/30/21, 11:30 AM City of Naples amended its Noise Ordinance to prohibit the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers in in the City | Naples, Florida https://www.naplesgov.com/parksrec/page/city-naples-amended-its-noise-ordinance-prohibit-use-gasoline-powered-leaf-blowers 3/5 Makita XBU04PTV – 61 dBA Makita VBU04PT – 61 dBA   Milwaukee 1 (800) 729-3878; https://www.milwaukeetool.com/ Milwaukee M18 Fuel – 63 dBA Ryobi 1 (800)525-2579; https://www.ryobitools.com/ Ryobi RY40440 – 59 dBA Ryobi RY 40470NWM – 59 dBA   Stihl Inc 1 (800) 467-8445; www.stihl.com Model # BGA 100 – 56 dBA Model # BGA 200 – 59 dBA Model # BGA 57 – 59 dBA Model # BGA 45 – 60 dBA Model # BGA 56 -63 dBA Model # BGA 85 – 64 dBA 11 12/30/21, 11:30 AM City of Naples amended its Noise Ordinance to prohibit the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers in in the City | Naples, Florida https://www.naplesgov.com/parksrec/page/city-naples-amended-its-noise-ordinance-prohibit-use-gasoline-powered-leaf-blowers 4/5 Model # BGE 61 – 64 dBA   TORO USA 1 (888) 552-5153 or 1-888-384-9940; https://www.landscapersolutions.toro.com Toro 605 CMF – 63 dBA   NOTE: Not all dealers offer decibel ratings, and not all dealers build low-noise models. For more information on a leaf blower contact the manufacturer or dealer directly.   Retail stores for products listed in the report Capri Equipment Center – 11281 Tamiami Tr E, Naples, FL (239) 775-2658 Home Depot – 1651 S. Airport-Pulling Rd., Naples, FL (239) 793-2203 Lawn Equipment Center – 969 2nd Ave N, Naples, FL (239) 649-5995 Lowe’s – 6415 Naples Blvd, Naples FL (239) 596-2570 Sunshine Ace Hardware – 141 Tamiami Tr N, Naples, FL (239) 262-2940 CONTACT INFORMATION Nick Roberts -  Director Administration Oce 12 12/30/21, 11:30 AM City of Naples amended its Noise Ordinance to prohibit the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers in in the City | Naples, Florida https://www.naplesgov.com/parksrec/page/city-naples-amended-its-noise-ordinance-prohibit-use-gasoline-powered-leaf-blowers 5/5 735 8th Street South, Naples, Florida 34102 ADA Contact Us Special Districts (Dependent) Sitemap Select Language ▼ 280 Riverside Circle, Naples FL 34102 Phone - 239-213-7120   Community Services Department Contact and Staff Directory V I E W F U L L C O N TA C T D E TA I L S UPCOMING EVENTS A White Christmas Comes to 3rd Street South 12/30/2021 - 5:00pm A White Christmas Comes to 3rd Street South 12/31/2021 - 5:00pm Evenings on 5th & Sidewalk Sales - 5th Avenue South 12/31/2021 - 6:30pm V I E W T H E PA R K S A N D R E C R E AT I O N C A L E N D A R 13 12/30/21, 11:34 AM Coversheet https://miamibeach.novusagenda.com/agendapublic/CoverSheet.aspx?ItemID=24121&MeetingID=992 1/5 Ordinances - R5 P COMMISSION MEMORANDUM TO:Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Commission FROM:Alina T. Hudak, City Manager DATE:December 8, 2021 First Reading SUBJECT:AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 46 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, ENTITLED "ENVIRONMENT," BY CREATING ARTICLE X, ENTITLED "USE OF GAS-POWERED LEAF BLOWERS," TO CREATE DEFINITIONS, ADOPT REGULATIONS ON THE USE OF GAS-POWERED LEAF BLOWERS WITHIN THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, PROVIDE FOR A TEMPORARY SUSPENSION FOR STORM AND HURRICANE CLEANUP, ESTABLISH ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTY PROVISIONS, AND PROVIDE FOR A FINANCIAL HARDSHIP WAIVER; AND PROVIDING FOR REPEALER, SEVERABILITY, CODIFICATION, AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE. RECOMMENDATION The Administration recommends the Mayor and City Commission adopt the Ordinance on First Reading. BACKGROUND/HISTORY As a city leader in addressing the impacts and causes of climate change, it is vital to take positive steps to reduce community wide greenhouse gas emissions. On April 21, 2021, Resolution 2021-34664 was adopted declaring climate change to be caused by human activity and pledging to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Achieving net-zero emissions will require policy changes and investments such as regulating the use of gas-powered leaf blowers. In line with efforts to reduce emissions, municipal operations have begun transitioning away from gas-powered leaf blowers. Following the adoption of Resolution 2017-29867, the Public Works Department’s Greenspace Management Division has prohibited the use of gas-powered leaf blowers by its landscape maintenance vendors and internal operations. The Public Works Department’s Sanitation Division is in the process of transitioning to electric/battery-powered blowers and expect to replace its existing gas-powered inventory by Spring of 2022. 14 12/30/21, 11:34 AM Coversheet https://miamibeach.novusagenda.com/agendapublic/CoverSheet.aspx?ItemID=24121&MeetingID=992 2/5 At the City Commission meeting on September 17, 2021, the Mayor and City Commission referred a discussion to the Land Use and Sustainability Committee on the status of the City’s transition from gas leaf blowers and any potential opportunities to reduce usage. On September 30, 2021, the resident Sustainability Committee held a discussion with City staff and representatives from Miami Beach United on gas leaf blowers. The Committee passed a motion in support of further reducing the use of gas-operated leaf blowers citywide to support the City’s goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions while improving quality of life. The motion was transmitted via Letter to Commission (Attachment A). On October 19, 2021, the Land Use and Sustainability Committee passed a motion recommending that the City Administration and City Attorney’s Office draft an ordinance to regulate the use of gas-powered leaf blowers city wide. ANALYSIS Transitioning away from gas-powered leaf blowers is a positive step for communities from multiple perspectives including reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, improving water quality, mitigating noise pollution, and promoting operational effectiveness. Air Pollution and Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in the best interests of our community. Exhaust emissions from leaf blowers consist of the following specific pollutants of concern: hydrocarbons from both burned and unburned fuel, and which combine with other gases in the atmosphere to form ozone; carbon monoxide; fine particulate matter; and other toxic air contaminants in the unburned fuel, including benzene, 1,3-butadiene, acetaldehyde, and formaldehyde. For example, the California Air Resources Board has determined that running a gas-powered leaf blower for one hour emits the same amount of pollution as driving a light- duty passenger vehicle for approximately 1,100 miles. Water Quality: The filling of small engines with fuel is very prone to spillage, which is another major cause of hydrocarbon emissions. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 17 million gallons of fuel are spilled each year just in refueling small engines— more fuel than the Exxon Valdez spilled in the Gulf of Alaska accident in 1989. It is estimated that every time a gas-powered leaf blower is filled, approximately 2 ounces of gasoline is spilled. Moreover, the city prohibits individuals from utilizing leaf blowers to discard debris into the storm drain system and sewers to avoid contaminants from reaching waterways. Noise Pollution: Leaf blowers are the subject of repeated noise complaints, particularly from gas-powered motors. On average, electric leaf blowers can be up to 28% quieter when compared to 4-stroke gas-powered blowers and 13-18% quieter when compared to 2-stroke gas- powered blowers. Several local, state, and federal agencies across the U.S. have published reports concluding that there are potential health and environmental impacts associated with noise from leaf blowers and have taken measures to prohibit equipment over a certain noise level. In order to control the harmful effects of noise, the World Health Organization recommends a general outdoor noise level of 55 decibels or less, and 45 or less for sleeping restfully. Both gas and electric leaf blowers will generate noise; however the decibels range considerably for different types of models. Operationally, electric leaf blowers can be quieter based on the way they are used. Operational Effectiveness: 15 12/30/21, 11:34 AM Coversheet https://miamibeach.novusagenda.com/agendapublic/CoverSheet.aspx?ItemID=24121&MeetingID=992 3/5 Electric leaf blowers can be simpler for users, who do not need to purchase and have oil and gas on-hand to repeatedly fill the equipment. Maintenance associated with combustion engines is no longer needed. Technology for leaf blowers has significantly changed over years, these advancements have allowed alternatives to gas leaf blowers to provide the similar results when compared to battery or electric powered equipment. Leaf blowers come in a wide variety of styles such as handheld, backpack and walk behind. They also come in wide range of air speeds and noise ratings. Below are average characteristics comparing gas and electric/battery leaf blowers: Gas Electric/Battery Equipment cost*$99-$780 $20-$400 (with extra battery) Co2 Emissions production for 1 hour of operation** 2,885 lbs.117 lbs. Run time**47-68 min 53-174 min (depending on battery configuration) Noise 70-75 dB at 50 feet 56-65 dB at 50 feet *Cost based on models sold at common hardware stores (I.e., Home Depot) **Based on data collected by QuietCleanPDX.org Recognizing the need to protect maintain the health and quality of life of their communities, more and more municipalities are limiting and/or phasing out gas-powered leaf blowers in the US, including Naples and Key West, FL; Greenwich, Connecticut; Westchester, New York; Burlington, Vermont; Cambridge, Massachusetts; and Washington D.C. In October 2021, the State of California adopted Assembly Bill 1346 to ban the sale of gas-powered small off-road engines, many of which are used in lawn and garden equipment, such as leaf blowers, commercial utility equipment and specialty vehicles. The law will require newly sold small-motor equipment primarily used for landscaping to be strictly zero-emission by 2024. The following amendments are proposed to Chapter 46 of the City of Miami Beach Code: Sec. 46-232. - Regulations on the use of leaf blowers. The use of gas-powered leaf blowers is prohibited within the city. Battery- and electric-powered leaf blowers may be used within the city, consistent with the regulations set forth in section 46-152 of the City Code. Encourages operational use of leaf blowers in a way that results in less of a noise disturbance including not continuously running equipment and using equipment with a low decibel range (65 dB or less). Sec. 46-233. - Temporary suspension for storm and hurricane cleanup. In the event of a hurricane, tropical storm, or similar extreme weather event, the City Manager, in their sole discretion, may temporarily suspend the provisions of this article to allow the use of leaf blowers for debris cleanup. Sec. 46-234. - Establishment of enforcement and penalties. Similar to City’s regulation on polystyrene (Sytrofoam), plastic straws and stirrers, the Ordinance proposes a phased implementation including education and outreach: 16 12/30/21, 11:34 AM Coversheet https://miamibeach.novusagenda.com/agendapublic/CoverSheet.aspx?ItemID=24121&MeetingID=992 4/5 Beginning on February 1, 2022, and extending through October 31, 2022, the city shall engage in public education efforts to inform residents and landscape maintenance companies of the provisions of this article and to provide assistance with identifying alternatives to gas-powered leaf blowers. Beginning on November 1, 2022, the city shall provide for a nine-month warning period through and including July 31, 2023, during which the code compliance department shall issue written warnings for violations of this article. Beginning on August 1, 2023, the code compliance department shall fully enforce the provisions of this article. The City’s Environment and Sustainability Department will collaborate with the Marketing and Communications Department on public outreach during the public education phase. This will include targeted communications with property owners and landscaping companies. SUPPORTING SURVEY DATA 44% of residents are either very satisfied or satisfied with the city's efforts to be a "green" or sustainable city. CONCLUSION The Administration recommends the Mayor and City Commission adopt the ordinance for first reading. Applicable Area Citywide Is this a "Residents Right to Know" item, pursuant to City Code Section 2-14? Does this item utilize G.O. Bond Funds? Yes No Strategic Connection Environment & Infrastructure - Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and heat. Legislative Tracking Environment and Sustainability Sponsor Commissioner Mark Samuelian and Co-sponsored by Commissioners Fernandez, Richardson and Meiner ATTACHMENTS: Description Attachment A: Sustainability Committee Motions 17 12/30/21, 11:34 AM Coversheet https://miamibeach.novusagenda.com/agendapublic/CoverSheet.aspx?ItemID=24121&MeetingID=992 5/5 Ordinance 18 D National Emissions from Lawn and Garden Equipment Jamie L Banks, PhD, MS* Quiet Communities, Inc., PO Box 533, Lincoln, MA 01773 Robert McConnell, Environmental Engineer US Environmental Protection Agency, Region 1, 5 Post Office Square, Boston, MA 02109 Abstract Background: The contribution of gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment (GLGE) to air pollutant emissions in the United States has not been extensively studied. Goal: Our goal is to provide annual US and state-level emissions estimates of volatile organic compounds (VOC): criteria pollutants (carbon monoxide [CO], nitrogen oxides [NOx], particulate matter [PM] <10 microns, including PM < 2.5 microns [PM 10, PM2.5]; and carbon dioxide (CO2) from GLGE, with a focus on 2-stroke engines. Methods: Pollutant emissions data were extracted from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) 2011 and 2018 modeling platform (version 6), for GLGE (Source Code Classifications 2260004021-2265004071), and equipment population data were obtained from the EPA’s nonroad model. Data were sorted by equipment type and characteristics. Aggregate and equipment-specific emissions were calculated and compared with emissions from all gasoline-fueled nonroad equipment. Results are presented as descriptive statistics. Results: In 2011, approximately 26.7 million tons of pollutants were emitted by GLGE (VOC=461,800; CO=5,793,200; NOx=68,500, PM10=20,700; CO2=20,382,400), accounting for 24%-45% of all nonroad gasoline emissions. Gasoline-powered landscape maintenance equipment (GLME; leaf blowers/vacuums, and trimmers, edgers, brush cutters) accounted for 43% of VOCs and around 50% of fine PM. Two-stroke engines were responsible for the vast majority of fine PM from GLME. State data (California, New York, Texas, Illinois, and Florida), 2018 projections, and additional comparisons are presented. Methodological issues are discussed. Conclusions: GLGE accounts for a major portion of US nonroad gasoline emissions. Two-stroke engines are an important source of VOCs and criteria pollutants. *Corresponding Author: jamie@quietcommunities.org 19 2 INTRODUCTION Gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment (GLGE) ranging from string trimmers to stump grinders and tractors is a source of high levels of localized emissions that includes hazardous air pollutants, criteria pollutants, and carbon dioxide (CO2).1-4 Workers using commercial equipment are exposed when they are close to the emitting sources several hours each day, several days a week in seasons of use. Other members of the public, including children, may also be exposed to high levels of emissions from commercial landscape maintenance equipment (GLME) such as leaf blowers, trimmers, and mowers, used routinely around residential neighborhoods, schools, parks, and other public spaces. The commercial landscape maintenance industry has experienced strong growth over the last 15 years and depends largely on gasoline-powered equipment for most tasks once performed manually. These factors are raising concerns about the health impacts of GLGE emissions on workers and the public. Extensive evidence exists on the adverse health effects of exhaust emissions and other fine particulates which include cardiovascular disease, stroke, respiratory disease, cancer, neurological conditions, premature death, and effects on prenatal development.5-13 Short term and long term exposures are implicated. However, GLGE as a source of these emissions has received little attention. Understanding the characteristics of GLGE and GLME emissions can help estimate potential health impacts of these close-to-the-source emissions. The goal of this study was to characterize annual emissions from GLGE at the national level and in selected states and to estimate the contribution of GLME to those emissions. Special attention is paid to 2-stroke GLME engines. The emissions contributions from the four of the five most populated states are derived from the NEI, and for California, from the emissions inventory of the California Air Resources Board (CARB). METHODS Study Design The GLGE emissions analyzed are total volatile organic compounds (VOC) and individual VOCs (benzene, 1,3 butadiene, acetaldehyde, formaldehyde); criteria pollutants (carbon monoxide [CO], nitrogen oxides [NOx], particulate matter [PM] <10 microns, including PM < 2.5 microns [PM 10, PM2.5]); and carbon dioxide (CO2). Equipment pollutant data were extracted from SCC summary reports from the EPA’s 2011 and 2018 modeling platform (version 6), and equipment population data were obtained from the Nonroad model. GLGE included the equipment in TABLE 1 and identified by Source Code Classifications 2260004021-2265004071. The GLME subset is defined as leaf blowers/vacuums; trimmers/edgers/brush cutters; and mowers. Groupings of equipment, eg, leaf blowers/vacuums, were predefined by the NEI. “All Emissions” are defined as all emissions from stationary and mobile sources, excluding biogenic and naturally occurring emissions. “All Nonroad Emissions” are defined as all emissions from the equipment types accounted for within the Nonroad model; note that this does not include emissions from commercial marine, rail, and aircraft sources. “Gasoline Nonroad Emissions” are defined as emissions from gasoline fueled equipment accounted for within the Nonroad model. National emissions were analyzed by type of equipment and engine configuration as shown in TABLE 1. All results are presented as descriptive statistics. 20 3 Table 1. Categorization scheme for analysis of GLGE emissions Type of Equipment Engine Configuration GLME Leaf Blowers/Vacuums 2 stroke, 4 stroke Trimmers/Edgers/Cutters 2 stroke, 4 stroke Mowers 4 stroke Other GLGE Chain Saws 2 stroke, 4 stroke Rotary Tillers 2 stroke, 4 stroke Snowblowers 2 stroke, 4 stroke Turf Equipment 2 stroke, 4 stroke Chippers/stump grinders 4 stroke Tractors 4 stroke Shredders 4 stroke Other 4 stroke Analyses All analyses except for the 2018 projections represent 2011 estimates. Equipment Populations The national populations of all types of GLGE were obtained from the Nonroad model. The contribution of each type to the whole population was determined. Contributions of All Nonroad and GLGE Sources All Nonroad Emissions were compared to All Emissions. GLGE emissions were then calculated and compared with All Nonroad Emissions and All Emissions. Contribution of Landscape Maintenance Equipment to GLGE Emissions GLME emissions and their contribution to GLGE and All Nonroad Emissions were analyzed. Additional analyses were conducted to examine the relative contributions of 2-stroke GLME engine emissions. Projected Growth of GLGE Emissions: 2011-2018 GLGE emissions projected for 2018 were obtained from the EPA’s 2018 modeling platform, version 6, and compared with 2011 emissions. GLGE Emissions in the Five Largest States State level emissions data from the five most populated states (US Census) – California, Florida, Illinois, New York, and Texas – were extracted and analyzed. Estimates of GLGE emissions for Florida, Illinois, New York, and Texas were based on 2011 data from the EPA’s 2011 modeling platform, version 6. Estimates of GLGE emission for California were based on data from the CARB’s OFFROAD2007 Model and estimated for 2012. No adjustments were made for potential differences in annual emissions between 2011 and 2012 California data. The program structure of the OFFROAD2007 Model provides a general overview of the methodology used to estimate emissions from off-road sources (http://www.arb.ca.gov/msei/offroad/pubs/offroad_overview.pdf). 21 4 Each state’s contribution to national GLGE Emissions was calculated and compared with its contributions to the US landscape maintenance labor force and the US population. Labor force statistics were sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2013 reports (www.bls.oes) and population data from the 2011 US Census. Nonroad Air Emissions Model EPA developed a nonroad air emissions model in the 1990s to provide estimates of emissions from most types of nonroad equipment, including construction equipment, recreational marine vessels, and lawn and garden equipment (LGE). The model is referred to simply as the “Nonroad” model, and it has been updated a number of times since its creation. Documentation for the model exists as a number of technical reports available on EPA’s website (http://www.epa.gov/otaq/nonrdmdl.htm). Total emissions are determined by summing the exhaust and evaporative emission components.14, 15 The preponderance of emissions from Nonroad equipment occurs as exhaust emissions due to the combustion of fuel. The methodologies for determining exhaust emissions are summarized below. Exhaust Emissions from Nonroad Engines The Nonroad model uses the following equation to calculate exhaust emissions from nonroad engines (ref: Median): Emissions = (Pop) x (Power) x (LF) x (A) x (EF) Where Pop = Engine population Power = Average Power (hp) LF = Load factor (fraction of available power) A = Activity (hrs/yr) EF = Emission factor (g/hp-hr) The derivation of the default model data for each factor from the above equation is discussed below. a. Equipment populations and average power (horsepower) The technical report titled “Nonroad Engine Population Estimates”16 indicates that equipment population data for most types of equipment were obtained from Power Systems Research, an independent marketing research firm, although in some instances other data source were used. Of interest for this analysis, for many LGE categories EPA used sales data obtained from equipment manufacturers during the development of its Phase 1 emission standards for small (less than 25 hp) gasoline fueled nonroad engines. This was done for the following LGE categories: lawn mowers, trimmers/edgers/brush cutters, leaf blowers/vacuums, and chainsaws. The report notes that an equipment population base year of either 1996 or 1998 was used for the LGE types. Once estimates of equipment populations were derived, information obtained by the state of California was used to divide the equipment between the residential and commercial sectors. This step was needed because of the large difference in usage patterns between these two sectors. TABLE 2 below contains an extract of data from Table 3 of the Nonroad Engine Population report mentioned above, and illustrates how the split between residential and commercial equipment was apportioned for a number of LGE types. 22 5 Table 2. Percentage split between residential and commercial equipment SCC code Application Horsepower categories Residential (% of equipment population) Commercial (% of equipment population) 22xx004010 22xx004011 Lawn mowers All 96.3 3.7 22xx004025 22xx004026 Trimmers/edgers/cutters 0-1 hp 100 0 1-3 hp 85.3 14.7 > 3 hp 0 100 22xx004020 22xx004021 Chainsaws 0-1 hp 100 0 1-3 hp 97.0 3 > 3 hp 0 100 22xx004030 22xx004031 Leaf blowers/vacuums 0-1 hp 100 0 1-3 hp 92.5 7.5 > 3 hp 0 100 i. Geographic allocation of residential LGE Populations (except snowblowers) The Nonroad model uses US Census data on one and two unit housing to allocate national equipment populations to the county level. The population documentation report mentioned above notes that other variables are likely to also affect the distribution of LGE population, such as average yard size. However, no consistent, reliable data surrogates could be found to apportion the national level equipment populations based on these alternative factors, and so the model relies solely upon US Census data on one and two unit housing to allocate national LGE population data to the county level. ii. Geographic allocation of commercial L&G Equipment Populations (except snowblowers) The Nonroad model uses the number of employees in the landscaping services industry to dis- aggregate national level LGE population data to the county level. This was accomplished using data from the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS); specifically, for NAICS code 561730, landscaping services. iii. Equipment population projections The Nonroad model enables the user to obtain estimates of emissions for years other than the base year used for equipment populations. This is accomplished by the development of processes to handle the growth in equipment populations due to the purchase of new equipment as years pass, and adjustments made to account for the scrappage of old equipment. The reader is referred to the EPA technical reports “Nonroad Engine Growth Estimates,”17 and “Calculation of Age Distributions in the Nonroad Model – Growth and Scrappage”18 for further information on these topics. Both of these reports are available on the EPA website (http://www.epa.gov/otaq/nonrdmdl.htm). b. Activity levels and load factors. Equipment populations and horsepower levels alone are not sufficient for determining emissions from nonroad equipment; assumptions about frequency and patterns of use must also be made. The EPA report, “Median Life, Annual Activity, and Load Factor Values for Nonroad Engine Emissions Modeling”19 describes how the Nonroad model assigns default activity levels, in hours per year, and 23 6 load factors in performing its calculations. Load factors are needed to account for the fact that equipment is not typically used at full power 100% of the time; load factors reflect that and are presented in terms of average percent of full power for the equipment as it is used. The activity levels and load factors for small (< or = to 25 hp) spark-ignition engines for many LGE types was taken from data supplied to EPA during the comment period for the regulation of these engines. TABLE 3 below contains an extract of the default activity data, in annual hours of equipment use, and load factor data, expressed as fraction of full power, taken from Table 6 of the above mentioned report. Table 3. Example default activity levels and load factors for LGE Equipment type Use Activity level (Annual hours) Load factor (fraction of full power) Lawn mowers Residential 25 0.33 Commercial 406 0.33 Trimmers/Edgers/Cutters Residential 9 0.91 Commercial 137 0.91 Leaf blowers\Vacuums Residential 10 0.94 Commercial 282 0.94 Chainsaws Residential 13 0.70 Commercial 303 0.70 c. Emission factors EPA’s documentation for the source of the emission factors used within the Nonroad model are contained in the following two reports: “Exhaust and Crankcase Emission Factors for Nonroad Engine Modeling: Compression-Ignition”20 and “Exhaust Emission Factors for Nonroad Engine Modeling: Spark-Ignition.” 21 Information pertaining to LGE contained in the latter report is discussed below. Emission factors for spark-ignition engines rated at less than 25 hp were segregated into 5 engine classes based on primary use of the engine (handheld vs. non-handheld), and engine size according to engine displacement. Beginning in 1997, engines designed for both handheld and non-handheld applications became subject to several phases of regulation geared towards reducing fuel consumption (expressed in terms of brake-specific fuel consumption [BSFC]) and producing fewer air emissions in the combustion process. TABLE 4 below contains an extract of information from Table 1 of the Exhaust Emissions 2010 report, and shows the impact of EPA’s regulation on one such class of engines: small, hand-held, gasoline fueled two-stroke engines. Table 4: Impact of regulation on small*, hand-held, gasoline fueled two stroke engines Engine Tech Type HC (g/hp-hr) CO (g/hp-hr) NOx (g/hp-hr) PM (g/hp-hr) BSFC (lb/hp-hr) Baseline 261.00 718,87 0.97 7.7 1.365 Phase 1 219.99 480.31 0.78 7.7 1.184 Phase 2 (with catalyst) 26.87 141.69 1.49 7.7 0.822 BSFC: Brake-specific fuel consumption; CO: carbon monoxide; HC: hydrocarbon; NOx: nitrogen oxides; PM: particulate matter * These emission factors are for engines sized from 0 to 1 hp. 24 7 Other factors also influence the combustion related exhaust emissions from nonroad engines, such as fuel type, ambient temperature, and deterioration of equipment with age and use. The reader is referred to the EPA web-site (http://www.epa.gov/otaq/nonrdmdl.htm) for additional information on these topics. RESULTS Equipment Populations Approximately 121 million pieces of GLGE are estimated to be in use in the United States (FIGURE 1). GLME accounts for two-thirds of all GLGE of which lawn mowers are the most numerous, followed by trimmers/edgers/ brush cutters, and then leaf blowers/vacuums. Projections from 2011 indicate a 13% increase across all equipment types after the combined effect of new equipment purchases and scrappage of old equipment are evaluated, resulting in an estimated 136 million pieces of GLGE in use by 2018. Contribution of Nonroad Emissions to All Emissions All Nonroad sources account for approximately 242 million tons of pollutants each year, accounting for 17% of all VOC emissions, 12% of NOx emissions, 29% of CO emissions, 4% of CO2 emissions, 2% of PM10 emissions, and 5% of PM2.5 emissions. All Nonroad Emissions account for a substantial percentage of All Emissions of benzene (25%), 1,3 butadiene (22%), CO (29%), PM10 (2%), and PM2.5 (5%). Because of the relatively small contribution of GLGE CO2 to All Emissions (0.3%), it is not further considered in this report. Contribution of GLGE to All Emissions and Nonroad Emissions GLGE emitted approximately 6.3 million tons of VOCs (461,800) and criteria pollutants (CO=5,793,200; NOx=68,500, PM10=20,700 [19,000 of which is PM2.5]), and 20.4 million tons of CO2 in 2011. GLGE represented nearly 4% of All Emissions of VOCs and 12% of All Emissions of CO 25 8 (FIGURE 2). GLGE fine PM emissions constitute a fraction of a percent of All Emissions of fine PM, but is a major Nonroad source, accounting for nearly 13% of All Nonroad Emissions of fine PM and more than one-third of Gasoline Nonroad Emissions of fine PM. Analysis of individual VOC emissions shows that GLGE contributes nearly 8% of All Emissions of both benzene and 1,3 butadiene (FIGURE 3). Within All Nonroad Emissions and Gasoline Nonroad Emissions, GLGE accounts for nearly one-third or more of benzene and 1,3 butadiene emissions, and also becomes a major source of aldehyde and formaldehyde emissions from Gasoline Nonroad sources. 26 9 Contribution of GLME to GLGE Emissions Compared with the GLGE contributions of Nonroad Gasoline Emissions shown in FIGURE 2, contributions of VOCs and fine PM emissions from GLME are disproportionately high, and for NOx and CO, are disproportionately low (FIGURE 4). Small GLME engines account for more than 40% of VOC emissions and one-half of PM10 and PM2.5 emissions from GLGE. Close to 90% of fine PM emissions from GLME come from 2-stroke engines (FIGURE 5). 27 FlJure 4, Contribution ofGL)'1E 10 GLGE mlinionl, US , 2011 lOO_O!i ~~ ~.~ ro~ ~.~ .~ ~~ "~ ro~ IO .~ .~ => Figure 5. COIIlnbul;on of 2-moke ~gi ne , 10 G U ,1E ~"ion., US , 2011 100.0% ~~ "~ ro~ ~~ .~ ~~ "~ ro~ 10 .0% .~ ,= ~ W PM L 5 .2-Strok e GLME .4--Str_GLME 10 Projected Growth of GLGE Emissions: 2011-2018 By 2018, the annual tonnage of ozone precursors, VOCs and NOx, emitted by GLGE is projected to decrease substantially from 2011, as more of the in-use fleet becomes represented by equipment built to meet EPA nonroad emission standards. CO emissions remain comparable to 2011 levels, while CO2 and fine PM emissions are projected to increase modestly. Table 5: Estimated Change in GLGE Emissions, 2018 vs 2011 Emissions % Change VOCs -20.9% NOx -31.1% CO -4.9% CO2 12.3% PM 10 8.2% PM 2.5 8.4% GLGE Emissions in the Five Most Populated States When considered together, GLGE emissions from California, Florida, Illinois, New York and Texas constitute approximately one-quarter of national GLGE emissions. 28 11 Florida’s GLGE emissions were 1.4 to 2.1-times higher compared with emissions in states having the next highest level of emissions in each GLGE pollutant category, and 2.2 to 4.4-times higher compared with emissions in states having the lowest level of emissions in each GLGE pollutant category (FIGURE 6). For Florida, Illinois, and New York, state-specific contributions of GLGE emissions compared to the national total were relatively consistent with their contributions to the national population and the national grounds maintenance workforce. For California, its GLGE emission contribution was one-fifth that of its contribution to the national population and to the national grounds maintenance workforce. For Texas, its GLGE emission contribution was 40%-50% that of its contribution to the national population and to the national grounds maintenance workforce (FIGURE 7). DISCUSSION The main findings of this study are: 1) GLGE is a prevalent source of toxic and carcinogenic emissions; 2) GLGE contributes substantially to nonroad emissions of benzene,1,3 butadiene, formaldehyde, CO, and fine PM; 3) GLME accounts for a disproportionately large share of VOC and fine PM emissions; 4) 2-stroke engines account for most fine PM emissions from GLME; 5) VOCs and NOx are projected to decrease substantially by 2018; CO emissions remain comparable to 2011 levels; and CO2 and fine PM emissions are projected to increase modestly; and 6) the GLGE emissions contributions from the the largest states are not always consistent with contributions to national population and national grounds maintenance workforce. The large volume of emissions from GLGE found in this study is consistent with findings previously reported by the EPA1 and from other studies.2-4 The very substantial contribution of VOC, in particular benzene and 1,3 butadiene, deserves attention especially because of their localized nature. 29 12 While VOC emissions are expected decrease 21% on average by 2018, the rates of equipment replacement on which those projections are based are only approximated. Adverse health effects from the GLGE emissions are well known. Benzene, 1,3 butadiene, and formaldehyde are listed among the four top ranking cancer-causing compounds.22 They cause lymphomas, leukemias, and other types of cancer (International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization).23, 24 Ground level ozone (formed by VOCs and NOx in the presence of sunlight) and fine PM cause or contribute to early death, heart attack, stroke, congestive heart failure, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer.5-11 Growing evidence suggests these pollutants also contribute to developmental and neurological disorders, including autism.7-9, 12, 13 The mounting evidence on the dangers of short term exposure are especially concerning.7, 9, 11 The high levels of VOCs and fine PM from GLME are health risks for workers and other members of the public close to the emitting source. Although no studies of grounds maintenance workers were found, studies of gas station workers have shown that regular exposure to gasoline vapors can produce hematological and immunological abnormalities and elevate the risk of cancer.25-27 In addition, children, seniors, and persons with chronic illnesses are especially vulnerable to the negative health impacts of GLME emissions.28 Routine use of GLME in the vicinity of residential neighborhoods, schools, parks, and other public spaces may be exposing the public to unnecessary and preventable health risks. New equipment standards do not affect fine PM emissions; in fact, those emissions are expected to increase. School buses represent another example of a close-to-emitting source in which children are subjected to increased exposure from diesel exhaust.29 Tests of school buses found that diesel exhaust entering through the front door of the bus results in elevated levels of PM over time. When queuing, PM built up rapidly in the bus cabin when the front doors were open. The variation in emissions levels observed among the five most populated states should be explored further. The reasons for the high emissions contribution from Florida and relatively low emissions contributions from Texas and California are not clear. Differences between CARB data and NEI data may account for some of the difference between California and other states. For example, the NEI baseline equipment population data are older compared with those of CARB. Other factors that may be involved include but are not limited to emissions estimation procedure, geographic and climate factors, regulations and their effectiveness, and efforts to promote cleaner alternatives. This study has several limitations. Not all potentially harmful emissions were characterized; for example, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Other limitations concern the source data. Although the NEI is a comprehensive source of GLGE emissions data, the accuracy of the reported data is uncertain. Baseline equipment population data for the Nonroad model is 15-20 years old and does not account for growth of the commercial industry. This older population data supplies emission estimates to NEI, which in turn is used to create EPA’s 2011 and 2018 modeling platforms. Although the residential and commercial CARB inventories and activity data are newer, they depend largely upon telephone survey data.30, 31 Methodological weaknesses with the commercial survey data are discussed in the survey report.31 For both data sources, the rates of replacement of older equipment by newer, cleaner equipment that meets the newer Phase 3 standards32 can only be approximated. 30 13 CONCLUSIONS GLGE is an important source of toxic and carcinogenic exhaust and fine particulate matter. Improved reporting and monitoring of localized GLGE emissions should be implemented. Medical and scientific organizations should increase public awareness of GLGE and GLME and identify GLGE as an important local source of dangerous air pollutants. Communities and environmental, public health, and other government agencies should create policies and programs to protect the public from GLGE air pollutants and promote non-polluting alternatives. 31 14 REFERENCES 1. Michaels H. “NONROAD Overview,” Presented at the 2012 International Emission Inventory Conference of the US Environmental Protection Agency, Tampa, Florida, August 16, 2012. 2. Volckens J, Braddock J, Snow RF, et al. “Emissions Profile From New and In-Use Handheld, 2- Stroke Engines,” Atmospheric Environment 2007;41:640-649. 3. Volckens J, Olson DA, Hays MD. “Carbonaceous Species Emitted from Handheld Two-Stroke Engines,” Atmospheric Environment 2008;42:1239-1248. 4. Shipchandler R. VOC Emissions from Gas Powered Leaf Blowers in the Chicago Metropolitan Region. Waste Management and Research Center Report. Illinois Waste Management and Research Center, February 2008, TN08-093. 5. American Heart Association. Facts: Danger in the Air -Air Pollution and Cardiovascular Disease. Accessed 1/6/14 at http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Advocate/IssuesandCampaigns/Advocacy- Fact-Sheets_UCM_450256_Article.jsp 6. American Lung Association. State of the Air 2014. 7. Integrated Science Assessment for Particulate Matter- Final Report, US Environmental Protection Agency, December 2009, EPA/600/R-08/139F. 8. Provisional Assessment of Recent Studies on Health Effects of Particulate Matter Exposure, US Environmental Protection Agency, December 2012, EPA/600/R-12/056F,. 9. Integrated Science Assessment for Ozone and Related Photochemical Oxidants, US Environmental Protection Agency, 2013, EPA/600/R-10/076F. 10. Air Pollution and Cancer, K Straif, A Cohen, J Samet (Eds), Scientific Publication 161, International Agency for Research in Cancer, World Health Organization, Lyon Cedex FR:IARC, 2013. 11. Shah ASV, Lee KK, McAllister DA, et al. “Short Term Exposure to Air Pollution and Stroke: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis,” BMJ 2015;350:h1295. 12. Raz R, Roberts AL, Lyall K, Hart JE, Just AC, Laden F, Weisskopf MG. “Autism Spectrum Disorder and Particulate Matter Air Pollution Before, During, and After Pregnancy: A Nested Case- Control Analysis within the Nurses' Health Study II Cohort,” Environ Health Perspect. 2015 Mar;123(3):264-70. 13. Power MC, Kioumourtzoglou M-A, Hart JE, et al. “The Relation Between Past Exposure to Fine Particulate Pollution and Prevalent Anxiety: Observational Cohort Study,” BMJ 2015;350:h1111. 14. Nonroad Evaporative Emission Rates, US Environmental Protection Agency, July 2010, EPA-420- R-10-021, NR-012-d. 15. Refueling Emissions for Nonroad Engine Modeling, US Environmental Protection Agency, April 2004, EPA420-P-04-013, NR-013-b. 16. Nonroad Engine Population Estimates, US Environmental Protection Agency, July 2010, EPA-420- R-10-017, NR-006e. 17. Nonroad Engine Growth Estimate, US Environmental Protection Agency, April 2004, EPA420-P- 04-008, NR-008c. 18. Calculation of Age Distributions in the Nonroad Model: Growth and Scrappage, US Environmental Protection Agency, December 2005, EPA420-R-05-018, NR-007c. 19. Median Life, Annual Activity, and Load Factor Values for Nonroad Engine Emissions Modeling, US Environmental Protection Agency, July 2010, EPA-420-R-10-016, NR-005d. 20. Exhaust and Crankcase Emission Factors for Nonroad Engine Modeling: Compression-Ignition, US Environmental Protection Agency, July 2010, EPA-420-R-10-018, NR-009d. 21. Exhaust Emission Factors for Nonroad Engine Modeling: Spark-Ignition, US Environmental Protection Agency, July 2010, EPA-420-R-10-019, NR-010-f. 22. Loh MM, Levy JI, Spengler JD, et al. “Ranking Cancer Risks of Organic Hazardous Air Pollutants in the United States,” Environ Health Perspect 2007; 115:1160–1168. 32 15 23. Baan R, Gross Y, Straif K et al on behalf of the WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer Monograph Working Group. “A Review of Human Carcinogens—Part F: Chemical Agents and Related Occupations,” Lancet Oncology 2009; 10:1143-1144. 24. Report on Carcinogens 13th Edition, 2014. US Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National Toxicology Program. 25. Lynge E, Andersen A, Nilsson R, et al. “Risk of Cancer and Exposure to Gasoline Vapors,” Am J Epidemiol 1997;145:445-458. 26. Tunsaringkarn T, Prueksasit T, Kitwattanavong M, et al. “Cancer Risk Analysis of Benzene, Formaldehyde and Acetaldehyde on Gasoline Station Workers,” Journal of Environmental Engineering and Ecological Science 2012, 1:1.http://dx.doi.org/10.7243/2050-1323-1-1. 27. Moro AM, Brucker N, Charão MF, et al. “Early Hematological and Immunological Alterations in Gasoline Station Attendants Exposed to Benzene,” Environ Res. 2015;137C:349-356. 28. State of the Air, 2014, American Lung Association. 29. Hill LB, Zimmerman NJ, Gooch J. A Multi-City Investigation of the Effectiveness of Retrofit Emissions Controls in Reducing Exposures to Particulate Matter in School Buses, Clean Air Task Force, January 2005. 30. 2012 California Survey of Residential Lawn and Garden Equipment Owners: Population and Activity, California Air Resources Board. 31. Acquisition and Analysis of Commercial and Institutional Lawn and Garden Population and Activity Data: Final Report, August 8, 2006, Eastern Research Group, Inc. for the California Air Resources Board. 32. EPA Finalizes Emission Standards for New Nonroad Spark-Ignition Engines, Equipment, and Vessels, US Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Transportation and Air Quality, September 2008, EPA420-F-08-013. 33 12SE .........................................................................................................NEIGHBORS SUNDAY JANUARY 23 2022 Well, it finally happened. You lost your COVID­19 vaccine card. The good news is that vaccine cards aren’t part of our daily routine in Florida — you know, the “keys, wallet, mask” people go through before leaving their house. Businesses and restaurants can’t deny you service. Some situations require vaccination proof: if your job or private school man­ dates COVID shots; if you want to opt out of a testing requirement at certain en­ tertainment venues; or if you want to get a booster or finish the two­dose series of Pfizer and Moderna. And if you’re planning to leave the Sunshine State, say for travel or business, you’ll likely need proof of your vaccine status. Some cruises require proof of vaccination. So do other countries. And if you’re visiting another U.S. state, the rules vary.  So... You can get another one — or at least get a copy of your immunization histo­ ry, which will work as proof.  HOW TO GET A COPY OF COVID VACCINATION RECORDS A Ask your healthcare provider. All providers administering vaccines, including pharmacies, use or have access to Florida SHOTS, a statewide cen­ tral system that keeps track of which vaccinations you’ve received. Your provider should be able to access the system and create an immunization history for your records, according to the Florida SHOTS website. A Contact your county health department. All county health departments in Florida have access to the SHOTS system and can create an immunization history from your records. Here are your South Flor­ ida contacts: Florida Department of Health in Miami­Dade — Call 786­ 845­0550 to schedule an appointment to pick up your vaccine records from one of the health department’s clin­ ics. Another option is to print and fill out an authorization to disclose form and fax it to the health department at 786­ 845­0598 with a copy of a valid state ID or passport. Florida Department of Health in Broward County Call Center — Call 954­412­7300. The call center is open Mon­ day­Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. A copy of your vaccination record will be emailed in PDF format, or you can go pick it up. Speak with a representa­ tive to make sure you know where to go. Florida Department of Health in Monroe — Email DOHMonroe @flhealth.gov or call 305­ 293­7500. The phone line is open Monday­Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Once the record is ready, you can pick it up at a health de­ partment office in Key West, Marathon and Ta­ vernier. Speak with a rep­ resentative to make sure you know where to go. A If you’re at least 18, you can also submit your request directly to Flor­ ida SHOTS.To do this, you’ll have to fill out an online form and electron­ ically sign it. It could take two to three weeks for you to receive your record. A If you need to get the COVID­19 vaccination record of a child under 18, you’ll have to contact your health provider or county health department. TIP: Once you have proof of your vaccine stat­ us, snap a pic and make a COVID vaccine photo album on your phone to have a copy handy. Apple, Android and Samsung users can also store their info digitally through Apple Wallet, Google Pay and Samsung Pay. WILL I BE GIVEN A CDC COVID VACCINE CARD? It depends on where you go. The Florida Depart­ ment of Health in Bro­ ward County, for example, will supply replacement CDC vaccination cards only to those who got vaccinated at Broward health department­run drive­thru or walk­up sites, a spokeswoman said. Everyone else who asks Broward’s health depart­ ment for their COVID vaccine records will get an emailed PDF of their im­ munization history. However, it’s OK if you don’t have a CDC card. A Florida SHOTS printed record (your immuniza­ tion history) that shows you got the COVID­19 vaccine also counts as proof of vaccination. Miami Herald staff writ­ er David Goodhue contrib­ uted to this report. THE VIRUS CRISIS Did you lose your COVID vaccination card? How to get a replacement in Florida BY MICHELLE MARCHANTE mmarchante@miamiherald.com 34 = ... ,,", .. ... ~ . , CITY OF SO ~:;'~~~I' FLORIDA CITY COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS In order to balance the need for the City of South Miami to function and conduct vital business durinll1he COYID 19 pandemic and, atthe same time,1D protect1he health, safety and welfare of its citizens, officers, officials and administrative starT, and pursuant City of South Miami Code, Chapter 286.011, Ra. Stat, the City's Home Rule Powers, and City Manager's declaration of a state 01 emergency due to the Coronavlrus, the CIty will be holding Its CIty Commission Meetlnlllllle In chambers and VIRTUAllY through communications media technology (CMT) undl thll sIirtlI of IImllrgancy has ended Dr social distancing is no Iongar requirad by any relevant Exscutiva Ordllrs. All Commission m8fT1bers will participate in Chambers or by video conferencinll through the Zoom pIaIfonn and members of the public may join the meeting via loom at fhttDs:l/zoom.us{Il30566363381 and participate. At a minimum, at leastthree members of the City Commission will be physically present In the CIty Commission Chambers1 and they will be broadcast on the loom platform along wtth all other members of the Commission, CIty Staff and the public who may attend remotely from the Commission Chambers and from other locations. 111e meeting Is scheduled to begin on TUIIdI' fI'Dln] ZOZZ d 7:111 'n 10 conslderthefollaMng public hearing ltem(s): An Ordinance amanding tlla City of South Miami Gods of Ordinances to CIlIate ·Chaptsr 15D -Emlironmsntal ProIEIcIioo· to creat8 dElfinitions, adopt regulations on ths USB of gas-powured lawn main1!mance equipment within the City of South Miami, provide for a temporary suspension for Slonn and hurricane cleanup, establish enforcement and penally provisions, and provide for a ftnandai hardship waiver. II you desire to presant evidence or you are unable to use Zoom, there are procedures 1D follow and othllr options availabkl including a dedicated phone line to listen and participate In the meeting and limited public attendance, an of which Is set forth In the meeting notice posted at City Hall and at httD:llwww.southmlamtn.gov1580!Publk>Meetlngs-Notices. ~ne who wishes 10 review pending application, supporting documentation orwho desire 1D have documents made available lor viewing by everyone during the meeting must contact the City Clerk by calling 305-663-6340. Note that pursuantto Florida Statutes 286.0105, a person who decides to appeal any decision made by a Board, Agency or Commission with respect to any matter considered at Its meeting or hearing, a record oftlle proceedings will be required for said appeal and such person will be required 10 have a verbatim transcript of the proceedings including the tI!ISlimony and IlvidenCl!l upon which the appeal is to be based. ADA: To request a modilication to a policy, practice or procedure orto request an auxiliary aide or service In orderto participate In a CIty program, activity or event, you must on or before tOO p.m. 3 business days before the meeting (not counting the day mthe meeting) dellveryour request to the City Clerk by II!Ilephone: 305-663-6340, by mail at 6130 Sunset Driw, South Miami, Florida or email at npayndsouthmiamifi.gov. Nkenga A. Payne, CMC, FCRM CltyClerk 1 The ntllmum standuda for adopting I relDluUon or enacting an ordinance are set1arlh In 166.041(4) .... A maJortty of the members of the (IIMlnilg body IIlIII canltilule I quorum. An atnrmatlve vam of IIt1lJOrtty of I quorum present II neceuaryta enact anyordlnance or adoptany _uUon ..... MIAMI-DADE STATE O F F LORIDA CO UNTY OF MIAMI-DADE: Before the undersigned authority personally appeared GUILLERMO GARCIA, who on oath says thai he or she is the DIRECTOR OF OP ERAT IONS , Legal Notices of the Miami Dally Business Review f/kJa Miami Review , a da ily (exce pt Saturday . Sunda~ and Legal Holidays) newspaper, published at Mlamr in Miami-Dade County, Florida ; that the attached copy of advertisement, being a legal Advertisement of Notice in th e matter of CITY OF SOUTH MIAMI -PUBLIC HEARINGS -FEB . 1, 2022 in the x.xxx Court. was published in said newspaper by print in the issues of and/or by pub lication on the newspaper's website , if authorized, on 01/21/2022 Affiant fu rther says that the newspaper com plies with all legal requirements for publication in chapter 50 Florida Statutes . ' ~~.fi~ 21 dayof JANUARY , A.D. 2022 ~ GUILLERMO GA RCIA personally known to me ... iiW'i(i;;;; .. CHRIST INA LYNN RAViX [.,:., t!J:. .. ) Commission # GG 27ml ~;':f~~~~i Expires November 19, 2022 •••.. ,~,!;-;,.,' Bonded Thru Troy Fain Inwrance 800-365-7019 CITY OF SOUTH MIAMI, FLORIDA CITY COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS In order to balance the need for the City of South Miami to function and conduct vital business during the COV1D 19 pandemIc and, at the same time, to protect the health, safety and welfare of its citizens, officers, officials and administrative staff, and pursuant City of South Miami Code, Chapter 286.011, Fla. Stat, the City's Home Rule Powers, and City Manager's declaration of a state of emergency due to the Coronavirus, the City will be holding its City Commission Meeting live in chambers and VIRTUAL!. Y through communications media technology (CMT) until the state of emergency has ended or social distancing is no longer required by any reTevant Executive Orders. All Commission members will participate in Chambers or by video conferencing through the Zoom platfonT1 and members of the public may join the meeting via Zoom at ~://zoom .usfLl3056636338) and participate. At a minimum. at least three members of the City Commission will be physically present in the City Commission Chambers 1 and they will be broadcast on the Zoom platform along with all other members of the Commission, City Staff and the public who may attend remotely from the Commission Chambers and from other locations. The meeting is scheduled to begin on Ic!eSdiJ)!, February 1, 2022 at 7:00 R.m · to consider the following public hearing item{s): M Ordinance amending the City of South Miami Code of Ordinances to create "Chap ter 15D ~ Environmental Protection " to create definitions, adopt regulations on the use of gas~pow8fed lawn maintenance equipment within the City of South Miami, provide for a temporary suspension for storm and hurricane cleanup, establish enforcement and penalty provisions, and pr ovide for a financIal hardship waiver. If you desire to present evidence or you are unable to use Zoom, there are procedures to follow and other options available including a dedicated phone line to listen and participate in the meeting and limited public attendance, all of which is set forth in the meeting notice posted at City Hall and at http://www.southmLamifl.gov/58_0/Public~M.eetinas~Notjces. Anyone who wishes to review pending application, supporting documentation or who desire to have documents made available for viewing by everyone during the meeting must contact the City CIeri<: by calling 305-663·6340. 35 MIAMI -DADE S TATE OF FLORIDA COUN TY OF MI AMI·DA DE: Before the undersigned authority personally appeared GUILLERMO GARCIA, who on oa th says that he or she Is the DIRECTOR OF OPERAT IONS, Legal Notices of the Miami Dally Business Review f/kJa Miami Review, a dally (except Saturday . Sundev and Legal Holidays) newspaper, published at MIami in Miami-Dade County, Florida ; thai the attached copy of advertisemen t, being a legal Advertisement of Notice in the matter of CITY OF SOUTH MIAMI-PUBLIC HEARINGS· FEB . 1, 2022 i n the XXXX Court, was published In said newspaper by print in the issues of andlor by publication on the newspaper's website . if authorized , on 0112112022 Affiant further says thai the newspaper complies with all regal requirements for publication in chapter 50 Florida Sta tutes . ' fl::i!.~.~ 21 day of JANUARY, A.D. 2022 ~ GUILLERMO GARCIA personally known 10 me /'k&<iii<~., CHRISTINA lYNN RAVlX i.: :.~ Commission # GG 271771 ~~;: .... :Ii Expires November 19, 2022 .... ~~,!~?,.. Bonded Thru Troy Fain Inwrance 800-36S-7019 CITY OF SOUTH MIAMI, FLORIDA CITY COMMISSION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS In order to balance the need for the City of South Mlami to function and conduct vital business during the COVID 19 pandemic and. at the same time, to protect the heatth , safety and welfare of its citizens. officers, officials and administrative staff, and pursuant City of South Miami Code, Chapter 286.011. Fla Stat, the City's Home Rule Powers, and City Manager's declaration of a state of emergency due to the Coronavirus, the City will be holding its City Commission Meeting live In chambers and VlATUALl Y through communications media technology (CMT) until the state of emergency has ended or social distancing is no longer required by any reTevant Executive Orders. Al l Commission members will participate In Chambers or by video conferencing through the Zoom platform and members of the public may join the meeting via Zoom at (tJttps://zoom .usIV3Q56636338) and participate. At a minimum, at least three members of the City Commission will be physically present in the City Commission Chambers 1 and they will be broadcast on the Zoom ptatform along with all other members of the Commission, City Staff and the public who may attend remotely from the Commission Chamber.; and from other locations. The meeting is scheduled to begin on T~ Februal)'~ all~...p..m· to consider the following public hearing item(s): An Ordinance amending the City of South Miami Code of Ordinances 10 create 'Chapter 15D -Environmental Protection" to create definitions, adopt regulations on the use of gas-powered lawn maintenance equipment within the City of South Miami, provide for a temporary suspension for stonn and hurricane cleanup , eslablish enforcement and penalty provisions, and provId e tor a financial hardship waiver . If you desire to present evidence or you are unable to use Zoom, there are procedures to follow and other options available including a dedIcated phone line to listen and participate in the meeting and limited public attendance, all of which is set forth in the meeting notice posted at City Hall and at hnP:llwww.southmlamifl.,g..o.YL~8_0l~ubllc.Meetlngs.Notjces. Anyone who wishes to review pending application, supporting documentation Of who desire to have documents made availab'e fOf viewing by everyone during the meeting must contact the City CIeri< by calling 305-663-6340. Note that pursuant to Florida Statutes 286.0105, a person who decides to appeal any decision made by a Board , Agency or CommiSSion with respect 10 any matter co nside red al its meeting or hearing, a record of the proceedings will be required for said appeal and suc h person will be required 10 have a verbatim transcript of the proceed ing s inctuding Ihe lesllmony and evidence upon which the appeal is 10 be based. ADA: To request a modifICation to a po licy, practice or procedure or to requ est an auxiliary ai de or service in order to participate in a City program, activity or event, you must on or before 4:00 p.nT.'"3 busin ess-days before the meeting (not counting the day of the meeting) deliver your request to the City Cieri< by telephon e: 305-663-6340, by man at 6130 Sunset Drive, South Miami , Flo rida or email at npayne@southmiamifl.gov. Nkenga A. Payne, CMC, FCRM City Cieri< 1 The minimum standards for adopting a resolution or enacting an ordinance are set forth in 166.04 1(4) ... A majority of the members of the governing body shall constitute a quorum. Ail affinnative vote of a majority of a quorum present is necessary to enact any ordinance or adopt any resolution. -•• 1121 22-9010000575003M 36 Note that pursuant to Florida Statutes 286.Q1 05, a person who decides to appeal any decision made by a Board, Agency or Commission with respect to any matter considered al its meeting or hearing, a record of the proceedings will be required for said appeal and such person will be required to have a verbatim transcript of the proceedings including the testimony and evidence upon which the appeal is 10 be based. ADA:. To request a modifICation to a policy, pracllce or procedure or to request an auxlliary aide or service in order to participate In a City program, activity or event, you must on or before 4:00 p.m. 3 business-days before the meellng (not counting the day of Ihe meeting) deliver your request 10 the City Clerk by telephone: 305-663-6340, by man at 6130 Sunset Drive, South Miami, Aorida or email at npayne@southm iamifl.gov. Nkenga A. Payne, CMC, FCRM City Cieri< 1 The minimum standards for adopting a resolution or enacting an ordinance are sel forth in 166.041(4) ... A majority of Ihe members of the governing body shall constitute a quorum. An affinnative vote of a majority of a quorum presenl is necessary to enact any ordinance or adopt any resolution. -.. 1/21 22-9010000575003M