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HomeMy WebLinkAboutA008 - Correspondence about the proposed leaf burning ban 01,11.3.98 16:26 FAI 515 292 2660 JUDIE HOFFMAN �41 821 Ridgewood Ames, Iowa, 50010 January 5, 1998 Ms. Judie Hoffman 3820 Quebec Alves, Iowa, 50014 Dear Judie: As one who has a very great vested interest in the leaf disposal. issue, I want to support your position that a compromise was reached when three months were set aside for .legal burning. If the council wishes to support Ames being a "Tree City", you must support property owners who have these magnificent trees which do produce a lot of leaves! A couple more free days at the disposal site really doesn't help because not all of us have access to a truck for hauling this bounty to the site. I appreciate your willingness to look at the various alternatives. Sincerely, Belinda B_ Lyons To: Ames City Council Members and Mayor, Ames City Hall, 515 Clark Ave., Ames, IA 50010: Mrs. Ann Campbell, 428 Pearson Ave., Ames, IA 50014, (515) 292-9264 Mr. Russ Cross, 3124 Greenwood Rd., Ames, IA 50014, (515) 292-9645 Mrs. Judie A. Hoffman, 3820 Quebec St., Ames, IA 50014, (515) 292-2660 Mr. John Parks, 3021 Regency Ct., Ames, IA 50010, (515) 233-4399 Dr. Herman Quirmbach, 1002 Jarrett Circle, Ames, IA 50014, (515) 292-8984 Mrs. Sharon Wirth, 803 Burnett, Ames, IA 50010, (515) 233-2415 Mr. Ted Tedesco, 4002 Stone Brooke Rd., Ames, IA 50010, (515) 232-7088 From: Some residents of Brookside neighborhood (See signatures below) Re: Burning Leaves in Ames Date: Feb. 7, 1998 Dear Council Members and Mayor: Leaf burning is a recurring item on your council agenda. You decided Tuesday, Jan. 27, 1998, to "approve an ordinance that would ban open burning all year-.(and)... agreed not to enact the ordinance, which needs to be aproved two more times, before administrators give estimates on how much alternative disposals would cost. Those estimates are scheduled to be presented at...(your)... Feb. 24 meeting." (Daily Tribune, Jan. 28, 1998, p. 1) As residents of one of Ames' beautiful old neighborhoods, we experience the leaf burning problems of Ames in miniature. Some of us have health concerns and want leaf burning to stop now. Some of us would like the option of burning to continue until other removal methods are discussed and one is chosen. A compromise we can all support is to have the city ban leaf burning and provide some assistance in dealing with leaf removal We have an immediate leaf concern. This spring everyone in our neighborhood will rake, etc. more than usual since many leaves never fell until December 1997 or later. Any leaf removal assistance should extend through November and include springtime since many leaves cling throughout winter. Both fall and spring raking is required. Whereas 20-30 bags of leaves might be a reasonable task to expect an individual to deal with on his/her own, many of us have the equivalent of about 200 large bags of leaves to dispose of each year. The time taken to bag a large quantity of leaves calls for a better solution than bagging. We support your decision to get a cost-benefit analysis of various methods of leaf removal assistance We hope you will consider one or more of the following 1) Street disposal with leaves moved to the street in tarps. We understand that the vacuum truck was an expensive piece of equipment, but hear from a neighborhood member that in one community a dump truck system such as that for snow is used. 2) Reduce Ames' leaf disposal charges and extend disposal times. This could make private lawn vaccuming services a reasonable alternative. We understand that private lawn vaccuuming services are very expensive because of Ames' fees for disposing of leaves as well as Ames' limited disposal times, e.g. not before April 1. 3) Publicize ways to mulch, compost and dispose of leaves, especially oak leaves, in large quantities more cheaply and efficiently than bagging. Essentially the question is: are we willing to bear the costs associated with improved air quality in Ames and, if so, how to share them? Trees enhance air quality especially if their leaves are not burned. Ames encourages tree planting and Ames is considering banning leaf burning. We support these actions, but without city assistance in leaf removal, the entire cost of trees will be born by those on whose land the trees are, even though the benefits extend to everyone in the city. We support some city assistance in dealing with leaf removal if leaf burning is banned. Sincerely, (please see next page for signatures) 980207 p. 6 ADDITIONAL SIGNATURES: Karin Krieger & Kris Ruebling, 1212 9th St., Ames, IA 50010, (515) 233-2240 /f�� l �(,)c o-S g 3 11 JL�l � , LFEBs�,V-1(co"� flnn� s ER Czq VIA s cQ-&J A _,j ". Go, Soo, o c up,a nm -Pap c,, t� v� ���w� � comp oS t cc rmfie,,V -to c k ct l a, Q C �r pitt" M� 0 0 o 4UA-4 �� It-4 -�a P , :FF ar � EB 1_ --ciTy CLERK ITY OF AMES,IOWA �v 1-c c/ Alt' S-vdio January 10, 1998 To Members of City Council and Mayor Tedesco: I would like to address the problem of leaf burning. My son and I are two of the many citizens of Ames who currently have asthma and respiratory problems. Leaf burning is toxic, unhealthy, and potentially life threatening,not only for those of us unfortunate to have these medical conditions, but also for other citizens which may not yet be affected. I feel that if any of you had any of these conditions you would immediately vote to ban burning in Ames. Do you know how it feels to not be able to breathe? Do you know how it feels to watch your child go through this? It's terrifying! Of course,we can use our inhalers or nebulizers or there's always emergency treatment available at the hospital. Do you know how it feels when we do use these? Ask anyone who has had to use them. They cause us to tremble, make our hearts beat faster, make us dizzy and nervous. We have no choice because these irritants are allowed to be released into the air during certain months of the year. During the months that burning is allowed there is no escaping it even if we do choose to stay inside which believe me we do. Sure we can call the fire department and"squeal"on our neighbors and they will come and put the fire out, but most of the time the air in town is so saturated that there's no way of telling where the problem is coming from. We cannot go outside during the leaf burning months without having to gasp for air. We can't go for a ride through town with our windows down, not that the windows even come close to keeping the fumes out. Even in our homes the smoke comes in every time a door is p--g opened and it lingers, bothering us not only in the daytime but into the nighttime hours as well. I wake up almost every morning unable to breathe,having to use my inhaler. What a way to start the day. Why are we as a society able to continually harm our children, elderly and other people with heart and respiratory problems? It just doesn't make sense to me. I read in an article in the Ames Tribune that one of the council members thought that allowing leaf burning in a few months was a great compromise. I disagree! I'd like to be able to breathe easily EVERY month of the year, not just some of them. We are talking about a major health problem not just a minor inconvenience. I feel that the people in Ames would be far more educated than to continue in a practice that does just that. I am pleading with you as human beings to stop this harmful practice and come up with a suitable way for all citizens to dispose of their leaves without compromising the health of at least I out of 6 of its citizens. There are many other solutions to leaf disposal, PLEASE look into them. Sincerely, Faith Kennedy 326 Westwood Dr. Ames, IA 50014 268-0845 January 11, 1998 To Members of City Council and Mayor Tedesco: Hi! I have chemical sensitivities due to the illness of CFIDS. I shake violently(seizure like) when I come in contact with a source of sensitivity. Smoke, any kind of smoke, sends me into a spell. I avoid cigarette smokers and any place that I know they will be. It is harder in yard waste burning season, because it is everywhere. I am not one of the blessed ones who get to enjoy the fresh spring air. I have to stay indoors, virtually a prisoner in my own home to keep from having a shaking spell. You see the smoke is everywhere. It is in the very outdoor air that was meant to refresh our lungs and clean out stale odors in our homes. In the fall when the air is crisp and leaves are falling and raking can be a source of healthy excerise, I also have to stay inside, away from the toxic burning of those leaves. You know I can stay away from smoke these months that there is yard waste burning, but there are some that can't. My grandson has asthma and he has to go to school and play out of doors. Please clean up the air for him. We ban cigarette smoking indoors almost everywhere anymore. Why then do we allow toxic yard burning to fill up our main air supply with smoke. When pure air is gone, all people will suffer, not just those with health problems now. Some day you will have health problems too, whether you believe or not. Des Moines, Iowa banned burning; And we are supposed to be America's No. 1 City? What to do with yard waste? We are intelligent people in Ames. It can be worked out. Thank you for listening, I hope you hear me. Mariam Robbins 3807 Minnetonka Ave. Ames, Iowa 50010 AL 4People emo rty er s ice aci Qualih,Programs Exceptional Seance TO: Mayor Tedesco and City Council Members FROM: Judie Hoffman, City Council Member DATE: January 12, 1998 SUBJECT: Phone Calls Received Regarding Leaf Burning I have received calls from the following individuals in support of continuing to allow leaf burning in Ames: Margery Allison, Linden Drive Keith Cook, Illinois Avenue r WK January 13, 1998 To: Ames City Council Ames City Hall 515 ClarkAve. Ames, Iowa 50010 Attention: Sharon Wirth, John Parks, Ann Campbell, Herman Quirmbach, Judie Hoffman, Russ Cross & Ted Tedesco Re: Total Leaf Burning Ban I'm a mother of 2 children ages 4 & 6. Both of them have respiratory/breathing problems. My 6 year old son since birth and my 4 year old daughter since she turned 3. I also have asthma, allergies & respiratory/breathing problems since birth and I now am 34. My husband, lucky him, has no such history. Breathing to us is not taken lightly or for granted. Inhalers and other types of medication help us through the spring, summer, fall and winter months. Colds can easily turn into bronchutis or pneumonia. Breathing toxic smoke from burning leaves, reduces or closes the passage ways causing wheezing and coughing, gasping for air and a terrible burning sensation in the chest. Some people get rushed to the emergency room, some may use their inhalers and some people suffer terrible asthma attacks and have to use their oxygen or nebulizers to get medication and relief to their lungs. So why is it that the City of Ames can't seem to get their act together? How many times has this been brought before the council? How many people have tried to tell you the consequences of toxic leaf smoke? Many cities and states have already banned leaf burning. How many more people have to continue suffering or may even start suffering due to the air population in this town brought on by toxic leaf smoke? Tell me this, do you even read the letters and information given to you on this subject? And if so, why is it that you seem to think that human suffering is less important than trying to keep other humans from doing a little bit more work to keep their environmental air clean? I'm referring to those people who are for leaf burning because it it more convenient to them instead of bagging or mulching. As far as the cost factor goes, don't even start with me on that. I have medical and pharmacy bills like you wouldn't believe. The City of Ames spends money on art work and statues to sit outside and beautify the community so why can't we spend money on leaf pick up for those who area unable to take the bags to the landfill so the community can have nontoxic air to breath. WK I know about the free yard waste days and that is great. I believe that you have enough of them to accomodate people's schedules. So why do we continue to have burning? Because it is the"smell of autumn"? I really don't know what it's going to take to get you to see the impact this toxic smoke has on people. I really hope it isn't a death related incident. And no, I'm not being dramatic, I'm very serious! Do you realize that some people have to stay indoors during the spring and fall months due to leaf burning? Not just^my kids, but anybody with heart disease, bronchitis, emphysema and 40 asthma? Do you also realize that even if they do stay inside the smoke has a way of coming into the house so it seems like the burning is going on right in their living room? And do you realize that some people have to live with not one, not two but even 3 clean air machines just to get through those times? Supposedly if a person burning leaves gets a good hot fire going then the smoke won't occur. I have yet to see someone burning leaves do just that! There are billows of white toxic smoke filling the air all over the City of Ames. And as far as a fire being tended by an adult until it is out, give me a break. During the day and way after dusk, when a fire is to be extinguished, there are smoldering leaf piles all over. Few people know to call the Fire Department and alert them when burning is a problem to them personally, but there are so many that don't know that. They are the ones to suffer in silence. Ever try and take a walk at night, looking forward to some fresh air and getting hit in the face with that awful, putrid smell of smoldering leaves? There are too many people in the City of Ames that just don't know what to do about this situation. They don't know who to talk to or are too afraid to even try, considering the way this matter has been handled so far! Others in our city have tried and now they are so frustrated, they seem to be giving up. My faith in city government is rapidly dwindling. Just like our state and federal governments, nobody seems to care enough or doesn't want to do the right thing. Everybody is trying to be politically correct and stand on both sides of the line. They say one thing and vote or veto another! Here is a picture of my two kids. Do you know how hard it is trying to keep them inside when the weather is nice and they want to go out and play, and someone is burning leaves? M heart ,r- literally aches and I fight back the tears of frustration and hate. Do you have kids? Does your neighborhood have kids? Do you know a person, (your mother, your father, your sister, your brother), a relative or friend in your life who can't go out because of their reaction to leaf burning smoke? When the weather is nice in the spring and fall and people want to open the windows to get some fresh air or drive through the City of Ames with their windows rolled down, or go for a bike ride, or play catch in the back yard or sit out under the shade tree, or have a picnic, I'd like to think that, this year 1998, we ALL would and could be able to do so without the smell and toxic smoke of burning leaves! Just because there may not be as many people in person showing up to speak for the ban against leaf burning doesn't mean that the problem isn't a big one! You are dealing with human lives! If it were just your own, great! But it's not. It is the lives of everyone living in the City of Ames! I'm appealling to the residents of the City of Ames! Please come forward and call or write your city council person about your support for the Total Leaf Burning Ban in the City of Ames. Their name, address and telephone numbers - cc .n b2_�J°}kn bl cruel I -9 d3G-3(0S Sharon Wirth, 803 Burnett, Ames, Iowa 50010, 233-2415 you ca-(r Ca,c (aa39"53 a5 John Parks, tSi1 Stone Brook, Ames, Iowa 50010, 233-4399 Ann Campbell, 428 Pearson, Ames, Iowa 50014, 292-9464 Herman Quirmbach, 1002 Jarrett Circle, Ames, Iowa 50014, 292-8984 Judie Hoffman, 3820 Quebec St., Ames, Iowa 50014, 292-2660 Russ Cross, 3124 Greenwood Rd., Ames, Iowa 50014, 292-9645 Thank you! Laurie DeReus, 1321 Douglas Ave., Ames -JMUC,r y 13 Y3 918 City Council Members and Mayor Tedesco I am writing to share my concern with allowing the burning of leaves within the city limits of Ames. I have a seven year old son with asthma that has severe asthma attacks when others in our city are burning their leaves each spring and fall. A lot of people are unaware of the fear that comes with having a child with asthma. Asthma can be deadly. This alone grips my heart with fear. To have a child that at one moment is breathing with ease, and then the next minute is gasping to get any air in at all is a very fearful and very real fact. There are medications to help with these attacks. Nebulizer treatments with albuterol helps relieve the immediate symptoms some of the time, but more often than not, we need to rely on prednisone to really open the air passage ways. So in a sense, to counteract the harmful chemicals that my son breathes in from our cities air, he has to swallow and breathe in additional chemicals (medications) that also harm his body. Have you ever experienced the feelings these medications leave you with? They have awful side effects on his little body. He has to be weaned off of the prednisone due to the severity of the drug. The prednisone as well as the albuterol make his heart race, makes him feel as if he could pass out, and suppresses his appetite. For a 49 lb. 7 year old, this is not a good thing. My son is an avid soccer player, but finds it very difficult to participate when there is smoke in the air. Having to tell your child he is unable to play in his soccer game because of the smoke in the air or because he is so exhausted from trying to do something as simple (to most people) as breathe is a terrible feeling. I know you may feel this sounds extreme. I would have felt that way four years ago before I experienced this myself. You must experience it to really understand the suffering that people with asthma problems feel. I protect my son from everything within my power that I know will trigger an asthma attack in his little body. This one area of smoke from burning leaves seems to be out of my control to stop, but it is within your control, so I pray you will decide FOR the health of our children and ban leaf burning in our city. Thank You, Hope Arthur 3325 Hoover Ave. • ' Memo e City Clerk's Office Caring People Quality Programs Exceptional Service TO: Mayor Tedesco and City Council Members FROM: Sandy Ryan, City Clerk DATE: January 13, 1998 SUBJECT: Phone Calls Received Regarding Leaf Burning Jan Wright called the City Clerk's Office today to urge the Council to ban leaf burning in Ames. She lives on Meadowlane Avenue, and her phone number is 232-6013. January 13, 1998 To Ames City Council & Mayor Tedesco There are many reasons I'm opposed to leaf burning, but the primary objection is due to my health. Everyone has the right to breath clean, unpolluted air. That right is taken away from me and others who have asthma and lung diseases due to the leaf burning ordinance. So many times I have had to call the fire department to put out leaf burning fires, as the smoke is preventing me from going out into my own yard and tending my flower beds, visiting with my neighbors, hanging up clothes, gardening, mowing, raking and sitting on my deck reading - I appreciate the fact that they are here to serve me but, wouldn't the fire departments time be better spent doing other things for the community than putting out leaf burning fires? The City of Ames is concerned enough for the health of their employees as to ban smoking in the city buildings - why not have just concernment for the lungs, health and well being of the residence of Ames. Sharon Cruse 111 16th St. Ames, Iowa 50010 Clare Bills From: Roger Baer<baer@ames.net>To: billsc@city.ames.lA.US h Subject: Ban on Open Burning Date: Thursday, January 15, 1998 8:26 PM f JAN 1 6 1998 To Mayor Tedesco and the City Council members, especially John Parks who is our Council person: .._ ._ CITY CLERK Thank you,thank you, thank you for passing on first reading the ban on CITY OF AMES,IOWA open burning. We were very bothered by the numerous days of smoke this past fall, and have been opposed to open burning for years. My husband's allergies are very bothered by the smoke. We quit having fires in our fireplace three years ago due to the same problems. If you feel you must provide some disposal process, offer more free days at the yard waste dump site. We are happy to put our yard refuse in the large blue containers for Freel. Please pass this ban on open burning permanently. Thank you. Peggy and Roger Baer, 1226 McKinley Drive,Ames. Page 1 1-19-9� x 4 JAN 2 319M CITY CLERK CITY OF AMES,IOWA City Council Members January 19, 1998 City Clerks Office 515 Clark Ave. Ames, Ia 50010 Subject: Open yard burning Dear Council Members: I am happy to hear that the Ames City Council is drawing up an ordinance that will ban open burning in the city. As most of you know, I made an attempt at banning open buning dulling a period in 1994 and 1995. I understand that Laurie DeReus and other local residents are head- ing another effort to ban open burning. I support Laurie and the other residents in their effort. I have suffered from asthma and allergies for many years. Yard burn- ing causes severe health problems for mRny r_esidentG, esnecial.ly older people and children. The smoke has, on two occasions, worsened my condition to the point of having to go to the emergency room. As you know, from information previously furnished, yard waste burning fouls the air with carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and particulates that can lodge deep in lungs. I hope that, after you listen to the testimony and read the medical information, you will have the good judgement to ban yard burning to protect the health of the Ames citizens. I lived on Quebec street for over 20 years and never felt it was necessary to burn yard waste. During most of those years we mulched the leaves with a mulching mower. I have always been proud of how our city council seems to be at the forefront in making Ames state-of-the-art in most all areas. However, when comparing Ames with other cities in Iowa, Minnesota and Nebraska, we seem to be in the horse and buggy days when it comes to yard waste burning and protecting the health of our citizens. On behalf of the elderly and children in Ames that have respiratory problems, I urge the city council to approve the ordinance that will ban open burning. Sincerely, zujlron C StanleyOE. Las Lassegar 1120 Johnson St. Ames, IA 50010 EJAPhone 515-233-8311 :31719N98 A f Q a � 1208 Quebec Cir. LAN 2 3 IM Ames, IA 50014 CITY CLERK January 19, 1998 CITY OF ANTES,IOWA Ames City Council Dear Council Members, Due to other engagements,we were sorry we had to miss the City Council meeting at which the leaf burning issue was discussed,but we would like to lend our support to your continued efforts to ban all leaf burning. All but one of the members of our household suffer with some degree of asthma.The presence or absence of the pollution from leaf burning is therefore not simply a matter of whether the inconvenience of the smell is worth the convenience of this method of leaf disposal; it is a matter whether we can breathe while leaves are being burned.Aside from the ill effects on those of us with chronic respiratory ailments,the proponents of leaf burning don't seem to understand the serious nature of burning the molds present in decaying leaves. For example,the writer of a letter to the editor tonight seems to feel that all burning is the same,that if leaf burning is banned,fireplaces will be next. Asthmatics, who suffer with leave burning,may not be as scarce as non-asthmatics may think,and they also are not people sitting around looking for any excuse to be ill. Our son runs cross country and earned a letter on the Ames High Cross Country team this fall.He is just one of several asthmatics on the team. We feel very fortunate to have Dr.Nassif and modern medicine available to make life so close to normal for our son. Nevertheless,even the cures which make cross country running possible are no match for leaf burning. Our son can tell us when leaves are being burned at great distances without even going outside. The ill effects of breathing leaf-burning-polluted air exist for him even if he remains indoors while leaf burning is occurring in the neighborhood. The only defense for him is to get out of the neighborhood. Please continue to follow the path toward a complete leaf-burning ban so all of us can breathe healthier. Sincerely, Veralynn and Kevin Schilling �o Tan . 199g / �1 Aa r a¢c �scoei '/ �r ©u d y ;:74 40 v� o �'1 cad &rIk p e s S Or-J 14 0l n C(Z, 4 -, b9h l aerT b u CA-, 50r-r)e- a �1^q u �'1�✓r S c�q� -4-4-e 1 bsn rn 1 o -- z_o /vt e rs �3cq,o Gvly- 1 in' door �YYId crt vil-t 4-ha- 4od r k r 1 s C v- Q+ f'7-1¢Z¢, Cqwa(yl �44-,p- Af,"a5 <ft4t� � c� I )� svcQ o4 wzo-.4 Ge(-csdQ a C24- C-)-, 4rrt1511c, i� jo i Us lceu 4 13 lrnr- 46 bOe7 lm�77 pug^�'1�q 77ies-c a},e plcn4y O' Y t/tSGO✓j S lY1 �9G¢, a� "tom If 44 ((z kn6r(c u4- n � y £dn2sC h'1 to�'�'1 1�J1^.S ky-)Y2Yn 17ad tnavc 6Y3 2 You ' JAN 2 319M CITCITY OF AMES.IOWA 3 l - 3 January 22, 1998 1 ,LAN23199%8 ; The Ames CityCouncil CITYCFLZ ICwA 515 Clark Ames, IA 50010 Re: Proposed ordinance banning open burning of yard waste and garden residues in Ames Ladies and Gentlemen of the Council: This letter is in support of the proposed ban on yard waste burning in Ames. This ordinance has been a long time in coming. Ames has a long and exemplary record of sound environmental practices,including but not limited to a new waste water treatment plant,new water supply facilities, and the solid waste recovery plant. The process used by the solid waste recovery plant was and still is representative of the cutting edge of solid waste processing. By using refuse-derived-fuel from the plant in combination with high- grade, clean coal to produce heat for electric power generation,Ames has a win-win situation. The combustion byproducts from this process pose little risk to the air quality in our community. Ames continually strives to improve traffic movement in Ames thereby reducing particulate generated by internal combustion engines. Yard waste burning is perhaps the only presently authorized uncontrolled combustion occurring in Ames. Opponents of the ban may argue that we allow fireplaces and gas and charcoal grills which can sometimes emit significant particulate and gases. However, grills and fireplaces are also controllable and are usually controlled. For example,an improperly dampered fireplace will send thick smoke back into the house. Most homeowners will not allow this condition to exist. Likewise,improperly governed grills will produce thick particulate laden smoke. Those of us who have fireplaces and grills make the effort to keep them operating efficiently. With yardwaste burning, controls do not exist. Additionally,many people who are allergic to smoke have no control over the actions of others unless their requests to stop burning are honored. Yardwaste and garden residues, leaves in particular, contain tannin which produces tannic acid. Burning of such waste concentrates the tannin and when particulate form combustion contacts the moist, sensitive tissues of the lungs and air passages, tannic acid is formed. This can irritate and damage the lungs. Prolonged and aggravated exposure can have a lasting impact and result in permanent injury. This is particularly true in people and other animals who are allergic to smoke. It behooves us, therefore to continue to make Ames a healthy and environmentally safe community by passing and strongly enforcing the proposed ban on open burning of yard and garden waste. Thanks for your consideration of this issue. Sin rely, WaulA. yE t4316 Phoenix January 22, 1998 FAN Michael Gartner 31998 Ames Tribune 317 5 'St. LERK Ames, IA 50010 ES, IOWA Dear Mr. Gartner: What are the facts? Leaf smoke IS harmful to everyone's health from those who have problems as minor as a lowered immune system,headaches,and allergies to those who have VERY SERIOUS problems such as asthma.,emphysema,cystic fibrosis, and heart problems. It is a fact that burning leaves is harmful. It has been proven over and over. Yes it is a hazard and real danger to those of us unfortunate enough to have underlying health problems,a nuisance to others who may not be able to explain their sinus headaches and runny noses or even to people who can't hang their clothes out on the line. The City Council has the facts. They have been inundated with facts. They realize that leaf burning is a very unhealthy practice for all of us. I am proud of our city council. They do know the facts and have risen above the leaf burner's outcries to begin the process to ban leaf burning in Ames. Why is it Mr. Gartner that you can't seem to understand? Yes it is a peril. If you would like facts I would be happy to supply you with them or get you in touch with agencies that specialize in this matter. Yes,other pollutants from industry,car fumes and the municipal plant affect our total body system.But let me ask you this Mr. Gartner,which would you and the leaf burners prefer to do without,your jobs, transportation,electricity or leaf burning. No question as far as I'm concerned. I'd be interested in how many days in the fall that we don't have an atmospheric inversion that would make it easier for the smoke to escape into the already overloaded atmosphere. How clean would the air be during these few days in the fall if everyone burned on the same days? Also,wouldn't a breezy day make leaf burning more of a fire hazard? What if these days all occurred on a weekday? Do you think this would make the leaf burners happy? I have not heard to date any positive aspects of leaf burning. Leaf burners argue that it's easier. You,Mr. Gartner,say it's an enjoyable activity for the family or friends in the neighborhood. If you need a good family activity go bowling. There's enough smoke there for everyone. Have a block party. You can have a good time even if you're not gathered around a bonfire. Have a leaf bagging party. All your neighbors can go house to house and help each other bag their leaves. I understand Mr. Gartner that you don't even live in Ames. Have you noticed that Ames is not a small town? Small towns have banned burning to protect their citizen's health. Shouldn't Ames do the same? Mr. Gartner,I am not an environmental activist either. All I know is how it makes me,my son and others in this community feel. I'm sure most people appreciate their health. I know I would appreciate it if I had mine. I especially don't appreciate the way that your article trivialized asthma. It is much more than a "discomfort". It is a very real and dangerous health threat. If someone does have an asthma attack critical enough to go to the emergency room I can guarantee you that they would not be talking tc the Dr.They wouldn't be able to because they can't breathe. No oxygen. People do die from asthma. This is a fact. As the American Lung Association so aptly puts it,IF YOU CAN'T BREATHE,NOTHING ELSE MATTERS. Sincerely, Faith Kennedy 326 Westwood Dr. Ames,IA 50010 o a � JAN 231998 1998 City Council CITY CLERK CITY OF AMES,IOWA Last year I wrote a letter to all members of the council asking for a total ban on open burning in this fine city. I know Dr . Banitt surveyed many cities our size and we were the only city that permitted burning . Doctors , who see the effects of smoke on children and adults; have told you and you seem to pay little attention . Asthmatics are desperate for clean air and a)r, ban on burning would be tremendously helpful to many asthmatics--plus the rest of the population. Some Cities in Oregon have even banned fireplaces because of smoke . Hundreds of chemicals are released in smoke--and none are good for us . I live in an area with many trees . These beautiful oaks add to the value of my property and if I choose to live with trees , I must also pay the price . I am willing, in order to make the air breathable . I am an asthmatic and have bad problems when smoke comes toward my home . Please vote in favor of banning burning in Ames . Leave it up to the homeowner to take care of his leaves . .until such time when the city will purchase the equipment to remove our leaves from the street . There is a4 growing health problem in the world that is called environmental illness and asthma is one component of this malady . We can only try to clean our little corner of the world . Council members---GO FOR IT ! Virginia Carlson 811 Ridgewood Ames , Iowa 50010 232 3225 January 19 , 1998 a a � January 19, 1998 LJAN 31998 Ames City Council CITY OF AMES,CLERK 515 Clark Avenue Ames, IA 50010 Dear Council Members: Until we had a child with a breathing disorder, we never gave much thought to the issue of open burning. However, since our daughter Sarah was diagnosed with asthma about 10 years ago, we have become acutely aware of the difficulties that open burning can cause. As difficult as it might seem, simply driving down a street where leaves are being burned will trigger an asthmatic attack. This past year we have taken Sarah to the Mary Greeley Emergency Room four or five times for treatment of asthma. While our case may be more extreme than others, we strongly urge passage of a ban on open burning. Watching a child gasping for breath as inhalation therapists and physicians work to try to restore adequate breathing is too high of cost for the convenience of a few who insist they have the right to burn leaves. Advocates of leaf burning who insist that they have the right to burn their leaves and pollute our environment need to recognize their rights end where others' right begin. We urge the Council to ban open burning within the city. Sincerely, Ian Pa sley 3i(7(.o Ei.SenfloU.Ie�r Ames From:Joshua and Elisabeth Carney at:City of Ames Carneyt Pagel of 4 Tuesday,January 20,1998 8:36:00 PM To:Ames City Council To: Ames Cite Council Members AN 2 1 19% From: Joshua Carney, 702 Carroll ^- CITY OF AMES,IIOWA Re: Proposed Leaf Burning Ordinance I ran across these articles on the internet and thought they might be informative. THE FOLLOWING LETTER IS THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES-AIR QUALITY BUREAUS RESPONSE TO A GUEST COLUMN WHICH APPEARED ON DECEMBER 7, 1996, IN THE CEDAR RAPIDS GAZETTE CALLING FOR A REINSTATEMENT OF LEAF BURNING IN CEDAR RAPIDS To Whom it May Concern: This letter is in response to the Guest Column printed in the Cedar Rapids Gazette on December 7, 1996 regarding leaf burning. While levels of airborne particulates have dropped in Cedar Rapids since 1968, leaf burning is still a threat to health and a nuisance. There are only two monitoring locations for particulates in Linn County. Generally,monitor locations are set to monitor predicted areas of highest pollution from industrial sources or as background monitors. Outside of special study,they are generally not placed in areas predicted to have the highest residential based emissions from leaf smoke. Therefore,the impact of leaf burning on existing monitors may not be an accurate reflection of actual air quality,as areas experiencing high concentrations of leaf smoke would likely be un-monitored, and not reflect the true impact of leaf smoke on Cedar Rapids residents. Iowa's monitoring network is being updated and expanded to provide a more complete and accurate picture of Iowa's air quality. Unfortunately,relocating monitors has identified new problem areas in the state, including high air pollution levels of sulfur dioxide in Cedar Rapids that violates National Ambient Air Quality Standards. to push or violate the 24-hour clean air standards set to protect the health of residents. Leaf burning can create pollution levels several times higher than all sources of industry and vehicles combined at the neighborhood level,even in small towns. Fortunately, more is known today about the health effects of particulates than in the 1970s. Due to a tremendous body of accumulated information from various national and international medical sources,EPA proposed newer,tougher standards for particulates this November. Overwhelming clinical and field evidence indicates that particulates contribute to premature mortality,hospital admissions and other respiratory illness at concentrations below the current standards. Therefore EPA proposed tougher standards, as the current standards fail to adequately protect health. There is little debate among the experts about the health effects of particulates. Your conclusion about expert scientific debate or disagreement on one issue,like complex global warming,does not mean that experts always disagree or significantly disagree on all issues. The proposed standards include keeping the current PM10 standard and a new standard for very fine particles [those with an aerometric diameter of 2.5 microns(PM2,5)]. Such fine particulates are produced during combustion, including leaf burning. From:Joshua and Elizabeth Carney at:City of Ames Carneyl Page 2 of 4 Tuesday,January 20,1998 8:36:24 PM To:Ames City Council Particulate levels are not the only concem. Leaf buming emits other regulated pollutants of interest in urban areas,including carbon monoxide and various toxins. Des Moines experienced numerous carbon monoxide violations during days of leaf burning before a leaf burning ban was enacted. Carbon monoxide is of special concem to residents with heart ailments. A significant number of Iowans are particularly susceptible to air pollution caused by open burning, according to a 1982 report from a DNR forerunner,the Department of Environmental Quality(DEQ). The report stated that approximately one in every six Iowans is particularly susceptible to leaf smoke. The evidence is not just limited to studies.Before the ban was enacted in Des Moines, increased hospital admissions for respiratory conditions were correlated with periods of leaf burning. A trial bum in Cedar Rapids is not a wise policy given these known effects. Iowa's large population of seniors makes leaf buming a great concem, as the elderly are more impacted by leaf smoke and particulate pollution. Iowa has the highest population of residents over the age of 80 and ranks fourth per capita for residents of 65,according to the Iowa Department of Elder Affairs. Even healthy children can become subject to respiratory complications after prolonged exposure, as can healthy young adults who exercise out-of-doors and inhale large volumes of air. Another at-risk group are those with respiratory conditions. According to the Iowa Chapter of the American Lung Association,there are over 9,500 of your neighboring Linn County residents with chronic bronchitis and over 8,000 with acute bronchitis.Nearly 1,500 suffer from chronic emphysema and over 5,700 adults suffer from asthma. Over 3,000 children have asthma. Over 3,300 suffer from acute pneumonia and 128 from lung cancer. Leaf burning often creates smoky conditions with air pollution levels much higher than emissions from cars and industry combined,especially when autumn thermal inversions keep the smoke close to the ground. This can expose even the smallest Iowa communities to high air pollution concentrations for extended periods. Buming most often occurs during weekends or nice weather, exposing many Iowans who are out-of-doors recreating, exercising or working. The smoke is not only a health hazard,but an unpleasant nuisance,both in odor and haze. In addition,dense ground level smoke can also create low visibility and traffic/pedestrian hazards when combined with autumn sunsets occurring during evening rush hours. While you make your proposals, I think it important to note that citizens in Ankeny, Ames, Mallard and other smaller Iowa communities are looking to implement leaf burning bans to protect children and seniors with severe asthma and other ailments. It would be convenient to burn leaves. But it is also more convenient to not recycle, dump used motor oil,bum used tires,pour chemicals down the drain, avoid conservation tillage and fish and hunt without regard to regulation. However,the consequences are well known. Health standards exist to protect those needing protection the most. Please consider this in your decision making. If you need any additional information please feel free to contact me. Sincerely, Brian Button Environmental Specialist IDNR-Air Quality Bureau 515-281-7832 From:Joshua and Elizabeth Carney at:City of Ames Carney' Page 3 of G Tuesday,January 20,1998 8:37:23 PM To:Ames City Council Y - JAN Z 3 19M CITY CLERK CITY OF AMES,IOWA�� Taken from the World Wide Web under search query "leaf burning" FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Holly Johnson, (715) 346-2793 SEVERAL OPTIONS EXIST FOR MANAGING LEAVES (MADISON)- Several options exist for people looking for ways to dispose of leaves this fall. "State law now bans leaves and other types of yard waste from landfills and burning facilities," explains Holly Johnson, University of Wisconsin-Extension waste reduction and management specialist. Options for leaf management include allowing leaves to remain on the lawn, using leaves as a mulch or for composting, giving leaves to other people who can use them, or participating in a program sponsored by a municipality or commercial business. Smaller quantities of leaves can be left on the lawn if they are mulched down below the top of the grass either with a mulching mower or a regular mower retrofitted with a mulching blade. "Mulching is accomplished by cutting or shredding the leaves into very fine fragments, small enough to sink between grass blades and reach the soil," Johnson explains. Leaves can be mulched into the lawn several times during the fall, especially after the last mowing, which is usually done when the average temperature is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. "Leaves make an excellent mulch for use in gardens and landscape plantings," Johnson adds. "On a weight basis, most tree leaves contain twice the mineral content of manure," she adds. As leaves decompose, they add small amounts of nutrients to the soil and improve soil structure. Whole or shredded leaves can be placed in a loose ring up to six inches deep around trees and shrubs. "Avoid direct contact with tree trunks to discourage fungal rot and rodent gnawing," adds Johnson. Whole or shredded leaves also can be placed on top of garden soil in the fall and left until spring. Depending on the amount of decomposition that has occurred, they may need to be incorporated into the soil in the spring. Leaves make a good addition to compost piles because of their plant nutrient value and high fiber content. Leaves can be composted successfully by following a few simple guidelines. Shredding is not required but is recommended for speeding decomposition and making leaves easier to handle. "Materials rich in nitrogen should be added to the compost pile because leaves are difficult to compost alone with their high carbon content. Sources of nitrogen include manure, grass clippings, bone meal and garden debris. Compost piles should be moistened periodically with water to keep them spongy moist in order to aid decomposition. A number of municipalities in Wisconsin have created organized leaf exchanges. "In some communities, property owners may be looking for leaves to use in large gardens, orchards or on farmland," Johnson explains. "In addition, leaf exchanges could be initiated on a small, more informal basis in neighborhoods, workplaces and community centers." People should check with their municipality to determine if there are any local ordinances governing composting or land spreading activities. Many larger communities and haulers have developed yard waste collection programs for residents and businesses. "Yard waste is collected at drop-off sites or through curb-side pick-up programs," says Johnson. "The collected From:Joshua and Elizabeth Carney at:City of Ames Carneyl Pape 404 Tuesday,January 20,1998 8:38:36 PM To:Ames City Council material is managed at compost sites or properties where it is spread on fields." For information on community or commercially sponsored collection programs, contact the recycling coordinator for your municipality. For more information on backyard composting methods or handling fall leaves, contact your County Extension office. (AGENTS, IF YOU NEED MORE COPIES OF HOLLY'S FACT SHEETS, "OPTIONS FOR MANAGING LEAVES," 125.HJ.9309, AND "COMMON BACKYARD COMPOSTING QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS, 125.HJ.9506, GIVE HER A CALL. THEY ARE FREE.) JAN 2 6 1998 1/21/9$ L___-'-CITY CLERK CITY OF ANTES, IOWA Ted Tedesco, Mayor City Hall Ames, IA 50010 Dear Mr. Tedesco: I am opposed to the total ban on leaf burning as moved by the Ames City Council on 1113/98. 1 believe that the present policy of restricted burning is fair and adequate and meets the needs of the minority and the majority. My spouse suffers from severe breathing and asthma difficulties yet is in support of the present policy and against the proposed total ban. If the total ban is passed, then you must address the issue of what to do with the fallen leaves and citywide pick-up for a fee is NOT an acceptable option. Because Ames, Iowa, wants to be known as and promote itself as a "Tree City", then it must accept the by-products of such a designation. Sincerely, can Anderson 506 25th ST. 233-5236 Qa � JAN 2 3 1993 CITY CLERK CITY OF AMES,IOWA TO: Mayor Ted Tedesco Members of the Ames City Council FROM: Richard &Donna Gladon 1821 Northwestern Ames, IA 50010 RE: Proposed ban on leaf burning DATE: January 22, 1998 We recognize the fact that smoke from leaf burning is both a respiratory irritant and an environmental pollutant, and we fully support the proposed ban on leaf burning in the City of Ames. We appreciate and use the free yard waste disposal days, and we encourage the Council to investigate further ways the city could assist its residents with leaf disposal. Thank you for your consideration of the ban. Richard J. Gladon Donna L. Gladon 81E2211998 06: 44 5152325891 KS PACK11AN PAGE 01 Ames City Council d 515 Clark Ave. Ames, IA 5 0010 JAN 221998 "--CITY CLERK Dear Council Members; CITY OF AMES,IOWA V4'e would like to voice our support for the proposed ordinance to ban open leaf burning in Ames. As health care providers, we feel that the fumes and smoke emitted by such fires adversely affect the health of the citizens of Ames, especially those with chronic respiratory conditions. As environmentally conscious citizens, we find it indefensible to continue a practice which pollutes the air when sound alternatives such as composting and mulching exist. Please support the health of our environment and residents by banning leaf burning. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Sarah Irwin MSN, ARNP Ke'Vin S. Packrna.n N D 316 11 th St. Apt_1 Ames, IA 50010 JAN-22-1996 13:31 IA DOT ELDG 94 515 239 1994 P.01/01 January 22 , 1998 ✓ �� TO: AMES CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS P SE Y F - FROM: BETTY GORDON, 1912 Clark, Ames h - 233-3180, W - 239-3180 at DOT SUBJECT: SUPPORTING THE TOTAL LAFT BURNING BAN IN AME,-, I read Laurre DeReus' s well written 1-20-98 letter to the editor, and I TOTALLY SUPPORT IT. I grew up on a farm and got used to burning our trash when needed. These last 5 years; I can NO LONGER WEAR OR BE NEAR pERpUME; and LEAF BURNING TAKES AWAY MY BREATHING AS WELL AS CAUSING MY EYES TO STING FOR HOURS ON END. Last fall my next, door neighbor was burning leaves , and ALL THE SMOKE CAME OVER TO ME IN OUR DRIVEWAY WHILE I WAS ATTEMPTING TO WASH MY CAR; I FINALLY HAD TO GO INTO THE HOUSE SINCE I WAS UNABLE TO BREATH. Laurie brings up some well-deserved points for all people (of all ages) Who have-any t e of breathing roblem, _ For those with an abundance of leaves, tell co-workers or better yet, call the AME;s GARDEN CLUB MEMBERS who will use this as mulch for their flower/vegetable beds. There are many alternatives. ,LEAVES DON' T HAVE TO BE BURNED CAUSING SIGHT PAQBLEMS WHILE DRTYSa $REATAING PROBLEMS Aim LINGERING SMOKE SMELL IN OUR CLOTHING Thank you for SUP]Q tII A TOTAL_ LEAF gURNZNG gAN 365 DAYS A TOTAL P.©1 AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION, 1025 Ashworth Road,Suite 410 West Des Moines, IA 50265-6600 Of Iowa (515)224-0800 • 1-800-LUNG-USA Fax(515)224-0540 January 22, 1998 Ames City Council City of Ames 515 Clark Ames, lA 50010 Dear Ames City Council Members, It has been brought to my attention that you have been prompted by concerned residents to vote on implementing a ban against open leaf burning. The American Lung Association of Iowa is in favor of such a ban. Some people consider leaf burning a fall ritual, but the fact of the matter is it contributes to air pollution and is harmful to people. When leaves are burned, three primary pollutants are emitted: particulate matter, carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Particulate matter are microscopic particles too small for the eye to see that can lodge deep inside people's lungs and impair lung function. These particles have long been considered contributors to premature death and morbidity. Carbon monoxide is an invisible gas that when inhaled causes the body to starve for oxygen. Hydrocarbons are organic chemical compounds found naturally in leaves. Some are known to cause cancer, while others can irritate the eyes, throat and lungs. While leaf burning is healthy for no one, it is especially harmful for the estimated 9,000 people in Story county with chronic respiratory diseases, such as asthma, bronchitis and emphysema. It is also harmful to people with heart disease and allergies. Infants and children are at risk because of their immature immune systems and smaller respiratory passages and the elderly because of their deficient immune systems. It is clearly not in the best interest of the community's health to allow leaf burning. I strongly urge you to support the banning of leaf burning in Ames. After all, when you can't breathe, nothing else matters. Sincerely, .4 Cathy Callaway Air Quality Program Specialist When You Can't Breathe, Nothing Else Matters • Memo e City Clerk's Office Caring People Qualitv Programs Exceptional Service TO: Mayor Tedesco and City Council Members FROM: Sandy Ryan, City Clerk; ��) DATE: January 23, 1998 SUBJECT: Phone Call Regarding Leaf Burning Ordinance Millie Boden, 627 20th Street (Phone 232-1898) called the City Clerk's Office to say she was against an ordinance banning leaf burning. She said she felt the current ordinance was fine just the way it is. She said they have no alternative to burning. She said they burn during the day, when most children are in school. She wanted to know if a petition supporting leaf burning was available, and said if one was, she would surely sign it! January 27, 1998 Dear City Council: Re: Leaf Burning I'm all for banning leaf burning! I have seven year old twin boys who both have had breathing problems since birth. We have made countless trip to the doctors office along with nebulizer treatments and steroid medication for asthma related symptoms. It is very hard to explain to two active boys that they must play inside because of leaf burning going on. Along with all the health problems related to leaf smoke the offensive smell is also annoying. It never fails the last nice day to open the windows of your house there is always a neighbor burning leaves. I know some enjoy the smell, its all a personal preference and I prefer not to have to smell it. Surely, if we put our head together we can come up with an alternative to the disposal of the leaves. Sincerely, Lynnette Swenson 2209 Burnett Ames, IA Ames City Council �� Q ,.�,� January 27, 1998 515 Clark Av. 4105 Phoenix St. Ames, Iowa 50010 JAN 2 719� Ames, Iowa 50014 ae To: Council Members CITY CLERK CITY OF AMES,IOVyA Subject: Smoke Pollution L -- Many laws and ordinances have been passed in the USA to protect citizens from the misery, disease, and death that result from smoke pollution. Medical research on the deadly effects of smoke pollution are well documented. In regard to burning of yard waste, the city of Ames must put the health of its citizens ahead of all other considerations. We have lived in this city for 12 years and have processed a large amount of yard waste with composting and shredding methods. Composting requires more work than burning, however, we believe that the extra work is justified in protecting the health of Ames residents. The city of Ames has a limited number of days each year with pleasant weather. Pleasant days should not become days of misery for many Ames citizens because of the smoke pollution that results from the burning of yard waste. Smoke pollution usually remains in residential areas for many hours after fires are extinguished. Please work to reduce smoke pollution in our city! Outdoor burning of yard waste, with its resulting smoke pollution, must be eliminated in our city as it has in many other cities. The elimination of tobacco smoke in our buildings has been a major step in human health improvement. This step was accomplished without tying the tobacco smoke issue to other forms of pollution. Smoke pollution from yard waste pollution must be banned as a separate issue without tying the issue to other forms of pollution. Sincerely, Max P. Gassman Gail E. Gassman N�6 01/27/1998 06: 26 51521326932 -..�---n--_ �-�"-- 'a. PAGE 01 JAN FAX P cay CLERK Un,-,,F AMEs,IOWA '��Date •1127198 LNumber of pages including cover sheet ; TO: Members of the FROM: John K. Skerritt and Ames City Council Pamela K. Hawhee City Hall 1310 Wheeler Street Ames, IA Ames, IA 50010-4269 Phone Phone 515-232-6032 Fax Phone 515-239-5325 Fax Phone LCC: REMARKS: ❑ Urgent ❑ For your review ❑ Reply ASAP ❑ Please Comment We support the motion passed on January 13, 1998, in which the City Council moved to write a new ordinance to ban leaf burning in the City of Ames. We do not believe that the current ordinance, with the limited months and specific burning criteria, adequately controls and regulates burning that is still being performed legally/illegally in Ames. It is disheartening and irritating to arrive home after work on a wonderful fall day, without a breeze, to be greeted by a acrid, hanging haze created from poorly tended and incompletely burning piles of damp leaves which provides a pall over the entire neighborhood well into the evening hours. This does limit the use and enjoyment of the yard and deck on those certain days. Also, on near windless days, it is virtually impossible to readily locate the offender(s) to report to the Fire Department after the smoke has filled the entire neighborhood There also is a concern for the safety of life and property with this type of smoldering fire, particularly if the wind picks up and there are wide-spread dry conditions. We prefer not to enjoy the autumn ritual of leaf burning for these reasons and instead would rather enjoy those wonderful fall afternoons outside in the yard. Please continue your work towards writing the new ordinance. As part of that work, we also support the study, review and adoption of alternative practices, methods or types of leaf disposal, removal or use. Particularly, solutions that other similarly sized cities have reached or evolved to and results that make sense for Ames and Central Iowa. Thank you. John K. Skerritt Pamela K. Hawhee i January 27, 1998 Robert P. Lombard 811 Arizona Ave --.�- Ames, IA 50014 CITY CITY Y CFA ,. S CLERK 1C�J W, � PH: 294-0330 " Dear City Council Members, I want to submit this letter IN SUPPORT OF Mrs. Laurie DeReus's letter to the editor concerning the LEAF BURNING BAN in the Jan 20th Ames Tribune. I am a guilty leaf burner. And, although I know the smoke is irritating, I continued to burn leaves last fall. Honestly, I never considered that this practice affects people's health. Now I am sincerely sorry. My son suffered from Asthma when we lived in New Zealand. There, coal was the primary heat source along with wood. Thermal inversions kept the highly irritating smoke at street level. Even with medication, he suffered on many days. So I can relate with DeReus' problem. I support a total band on outdoor burning of yard refuse within the city limits of Ames. There needs to be enforcement with a stiff fine for violators if this ordinance passes. For instance, in relation to enforcement, all too often I see law breakers in this town going uncited even when there is a patrol car nearby. There are cars on the road with expired license tags,burnt out head or tail lights, snow covered windows, too many speeders along Ontario,Hyland Ave, and North and South Dakota Aves. A lot of people don't stop for stop signs or use turn signals. Some residents not clearing their sidewalks after it snows. Etc... I understand that in a town this size not every violation can be seen or enforced,but something as flagrant as leaf burning will be an obviously visible infraction. A solution: One solution to help prevent leaf burning would be to extend the free leaf drop off days in Spring and Fall. Last year my leaves were barely off my Maples and the leaf drop off days ended. I had to pay for my disposal. I ended up burning some of my leaves. Again, I am one person that supports the leaf burning band, but the city should offer an alternative to its residents. Getting the word out to residents also has to be better. Not everyone reads the Tribune or listens to local radio stations. Maybe a dedicated,brief, colored note in everyones's power bills would help. Sincerely, O !/;rt . Lombard JAN 2 7 13 3 CO C ERK CITY 4' AM':S, iOVIA January 27, 1998 Theresa Ballantine 1016 Yuma Ames, Iowa 50014 Dear City Council Members, I would like to add my name to the list as one that is in favor of the leaf burning ban. I have a very low tolerance for smoke, perfume, mildew, etc. and have also suffered headache and distress as a result of the toxic smoke associated with leaf and twig burning. I realize that my complaint is minor in comparison to some that have truly life threatening reactions from air pollution. Many people suffer from allergies, asthma, emphysema and other lung debilitating problems. I truly empathize with their plight as I to have felt their resentment in having to put up with smoke pollution. In a city such as Ames where the quality of life means something to people, I believe we should not mar the few truly beautiful days that we have in spring and fall with the foul stench of smoke. Being an outdoors type of person, I have often been averted from an invigorating walk in the neighborhood because of this situation. Sincerely, Theresa Ballantine BROWN, PATRICIA J AGENT Auto-Life-H.Qalth-Home ano Busine5s STATE FARM INSURANCE 1112 BUCKEYE X 2204 AMES, IA 50010 PH (515) 233-1295 FAX (515) 233-0913 �Y January 27, 1998 To City Council Members c��o�`9 0� A From: Pat Brown `psi� R� 3212 West St o`�\ Ames, Ia. 50014 Please consider passing an ordinance to ban leaf burning. The medical community testified at the public hearing and outlined the serious health problems caused by burning leaves. Government should regulate those activities that endanger the health and safety of its citizens. G� Memo i a City Clerk's Office Caring People Qualify Programs Exceptional Service TO: Mayor Tedesco and City Council Members FROM: Sandy Ryan, City Clerk; DATE: January 27, 1998 SUBJECT: Phone Calls Regarding Leaf Burning Ordinance The following individuals called the City Clerk's Office to express their opinions on the proposed ordinance banning leaf burning in Ames: Mitch Kerns, 2316 Clark (Phone: 232-4077), called to say he was opposed to leaf burning in Ames due to allergies and other health reasons. Joyce Kliebenstein, 1620 Buchanan Drive (Phone: 232-8434), said she supported a ban on leaf burning due to family health reasons. Greg Larson, 310 Hickory Drive, (Phone: 292-0052), said he hopes an alternative to leaf burning can be found because of the environmental impact of burning. He said however, the number of trees in Ames creates a real problem. He said there are 12 mature trees on his property, each of which drops 80 bags worth of leaves. (He said he counted them!) He said he tries to compost as many as possible in his garden, but objects to the idea of paying for leaf disposal when he already pays over $400/month in property taxes. He suggested the City consider offering a free leaf disposal site where the material could be dropped off and where citizens could also pick up free compost. He said he could not understand why Faith Kennedy chose to move into his heavily-wooded neighborhood last year if she had such opposition to burning. Ronald W. Mumby, 922 Ridgewood, (Phone: 232-3094), said he was concerned to read comments in the newspaper indicating the City had no obligation to citizens regarding leaf pickup. He said the City government should be government for all the people, rather than just a few. He said he felt the City needed to look into the alternatives matter more thoroughly, and consider the costs to the taxpayers. He said he would like to know what happened to the vacuum truck the City had several years ago. Fit, /-gd-90, 1524 Glendale Ames , Iowa 50010 January 28, 1998 Dear Council Member, Thanks for passing the first reading of a total leaf burning ban. But I don't understand your hesitancy to complete the process to pass a new ordinance . If the city can reasonably fund a city wide leaf pick-up, great, but meanwhile we already have several alternatives to dispose of leaves. Some of the options do cost the homeowner or tenant money but if the city picks up leaves , it will cost all of us somehow. Responsible home ownership requires maintaining your house and yard and, I hope, trying to be a good neighbor. Disposing of leaves should be treated the same as mowing one ' s lawn, shovelling snow from walks and disposing of garbage. And , please , we don't need a "study" on air quality in Ames to confirm what our nose , eyes and lungs find offensive or life threatening! If smoke Makes someone miserable , just one person burning leaves or yard waste is one too many! It puzzles and saddens me to know that anyone would continue to favor open burning after learning that fellow citizens cannot tolerate smoke. So please , City Council, do the progressive and right thing and ban open burning by passing the ordinance at the next two council meetings. Thank you. Respectfully, l' `