Mechanical Vacuum Leaf Collection Program - by Councillor Stephen Holyday, seconded by Councillor Brad Bradford

The mechanical vacuum leaf collection program provides an easier and less costly way for residents to ensure leaves that have accumulated on the public right of way in front of their homes are efficiently collected without the need to purchase and fill paper collection bags. In some cases, residents are required to fill dozens and dozens of bags with leaves that accumulate from city trees along the street. This is an onerous task for many, including seniors. The efficient collection of leaves promotes safer streets, and helps avoid blockages of storm water and snow melt water. It is also a service which enhances the support by residents for planting additional trees. Recently notices were distributed by the City to residents to inform them that the collection program has been terminated, and that they may no longer set out leaves in the manner they have over the past several decades. This has created tremendous concern and prompted calls to restore the program. This notice is urgent because sufficient time is needed for the staff to plan a 2024 program. In light of the Speaker's ruling on October 11, 2023 to allow the placement of a motion regarding future budgets, a motion of this type to may now be considered in order.