I currently live in Niles Charter Township near Cedar Lake School. We moved to this house the week I gave birth to my newborn to get away from past neighbors' cigarette smoke so our son could have a healthy start. 

Little did I know, I was coming to a neighborhood that would be filled with burn smoke on a semi-regular basis - acrid smoke so thick the smog hides the house across the street and makes it difficult for me (let alone my baby) to breathe. Leaf smoke may contain carbon monoxide and benzo(a)pyrene, one of the very same dangerous chemicals emitted in cigarette smoke. It's like the neighborhood is smoking a few packs a day... so much for fresh air for my little guy.

My son isn't the only one who would benefit from this change (and yes, I make sure he stays safe in the swing)... 

Many citizens of Niles Township find themselves shut up in their homes with windows closed to avoid breathing in the smoke that permeates the area. The sidewalks that so welcomingly invite long jaunts in the crisp fall air and the warm sunshine are devoid of life. Backyards are empty. Children are called inside from their playing. 

A burn ban/instituting leaf pick up would allow the township to be a safer, more welcoming place for its residents.