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Lenox council debates idling, noise limits at service stations; seeks narrower hours and more outreach
Summary
Councilmembers discussed proposed ordinance 6-58 to restrict overnight truck idling and noise at service stations — prompted by complaints near Total Stop — but did not adopt changes and asked staff to refine hours and enforcement details.
The Lenox City Council discussed a proposed ordinance (6-58) to restrict overnight idling and noise at service stations after residents complained about semi-truck idling near the Total Stop convenience station. No final ordinance vote was taken; councilmembers asked staff to revise the draft and meet with the business and affected neighbors.
Staff (Nate) said the draft would prohibit idling of vehicles at filling stations in general business and central business zones during defined overnight hours and add noise restrictions that mirror a Sioux Falls ordinance. The draft originally set a restriction from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m.; councilmembers and staff discussed moving that window to align with existing local noise rules — several members proposed 10:30 p.m. to 6 a.m. or 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. — to avoid conflict with business deliveries and seasonal traffic.
Chief Erickson (Police Chief) and staff clarified enforcement mechanics: zoning violations would be issued against the property owner, while a noise ordinance violation would apply to the vehicle owner or operator. The city attorney reviewed the draft, and staff noted the fine for a zoning violation is set in ordinance language up to $500 per day, though the council generally sets fines by resolution and rarely applies the maximum amount.
Councilmembers discussed reasonable exceptions: active loading or deliveries are generally protected under state law and would not be subject to enforcement if they are part of normal commerce. Staff said the city already directs truck parking to a designated lot on Industrial Avenue as an alternative to overnight parking near the service station; councilmembers discussed additional signage and outreach, including possible highway signs subject to DOT approval.
Total Stop did not make verbal remarks in the meeting transcript; the business’s written comments were included in the packet, and staff said a neighboring property owner had submitted comments late in the day. The council agreed to schedule an additional meeting that includes Total Stop and residents to seek a compromise on hours, signage and enforcement.
No ordinance amendment or vote was adopted at the meeting.
