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Bluff proposes two-minute commercial-vehicle idling limit; public calls for broader, practical approach
Summary
A draft Bluff ordinance would prohibit commercial vehicles from idling more than two consecutive minutes, with exceptions. Commenters questioned limiting the rule to commercial vehicles, recommended a longer practical window, and raised enforcement and signage concerns.
Bluff staff presented a draft ordinance on Oct. 28 that would bar commercial vehicles from idling inside town limits for more than two consecutive minutes, citing noise, air pollution and fuel waste as motivations.
The draft includes defined exemptions — traffic congestion, emergency vehicles and certain inspection/maintenance activities — and proposes the mayor as the enforcement authority with a $500 penalty. Staff said the two-minute threshold was drawn from similar ordinances elsewhere and that they welcome feedback on enforcement and penalties.
Public commenters questioned why the measure singles out commercial vehicles, noting noncommercial idling (for example, passenger vehicles and RVs) can also cause nuisance and air-quality problems. Commenters suggested a more practical approach for Bluff’s rural context, recommending a longer tolerance (for example, five minutes) to accommodate brief stops or cell-phone calls and urged a focus on education and signage ahead of enforcement.
Staff said the draft is intended to spark discussion about enforcement options and to balance public health goals with rural practicality; no vote was taken at the hearing.
