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Bluff considers two-minute commercial-vehicle idling limit; residents urge broader scope and a longer grace period
Summary
Staff proposed a commercial-vehicle idling ban of more than two consecutive minutes with exemptions and a $500 penalty. Public commenters recommended including noncommercial vehicles, extending the threshold to about five minutes, and relying primarily on education and signage.
Town staff presented a draft ordinance that would prohibit commercial vehicles from idling within town limits for more than two consecutive minutes, with exemptions for traffic congestion, emergency vehicles and safety-related conditions. The draft assigns enforcement responsibilities to the mayor and proposes a $500 penalty.
Public commenters questioned whether the rule should be limited to commercial vehicles, pointing out that noncommercial vehicles and school buses also idle and can create similar noise and air-quality impacts. One commenter said a two-minute threshold is stringent for rural driving patterns and recommended a five-minute window to accommodate short stops such as making a phone call. Commenters urged an emphasis on public education and better signage rather than punitive enforcement as the primary initial response.
Staff said they are seeking feedback on enforcement and penalties and will revise the draft with legal review before returning it to the council. The public may submit written comments through Nov. 7.
