SACO — Discussions regarding a proposed ban on single-use plastic bags in Saco have been put on hold until the new year.

The Saco City Council began discussing a proposed ban on single-use plastic bags in grocery stores to encourage shoppers to use reusable grocery bags in November.

The city’s decision to pursue a plastic bag ban comes on the heels of other communities across the state, including Kennebunk, York, Portland, Falmouth, Freeport and South Portland.

The city was scheduled to vote on the proposed ban Monday night, but voted unanamously to table talks on the subject until January, when the topic will be brought up again in a workshop on Jan. 9 then for a vote on Jan. 16.

The council’s vote Monday night to table discussions did not come as a surprise, as last week the council discussed at a workshop holding off on a final decision to fine-tune some details.

City officials have proposed the ban because they believe single-use plastic bags negatively impact the environment, as discarded bags can harm wildlife and marine life. 

Those against the ban have expressed concerns about germs and bacteria in reusable shopping bags. 

— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or [email protected].