BATH
The City Council enacted an “idle free” zone in the downtown and U.S. Route 1 commercial districts Wednesday.
The zone was pared down from the entire city when it became clear it would be unenforceable in the residential districts and councilors expressed concern about police going onto private property to issue citations.
Signs will be posted informing drivers that cars should be turned off while parked.
Council members were concerned about special situations, such as when a car was kept running for heat or air conditioning, but were assured that police would have wide discretion in determining whether or not to issue citations.
The motion passed 7-1, with Councilor Steve Brackett voting against.
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