Proposed engine idling ordinance still dividing the Decorah City Council

A proposed ordinance to limit the time for engine idling in Decorah remains controversial.

A second reading of the ordinance was approved Monday night, but again by a 4-3 vote.  City council member Chuck Lore said he's heard from a number of business owners that the ordinance is not business friendly.  City council member Gary Rustad seconded that statement, saying "numerous people have said it's crazy."

But several members of the public appeared to voice their support of the ordinance.  Tim Wagner urged the city council to adopt the ordinance to "keep Decorah's high quality air."  Bob Watson of rural Decorah said if the city wants to encourage outdoor dining along Water Street, having engines idling wouldn't be attractive.

A third reading of the ordinance will be held February 20th.  If the measure wins approval again, it would become law.