Kelowna aims to stop idling
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The city of Kelowna wants to finally draft a much-discussed bylaw to prevent vehicle idling.
The issue of some form of bylaw to prevent idling has been raised many times by the council over the years, dealing with both traffic applications and the city’s attempts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
But even if the bylaw is written and passed, officials acknowledge that it is unlikely to lead to much implementation.
In a report outlining the options open to the council, officials suggested that any by-laws designed to control vehicle idling would only lead to a handful of more egregious complaints or recurring offenders being referred to the by-law for subsequent investigation.
“There are expected to be fewer than 10 complaints a year,” the report said.
“A common approach to responding to complaints will include talking to violators, providing information on the bylaw and requesting voluntary compliance.
Officials are proposing a two-pronged approach, including regulation and education, to be introduced, similar to anti-smoking regulations in parks or those restricting when residents are allowed to water.
Currently, 30 municipalities across the province, including Vancouver, have bylaws.
It is advisable to introduce a one-minute idle regulation to apply to vehicles while they are parked in car parks, alleys, landing areas, alleys, streets and dive or crossing areas.
Fines of $ 150 are offered.
If the council agrees with the recommendations, officials will draft a bylaw for approval by the council, probably later this summer.
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