Plastic bag ban coming in Port Townsend

Published 6:07 pm Tuesday, June 5, 2012

PORT TOWNSEND — The City Council has approved the concept of a ban on single-use plastic bags.

The council unanimously adopted a plastic-bag ban on a first reading Monday night.

Before final approval — expected when the council votes after a second reading of the new law this month or next month — changes will be made to the draft bag ban.

The ordinance — a first on the North Olympic Peninsula — will be returned to the Special Projects Committee, which May 9 recommended council approval, to refine such details as a determination of the rules merchants will have to follow, as well as how to handle outreach, how long to wait before the law comes into effect and penalties.

“This is a no-brainer,” said Councilwoman Michelle Sandoval on Monday night. “By passing this, we are taking a leadership role.”