South Portland tar sands meeting postponed after too many people show up

SOUTH PORTLAND, Maine — A meeting over a proposed tar sands ban was postponed after too many people packed a meeting Monday night.

The Clear Skies Ordinance would, among other things, ban bulk loading of tar sands onto tanker vessels. Supporters say it would ensure the health of the environment while opponents say it’s a job killer on the waterfront.

The city had to postpone the meeting because the number of people who showed up to talk about the proposed ordinance exceeded city hall’s capacity. Another vote is planned for Wednesday at 7 p.m. at a still-undecided location.